After months of intense boardroom sessions, tough tasks, and moments of pure grit, Series 11 of The Insurance Apprentice has reached its thrilling conclusion. In a finale filled with celebration and anticipation, the winner of season 11 was announced.
Episode 8… the finale
The finale, hosted by the brilliant Pabi Moloi, showcased the talent and grit of this year’s contestants and the dedication of a judging panel led by Simon Colman (head judge) and Nox Dlamini (co-judge), alongside an incredible lineup of guest judges who helped shape the journey of every apprentice.
With Santam as the episode sponsor and Sasria SOC Ltd as the headline sponsor, Episode 8 celebrated the spirit of transformation and excellence that TIA is known for. A special thank you to Marsh, our official venue sponsor, for making the finale setting unforgettable.
During the evening’s proceedings, Simon and Nox graced the stage to share heartfelt reflections on what TIA 2025 represents and the high standard set by this year’s apprentices.
The evening also featured powerful reflections from Gareth Beaver, CEO of Santam Specialist Solutions, who represented Santam, a sponsor that bookended the season by supporting both the pre-elimination round and the grand finale, demonstrating true commitment to industry development and Muzi Dladla, Executive Manager of Stakeholder Management at Sasria SOC Ltd, who reflected on Sasria’s role as headline sponsor, sharing why stepping in to support TIA was such an important investment in the industry’s future.
A celebration of sponsors & prizes
TIA wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of our sponsors who invest in the growth of young talent in insurance. This year’s winner walked away with incredible rewards, thanks to:
• Lloyd’s: R75 000 trip to Lloyd’s
• Bryte: Travel package
• Aon: R100 000 cash prize
• EasyEquities: R50 000 investment for the winner
• Milpark Education: Bursary valued at R100 000
• KuneneMakopo Risk Solutions (KMRS): Luxury weekend breakaway valued at R50 000
• Global Choices: Tech prize valued at R25 000
• Paton Personnel: Leadership Development Coaching Programme
• New National Assurance: Corporate photos
• Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA): AIE 2025 Conference ticket
And let’s not forget the viewers!
Congratulations to Phakamile Gumede, winner of the R20 000 cash prize from the Sasria Judge’s Question in the Sasria Episode. And an even bigger shoutout to Mgudu Nontshumayelo, who bagged a whopping R50 000 in cash from Sasria SOC Ltd, just for voting for their favourite contestant – Anele!
Thank you to our 2025 sponsors
The Insurance Apprentice 2025 was made possible through the incredible support of our sponsors. A special thank you to our Diamond Sponsor: Sasria SOC Ltd, and Platinum Sponsors: Santam and Old Mutual Insure. Our Gold Sponsors: Aon South Africa, Discovery Insure, FSCA, INSETA, SAUMA, Bryte Insurance, Lloyd’s of London, The Liability Company, Standard Bank Insurance Brokers, and Sapiens – alongside Silver Sponsors Marsh, Milpark, EasyEquities, Elite Risk Acceptances, and MUA Insurance Acceptances, have been instrumental in elevating this platform. We’re also grateful to our Bronze Sponsors: Hollard, Paton Personnel, Fulcrum, iTOO, Garrun Group, Norton Rose, KMRS, New National, Auto & General, AC&E Engineering Underwriting Managers, Bryte Specialist Motor, CIB, KEU Underwriting Managers, Leppard, and the Insurance Crime Bureau – and our General Sponsors: Global Choices and IISA. Your commitment and investment are shaping the future of insurance leadership.
Congratulations to the winner!
The Insurance Apprentice team extends our heartfelt congratulations to the winner for winning the title of The Insurance Apprentice 2025 – serving not only as a powerful voice for the insurance industry but also as a role model for future apprentices.
We’d also like to recognise every single contestant who had the courage to step into the spotlight this year. Out of more than 160 applicants, each participant showcased incredible talent, determination, and grit, making this one of the most competitive and inspiring seasons yet. From the Top 20 to the Top 10, Top 6, and Top 3, you’ve all played a part in raising the bar and proving that the future of the insurance industry is brighter than ever.
• To watch the episode on YouTube, click HERE
• To watch it on the website click HERE
• To watch it on Facebook, click HERE
Become a part of the journey
Stay tuned to TIA’s channels as we continue to share content, upcoming initiatives, and how YOU can become part of this journey.
Applications are open
Also, a reminder that applications for The Insurance Apprentice 2026 are open and close on 30 September 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to challenge yourself, grow your skills, and make your mark on the industry – or encourage your organisation’s brightest talent to step forward and showcase their potential on a national stage. Apply here.
That’s a wrap for #TIA2025 – see you for #TIA2026! Don’t miss your chance to be part of the journey.
