FutureAI Power Experience Helps South Africans Drop Their Fear of Artificial Intelligence

A two-day training event in Sandton gave South Africans the chance to learn how to use artificial intelligence with confidence. FutureAI hosted its AI Power Experience at Sandton Hotel on 30 and 31 July 2026, bringing together trainers, a digital futurist and participants looking to move past their anxiety about AI.

• The training team, made up of experienced business owners and professionals, offered hands-on instruction in prompt engineering and practical AI use
• Speakers warned attendees against relying on AI so heavily that they could no longer explain or defend their own work without it

Co-founder Rudolph Pieterse, who spent 22 years in teaching before turning his attention to AI, said the company's purpose had shifted since it first launched. "Our purpose became taking away people's fear and helping them realise that AI is accessible to them," he said. He added that FutureAI is open to supporting initiatives that could make AI training more accessible in township communities.

AI as a Partner, Not a Replacement

International keynote speaker and author Nicky Verd joined the event through a partnership tied to her book. She reminded participants that knowing how to use AI tools is only half the picture. "Do not complain that AI is taking your job while replacing your own thinking with it," she said. Verd pointed to a musician who used AI to produce a viral album but struggled to match that standard when performing live, and said the same risk applies to employees who submit AI-written reports they cannot explain to a manager.

Co-founder Willie Stegmann echoed that point. He described prompt engineering as the central skill participants take away from the course, and stressed that AI still needs human guidance to function well. "AI should enhance people and help them do their work better, not simply replace them," he said. Stegmann also noted that some companies that cut staff because of AI later had to rehire because the human element proved irreplaceable.

People-First Teaching in a Fast-Moving Field

Trainer and graphic designer Marina Mentz said what sets FutureAI apart is the team's willingness to be present with participants rather than standing at a distance. "We are the people who greet you at the door," she said, adding that the same trainers presenting the sessions are the ones having coffee with attendees afterwards.

Coordinator Michael Ford, who describes herself as one of the least technical people on the team, said the credibility of FutureAI's trainers matters precisely because they have built businesses and navigated real professional challenges before entering the AI space.

Trainer Tanya Taylor joined FutureAI after attending the AI Power Experience and described it as "love at first sight." She said her own husband, a business owner who was initially hesitant, became a confident AI user after she shared what she had learned. FutureAI also runs an online alumni community that keeps participants updated as the technology continues to change.

Source: Briefly News