Whether it is early morning kayaking off Durban’s coast, structured cardio for mental clarity, or meditation balanced with time in nature, South African CIOs are increasingly intentional about personal wellbeing and we spotlight those who are using physical activity and mindfulness to sharpen decision making and sustain energy.
The demands placed on today’s CIOs extend well beyond technology delivery. Maintaining clarity, resilience, and stamina has become a leadership requirement. From disciplined gym routines and pilates to ocean paddling and lifelong competitive sport, several South African technology leaders have embedded physical and mental conditioning into their daily lives. CIO South Africa looks at how these CIOs stay fit, focused, and mentally optimal in high pressure roles.
Pandelani Munyai, group CIO, Transnet
Pandelani applies the same scientific precision to personal fitness as he does to IT strategy. He says: “I play golf – it keeps me sharp.” Following the Covid-19 pandemic he added daily gym sessions to his routine. “That taught me the importance of cardio exercise, for breathing strength primarily, but mental clarity too.”
Andrew Britz, group head of IT, IFS
Andrew starts his day far from screens and dashboards. He explains: “You’re more active than on a ski boat, and it doesn’t take hours to launch.” His morning routine involves paddling a kayak into the Indian Ocean off Durban’s coast to catch fish, combining physical exertion with a mental reset.
Nomonde White-Ndlovu, CIO, Bidvest Bank
Nomonde credits pilates and meditation for maintaining optimal wellbeing. She says these practices are “significant boosters to maintaining optimal physical and mental health”. Describing herself as “a homebody and introvert” she unwinds in the bush with family, enjoying its scenery and creating special memories.
Ravi Bhat, chief AI solutions officer, Microsoft SA
Ravi’s commitment to sport spans his life, having played badminton, cricket and basketball at high levels. Now he prefers cycling recreationally. He notes his daughters’ achievements too, with one becoming “more of a techie now” after realising the value of tech skills in her GIS career, and the younger excelling in sports while training as a chef.
