21st Century, Trusted By 67% Of The Jse, Adopts Africa’s First Ai-powered Front-of-house Platform

21st Century, trusted by 67% of the JSE, adopts Africa’s first AI-powered front-of-house platform

Johannesburg, 11 July 2025 – 21st Century, one of Africa’s leading business and people solutions consultancies, is redefining client engagement with the integration of askAYYI, an intelligent business assistant, on its Website. By implementing this solution, 21st Century becomes the first consultancy of its kind in South Africa to embed this level of AI automation into its service model, setting a new benchmark for digital intelligent engagement in the sector.

Now live on the 21st Century homepage, askAYYI acts as a 24/7 digital concierge. It answers questions, guides users, and connects prospects directly to the firm’s expert team. The assistant communicates across channels, from Web to WhatsApp, social media platforms, and direct calls, delivering consistent, brand-aligned responses with impressive accuracy and a humanlike feel.

“This is more than just a chatbot,” says Craig Berman, co-founder of Retail Communication Solutions. “AskAYYI, one of the smart products of Retail Communication Solutions,  performs at the level of a senior consultant, delivering real-time, multilingual support across platforms. It handles everything from directing client queries to booking consultations while learning and adapting continuously in the background.”

With the ability to engage via voice, text, or messaging and retain context across conversations - platforms, askAYYI streamlines the journey for new and existing clients – the front door to your business. It has been fully customised to reflect 21st Century’s tone and ethos, acting as an extension of the team rather than a standalone tool.

For 21st Century, the decision to integrate askAYYI is part of a broader focus on innovation and client-centricity.

“Today’s clients expect responsiveness, clarity, and connection. With askAYYI, we are meeting them where they are,” says Zone Feni, CEO of 21st Century. “It allows us to engage with clients instantly and intelligently, without compromising the personalised experience we are known for. It is not replacing our team. Rather, it is enhancing how we connect, solve problems, and build relationships.”

The intelligent platform also supports internal operations by streamlining HR, IT and administrative queries. With built-in sentiment tracking and memory retention, it helps surface trends and pain points, providing valuable insights for continuous improvement.

“This partnership represents what is possible when business strategy and cutting-edge digital capabilities align. 21st Century is shaping what the next chapter of consulting service looks like,” concludes Berman.

To experience askAYYI in action, visit www.21century.co.za.

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