Why Joburg’s upcoming AI event could shape the future of South African business

Johannesburg is about to host a tech gathering that could redefine how local companies use artificial intelligence. On 17 September, AvePoint will bring together global experts and business leaders for a high-impact event focused on one question: how can South African enterprises unlock AI’s full potential without losing control of their data?

AI is moving faster than most businesses

Artificial intelligence is no longer a single, mysterious buzzword. It has splintered into powerful strands — from generative AI that can produce content and designs in seconds, to agentic AI that acts independently, and even quantum AI promising mind-bending processing speeds.

Globally, adoption is surging. Generative AI use alone is expected to climb from 55% in 2023 to 75% this year. For local businesses, the opportunities are huge: faster decision-making, personalised customer experiences, new revenue streams. But the risks are just as real.

Why Joburg businesses can’t ignore the risks

AI runs on data — lots of it. And in a country where cybersecurity threats are rising, the thought of feeding sensitive company or customer information into an AI system can be nerve-wracking.

From intellectual property theft to data leaks, the dangers are enough to make even the most forward-thinking CEO hesitate. Add to that the growing list of local and international regulations on data privacy, and it’s clear that any AI adoption strategy must start with trust and compliance.

Tech commentators on social media are already calling AI “the gold rush of our time” but warning that “without governance, it’s like mining without a safety helmet.” It’s a fitting analogy — the opportunity is rich, but one wrong move can be costly.

Setting up for success: the foundations of secure AI

Experts agree that to make AI truly work for a business, four pillars need to be in place:

• Strong data protection — encryption, access controls, and real-time monitoring

• Regulatory compliance — keeping up with fast-changing data privacy laws

• Data integrity — ensuring the information feeding AI is accurate and up to date

• Governance frameworks — clear rules for how data is collected, stored, and used

Without these, even the smartest AI will produce questionable results — and worse, erode trust in the brand.

AvePoint’s first-ever Johannesburg event

This is where the upcoming AvePoint event steps in. Known globally for its work in data security, governance, and resilience, AvePoint is using its Johannesburg debut to focus on the intersection of AI innovation and safe, responsible adoption.

The gathering will feature insights from technology strategists, governance specialists, and industry leaders, all aimed at helping South African businesses scale their AI ambitions without losing sight of compliance or customer trust.

With over 21 000 customers worldwide and a footprint in more than 100 countries, AvePoint is bringing global expertise to the local stage — a rare opportunity for Joburg’s tech and business community to get ahead of the AI curve.

The takeaway for South African business leaders

AI is coming, whether companies are ready or not. The question is whether local businesses will embrace it blindly, or with a plan that safeguards their data, reputation, and customers.

For those looking to choose the second option, 17 September in Johannesburg might be the smartest date they put on their calendar this year.