Dr Denisha Jairam-Owthar, CIO of the Council for Medical Schemes and 2023 Young CIO of the Year award recipient, writes a heartfelt message of reflection, encouragement and support ahead of the 2024 ‘Oscars of IT’ on 12 November.
About a year ago, I was entrusted with being South Africa’s Young CIO of the Year 2023, an incredible task of representing young CIOs and a great responsibility in South Africa at this time. At the end of this tenure, I reflect on the impact I have made, which includes:
- Increasing awareness of the role of an ambidextrous CIO
- Breaking barriers about women in tech
- Creating platforms to showcase what we do per the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy
- Partnering with others in the industry to enhance opportunities for our youth
- Mobilising tools, talents and having a strong work ethic permeating several technology spheres.
It has been a great honour and as I pass the baton and responsibility to the incoming Young CIO of the Year on 12 November 2024, my advice is: don’t be overwhelmed, the task ahead is a heavy responsibility yet it is noble indeed. Have the courage to dare, have the courage to challenge. Most importantly, have the courage to envision our own African Silicon Valley.
These things are within our powers.
I would like to thank the team at CIO South Africa for their selfless dedication and their high level of commitment to the technology industry: for always organising events, seminars, webinars to keep us informed in this roller coaster of a rapidly paced tech industry.
On a personal note, I would like to thank my husband, Sudhir, for his unwavering support, being my friend and “chauffeur” on many occasions. Thank you, I’m deeply grateful to you for standing by me.
I would like to also congratulate all the nominees for the CIO awards. For the incoming Young CIO 2024, enjoy your term: for me, it’s certainly been an inspiring journey. We rely on you to show young people the way forward. The challenge is clear: lead with integrity and vision.
CIOs are people of action. We don’t just survive in the digital space – we thrive.
In closing, let me say this is the end of an incredible chapter for me, but I’m positive something new awaits.
Thank you, South Africa, for believing in me and entrusting me with this immense responsibility for the past year. It has truly been a superb journey!
