The SBI hosted a webinar on Thursday 22 February 2024 from 10:00 – 12:00, aimed at having an engaging and invigorating discussion with the Country Director of Google South Africa, Dr. Alistair Mokoena, on the topic:

“Artificial Intelligence and Small Businesses: threats and opportunities.”

Dr. Alistair Mokoena is the Country Director for Google South Africa. His academic qualifications include Bcomm, LLB, Management Development Programme (MDP), Executive Development Programme (EDP), MBA and PhD in Business Administration. He is a qualified Chartered Marketer with 25 years corporate experience.

He joined Google in April 2020 as Country Director for South Africa. His role involves managing Google’s commercial operations in Southern Africa and collaborating with customers and social partners in accelerating Africa’s digital transformation. Bridging the digital divide is an ideal that inspires Dr Mokoena to ensure that Africa benefits from Google’s technology.

He coaches young professionals, mentors Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises and is a regular guest speaker at international business schools and at industry events. He is passionate about the role that responsible Artificial Intelligence can play in making the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals a reality in our lifetime.

After the keynote address, SBI CEO John Dludlu facilitated a short Q&A session with Dr Mokoena.

Our second keynote, Keneilwe Malotle, gave a 20 minute address on how to digitalitise your Small Business, what is available and where you can go for help.

Ms Keneilwe Malotle is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in project management across diverse sectors including events management, media production, and business development. Her journey in these fields has been marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence and a passion for driving positive change.

With a proven track record of success, Keneilwe has honed her skills as a meticulous organizer, adept communicator, and visionary leader. Her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others is evident in her role as an advocate for knowledge and skills sharing. Always at the forefront of innovation, she continually seeks opportunities to empower her community through education and mentorship.

Currently serving as the Head of Projects at Digify Africa, a leading youth-focused organization dedicated to bridging the digital skills gap in Africa, Keneilwe plays a pivotal role in driving initiatives that empower the next generation of digital leaders. Through her strategic leadership and unwavering dedication, she spearheads projects that not only equip young people with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age but also foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity.