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The Conference for Visionary Leaders

Counder Conference is the gathering of visionary leaders to explore tomorrow’s most important opportunities together.

26–28 January 2027
Cape Town, South Africa
Be Part of Counder
26–28 January 2027
Cape Town, South Africa
Be Part of Counder

The Counder Experience

Where 500 visionary leaders gather in Cape Town's most inspiring settings to transform breakthrough conversations into trusted partnerships, co-investments, and global collaboration through curated excursions and roundtables.

Visionary Leaders
Tom Boardman, former CEO of Nedbank, speaking at Counder Conference 2025
Speaker stands with microphone in hand
Speaker stands with microphone in hand
Visionary Leaders
From investors to top entrepreneurs, family office principals to tech visionaries, Counder brings together 500+ invite-only leaders.

Each represents the calibre that create a trusted space where collaboration can take place that shape tomorrow's most important opportunities.

Experience Cape Town
Man standing on mountain
Man standing on mountain
Experience Cape Town
Cape Town is the chosen host city of our flagship Counder Conference. From sunrise hikes up Lion's Head before morning sessions to evening discussions overlooking the ocean, the world's most beautiful city becomes the natural stage for meaningful dialogue and trusted connections.
Future-Forward Thinking
Applause from conference attendees
Applause from conference attendees
Future-Forward Thinking

Visionary Leaders converge to shape the future through collaboration and innovation. With a world in flux, Counder explores emerging trends & regions to answer the question of what's next. Deep-tech breakthroughs. Emerging markets rewriting global scripts. AI-designed proteins and many more. These are tomorrow's most important opportunities, discussed by top leaders who are curious, collaborative & action-orientated.

Collaboration
People outside having a break at Counder Conference
People outside having a break at Counder Conference
Collaboration

In expert-guided roundtables and Cape Town's most inspiring settings, relationships form that translate into tangible outcomes: partnerships, co-investments, and collaborations that wouldn't exist otherwise.

Uniting visionary leaders to spark ideas and shape tomorrow's opportunities together.

Curated Excursions
Yacht on the water
Yacht on the water
Curated Excursions

Counder Conference offers curated excursions across Cape Town, blending connection and discovery in world-class settings. From Robben Island walks to lunches on the ocean, every experience is designed to deepen connections and create the serendipitous moments where breakthrough collaborations emerge.

The Why

Two people shaking hands

Counder's community acknowledges that today's world is in constant flux. With the rise of AI, new mega cities and regions like the Middle East, there is one thing that has never been more important: Trusted connections that enable collaboration across the world for positive developments. It is this trust that Counder and its world-class partner organisations thrive to establish at the flagship Counder Conference and beyond.

Through in-person meetings, truly open and unfiltered exchange, and deeply rooted insights, authentic links for real progress are established.

By deliberately choosing Cape Town as our flagship Conference’s host city, Counder is inviting global decision-makers to a new space of international relevance in the global South.

Counder’s vision is to be the foremost global network for visionary leaders to collaborate on tomorrow’s most important opportunities.

The Who

People having a talk

By invitation/application-only, Counder Conference brings together a carefully selected collective of visionary leaders & world-class organisations. They embody a forward-thinking mindset, a commitment to collaborative exploration, and a drive for measurable impact.

We unite leaders from across industries and disciplines unlike any other conference. This rich diversity of perspectives creates the ideal environment for breakthrough thinking and cross-sector collaboration.

Leaders & Organisations at Counder are characterised by:

  • Forward-Looking Mindset
  • Significant Capital or Impact
  • Proven Excellence and Vision
  • Impact-Driven Attitude
  • Community-Centric Philosophy
Be Part of Counder

Visionary Leaders at Counder Conference 2026

Visionary Leaders are chosen for their impact, excellence, and forward-thinking mindset. United by purpose, they learn together, start new collaborations, and drive meaningful progress as Members within the Counder collective.

Christo Wiese

Christo Wiese

Chairman Emeritus, Shoprite

Dr. Jan Deepen

Dr. Jan Deepen

Co-Founder, SumUp

Hardy Pemhiwa

Hardy Pemhiwa

President & CEO, Cassava Technologies

Neville Isdell

Neville Isdell

Former Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company

Jessica Motaung

Jessica Motaung

FIFA Men’s Football Stakeholders Committee Member, FIFA | Vice President, Africa Club Association | Marketing and Commercial Director, Kaizer Chiefs Football Club

Anthony Costa

Anthony Costa

Head of B20 Secretariat, Business Unity South Africa

Emmanuel Lubanzadio

Emmanuel Lubanzadio

Africa Lead, OpenAI

Martin Manniche

Martin Manniche

Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Investor, AXON Networks

Dan  Mace

Dan Mace

Chief Creative Officer, Beast Philanthropy | YouTuber & Filmmaker

Robin Lingg

Robin Lingg

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ringier Sports Media Group | Investor

Marco Vietor

Marco Vietor

Co-Founder & Managing Director, audibene GmbH

Julian Teicke

Julian Teicke

Co-Founder & Chairman, The Delta

Sudeep Ramnani

Sudeep Ramnani

Founder & Managing Partner, 885 Capital

Dirk Ströer

Dirk Ströer

Member of the Supervisory Board, Ströer SE & Co. KGaA | Chief Executive Officer, Media Ventures GmbH

Henrik Persson Ekdahl

Henrik Persson Ekdahl

Investor & Advisor

Raphael Strauch

Raphael Strauch

Founder, Token2049 | Founder, Alice Capital

Ryan Rockefeller

Ryan Rockefeller

CEO & Co-Founder, Rising Tide

Thebe Magugu

Thebe Magugu

South African fashion designer, Thebe Magugu

Marina Davidova

Marina Davidova

Managing Partner, DVC

Steven Grin

Steven Grin

Managing Partner, Lateral Frontiers VC

Herman Steyn

Herman Steyn

Co-Founder & Chairman, Prescient Group

Cyrille Nkontchou

Cyrille Nkontchou

Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Enko Capital

Ethiopis Tafara

Ethiopis Tafara

Vice President for Africa, International Finance Corporation

Konstantin Urban

Konstantin Urban

General Partner, Generations Fund (G-Fund)

Nick Ackerman

Nick Ackerman

Partner, Lionhead Capital Partners

Khangi Khoza

Khangi Khoza

CEO, Swissport South Africa Pty Ltd

Tom Boardman

Tom Boardman

Investor | Non-Executive Director, African Rainbow Capital & TymeBank

Michael Jordaan

Michael Jordaan

Founder & CEO, Montegray Capital | Venture Capitalist

Jonathan Heinamann

Jonathan Heinamann

Founder and Executive Director, FAITH (Future African Impact Transaction Holdings) | Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Athena Capital (Pty) Limited (South Africa) & SAIA ( Mauritius)

James Bailes

James Bailes

Co-Founder, Castleton Capital

Moritz Elleke

Moritz Elleke

Family Office

Claudia Zeisberger

Claudia Zeisberger

Professor of Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise, INSEAD

Nick Davidov

Nick Davidov

Partner and Cofounder, Davidovs VC

Kenneth Raydon Sharpe

Kenneth Raydon Sharpe

Executive Chairman, West Properties Company

Kuseni Dlamini

Kuseni Dlamini

Chairman, Aspen Pharma Group

Marie-Li Haub

Marie-Li Haub

Director of Business Development, Tengelmann Twenty-One KG

Finn Age Hänsel

Finn Age Hänsel

Founder, Sanity Group

Hans Otterling

Hans Otterling

Partner, Norrsken22

Florian Schauenburg

Florian Schauenburg

CEO & Owner, Schauenburg International

Tanja Werheit

Tanja Werheit

Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Cape Town

Akin II Omoboriowo

Akin II Omoboriowo

Chairman & CEO, Genesis Energy Holding

Kelley Starke

Kelley Starke

Founder & CEO, Kensani Capital

Michael Louis

Michael Louis

Chairman, WestProp Holdings

Aguil Deng

Aguil Deng

Corporate Philanthropy Africa, Bloomberg

Andrew da Costa

Andrew da Costa

Co-founder and Partner, The Intrepid.

Dr. Jonathan Doerr

Dr. Jonathan Doerr

SVP, Disrupt.com

Karin Pickard Louis

Karin Pickard Louis

Chairman, Kaapstad Sakekamer

Thilo von Selchow

Thilo von Selchow

Family Office

Anuradha Das Mathur

Anuradha Das Mathur

Chair, IMA Policy Forum

André Kanya

André Kanya

Founding Partner, w3.fund

Fabian Wittleben

Fabian Wittleben

Founding Partner, MVP Founders

Tim Tepass

Tim Tepass

Co-Founder, MVP Founders

Karl Westvig

Karl Westvig

CEO, TymeBank | Private Investor

Ido Sum

Ido Sum

Private Investor

James Boardman

James Boardman

Founder, Grey Heron Venture Partners

James Stewart

James Stewart

Partner, Level One Fund

Manuel Koser

Manuel Koser

Co-Founder & Managing Director, Silvertree Brands

Johan Bosini

Johan Bosini

Partner, Quona Capital

Nicolaas Marais

Nicolaas Marais

Chairman & Co-Founder, Carmel Wealth

Jonathan Cordero

Jonathan Cordero

Private Investor

Andrew Stewart

Andrew Stewart

Partner, Level One Fund

Angelica Adamski

Angelica Adamski

Private Investor

Gregor Unger

Gregor Unger

Managing Partner, caesar.

Philipp Ströhemann

Philipp Ströhemann

Private Investor

Carmen Calisto

Carmen Calisto

Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Cartrack

Anton Gillis

Anton Gillis

Chapter President, FEO Cape Town

Avinav Nigam

Avinav Nigam

Founder & CEO, TERN Group

Edward Lepine-Williams

Edward Lepine-Williams

Partner, Lionhead Capital Partners

Etop Ikpe

Etop Ikpe

CEO, Autochek Africa

Justin Swart

Justin Swart

Principal, BITKRAFT Ventures

Kamil Saeid

Kamil Saeid

Partner, defy.vc

Kenneth Harlan Simmons III

Kenneth Harlan Simmons III

Youth Football Coach, Kaizer Chiefs

Moky Makura

Moky Makura

Executive Director, Africa No Filter |Partner, Dazzle Angels

Nicholas Katsapas

Nicholas Katsapas

Director, Africrest Properties

Opeyemi Awoyemi

Opeyemi Awoyemi

Evangelist, OlaCV | General Partner, Fast Forward Venture Studio

Pontsho Maruping

Pontsho Maruping

Managing Director, South African Radio Astronomy Observatory

Sophie Gandet

Sophie Gandet

Founder, Sophie Gandet Consulting | Head of Community, Journeys With Purpose

Thabo Dloti

Thabo Dloti

Chairman of the Board, African Bank

Wandile Mtoba

Wandile Mtoba

Co-Founder, Velisa Wine

Barry Johnson

Barry Johnson

Founder & CEO, 7 Generations Africa

Bastiaan Hochstenbach

Bastiaan Hochstenbach

Partner, E4E Africa

Bastian Gotter

Bastian Gotter

Founder & Angel Investor

Başar Canıperk

Başar Canıperk

Entrepreneur & Investor

Chijioke Dozie

Chijioke Dozie

Co-Founder, Carbon

Christiane  Kilian

Christiane Kilian

Executive Board member, STIFT

Christopher Joondeph

Christopher Joondeph

Content Creator, authentic_traveling

Claudia Swartzberg

Claudia Swartzberg

CEO, Top Dog Education & CambriLearn

Claudia Conceicao

Claudia Conceicao

Regional Director, Southern Africa, International Finance Corporation

Dagmar van Ravenswaay Claasen

Dagmar van Ravenswaay Claasen

Senior Partner, LUMO Labs  

David Torr

David Torr

Co-Founder & CEO, FARO 

Deetje Scannell

Deetje Scannell

Private Investor 

Dele Olojede

Dele Olojede

Founder & Host, Africa in the World

Duncan Irvine

Duncan Irvine

CEO and Founder, Forge

Elias Gallego

Elias Gallego

VP, Business Development, Marketing & Media, Sporty Group

Elias Schulze

Elias Schulze

General Manager, PFL Africa

Felix Leonhardt

Felix Leonhardt

Managing Partner, Oyster Bay Venture Capital  

Frank Mccosker

Frank Mccosker

Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Africa Bridge Fund

George Straschnov

George Straschnov

Managing Director, Bisk Ventures

Gidon Novick

Gidon Novick

Entrepreneur & Investor, Circle Senior Living 

Jasper Masemann

Jasper Masemann

General Partner, Discovery Ventures

Josh Whale

Josh Whale

Founder and CEO, Ampersand USA Inc

Dr. Julian Hueck

Dr. Julian Hueck

Managing Director, O.E. Hueck GmbH

Karsten Wulf

Karsten Wulf

Founder and CEO, zwei.7 Holding GmbH

Keet van Zyl

Keet van Zyl

High-Growth Venture Investor | Co-Founder, Knife Capital

Kevin Dillon

Kevin Dillon

Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Atlantic Bridge Capital LLP

Kola Aina

Kola Aina

Founding Partner, Ventures Platform

Mariama Boumanjal

Mariama Boumanjal

Ukraine Startup Fund Manager, Google for Startups UK and Africa Lead, Founders Fund Manager - Europe & Africa, Google for Startups

