AI Unlocked -Securing the Future
- Ange Alderton

- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Johan Schoeman
In the rapidly evolving landscape of South African business, the conversation around Artificial Intelligence often focuses on potential and productivity. However, as we move closer to the KZN Top Business "Beyond the Buzzword" AI UNLOCKED briefing on 13 May, a critical question remains: How do we innovate without compromising our resilience?
To answer this, we look to leaders who have spent decades in the trenches of cyber defence. One such heavyweight joining our speaker lineup is Johan Schoeman, the Managing Executive for Cybersecurity at Nexio.
More Than Just Defence: A Strategic Vision
With over twenty years of experience, Johan’s career is a masterclass in evolution. From his technical foundations in network and system engineering to his current executive leadership role, he has navigated the shift from simple "perimeter security" to the complex, proactive cyber intelligence required in 2026.
Johan isn't just focused on the "how" of cybersecurity; he is obsessed with the "why." His unique expertise lies in his ability to close the gap between high-level organisational strategy and the actual operational deployment. In a world where AI is changing the threat landscape daily, Johan ensures that security objectives aren't just boardroom bullet points—they are actionable processes that deliver measurable outcomes.
The Nexio Edge: Africa-Wide Impact
Leading large, cross-functional SecOps teams at Nexio, Johan has spearheaded massive security programmes across the continent. From delivering rigorous PCI compliance initiatives to architecting cyber defence for major telecom and technology organisations, his footprint on African digital resilience is profound.
His mission is clear: empower organisations to stay ahead of the threat curve. He achieves this through:
Adaptive Security: Moving beyond reactive fixes to proactive, intelligence-driven strategies.
High-Performing Teams: Developing the human talent necessary to manage sophisticated tech.
Operational Excellence: Ensuring that day-to-day security practices are seamless and well-organised.
Unlocking AI with the Vodacom Trio
Johan will be taking the stage at the Oyster Box Hotel as part of the esteemed Vodacom Trio. His insights will be vital for any business leader looking to integrate AI while maintaining a rock-solid security posture.
By aligning strategic vision with operational practice, Johan enables businesses to achieve continuous improvement and regulatory compliance—even in an increasingly complex threat environment.
Join the Conversation Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Johan Schoeman and the rest of our expert panel on 13 May 2026. This is where the KZN business community connects to turn AI potential into secure, sustainable success.





