AI for Business - Johan Steyn

204. From writing code to training AI: A father's perspective - my recent article in ITWeb

In this reflective piece, I explore the evolving role of coding in education through both personal experience and a parent’s lens. Having taught myself to code as a child in the 1980s, I now watch my son follow a similar path – yet in a world transformed by artificial intelligence.

 

Link to article on ITWeb: https://www.itweb.co.za/article/from-writing-code-to-training-ai-a-fathers-perspective/xnklOvz1k8wq4Ymz

 

Stanford study: https://hai.stanford.edu/ai-index/2024-ai-index-report

 

McKinsey report: https://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/our-research/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-work-in-america

 

UK’s National AI Strategy for Schools: https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2025/03/artificial-intelligence-in-schools-everything-you-need-to-know/

 

Estonia - mandatory AI etics learning: https://e-estonia.com/ai-leap-2025-estonia-sets-ai-standard-in-education/

 

UNESCO report: https://www.unesco.org/en/digital-education/artificial-intelligence

 

Finland’s hybrid approach: https://theaitrack.com/ai-in-finland-education-global-model/

203. In conversation with Boitumelo Mahlaba

The main points from our conversation:

Preparation is Key – Writing notes, brainstorming key points, and practicing regularly, whether in small meetings or informal settings, are essential for building confidence and improving articulation. Preparation allows you to organize your thoughts, anticipate questions, and refine your delivery, making it easier to engage your audience effectively. The more you practice, the more natural and confident your communication becomes.

Confidence Comes with Practice - Speaking up in everyday situations, such as family gatherings or team meetings, is a great way to develop public speaking skills. Confidence grows over time through consistent practice and experience. The more you engage in these small, informal settings, the more comfortable and confident you'll become in larger, more formal
speaking environments. Every opportunity to speak is a chance to refine your communication and strengthen your presence.

Reading Expands Your Vocabulary – Reading books, articles, and newspapers improves language skills and helps speakers articulate their thoughts more effectively. Learning new words and incorporating them into everyday conversations not only enhances communication but also boosts confidence in conveying thoughts with impact.

Nerves are Normal – Use Them to Your Advantage – Feeling nervous before speaking is natural, even for experienced speakers. Managing those nerves through techniques like breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and focusing on a positive outcome can help speakers stay composed. Shifting the focus from self-doubt to the message you want to share allows you to engage with the audience confidently.

Your Voice Matters – Speak Up! - Many people, especially young women in Africa, have been conditioned to stay silent. Breaking free from this mindset is essential for personal growth and fostering inclusivity in tech and beyond. By challenging the status quo, their voices can inspire others, create positive change, and pave the way for future generations to confidently take their place in spaces where they’ve been historically underrepresented.

202. In conversation with Dr Mark Nasila

The main points from our conversation:

Simplify Complex Ideas – If you can’t explain a technical concept in simple terms, your audience won’t engage. Test your content on non-technical listeners (like family) to ensure clarity.

Storytelling is Key – Move beyond dry facts. Use relatable examples, demonstrations, and quantifiable results to make your message compelling and memorable.

Write with Purpose – Don’t write for the sake of it. Identify a gap (e.g., Africa’s AI identity) and craft content that fills it, ensuring relevance and impact.

Overcome Procrastination – Start by outlining your "building blocks" and focus on the necessity of your message. Preparation and structure help combat blank-page anxiety.

Publishing is a Process – A book isn’t about you—it’s for your readers. Work with publishers who align with your vision, stay adaptable (e.g., updating for trends like ChatGPT), and accept that refinement is part of the journey.

Confidence Comes with Practice – Even experts face self-doubt. Keep writing, seek feedback, and view each effort as a step toward mastery.

201. In conversation with Dr Brenda Kubheka-Chauke

The main points from our conversation:

 

Writing as a Tool for Influence: Writing can serve as an advocacy tool, helping professionals share their expertise, influence policy, and gain speaking opportunities. It also enhances personal branding.

 

Respect Your Audience: Both writing and speaking require preparation and fact-checking. Anxiety is normal, but it should drive better preparation. Always prioritise clarity and audience engagement.

 

Overcome Fear with Preparation: Confidence in public speaking comes from preparation and practice. Research your topic thoroughly, rehearse within the time limits, and avoid over-reliance on slides.

 

Leverage AI Ethically: AI can assist with refining writing and presentations, but authenticity is key. Your unique voice should come through in your work.

Women Must Step Up and Speak: More African women need to claim their space in tech discussions. Overcoming imposter syndrome and cultural barriers is essential to ensure diverse perspectives shape the future.