Marina Markezic

Marina Markezic

Co-Founder & Executive Director, European Crypto Initiative

Mathias Ockenfels

Mathias Ockenfels

Partner, b2venture

Maurizio Caio

Maurizio Caio

Founder & Managing Partner, TLcom Capital LLP

Maximilian von Waldenfels

Maximilian von Waldenfels

Co-Founder, Caspar Health

Melvyn Lubega

Melvyn Lubega

Partner, Breega

Michael Power

Michael Power

Director & Geo-Economic Strategist, Kaskazi Consulting

Mike Joubert

Mike Joubert

Founder, Billybo Group | Chairman, Viya Health 

Mulumba Lwatula

Mulumba Lwatula

Head of Investments, Industrial Development Corporation  

Natalie Jabangwe

Natalie Jabangwe

Board Member | Group Chief Digital Officer| Former CEO, EcoCash Zw

Neil Markovitz

Neil Markovitz

Chief Executive Officer, Newmark Hotels

Nina Verder

Nina Verder

Principal Operator-Investor, Secha Capital 

Odunayo Eweniyi

Odunayo Eweniyi

Co-founder & Chief Operations Officer, PiggyVest

Omar Khashaba

Omar Khashaba

General Partner, Algebra Ventures 

Patrick Kirchhoff

Patrick Kirchhoff

Director & Engineering, Cisco

Pieter van Groos

Pieter van Groos

Founding Partner, Strand House Investments

Raghu Raman

Raghu Raman

Founder & Speaker, Capt. Raman

Roberta Gumede

Roberta Gumede

Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Gijima

Sachen Chandaria

Sachen Chandaria

Chief Executive Officer, Orbit Products Africa Limited

Simone van Straaten

Simone van Straaten

Chief Executive Officer, Verimark

Thomas Otter

Thomas Otter

General Partner, Acadian Ventures

Wrenelle Stander

Wrenelle Stander

Chief Executive Officer, Wesgro Tourism

Marco Neuhaus

Marco Neuhaus

Venture Partner, Motive Ventures

Reyburn Hendricks

Reyburn Hendricks

Director, H1 Holdings

Sherine Kabesh

Sherine Kabesh

CEO, Flash

Mamo Mihretu

Mamo Mihretu

Former Governor, National Bank of Ethiopia | Former CEO, Ethiopian Investment Holdings

Kolawole Owodunni

Kolawole Owodunni

Executive Director & Chief Investment Officer, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority

Eliot Dupuis

Eliot Dupuis

Harvard Student, Harvard University

Kerry West Fynn

Kerry West Fynn

CEO, AlphaWealth

Mika Hajjar

Mika Hajjar

Co-Founder & Managing Partner, P1 Ventures

Mark Miller

Mark Miller

Founder and Managing Partner, Carlsquare

Caroline Greyling

Caroline Greyling

Museum Director, Norval Foundation

Adele Hollmann

Adele Hollmann

Senior Scientific Affairs Manager, Sanity Group

Erwin Rademaker

Erwin Rademaker

Senior programmamanager, Port of Rotterdam

Jesse Hemson-Struthers

Jesse Hemson-Struthers

Co-Founder & CEO, BVNK

Herman Spruit

Herman Spruit

CEO, 361 at Finca, FINCA International

Matthias Vollherbst

Matthias Vollherbst

Business Owner & Board Member, Vollherbst

Rony Vogel

Rony Vogel

Chief Executive Officer, Vogel Family Office ltd.

Michael Schmidt

Michael Schmidt

Chief Investment Officer, 885 Capital

Dr. Onike Nicol-Houra

Dr. Onike Nicol-Houra

Lead Investment Relations Specialist, Africa Investment Forum

Brian Waswani Odhiambo

Brian Waswani Odhiambo

Partner, Novastar Ventures

Karen Pieterse

Karen Pieterse

Head of Sales Stratosat Africa, Stratosat Datacom SA (Pty) Ltd

Moritz Boullenger

Moritz Boullenger

Co-Founder, Fluidkey

Thomas Bachem

Thomas Bachem

Founder & Managing Director of CODE Trust, CODE University of Applied Sciences

Fredrik Jung Abbou

Fredrik Jung Abbou

Co-Founder, Norrsken Launcher

Lutz Stenvers

Lutz Stenvers

CEO, mtex antenna technology

Michael Mol

Michael Mol

Medical Doctor, Media Personality & Health-Tech Entrepreneur

Ravi Naidoo

Ravi Naidoo

Commissioner National Planning Commission, Presidency, Republic of South Africa 

Fabian Wittleben

Fabian Wittleben

Founding Partner, MVP Founders

Thomas de Buhr

Thomas de Buhr

CEO, TDB - OFF THE PITCH

Kelly Chibale

Kelly Chibale

Professor of Organic Chemistry, University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa

Andreas Papadaniil

Andreas Papadaniil

Founder & CEO, suresecure GmbH

Daniel Bronk

Daniel Bronk

Managing Partner, B+V Union GmbH

James Nathan

James Nathan

Chief Executive Officer, Nucleus Investment Management

Adam Fine

Adam Fine

CEO & Founder, Fives Futbol | Co-Founder Virgin Active Padel Club ZA

Jacob Wiese

Jacob Wiese

Alternative Non-Executive Director at Shoprite Holdings Ltd.

