Why Berlin? Learning with Purpose in a Global Innovation Hub
In May 2025, a group of South Africa’s insurance leaders set off on a learning experience like no other. Their destination: Berlin, a city known not just for its history, but for its bold approach to innovation, regulation, and public-private collaboration. Over the course of five immersive days, the delegation gained a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of insurance, both at home and abroad.
As part of this journey, delegates also attended GITEX Europe, one of the world’s most prominent global tech exhibitions. The event showcased groundbreaking innovations across AI, fintech, cybersecurity, sustainability, and more, further enriching the immersion with global tech trends directly relevant to the future of insurance.
What We Learned: Key Insights That Will Shape the Future
The Berlin immersion offered more than exposure; it provided clarity on where the global insurance sector is headed. From the digitisation of legacy systems to the integration of sustainability into underwriting models, every session pushed the boundaries of conventional thinking. Delegates came away with renewed appreciation for the transformative power of technology, the critical importance of ESG frameworks, and the ethical responsibility insurers hold in protecting communities. The convergence of AI and cybersecurity showed how digital tools are now essential to risk intelligence, while discussions on inclusive insurance reminded us that innovation must always be people-focused. Above all, the culture of intentional collaboration among startups, corporates, and government was a powerful call for cross-sector partnerships in South Africa.
Who We Met: Encounters That Made an Impact
Throughout the immersion, delegates engaged with a remarkable range of institutions shaping the future of finance and insurance. At Signal Iduna Group, the focus was on digital transformation grounded in human-centred design. HoFT offered a bold vision for the intersection of fintech and entrepreneurship, where AI is not just a tool but a mindset. A visit to Allianz SE revealed how one of the world’s largest insurers is leading on sustainability, risk foresight, and climate resilience. VKB Group showcased how regional insurers are localising innovation to meet emerging risks. At DIHK and its strategic partners, delegates witnessed the power of bilateral cooperation and policy alignment. A special highlight was the session hosted by Deutsche Bank at the Palais Populaire, where delegates enjoyed a thought-provoking conversation on financial innovation and cultural transformation, followed by a private tour of the historic venue. Finally, GITEX Europe brought it all together, a vibrant showcase of what’s next across AI, cybersecurity, and digital ecosystems. These engagements weren’t just informational; they were relational, sparking ideas and opening new channels for partnership.
Why It Matters: Implications for South Africa’s Insurance Sector
What made this journey transformative was its relevance to South Africa’s context. The learnings were not abstract; they were immediately applicable. Berlin showed what’s possible when a country invests in enabling regulation, ecosystem thinking, and strategic foresight. South African insurers have an opportunity to leverage these lessons in bold new ways: by embracing digital tools not just for efficiency, but for customer trust; by building products that reflect local realities and global standards; by placing ESG at the centre of corporate strategy; and by creating room for youth, inclusion, and innovation at every level. This immersion confirmed what many delegates already believed: South Africa’s insurance sector is ready for a new chapter, one defined by purpose, agility, and collaboration.
What the Delegates Said
Words like “transformational,” “inspiring,” and “practical” echoed throughout the wrap-up session. Many shared that the experience challenged their thinking, opened doors to new ideas, and sparked a sense of shared purpose across sectors.
A Journey That Doesn’t End Here
The Berlin immersion reminded us that executive development isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about experience, exposure, and shared vision. As the South African insurance sector continues to evolve, this journey will serve as a powerful reference point for what’s possible when we look outward, learn collaboratively, and lead with intention.
