Brokers in the digital age: speed, scale, simplicity
In Episode 5 of The Insurance Apprentice 2026, only seven contestants remain in the race for the ultimate title. This week, the challenge takes on a whole new dimension, with the power of technology at its heart.
In this pivotal episode, sponsored by Old Mutual Insure, the contestants will tackle the evolving role of brokers in an increasingly digital world. The focus? To show how innovative solutions - especially powered by AI - can enhance the client-broker relationship, making insurance service faster, clearer, and more accessible.
Setting the scene: a changing landscape
Client expectations have never been higher. Today’s consumers demand quicker responses, clearer communication, and more user-friendly experiences. But, despite these digital advances, the need for human advice and trust remains paramount.
Old Mutual Insure’s ethos emphasises the importance of relationships in this evolving landscape.
The challenge for contestants? Show how technology - particularly AI - can strengthen the bond between broker and client, improving the overall experience while retaining that crucial human connection. In this task, contestants must spin the Wheel of Innovation, which will land them on one of five client challenges. Each team will then receive a strategic priority (speed, scale, or simplicity) and must develop a solution that aligns with both the client's needs and Old Mutual Insure's values.
The task
Each team will step into the shoes of a broker, tackling real-world client challenges facing the insurance industry today. Their task is to identify a key client pain point and develop a technology-driven solution that improves the experience through greater speed, scale, or simplicity. Using AI and other digital tools, teams must show how brokers can deliver faster, clearer, and more consistent service without losing the human connection. The focus is on using innovation to strengthen trust and keep the broker at the heart of the client relationship.
What’s at stake?
The judges for this episode include:
• Simon Colman (The Liability Company)
• Nox Dlamini (Co-Judge)
• Jaco Brittz (Old Mutual Insure)
The contestants will be assessed on how well they:
• Understand the client challenge.
• Use AI or technology in a realistic, responsible way.
• Clearly explain their solution and its impact on the client experience.
• Align their solution to one of the strategic priorities.
• Enhance the trust between the broker and the client.
Only a few will move on to the next round, so this is a crucial challenge for everyone involved.
Watch now!
We want to extend our gratitude to Old Mutual Insure for sponsoring this episode and for their role in transforming the future of insurance.
Catch the episode here:
• To watch the episode on YouTube, click HERE
• To watch it on the website click HERE
• To watch it on Facebook, click HERE
Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts! Which contestant do you think has the best solution for reshaping the client experience using technology?
Stay tuned for next week’s episode!
Catch all the action – every Saturday at 18:40 on eExtra
Don’t miss a moment. Catch #TIA2026 every Saturday (up until 13 June) at 18:40 on eExtra (OpenView Channel 105 or DStv Channel 195), with a repeat on Sundays at 10:00, or watch the full episode on Facebook or the TIA website the following day. You can also download the eVOD app and watch it as it happens!
Featuring rigorous challenges, valuable industry insights, and prizes worth over R500 000 for the winner, this season promises to challenge perspectives and highlight the qualities required to lead in the insurance industry.
This is where the future of insurance talent takes shape.
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