Eric Spett

Eric Spett

Founder & CEO, Coach, Scalebound

Hakan Filipson

Hakan Filipson

Investor, HFCT Investments 

Gregory Parsons

Gregory Parsons

Vice President of Global Business Development Media and Marketing at Sporty Group

Anton Gaylard

Anton Gaylard

Director, Troygold

Mark Burke

Mark Burke

Member of Parliament, Parliament of the Republic of South Africa

Rob Sussman

Rob Sussman

CEO at Integr8 Group

Tilo Bonow

Tilo Bonow

Founder & CEO, PIABO Communications 

Niels Kalshoven

Niels Kalshoven

U-space Liasion - Port of Rotterdam, DronePort Rotterdam

Frederik de Ridder

Frederik de Ridder

Chief Executive Officer, Mura Space

James Barrington-Brown

James Barrington-Brown

Chief Revenue Officer, NewCraft Aerospace

Styli Charalambous

Styli Charalambous

Co-founder and CEO at Daily Maverick

Stephan Thor Stubner

Stephan Thor Stubner

AG Chair, HHL Leipzig | Professor, Stellenbosch University | Investor

Linda Mabhena-Olagunju

Linda Mabhena-Olagunju

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, DLO Energy Resources Group (Pty) Ltd

Axel Konjack

Axel Konjack

Head Global Marketplaces / Member Group Executive Board, Ringier AG

Fasie Malherbe

Fasie Malherbe

Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Smart Operator AI

Amandine Lobelle

Amandine Lobelle

Chief Operating Officer, Paystack

Branko Brkic

Branko Brkic

Leader, Project Kontinuum 

Philipp Graf Schack von Wittenau

Philipp Graf Schack von Wittenau

Chairman of the Shareholders’ Committee, DREHTAINER GmbH

Lee-Anne Singer

Lee-Anne Singer

Marketing & Sales Director, Singer Group | Partner, Southern Africa, HVS Middle East & Africa

Jens Kunath

Jens Kunath

CEO, Orangemedia.de GmbH & Co.KG

Vymala Thuron

Vymala Thuron

Group Head, Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB)

Cairo Howarth

Cairo Howarth

President, EFC

Willem Venter

Willem Venter

Chief Executive Officer, Prescient Holdings (Pty) Ltd

Mission Partners Supporting Counder

Mission Partners are Visionary Leaders that support and partner with Counder on our mission to connect visionary leaders, bridge new and established perspectives, and spark meaningful collaborations that explore tomorrow's most important opportunities.

Karl Westvig

Karl Westvig

CEO, TymeBank | Private Investor

Akin II Omoboriowo

Akin II Omoboriowo

Chairman & CEO, Genesis Energy Holding

Claudia Zeisberger

Claudia Zeisberger

Professor of Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise, INSEAD

Jonathan Cordero

Jonathan Cordero

Private Investor

Odunayo Eweniyi

Odunayo Eweniyi

Co-founder & Chief Operations Officer, PiggyVest

Bastian Gotter

Bastian Gotter

Founder & Angel Investor

Duncan Irvine

Duncan Irvine

CEO and Founder, Forge

George Straschnov

George Straschnov

Managing Director, Bisk Ventures

Keet van Zyl

Keet van Zyl

High-Growth Venture Investor | Co-Founder, Knife Capital

Maurizio Caio

Maurizio Caio

Founder & Managing Partner, TLcom Capital LLP

Mike Joubert

Mike Joubert

Founder, Billybo Group | Chairman, Viya Health 

Natalie Jabangwe

Natalie Jabangwe

Board Member | Group Chief Digital Officer| Former CEO, EcoCash Zw

Reyburn Hendricks

Reyburn Hendricks

Director, H1 Holdings

Aguil Deng

Aguil Deng

Corporate Philanthropy Africa, Bloomberg

Roberta Gumede

Roberta Gumede

Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Gijima

Nicolaas Marais

Nicolaas Marais

Chairman & Co-Founder, Carmel Wealth

Sachen Chandaria

Sachen Chandaria

Chief Executive Officer, Orbit Products Africa Limited

Breakout Topics 2026

Breakout 1

Breakout

Sports & New Leagues: The Business of Play

Discovering scalable sports formats redefining entertainment, fandom, and PE investment potential.

