Charting The Course: IDU User Conference 2026

We are thrilled to announce the return of the IDU User Conference, and this year, we are inviting you to Chart The Course.

Join us from 13 to 15 May 2026 at The Rockefeller Hotel in Cape Town's Foreshore for three days of strategic insight, expert-led sessions, and meaningful connection with the IDU community. Whether you are a finance professional, business manager, or strategic planning practitioner, this is the event designed for you.

“In a world that keeps shifting, finance needs a clear direction. Charting The Course is about giving our community exactly that — the insight, tools, and connections to navigate uncertainty with confidence.” — Kevin Phillips, Founder & CEO, IDU

What to Expect

The conference theme — Charting The Course: Navigating tomorrow with insight and agility — reflects the real pressures facing finance and business leaders right now. From global economic volatility and rapid technological change to the growing influence of artificial intelligence in financial planning, this year’s programme is built around what matters most.

Over three days, you can look forward to:

• Inspiring keynote addresses from world-class thought leaders on AI, global trends, and strategic leadership

• Expert-led IDU sessions covering new features, product developments, and practical tips to get more from your IDU investment

• Private one-on-one and team consultation sessions with senior IDU consultants

• Networking with peers from across South Africa and the broader African continent

Meet the Keynote Speakers

This year’s speaker lineup brings together four exceptional voices across leadership, geopolitics, artificial intelligence, and data-driven strategy.

Pierre du Plessis — Only The Brave

Founder of Be Brave, a Strategy Design Lab, Pierre has spoken on four TEDx stages, authored four books, and worked with global brands including Tencent, BP, and Allan Gray. His keynote explores what it means to lead with clarity and courage in an era of uncertainty and technological disruption.

Daniel Silke — The New World (Dis)Order

Director of Political Futures Consultancy and one of South Africa’s most respected political economy analysts, Daniel brings over two decades of experience advising major corporations, including Bank of America, PwC, and BMW — on global and African political and economic trends.

Nazareen Ebrahim — The Business of AI: Asking the Right Questions

AI Ethics Lead and founder of Naz Consulting International, Nazareen is a leading authority on AI literacy, governance, and policy across Africa and emerging markets. She is the creator of the Quadrant of AI Fundamentals™, a framework helping organisations implement AI in a values-led, coherent way.

Ashley Francis — Data as a Compass

CEO and Founder of the Safricang Group, Ashley is a chartered accountant with over 35 years of experience across food and agriculture, renewable energy, real estate, and medical technology. His keynote explores how data-driven leadership can provide direction in rapidly changing environments.

Beyond the Boardroom

The IDU conference experience extends well beyond the sessions. We’ve curated a social programme that creates space for genuine connection and celebration.

The Captain’s Cocktail — Wednesday 13 May, 6:30pm

A relaxed welcome evening at The Studio Bar on the 18th floor of The Rockefeller Hotel, to kick off our journey together.

The Harbour Lights Gala Dinner — Thursday 14 May, 6:30pm

An unforgettable evening at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, celebrating the journey and the connections made. Delegates are invited to dress in classic maritime shades of blue and white.

Morning Wellness Session — Friday 15 May, 7:30am

A guided wellness activity to restore energy and sharpen focus before the final conference day.

Making Waves Beyond the Room

In a first for the IDU conference, delegates will have the choice of receiving a traditional conference gift bag or directing the equivalent value to Waves for Change — a remarkable organisation that uses surf therapy to support the mental health and resilience of vulnerable young people in coastal communities across Africa. Simply indicate your preference on your registration form.

Conference Packages

Three packages are available to suit your needs:

Package 1 — Full Experience

Includes two nights’ accommodation at The Rockefeller Hotel, early access to IDU consultants on Wednesday 13 May, the full two-day conference pass, all meals and beverages, the Captain’s Cocktail, and the Gala Dinner.

Package 2 — Conference & Stay

Includes one night’s accommodation at The Rockefeller Hotel, the full two-day conference pass, all meals and beverages, and the Gala Dinner.

Package 3 — Conference Only

Includes the full two-day conference pass, all meals and beverages, and the Gala Dinner. No accommodation included.

Ready to Chart Your Course?

Registration is open now. Visit idusoft.com/charting-the-course-2026-conference to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing you in Cape Town this May.

With thanks to our trusted AV partner, Driven Events & AV, for their ongoing support.