Emerging Threats Conference 2026 Announces Distinguished Panel to Tackle the Next Cyber Crisis in Financial Services

Umbono Conferences and Events is pleased to announce an exceptional panel of industry leaders who will lead one of the most anticipated discussions at the Emerging Threats Conference 2026: "Are Financial Institutions Ready for the Next Cyber Crisis?"

As financial institutions navigate an increasingly complex landscape of cyberattacks, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and evolving regulatory expectations, this timely discussion will bring together experts with extensive experience in risk management, artificial intelligence, and fintech innovation.

The panel features:

Qiniso Mthembu, Chief Risk Officer – JSE

Qiniso Mthembu brings extensive expertise in enterprise risk management, governance, and operational resilience within South Africa's financial markets. Her insights will focus on how financial institutions can strengthen resilience against emerging cyber risks while maintaining trust in increasingly digital financial ecosystems.

Julie Regairaz, Chief Data and Applied AI Officer (CDAIO) – Absa Group

As one of Africa's leading voices in applied artificial intelligence, Julie Regairaz will explore how AI is transforming both cyber defence and cyber risk. Her perspective will examine how financial institutions can responsibly leverage AI while strengthening governance, resilience, and preparedness against increasingly sophisticated threats.

Nomakholwa Nontenja, Group FinTech Manager – MTN Group Fintech

Representing one of Africa's largest fintech ecosystems, Noma Nontenja will provide valuable insights into securing digital financial services at scale, managing innovation, and navigating cyber risks in an increasingly connected financial environment.

Addressing One of Financial Services' Greatest Challenges

Cyber threats continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace, with financial institutions facing increasingly sophisticated attacks, AI-powered fraud, ransomware, and growing regulatory expectations. This panel discussion will examine how organisations can prepare for the next generation of cyber threats while building resilient and secure digital ecosystems.

Delegates can expect practical insights on:

The evolving cyber threat landscape in financial services

AI-driven cyber risks and emerging opportunities

Strengthening cyber resilience and operational readiness

Governance strategies for digital trust

Leadership priorities for navigating future cyber crises

The Emerging Threats Conference 2026 will take place on 1 October 2026 at the Indaba Hotel, Fourways, South Africa, as a hybrid event, bringing together senior executives, regulators, risk professionals, cybersecurity leaders, compliance specialists, fintech innovators, and technology experts from across the financial services sector.

The conference will provide a platform for meaningful discussions on the risks and opportunities shaping the future of banking, insurance, payments, fintech, and financial regulation.

To register or learn more, visit https://umbonosa.co.za/emerging-threats-conference-2026/