Breakout 2

Breakout

Cybersecurity: A Global Imperative

Exploring digital resilience, emerging threats, and trusted security architectures shaping global stability.

Breakout 3

Breakout

VC in Africa: Capturing the Tech & AI Upside

Join TLcom Capital and John McDermott from The Economist in unpacking key trends, growth dynamics and red herrings in Africa’s VC ecosystem.

Breakout 4

Breakout

Ports & Supply Chains: The Future

Smart, resilient ports reshaping global trade through automation, data, decarbonization.

Breakout 5

Breakout

Cannabis: From Medical Use to Investments

Learning about clinical evidence, therapeutic access, regulatory evolution, and scalable investment growth.

Breakout 6

Breakout

Growth Capital in Africa: Building Unicorns

Christo Wiese (Pep/Shoprite), Salvador Anglada (Optasia), and Cheslyn Jacobs (Tyme Bank) share behind-the-scenes stories on decisions, setbacks, and breakthroughs that built the continent’s most iconic billion-dollar businesses.

Breakout 7

Breakout

Space & Defense: An Ecosystem Catalyst

Mapping the African space ecosystem future, highlighting the frontier opportunities reshaping global markets, including dual-use opportunities.

Breakout 8

Breakout

Deep dive Nigeria: Building from Frontier Markets

What Nigeria’s venture outcomes reveal about building, scaling, and investing in Africa's frontier markets.

Breakout 9

Breakout

Digital Marketplaces: What’s Next?

Understanding how two-sided marketplaces make an impact across emerging markets.

Breakout 10

Breakout

Crypto: From Speculation to Stablecoins

The transition from speculative narratives to regulated, institutional-grade crypto markets.

Breakout 11

Breakout

Philantrophy 2.0: Partnerships from Academia to the Arts

Unpacking how cross-sector partnerships unlock scalable innovation and resilience.

Breakout 12

Breakout

Key Macro Investment Trends: Global Wealth in Flux

Geopolitics, deglobalization, demographics, energy and technology reshaping global capital allocation.

Breakout 13

Breakout

Digital Infrastructure: The Global Backbone

Where connectivity meets AI compute in the world's fastest-growing markets.

Breakout 14

Breakout

Emerging Creative Ecosystems: From KPOP to Nollywood

How cultural industries are becoming scalable, investable engines of global growth.

Breakout 15

Breakout

Urbanisation & Resilience: Cities of Tomorrow

Designing resilient, tech-enabled urban systems to solve tomorrow’s social and climate challenges.

Breakout 16

Breakout

Fintech: From Startup to Institution

How successful companies move from building fast-growing startups to enduring institutions.

Breakout 17

Breakout

AI: The Future of the Biggest Global Trend

From efficiency gains to paradigm shifts, AI rewrites the rules of economic value creation.

Breakout 18

Breakout

Youth Education: The Real Future of Emerging Markets

Youth education is the decisive investment shaping opportunity, resilience, and long-term prosperity in emerging markets - fascinating the youth of Astronomy, Big Data & Tech.

Selected Partners 2026

Media Partners

  • cnbc-africa logo
  • business insider africa logo
  • techabal logo

Be Part of Counder Conference

At Counder, we know true progress thrives at the intersection of trusted connections, groundbreaking insights, and immersive experiences. We unite visionary leaders from around the world to explore tomorrow's most important opportunities together.

Our Collective fosters exclusive collaborations, strategic co-investments, and impactful outcomes. Whether you're a visionary investor seeking new frontiers or a leading pioneer in your field, you're invited to be a part of Counder. Together, let's shape the future and build a legacy that resonates across generations.

Be Part of Counder
Artistic t-shirts

Beyond Words: The Atmosphere in Pictures

Refreshments at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference
People at a lecture
People at a lecture
Plate with delicious Food at Counder Conference
Inside view of Counder Conference
People shaking hands at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference
People outside chatting at Counder Conference

2026 Agenda

Explore an overview of the Conference Agenda.

  • 27–29 January 2026
  • 3-Day Programme
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german residence

Opening Reception

27 January 2026

On 27 January, Counder Conference opens at one of Cape Town's most distinguished venues in Bishopscourt. This evening sets the tone for three transformative days, featuring welcome addresses from global thought leaders and creating the foundation for the Conference experience.

