AI has moved from novelty to everywhere in about three years, and it is changing how work gets done faster than most of us have kept up with. This free evening talk is a straight look at what that means for Nelson, and why now is the time to start paying attention.

Serge van Dam has spent three years working with AI from almost every angle: investing in AI companies, helping organisations adopt it, training complete beginners, and advising government. He has seen what works, what gets oversold, and where the real opportunities are for ordinary people and small businesses.

He will cover where AI is useful right now, the risks worth paying attention to, and how to get started without being technical. Expect plain talk, not hype. At one point he will build a working website live on stage in about two minutes and leave it running, so you can see for yourself how far the tools have come.

You do not need any experience with AI to come along. If you already use it every day, there will be plenty here for you too. You will leave with a clearer view of what is real and a sensible place to start.

Free to attend and everyone is welcome. A cash bar is available at the venue.

About Serge

Serge van Dam started out as an organisational psychologist, so he came to AI through people rather than code. He is now an investor in several New Zealand AI companies, an Operating Partner at the venture capital firm Movac, and co-founder of the AI training company AI Supercharge. He also advises government agencies including MBIE and NZTE.

Serge is also running a hands-on workshop the next morning, Friday 30 October, for people who want to build something of their own. You can find it here: https://events.humanitix.com/designing-your-first-ai-powered-service

Date and time: Thursday 29 October 2026, 7:00pm (about 90 minutes, including time for questions)

About the AI Sandbox

The Nelson AI Sandbox is a not-for-profit community initiative based in Nelson and Christchuch. Our mission is to empower and educate the community in the use of AI, making the technology accessible to everyone, at whatever pace suits. Find us at aisandbox.org.nz.

Contact the host of Wake Up to AI: a call to arms for Nelson