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Singularity South Africa Summit 2026 Announces Quantum Computing, AI Sovereignty and Human-Centred Themes
When the sun rises over Johannesburg on October 21, 2026, the Sandton Convention Centre will pulse with anticipation as the 2026 Singularity South Africa Summit opens its doors. Organized by SingularityU South Africa, the two‑day event is backed by Old Mutual and metaverse partner UBU and promises to bring together global futurists, scientists and innovators for a deep dive into leadership, quantum computing, sovereign AI, education, architecture, human optimisation and the social implications of rapidly advancing technologies.
The summit’s schedule, set for Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 October, will feature a roster that expands on the already‑strong line‑up from previous years. Quantum computing expert Mark Jackson will dissect how the next computing revolution could reshape healthcare, logistics, cybersecurity and scientific research, and what it means for business and society at large. Architect DaeWha Kang of RIAAD will examine how emerging technologies are influencing spatial design and the built environment.
African perspectives will take centre stage. Lavina Ramkissoon of the African Union will discuss the growing importance of sovereign AI and Africa’s role in shaping its own technological future. Dr Natalie Raphil, founder of Robots Can Think and ambassador of South Africa’s Women in AI community, will address human‑centred AI and the empowerment of women in technology. Atenkosi Ngubevana will further expand the conversation around AI sovereignty and the continent’s evolving position within the global AI ecosystem.
Leadership and learning are also key themes. Celiwe Ross, Group Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer at Old Mutual, will share insights on leading in an era of complexity, uncertainty and accelerated technological change. “Our purpose at Old Mutual is to enable positive futures for our customers and the societies we serve,” Ross said. “But you cannot build positive futures without understanding the forces that will define them.”
Kyle Hermans, CEO of Oxford Leadership and the Be Courageous Research Institute, will examine courageous leadership, entrepreneurship and leading with conviction in uncertain times. Mic Mann, co‑CEO of Singularity South Africa, will discuss how education must evolve in an AI‑driven world, rethinking the role of teachers and the teaching approach needed for the future.
The summit will also tackle pressing questions about digital wellbeing and ethics. Clinical psychologist Danielle Einstein will share insights on social media, mental health and protecting younger generations in an increasingly connected world. Health, longevity and human optimisation will feature strongly, with Dr Cathy Davies exploring the science of exosomes, regenerative treatments and the future of skin, hair and healthy ageing.
“The conversation around technology has moved far beyond disruption alone,” said Shayne Mann, co‑CEO of Singularity South Africa. “What makes this year’s Summit particularly exciting is the breadth of perspectives coming together. From quantum computing and AI sovereignty to leadership, education and human wellbeing, these are the conversations that will shape how we live, work and lead in the years ahead.”
Tickets for the summit are priced at R 15 500 for in‑person attendance and R 4 200 for the metaverse option. Early‑bird pricing, available until 21 June 2026, offers a 24 % discount on the standard price. All prices include VAT.
Further speakers and programme announcements will be revealed in the coming months. For more information, regular updates or to book a ticket, visit www.singularitysouthafricaSummit.org.
The 2026 summit continues Singularity South Africa’s tradition of convening thought leaders to explore the future of technology and its impact on society, with a particular focus on Africa’s digital independence and the ethical dimensions of emerging AI and quantum technologies.
The summit’s schedule, set for Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 October, will feature a roster that expands on the already‑strong line‑up from previous years. Quantum computing expert Mark Jackson will dissect how the next computing revolution could reshape healthcare, logistics, cybersecurity and scientific research, and what it means for business and society at large. Architect DaeWha Kang of RIAAD will examine how emerging technologies are influencing spatial design and the built environment.
African perspectives will take centre stage. Lavina Ramkissoon of the African Union will discuss the growing importance of sovereign AI and Africa’s role in shaping its own technological future. Dr Natalie Raphil, founder of Robots Can Think and ambassador of South Africa’s Women in AI community, will address human‑centred AI and the empowerment of women in technology. Atenkosi Ngubevana will further expand the conversation around AI sovereignty and the continent’s evolving position within the global AI ecosystem.
Leadership and learning are also key themes. Celiwe Ross, Group Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer at Old Mutual, will share insights on leading in an era of complexity, uncertainty and accelerated technological change. “Our purpose at Old Mutual is to enable positive futures for our customers and the societies we serve,” Ross said. “But you cannot build positive futures without understanding the forces that will define them.”
Kyle Hermans, CEO of Oxford Leadership and the Be Courageous Research Institute, will examine courageous leadership, entrepreneurship and leading with conviction in uncertain times. Mic Mann, co‑CEO of Singularity South Africa, will discuss how education must evolve in an AI‑driven world, rethinking the role of teachers and the teaching approach needed for the future.
The summit will also tackle pressing questions about digital wellbeing and ethics. Clinical psychologist Danielle Einstein will share insights on social media, mental health and protecting younger generations in an increasingly connected world. Health, longevity and human optimisation will feature strongly, with Dr Cathy Davies exploring the science of exosomes, regenerative treatments and the future of skin, hair and healthy ageing.
“The conversation around technology has moved far beyond disruption alone,” said Shayne Mann, co‑CEO of Singularity South Africa. “What makes this year’s Summit particularly exciting is the breadth of perspectives coming together. From quantum computing and AI sovereignty to leadership, education and human wellbeing, these are the conversations that will shape how we live, work and lead in the years ahead.”
Tickets for the summit are priced at R 15 500 for in‑person attendance and R 4 200 for the metaverse option. Early‑bird pricing, available until 21 June 2026, offers a 24 % discount on the standard price. All prices include VAT.
Further speakers and programme announcements will be revealed in the coming months. For more information, regular updates or to book a ticket, visit www.singularitysouthafricaSummit.org.
The 2026 summit continues Singularity South Africa’s tradition of convening thought leaders to explore the future of technology and its impact on society, with a particular focus on Africa’s digital independence and the ethical dimensions of emerging AI and quantum technologies.
