Disrupts is a cutting-edge media platform delivering the latest news, insights, and stories that shape the global tech ecosystem.
Born to Disrupt, Nicholas Bingham on Building a Biotech and Data Future for the GCC
In the latest episode of Born to Disrupt, hosts Simon Hardie and Grant Niven sit down with Nicholas Bingham, Founding Partner at Taranis Capital, to explore how biotechnology and data infrastructure are shaping the Gulf’s next chapter of innovation. Having lived and worked across Europe, the US, and Asia since 2001, Bingham has watched the Middle East’s transformation first-hand. What keeps drawing him back, he says, is the region’s ambition, “an air of passion and enthusiasm for success” that he finds unmatched anywhere else.
Born to Disrupt – Darko Atijas on Private Equity, AI and Building Value in the Middle East
In this episode of Born to Disrupt, hosts Simon Hardie and Grant Niven are joined by Darko Atijas, Chief Operating Officer at Tech Universal and a senior figure in the family office and private equity space. With a career spanning two decades across Australia, the UK and now the Middle East, Darko offers a candid and insightful view into the region’s evolving investment landscape, the challenges facing SMEs, and the opportunities emerging from the intersection of technology, AI and finance.
Born to Disrupt – Mark Dymock’s Journey Through Banking, Ventures and Digital Assets
In this episode of "Born to Disrupt," hosts Grant Niven and Simon Hardy welcome Mark Dymock from Standard Chartered Ventures. The discussion centers around the theme of disruption in the banking industry, highlighting Mark's journey from traditional finance roles to his current position in venture building. The conversation explores the strategic shift of Standard Chartered Ventures to the Middle East, emphasizing the region's potential as a hub for innovation and growth. Key topics include the role of digital assets, the importance of aligning with regional visions like Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, and the challenges and opportunities in navigating regulatory environments. The episode concludes with insights into the evolving landscape of fintech and the ongoing journey of innovation in the financial sector.
Born to Disrupt – Michael Lints with Venture Capital Insights from the MENA Region
In this episode of "Born to Disrupt," hosts Mark Walker and Simon engage with Michael Lints, a partner at Golden Gate Ventures, to explore the dynamic venture capital landscape in the MENA region. Michael shares his journey from tech enthusiast to venture capitalist, highlighting the cultural nuances and relationship-driven nature of business in the Middle East. The discussion delves into the region's evolving perception from a capital hub to an innovation powerhouse, driven by government initiatives and emerging tech sectors like AI and healthcare. With insights into strategic partnerships and market expansion, this episode offers a compelling look at the opportunities and challenges in the Middle East's venture capital scene.
Born to Disrupt – Rajesh Agrawal on London, Innovation, and the Future of Disruption
In this episode of Born to Disrupt, former Deputy Mayor of London for Business Rajesh Agrawal joins the hosts to reflect on his remarkable journey from modest beginnings in India to becoming a successful fintech entrepreneur and senior policymaker. Over the course of the conversation, Rajesh shares his personal story, the challenges he faced, the lessons learned from building a business, and his perspective on London’s position as a leading global hub for innovation.
Born to Disrupt – Purpose-Led Leadership and Transformation with Martin Ewart
In this episode of Born to Disrupt, leadership coach and transformation expert Martin Ewart joins the hosts to explore how modern organisations can embrace purpose-led leadership, empower their people, and drive meaningful cultural change. Drawing on his extensive corporate and coaching experience, Martin shares why trust, collaboration, and clarity of purpose are essential for successful transformation—especially in today’s rapidly evolving world of work.