Keynote Speakers

Jay van Zyl

Computational Social Scientist, Technologist

ecosystem.Ai Palo Alto, USA

Human Organism as Algorithm: Navigating the Intersection of Social Science, Algorithms, and AI-Driven Technologies

This presentation explores the idea that human beings are essentially complex algorithms that have evolved over time. It covers the development of human intelligence and how it has been influenced by the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. The talk covers three key areas—social science's interplay with human technology, the impact of algorithms on humans, and the role of artificial intelligence in automating human intelligence—the discussion aims to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these interactions. By understanding and addressing these concerns, we can work collaboratively to shape a future that prioritizes the well-being of humanity while driving ethical innovation.

Jay can be contacted here and here.

Resuscitate the “S” in “IS” to save the system

Information Systems (IS) development and research has developed into a mature academic discipline. But this accomplishment may be one of the biggest threats to IS success. When our focus is too narrow on IS, we lose track of the “S” in IS, the system. How can we resuscitate the System in Information Systems and, therefore, the wider context of our Information Systems? Do we allow the reductionistic nature of mature disciplines to limit our impact as problem solvers in society? These questions are applicable to IS development practices as well as IS research. This talk is about widening perspectives: widening perspectives when we plan and develop information systems to address real-life problems; widening perspectives when we develop sustainable systems for the future; widening perspectives when we reflect on the consequences of the systems we develop; widening perspectives in our research methods. With a clear focus on the S in IS, we can realise the potential of IS to address major challenges in our world.

Roelien Goede is a Professor at the School of Computer Science and Information Systems, North-West University, South Africa, with a C2 NRF rating. Her research interest is Critical Systems Thinking applied to Business Intelligence and Programming Education. She has a keen interest in research paradigms focusing on the application of Action Research in Information Systems Research. She is the President of the International Society of the System Sciences.

Professor at the School of Computer Science and Information Systems

NWU, South Africa

Roelien Goede

Johan Klut

Associate partner, Digital Transformation, FSI

The new world of work – relevant perspectives from the industry, towards intentional partnerships between industry and academia.

Johan Klut, is a seasoned professional with a remarkable 33-year track record in leveraging Information Technology to unlock business value in the Financial Services sector. With a keen eye for innovation and a strategic mindset, Johan has established himself as a recognised and trusted source in the realm of Digital Transformation. Johan holds a Master's degree in Commerce, Informatics, obtained from the University of Johannesburg (Rand Afrikaans University, 1991), solidifying his academic prowess.

Currently serving as an Associate Partner at BSG, a prominent business consultancy firm with a sharp focus on Digital Transformation, Johan remains at the forefront of driving business value through technological advancements. In addition to his professional commitments, he dedicates some of his time to educating and inspiring future leaders, teaching part-time at the University of Johannesburg, actively participating in the BSG graduate program, advisory boards and contributing to the UJ Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering events.

Veliswa Boya

Cloud technologies that are changing our world today

With several global crises occupying our daily lives, it’s important to see where we can leverage technology to solve these hard human problems. Today, we have more access to data from wearables, medical devices, environmental sensors, video capture, and other connected devices than we have had at any point in the past. When combined with cloud technologies, like computer vision, machine learning, and simulation, we are starting to get a glimpse of where that powerful blend of information and application can take us. Supported by the cloud, the world of technology will continue to revolutionize the world around us and beyond. This talk looks at the what and how of the cloud, specifically the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud, supported technologies that are changing the world today.

Veliswa Boya is a Senior Developer Advocate at Amazon Web Services (AWS) who works closely with the developer community of Sub-Saharan Africa and globally. Veliswa’s tech background includes software development, business and systems analysis, solutions architecture, and cloud engineering.

Veliswa enjoys mentoring those new to technology and those looking for guidance in navigating their way through technology careers in general. Favourite topics include cloud computing, machine learning, and software architecture.

Senior Developer Advocate at Amazon Web Services (AWS)