At Counder, we know that tomorrow's most important opportunities require trusted human connections. The Gala Reception creates the environment where those connections begin — organically, meaningfully, and memorably.

Context Day

28 January 2026

Counder Conference, Context Day is dedicated to exploring tomorrow's most important opportunities through Knowledge Partners lead contextual deep-dives into future-facing trends, regions & topics. These breakout sessions are designed for deep thinking and collaborative innovation, moving beyond presentations to productive working sessions that generate real insights.

Guided by Knowledge Partners including OpenAI, Ringier, Norrsken22, TLcom Capital, and Yellow Card, breakout sessions explore the trends shaping tomorrow. Examples of select topics covered at the Conference are:

  • Venture Capital in Africa
  • Sports & New Leagues
  • The Future of AI
  • Cannabis Trends

These are a few of the many themes that will be discussed on the Context Day.

The day culminates with an evening of culture and connection: live music, local artistry, and shared moments in Norval Foundation’s sculpture garden.

Connect Day

29 January 2026

Counder Conference, Connect Day moves beyond the Conference venue into Cape Town itself. A beautiful gathering space serves as your base for meetings and organic exchange — fully catered and designed for deepening the connections forged over the previous two days.

For those who would like to explore Cape Town, choose your own adventure through exclusive excursions. Each excursion is carefully curated for small groups, ensuring meaningful conversations in memorable settings.

The Connect Day culminates with our closing gala dinner, where we celebrate the connections formed.

Investec HQ, Waterfront Partners Only

Partner Reception

26 January 2026

The Partner Reception serves as an intimate precursor to the main event, bringing together our world-class partner organisations and mission partners. It is a dedicated space for those who support the Counder mission to align, network, and prepare for the collaborative journey ahead.

FAQs

What is Counder Conference?

Counder Conference is our annual highlight—the full gathering of visionary leaders to explore tomorrow's most important opportunities together. Supported by world-class organisations, global leaders gain shared experiences and insights in a stunning, natural environment—creating a uniquely trusted, connected and collaborative exchange. It's where big ideas are born, trusted connections are made, and collaborative action on tomorrow's most important opportunities begins.

It is located in Cape Town as our chosen host city for the 2027 edition of our flagship Conference.

What is the Counder Conference Codex 2027?

Counder brings together a global community of visionary leaders shaping tomorrow’s most important opportunities.

In a world in flux and with strongly varying perspectives, Counder aims to be the all-year-round collective and yearly gathering place for those embracing open & frank dialogue and new, trusted connections to understand what is next.

This Codex built on core Counder values sets the tone for how visionary leaders from around the world gather, connect, and collaborate at our flagship Counder Conference 2027:

1. Trust


Built through integrity, openness and respect.

We speak honestly, listen generously, and create an environment where candid dialogue is not only welcomed but expected.

2. Shared Experiences


We believe that the most meaningful relationships are formed through moments lived together.

The conference blends dialogue, discovery and curated experiences that move conversations into lasting connections.

3. Curiosity


We approach the world with a learning mindset.

We explore emerging trends and regions with humility, perspective and a commitment to understanding what’s next.

4. Innovation


We embrace new formats, ideas and approaches—in content, in design, and in how we convene.

Nothing is formulaic; everything is intentional.

5. Long-Term Relationships


Counder is not a two-day event—it is a year-round, multi-year community.

We prioritise relationships that grow, deepen and compound over time.

6. Generosity of Contribution


Every participant is both a giver and a receiver.

We contribute insights, introductions and support in ways that elevate the entire community.

7. Cross-Border Perspective


We look beyond geography and sector.

Counder thrives on diverse voices, global vantage points and the meeting of regions shaping the future—from Africa and the Middle East to Europe, Asia and the Americas.

8. Action Over Rhetoric


Conversations matter only when they lead somewhere.

We aim for clarity, momentum and partnership, enabling participants to act on ideas emerging from the gathering.

The Spirit of Counder


A trusted circle.
A shared experience.
A community united by curiosity and possibility.
A place where visionary leaders build the relationships that shape the future.

What does it cost to attend Counder Conference?

Counder Conference is FREE to attend, but participation is strictly by invitation, referral, or initiative registration subject to review. Every attendee is carefully curated to ensure alignment with our mission and to uphold the integrity of our community. While there is no fee to attend, we invite those who wish to further support Counder to become Mission Partners (helping grow our network) or Equity Partners (investing in our long-term impact). This model removes financial barriers and reinforces our commitment to building a high-trust, collaboration-driven network focused on shaping the future together.

Where and when does the Conference take place?

