With over a decade of experience in the drone industry, Brian van Niekerk is a seasoned UAV pilot and operations expert known for his deep technical knowledge, adaptability, and calm presence in the field. Having logged more than 5,000 flight hours, Brian has built an impressive portfolio operating in some of the most demanding environments—from remote rural areas and industrial sites to dense urban landscapes and sensitive security zones.
Brian has mastered a variety of platforms, including multi-rotor systems, fixed-wing drones, and vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. His ability to quickly assess site conditions and adapt flight plans to meet complex requirements makes him a valuable asset on any team.
Beyond his flying capabilities, Brian is known for his leadership in drone operations management. He often works closely with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and is actively involved in training and mentoring new pilots. His focus on safety, efficiency, and innovation consistently raises the standard for UAV operations across every project he takes on.
Whether supporting private sector clients or working on government-related missions, Brian’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of his work. He brings a strategic mindset, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong understanding of the evolving drone landscape, making him one of the leading professionals in the field.
As the drone industry continues to grow, Brian remains at the cutting edge—constantly exploring new technologies, refining his skills, and contributing to the development of safe, reliable, and high-performing UAV operations.
Donald is a dynamic and seasoned expert in the aviation, tourism and
hospitality industries with over 11 years of experience. He is known to
have remarkable career in sales and entrepreneurship and has
successfully launched and established several businesses across Africa.
Donald shares a proven Track record in driving business growth,
expanding market share and fostering partnerships in competitive
markets. Skilled in developing innovative solutions and customer-centric
approaches that ensure business sustainability and success especially
with technological solutions and economical intelligence.
Dzionere John Luthuli Mashava is a seasoned aviation professional with over 35 years of experience in the industry. He is the current Director at Vula Aviation Technologies, a private company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. As a respected figure in the aviation industry, John's expertise and experience have likely contributed significantly to the growth and development of aviation services in South Africa and beyond. John has served in various leadership positions, including safety roles at prominent airlines such as South African Airways, Air Nigeria, and Ariana Afghan Airlines. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a specialization in Aviation Safety Management. Mashava has also been involved with other companies, including Dzione Aviation Services and Training, Lazima Holdings, and Limpopo Air Cargo Services.
Heico Kühn is a seasoned professional with expertise in various fields. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer at UDS Systems, a company specializing in UAV and drone solutions. Heico was previously the Chief Operating Officer at The iGlobe Group, Senior Project Manager - Africa Region at The iGlobe Group, Geophysical Operations - Airborne Geophysics at Heico Kühn and NRG - New Resolution Geophysics. His skills include Event Management, Entrepreneurship, Start-ups, Business Strategy, New Business Development, Team Building, Marketing Strategy, Small Business, Project Management, and Management.
Justin Hawley is the co-founder and director of Drone Solutions International (DSi), a recognised leader in the drone survey and inspection industry. He brings a wealth of expertise cultivated directly from extensive field experience and customer-focused interactions. Justin co-founded DSi with Gareth O’Reilly, establishing a company at the forefront of innovative aerial solutions that now has branches across South Africa and operates both locally and internationally.
DSi stands as an industry-leading drone mapping and inspection company. By utilising a comprehensive suite of advanced sensors—including LiDAR, Thermal, Multi-Spectral, Photogrammetry, Magnetometer, and Bathymetric—the company delivers a wide array of specialised solutions. DSi provides high-accuracy data for clients across multiple industries, including mining, engineering, architectural, agricultural, and construction.
Monique Heydenrych is the Agricultural Specialist and Head of Sales at Drone Solutions International (DSi). Based in Gqeberha, she brings a wealth of experience in the agricultural and industrial sectors, standing at the forefront of advanced drone applications including multi-spectral (NDVI), LiDAR, and photogrammetry.
Monique’s exceptional capabilities have earned her international recognition; she was ranked 1st in South Africa and 2nd worldwide by agricultural drone analytics leader, Aerobotics. Her contribution to the industry was further solidified when she was named the Airwards Winner for 2024 in the Rising Star Category. Before joining DSi, she founded and led AGMO Drone Services for over five years, cementing her reputation for excellence and entrepreneurial leadership.
Sandile Chipunza is IATA’s Manager – External Affairs & Sustainability and is based in Johannesburg, South Africa. His responsibilities include ensuring that IATA’s members’ priorities and needs are met, implementing IATA policies in air space and promoting its products and services to contribute to meeting Industry expectations set out by IATA’s Board and Leadership. Central to this role is solid Advocacy for the value that Aviation contributes to the African Continent and contributes expertise in Aviation Industry solutions.
