Creative technologies are advancing at breakneck speed, holding extraordinary potential to shape the future in ways we’ve never seen before. Innovators, technologists, and futurists hold the key to unlocking this potential, while industry leaders, governments, and policymakers share the responsibility to ensure it is harnessed safely and ethically. Truly, with great power comes great responsibility. To truly harness these cutting-edge tools for good, we must move beyond the hype of innovation — toward intentional, human-centred solutions.

Let’s explore how we can utilise immersive, AI, and XR technologies not just to disrupt, but to uplift communities through accountable, purpose-driven design that addresses real-world problems and puts people first.

The future doesn't just need more technological solutions – it needs sustainable, safe, ethical solutions that contribute holistically to the betterment of humanity beyond their commercial viability.

Panelist: Professor Carolyn Semmler

Leader of ACEP research group | Member of AIML

Prof. Carolyn lead of the Applied Cognition and Experimental Psychology (ACEP) research group, focusing on the application of theories and models of cognition, judgement and decision-making to legal and medical contexts to understand human interaction with AI and the development of human-machine interfaces, driven by human rights and the value of reducing harm to humans through technology and innovation.

Panelist: Becc Bates, PSM GAICD

Becc is the Chief Executive Officer of ILA - Adelaide’s home for immersive light and art, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Becc leads the dynamic team at ILA to produce and present immersive experiences in a distinctive building where technology, food, arts and entertainment converge.

Prior to joining ILA, Becc’s career has taken her through economic development, management in the music industry, and into state government, where she held the role as Director of Creative Industries. During this time, she led development of transformative policies to support creative enterprise. A recognised leader, Becc received the Public Service Medal in 2024 for her contributions to South Australia’s music and creative industries.

Panel Host: Christel Cherryadi

Founder | AI-XR Creative Director & Tech Lead of Creart Digital Media

Christel is an award-winning creative technologist and digital innovation strategist with over 14 years of cross-disciplinary experience across the creative industries - including visual design, multimedia production, UX/UI, and full-stack digital development. As the founder of Creart Digital Media, she leads organisations into the next frontier of digital transformation by integrating AI and XR (Extended Reality) into meaningful, human-centred innovation.