200. In conversation with Samantha Msipa - Technology policy and strategy specialist, Technology writer

The main points from our conversation:

 

Writing and Speaking Are Learned Skills – No one is born a great writer or speaker. It takes practice, persistence, and constructive feedback to improve.

Read More to Write Better – Reading widely, including content similar to what you want to write, helps develop critical thinking, vocabulary, and storytelling skills.

Just Start – Even if It’s 50 Words a Day – Overcoming procrastination is key. Writing a little every day builds confidence and consistency.

Know Your Audience – Tailor your message to your readers or listeners. Make complex topics relatable by connecting them to real-life experiences.

Use AI as a Tool, Not a Crutch – AI can help refine ideas and language, but your authentic voice must shine through. Use AI for structuring and enhancing your work, not replacing your originality.

199. PowerFM Lunch with Pabi Moloi: The rise of polyfunctional robots—AI-driven machines that can perform multiple tasks across industries.

Human-Centered AI Advocate Johan Steyn joins Pabi Moloi to unpack the rise of polyfunctional robots—AI-driven machines that can perform multiple tasks across industries. From healthcare and agriculture to manufacturing and disaster response – he discusses how these adaptable robots are revolutionizing efficiency and transforming workplaces.

198. Join our CX Masterclasses in May in Jo'burg & October in Cape Town!

See this link about the event: https://www.nlightencx.com/masterclass/

 

See the interview video here: https://youtu.be/Qq-6E9WNkh4?si=qY5xcTgM8jlV0K1t

197. Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI by Yuval Noah Harari

Subscribe for updates: http://eepurl.com/iNfyac

Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI explores the role of information in shaping human civilisation and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence. Harari argues that throughout history, power has always been tied to control over information, but AI introduces a new and unprecedented shift—one where machines can autonomously process, create, and influence information without human oversight.

The book warns of AI’s ability to reshape economies, governance, and public discourse, raising ethical concerns about surveillance, misinformation, and the loss of human agency. Harari compares AI’s unchecked growth to The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, illustrating the dangers of unleashing forces we cannot control. He highlights how AI already makes critical decisions about finance, hiring, and justice, often without transparency.

A striking metaphor in Nexus is the pigeon, symbolising both peace and war, reflecting the dual nature of information—it can empower societies or be weaponised for control. Harari urges responsible AI governance to prevent manipulation and inequality, emphasising the need for ethical oversight. As we navigate an AI-driven future, Nexus serves as a crucial reminder of the power of information and the importance of safeguarding its integrity.

196. Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education (and Why That's a Good Thing) by Salman Khan

Subscribe for updates: http://eepurl.com/iNfyac

In Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionise Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing), Salman Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education. He argues that AI, particularly generative models like ChatGPT, can act as a personalised tutor for every student, offering tailored learning experiences that were previously impossible. Rather than replacing teachers, AI can enhance education by adapting lessons, automating assessments, and providing real-time feedback.

Khan emphasises that AI should be embraced rather than feared, encouraging educators and parents to see it as a tool for improving accessibility and engagement. He also addresses the ethical and societal challenges, such as bias and misinformation, but remains optimistic about AI’s role in creating a more equitable education system.

The book has received high praise from thought leaders like Bill Gates, Walter Isaacson, and Tony Blair, who recognise its timely insights into AI’s impact on learning and the workforce. Khan’s vision is both inspiring and practical, offering a roadmap for how schools and institutions can harness AI to support students and teachers alike.

Ultimately, Brave New Words is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of education, technology, and the evolving role of AI in our lives.

195. How AI Ate the World: A Brief History of Artificial Intelligence - And Its Long Future by Chris Stokel-Walker

Chris Stokel-Walker’s How AI Ate the World is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on society. Named UKTN’s Technology Book of the Year, it provides a concise yet comprehensive exploration of AI’s history, technology, business influence, and political implications.

The book traces AI’s origins from the Cold War era to the present day, offering exclusive insights from the innovators at Google and OpenAI who built Bard and ChatGPT. Stokel-Walker goes beyond the technology itself, addressing AI’s real-world consequences—how it’s reshaping industries, displacing jobs, and raising concerns about the development of super-intelligent systems. He also questions whether warnings from tech leaders like Elon Musk and Sam Altman about AI’s existential threats are genuine or a distraction from their growing power.

What sets this book apart is its balance between technical depth and accessibility. Written in a clear, engaging style, it appeals to both AI newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. With AI shaping our world at an unprecedented pace, How AI Ate the World is an essential guide to understanding the opportunities and risks ahead. If you want a single book to bring you up to speed on AI’s revolution, this is it.