Alec Hogg: Make it a memorable weekend with the Singularity University geniuses

By Alec Hogg

Once in a while life throws you something truly exceptional. Shaking the hand of the late Nelson Mandela; witnessing Andrea Bocelli sing Nessun Dorma; a day's workshop with Nassim Taleb; sitting next to Bill Lynch when he was crowned World Entrepreneur of the Year; seeing Nic Vujicic's little body shake as he laughed – wow, I've had a blessed life. The last few days rank right up there.

Singularity University is an extraordinary institution. Based at the NASA facility next door to Google's HQ in Silicon Valley, its faculty are proven entrepreneurs who operate in exponential organisations at the top of their sectors. Once in a while they travel en masse – first it was to Amsterdam, then Seville. This week, courtesy of Barclays Africa and Deloitte, they came to Johannesburg.

I'm delighted to see it wasn't only those in attendance who were impressed. Our interviews with Singularity University's co-founders Peter Diamandis and Salim Ismail made Thursday's Biznews Top Five. There are a dozen more on the site of similar quality in the new Innovation section. So set aside an hour or so to listen to these geniuses explain how the world is transforming and what you can do to take advantage. It will make your weekend. As it has my last few days.

Yesterday's top stories:

Peter Diamandis – Why investing in nuclear today is a very, very bad idea

IRR's Anthea Jeffery: State 'custodianship' and control over all agricultural land

Comrades veteran: I'm running on fat this year – Alfred Motaung

New Mercedes C63 AMG – Models Announced