The Power Of Building Networks

Individually, you are probably amazing. Chances are, you have people in your life who remind you of this – if you are lucky. Your intelligence, sense of humour, ideas and even physical energy are all ways of expressing yourself. Imagine though, the thought of collective intelligence. Stay with me.

These 45 men have been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape, and their impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Their vision, innovation, and leadership have all paved the way for new opportunities, solved critical challenges, and driven digital transformation globally. They serve as an inspiration to future leaders and entrepreneurs, who will continue to drive digital transformation and shape the future of technology.

Digital transformation has been a significant catalyst for economic growth, social development, and technological advancements in Africa. The 45 – who are by no means exhaustive - have identified the process of using technology to fundamentally change how businesses and societies operate and deliver value. The last decade has been good to mankind in the sense that we are witnessing the rise of the tech-savvy entrepreneur and innovative start-ups disrupting the landscape, creating new opportunities, solve critical challenges, and drive the continent’s digital transformation.

These are triumphs that are achieved and recognised in pods. Each visionary has a team, and they work with this team on their projects, making many individualised pods. What if, instead of these pockets, there existed a network? Inside this hive mind would be a body politic so powerful, it would be an idea whose time has come. An idea whose wave would wash over every nook and cranny in the continent.

What if I told you that you are already in this network? The dx⁵ community. Sharing and having certain attitudes and interests in common. That this community is constantly growing cannot be denied. The C-Suite is becoming ever more expansive, including new and exciting skills as they come. CIOs are becoming more intertwined in decision making and deciphering business values. Now, remember what life was like before you found your ilk? When you were younger and still attempting to find your footing. Before you knew you were sprouting in and into a community? Look at those who report to you. The Next Gen CIOs. Begin to draw them closer to this network. In fact, I dare you to groom someone who will someday be on this list. Make them change ambassadors, and create an environment where things like failure can happen, and step back. Just a smidge. Watch, and learn.

ARTICLE by Rebatho Madiba, Managing Executive Business Development – Digital Platform Solutions, BCX