Full Name: Harry Scherzer

Position and Company Name: CEO and co-founder of Future Forex

Main Activity of the Company: International money transfers for South African individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises

Date and Place of Birth: June 15, Cape Town

Schools and Tertiary Education: I obtained a Bachelor of Business Science (Actuarial Science) from the University of Cape Town in 2016 and I also qualified as a Fellow of the Actuarial Society of South Africa in 2019

First Job: After obtaining a degree in actuarial science, I started my career as a senior actuarial associate at EY

Size of First Pay Packet: While at university, I started a private tutoring business, making about R8 500 a month

Career Path to Date: I began my career as an actuary but realised my true passion lay in building meaningful relationships and making a real impact in the business world. This motivated me to transition into a business development director role at TecEx, where I could combine my analytical skills with interpersonal connections. This pivotal shift enabled me to channel my strengths in a way that truly mattered to me, and ultimately led me to build Future Forex from the ground up

Number of People under Your Leadership: Future Forex has more than 140 employees across the country – and we’re growing rapidly!

Management Style: I believe in hiring smart, driven and honest individuals and then giving them the space and autonomy to do what they do best. I don’t believe in micromanaging; instead, I focus on setting a clear vision, ensuring we’re aligned on values and goals, and then empowering my team to lead and grow

Personal Best Achievement: I was named the winner of the Banking & Finance category at the Forty under 40 Global awards, which took place in Dubai in April this year. It was an exceptional honour to have been recognised on the international stage

Person Who Has Had the Biggest Influence on Your Career: It has to be the incredibly talented, innovative and passionate individuals at Future Forex. Working alongside such a driven team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Their expertise, creativity and commitment have not only shaped the company’s growth, but also pushed me to grow as a leader every step of the way

Person You Would Most Like to Meet: British entrepreneur, investor and podcaster Steven Bartlett. I’ve always admired how he blends business acumen with emotional intelligence. He’s built remarkable companies, but what truly sets him apart is his authenticity – the way he speaks openly about challenges, and the deeper purpose behind what he does. I think there’s a lot to learn from someone who leads with both ambition and introspection

Philosophy of Life: I try to live by the principle of 'Start with Why'. Whether it’s in business, leadership or personal decisions, I believe that when you’re anchored by a strong 'why', it becomes much easier to stay focused, make impactful choices and inspire others along the way. It’s what’s guided me in building Future Forex – not just to create a successful business, but to solve real problems and add real value

Biggest Ever Opportunity: Recognising that South Africa’s foreign exchange market desperately needed greater transparency and innovation, and positioning Future Forex to lead that change. By combining cutting-edge technology, white-glove service and a deep understanding of client needs, we’ve built solutions that not only challenge outdated systems but also empower thousands to transact seamlessly and cost-effectively

Biggest Ever Disappointment: None

Favourite TV Programme: I don’t really watch TV. For me, time is better spent moving, learning, and engaging with people or ideas in real life

Favourite Sport: Padel. It’s fast-paced, strategic and social – everything I enjoy in a sport

Hobbies: I’m an avid chess player. It’s taught me to think several moves ahead, adapt quickly and stay composed under pressure – skills that translate directly into how I approach business