The 2027 edition of our flagship Conference will be held from 26-28 January in Cape Town, South Africa. For more information about what to expect at the Conference, please visit www.counder.com/conference.

Why is the Conference held in Cape Town?

Cape Town's unique position as an emerging city of the future driven by its blend of innovation, natural beauty, and cultural richness makes it the perfect host city for our flagship Conference — inspiring creativity and connection.

What can attendees expect at the Conference?

Participants immerse themselves in dynamic discussions, forge high-level connections, and experience curated networking activities that spark collaboration.

Where can attendees stay during the Conference?

The conference venues are in different locations and easily reachable from various great Cape Town hotels.


Recommended Hotels

One & Only Cape TownWaterfront5 stars
Ellerman HouseBantry Bay5 stars
Mount NelsonGardens (CBD)5 stars
The Silo HotelWaterfront5 stars
Alphen Boutique Hotel & SpaConstantia5 stars
Cape Grace HotelWaterfront5 stars
Dorp HotelBo-Kaap5 stars
Labotessa Luxury Boutique HotelCBD5 stars
POD Camps BayCamps Bay5 stars
Steenberg Hotel & SPATokai5 stars
Camps Bay RetreatCamps Bay4 stars
O'Two Boutique HotelMouille Point4 stars
Protea Fire & IceCBD4 stars
Radisson RED Cape Town V&A WaterfrontWaterfront4 stars
The Winchester MansionsSea Point4 stars
Vineyard HotelConstantia4 stars
Canopy by HiltonGardens (CBD)4 stars

FAQs - Travel & Local Guides

When should I plan to arrive in Cape Town?

To fully engage with the experience:

  • Partners & Speakers
    Arrive on Monday 26 January. Early programming and private briefings begin that afternoon.
  • All Guests
    Arrive on Tuesday 27 January to participate in the Opening Reception.
  • Departure
    Book outbound flights for Friday 30 January. The closing ceremony is Thursday evening.

January is high summer in Cape Town — please book flights and accommodation early for best availability and views.

What are the options for local transport?

  • Airport to City
    Uber: Safe, reliable, and recommended.
    Private Transfers: Offered by most boutique hotels and luxury accommodations.
  • Getting Around
    Uber is the norm. Cape Town is walkable in key areas: V&A Waterfront, Sea Point, Gardens. Avoid solo walking after dark.

Where should I go for great local cuisine?

World-class cuisine, coastal views, and design-forward spaces make dining a core part of the Cape Town experience.

  • Fine Dining
    • FYN (City Centre) – Afro-Japanese fusion with skyline views.
    • La Colombe (Constantia) – Multi-course excellence in a treehouse-like setting.
    • The Test Kitchen Carbon (Woodstock) – Immersive tasting menus in a bold industrial space.
  • Lunch / Dinner with Atmosphere
    • Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia – Vineyard views, small plates, clean modern design.
    • Kloof Street House – Lush garden terrace, velvet-lined interiors, eclectic classics.
    • Mantra Café (Camps Bay) – Beach-facing casual elegance, great for sunset dining.
    • Saigon (Gardens) – Upscale Vietnamese cuisine with panoramic city views.
    • Bouchon Bistro (CBD) – Intimate, refined, excellent local wine pairings.
  • Coffee & Light Bites
    • Jarryds (Sea Point & CBD) – Artisanal café dining, famed for brunch and fresh juices.
    • Jason Bakery (Green Point & CBD) – Famous for pastries and breakfast buns.
    • Truth Coffee Roasting (CBD) – Globally acclaimed for its design and deep-roasted blends.
    • Harvest Café (Bo-Kaap) – Rooftop views, plant-forward menus, easygoing atmosphere.

What activities are recommended in Cape Town?

  • Close Access (in or near city centre)
    • Table Mountain Cableway – Arrive early to beat queues.
    • Zeitz MOCAA – Architecturally iconic, Africa’s leading contemporary art museum.
    • V&A Waterfront – Excellent for light shopping, quick bites, and sunset catamaran cruises.
  • Optional Escapes
    • Lion’s Head sunrise hike – Panoramic ascent, ~45 min each way.
    • Camps Bay & Clifton Beaches – Cocktail bars, restaurants & lively atmosphere.
    • Constantia Valley – South Africa’s oldest wine route.
  • Extended Day Trips
    • Cape Point Nature Reserve – Drive along Chapman’s Peak to a cliffside lookout.
    • Boulders Beach – Penguin colony in a protected cove.
    • Franschhoek – Historic wine village with art galleries and tram routes.
    • Kalk Bay & Muizenberg – Charming seaside towns, surfing, antiques, cafes.

Connect. Engage. Shape.

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