Prior to taking up the role of Manager – External Affairs & Sustainability – Africa, Sandile was Manager, Advocacy & Strategic Relations, Africa from being an Aviation Solutions Manager for Southern Africa. Before IATA, Sandile with Airlink as a Regional Manager - Africa for seven (7) years, after spending seven (7) years with SAA, setting up new SAA managed operations in Zimbabwe and Zambia. He has over 25 years’ Experience in both Aviation and Travel & Tourism Sector. Sandile holds a Bachelor of commerce Degree in Managements from the University of South Africa and holds various Diplomas with IATA.
Shaun Ledlie stands as a visionary leader and driving force within Southern Africa’s dynamic aviation landscape. As President of the Association of Aviation Training Organisations of Southern Africa (AATOSA) and Director at the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA), Shaun’s influence is profound shaping not just the trajectory of aviation training, but also the future of drone technology across the continent. He further extends his expertise as a founding director of the Drone Council of South Africa and as a director of Kershal Aviation, reflecting a commitment to both traditional and emerging facets of aviation.
With over a decade of experience on the Civil Aviation Regulatory Committee (CarCom), Shaun has been instrumental in steering policy reform from within. His tenure as Chairman of the Personal Use Working Group saw him champion significant legal changes, making drone technology more accessible for individual enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Shaun has spearheaded the most significant regulatory advancements for drones in recent history, including the development of Part 71 and Part 72 for drone licensing, as well as revisions to other fields of aviation regulations (Part 60, Part 61, Part 1, and Part 121.)
Shaun’s advocacy has led to practical, meaningful progress: removal of the restricted radio licence requirement for Remote Pilot Competency, a lowered medical prerequisite, and the ability for licensed individuals to operate their own drones for personal use. He has played a key role in the writing and implementation of regulations governing competency-based and evidence-based training methodologies. Notably, Shaun has also achieved formal accreditation for drone qualifications by QTCO with a SAQA rating.
His unwavering mission is to democratise drone technology, breaking down regulatory barriers and enabling everyday people to harness its potential. Conference attendees can look forward to unique insights from a transformative figure whose regulatory expertise and passion are shaping the future of unmanned aviation in Southern Africa.
Taropafadzwa Mutizwa is a trailblazing African aviator,
certified Young African Leader in Entrepreneurship (Young
African Leadership Initiative RLC SA), and an acclaimed author
dedicated to revolutionizing aviation education across the
continent. Specializing in the development of creative and
impactful learning tools, he designs resources that attract,
educate, and retain the next generation of aviation
professionals equipping them to soar in a rapidly evolving
global industry.
Passionately known as “The Drone Dragon”, Taropafadzwa is a
key figure in Africa’s drone technology movement. His standout
publication, 500&1 Drone Practice Exam Questions, is
instrumental in fostering the technical excellence required
within the continent’s expanding drone sector.
Zima is the CEO of Ntsikelelo Drone Academy,a South African drone training organisation that
champions accessibility, diversity, and innovation within the aviation space. Having worked in
the aviation industry for over four years, she brings both administrative expertise and an
evolving vision for a more inclusive future in drone technology and training.
While her professional background began in administration, her passion for transformation and
accessibility in technical industries led her to co-found a drone school that focuses on skills
development and licensing. Since its inception last year, the organisation has aimed to open
doors for individuals from all walks of life, especially those who have historically been
underrepresented in aviation.
As a disabled professional herself, she is committed to building a workforce that embraces a
wide range of abilities, experiences, and perspectives — believing that innovation thrives when
different minds and bodies are welcomed at the table.
She speaks with a genuine desire to see more African talent lead within AI and drone
ecosystems, and her work reflects a belief in equal access to opportunity, regardless of
background or circumstance.
Aaron Munetsi is a seasoned aviation professional and currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer at AASA. Prior to joining AASA, he held several commercial management positions at South African Airways, including Regional Manager for Africa and the Middle East and as its Acting Chief Commercial Officer. Born in Zimbabwe, he brings extensive experience and networks in the African aviation industry to his role.
For 10 years, he served on the board of Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Business, and after leaving SAA in 2018 he joined the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) for a stint as its Director: Government, Legal and Industry Affairs. For the past year he has been working as an aeropolitical and business strategy advisor to airlines.