AIE 2025 sponsors share their highlights

The 2025 African Insurance Exchange once again delivered on its reputation as the leading event on the South African insurance calendar. From insightful content to exceptional networking, and from energetic sports fixtures to memorable social gatherings, it offered something for everyone. After the dust settled, we spoke to a few sponsors to get their impressions of this year’s conference.

Mariaan Schindehutte, Head of Sales at Europ Assistance South Africa, says her company was proud to once again be the silver sponsor for the African Insurance Exchange 2025. 

“Our role was to provide dedicated shuttle services for the conference’s speakers, VIPs, and entertainment acts, ensuring they travelled safely and comfortably to and from Sun City between 25 and 30 July.” 

Europ Assistance has been involved with the conference since 2012, making this a long-standing tradition and a highlight on their annual calendar. 

Mariaan says the 2025 conference exceeded Europ Assistance’s expectations. 

“It delivered valuable networking opportunities, new possible partnerships within our network and it gave us a platform to have inspiring conversations with our peers,” she says. 

Mariaan says she particularly enjoyed the underlying message of empowerment – particularly for black women within the industry. 

“We witnessed first-hand how the statistics are beginning to shift, as more women fight for and secure opportunities to step into leadership roles. These trailblazers are not only making their mark today, but they are also paving the way for future generations to believe in their potential and to never give up. It was inspiring to be part of a conference that celebrates such meaningful progress alongside its industry focus.” 

Moving forward, Mariaan says Europ Assistance values its partnership with the African Insurance Exchange and the role it plays in advancing the industry. 

“We have some exciting things on the horizon, one of which is a complete rebranding of our business in Q4 of 2025. AIE2026 will be a great platform so show off our new identity and to continue supporting and connecting with this dynamic community.” 

Mandy Barrett, Head of Marketing, Communications and Sales Enablement at Aon, says The conference was informative, “… a specific highlight being the keynote address from Mteto Nyati.” 

This was Aon’s second year as sponsor of the registration desk. 

Says Mandy, “Being involved in the AIE provides Aon with the opportunity to position Aon as an employer of choice within the industry, build lasting relationships, leverage shared learnings and strengthen our competitive advantage through collaboration with business partners.” 

Mandy says Aon looks forward to returning as a sponsor in 2026. 

Sapiens has been an AIE sponsor since 2016. This year the company had an exhibition booth at Sun City and was a platinum co-sponsor of the gala dinner. 

“AIE is the premier insurance industry event in South Africa,” says Sapiens’ Regional Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, Gary Tessendorf. “It is extremely well regarded by insurers, brokers and vendors and is an important part of our strategy in the region. 

“The organisation, content and speakers are second to none, covering the themes and topics most pertinent to the industry. 

“It provides us with invaluable networking opportunities with customers and colleagues in the industry, and over the years has developed into a community committed to shaping the future of the insurance industry for the better.” 

Gary says Sapiens really felt part of the community. 

“The conversations this year were quite different to past years,” he says. “There feels to be a real focus on innovation and the industry is changing and moving forward. At Sapiens we're at the forefront of this and we're really excited that people are coming on board with us on this journey.” 

Will Sapiens be back in 2026 as a sponsor? 

“We very much hope so!” says Gary “2026 marks our 10th anniversary in the region so we hope to make it really special.” 

Mark your calendar: the 2026 African Insurance Exchange runs from 26 to 29 July. Early bird registration is now open at www.aie2026.com, offering a cost-effective way to secure your place at South Africa’s premier insurance conference.