The Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG), through its Education Portfolio, recently hosted an engaging Wednesday Wisdom webinar exploring the topic “InsurTech – The Impact on Modern-Day Insurance.” Held virtually on 6 May 2026, the session brought together insurance professionals from across the industry to unpack how technology continues to reshape the insurance landscape and influence the future of the sector.
Sponsored by Bryte Insurance Company Limited, the webinar formed part of the IIG’s continued commitment to professional development and knowledge sharing across the insurance value chain. The session also contributed one CPD hour towards the Institute’s annual professional development efforts.
Interest in the webinar was exceptionally strong, with 1189 registrations and an overwhelming attendance rate of 71.4%. This level of participation reflects the growing industry appetite for conversations around innovation, digital transformation and the evolving role of technology within insurance.
The session featured an experienced panel of speakers from Bryte, including Barry Simons, David Chow, and Zahir Bhyat, who each shared valuable insights drawn from their extensive experience across underwriting, engineering, sales, leadership and strategic risk management.
A central theme throughout the discussion was the rapid pace at which InsurTech is transforming the insurance industry. Conversations explored how advancements in technology are influencing customer expectations, operational models, pricing strategies, fraud detection as well as risk assessment practices across the market. Speakers highlighted that customers increasingly expect faster and more seamless digitally enabled experiences throughout the insurance journey.
The panel also explored the opportunities technology presents for insurers, particularly in improving efficiency, strengthening decision-making and enabling more proactive risk management. Discussions touched on the growing role of AI, predictive analytics and data-driven insights in identifying emerging risk patterns, improving underwriting capabilities, thus posing the question…” How do we support innovation across products and services?”. The importance of continuous system development, ongoing learning and adaptability within the industry was also emphasized because let’s face it – insurers navigate an increasingly digital environment.
And while it may seem that the conversation swayed heavily on innovation, equal attention was given to the challenges and responsibilities that accompany digital transformation. Speakers reflected on the importance of maintaining trust/transparency as well as security while embracing new technologies. The discussion reinforced that successful transformation requires balancing technological advancement with customer confidence, ethical practices and lastly, meaningful human engagement.
Another key focus area was the future role of insurance within a rapidly evolving societal and technological landscape. The panel highlighted the importance of creating resilient safety and security ecosystems while ensuring that innovation contributes positively towards economic upliftment, improved service delivery and better-skilled professionals across the industry. Discussions further explored how insurers can continue adapting products and solutions to meet the changing needs of both businesses and individuals.
A strong takeaway from the session? The idea that risk itself continues to drive innovation and opportunity within insurance. And that, as new technologies emerge and industries evolve, insurers are increasingly required to think differently, respond proactively while remaining agile in addressing both current and emerging risks.
The success of the webinar reflects the growing importance of creating platforms that encourage industry dialogue and forward-thinking discussions. Through initiatives such as the Wednesday Wisdom webinar series, the IIG continues to support professional growth and strengthen thought leadership across the South African insurance sector.
The IIG extends its sincere appreciation to Bryte Insurance, the guest speakers, attendees, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the session. As the insurance industry continues to evolve, conversations such as these remain critical in shaping a more innovative, resilient, and future-focused industry.
Ambassador: Education – Insurance Institute of Gauteng
Strategic Change Manager – Absa Insurance Company
