Day 2 Mainstage Highlights
Why High-Performing Teams are Investing in Psychology as Much as Technology
David Rowan, Technology Expert & Former Editor - WIRED Magazine’s UK Edition
David Rowan, founding editor of WIRED UK explored how leading technology companies are rethinking organisational culture in an AI-driven economy. He shared a framework for building high-performing teams, focusing on continuous learning, empowering talent, and enabling individuals to drive innovation at every level.
Learning From Failures: How Airlines Are Digitally Transforming Their Businesses For The Future
John Strickland, Aviation Consultant & Media Commentator
Alex Cruz, Vice Chair WestJet - Former CEO British Airways
Nevra Onursal Karaagac, Chief Executive Officer - Hitit
Eddie Wilson, CEO - Ryanair
The recent CrowdStrike outage highlighted the vulnerability of airlines to IT failures, causing widespread disruption and cancellations. This session explored how the industry is learning from past incidents, replacing legacy systems, and adopting AI to improve operations and customer experience. Industry leaders shared how airlines are building resilience, enabling faster recovery, and fostering a people-first culture to support both employees and passengers.
Rise Of The Fraudsters: How Do You Solve A Problem Like Modern Financial Fraud And Keep your Business, People And Customers Safe?
Stephanie Hare, Researcher and Broadcaster
Stuart Cummins, CEO - Nedbank Private Wealth
Annya Burskys, Head of Fraud Operations - Nationwide
As financial scams and fraud techniques continue to evolve, protecting customers, employees, and organisational reputations has become a top priority. In this session, expert speakers from Nationwide and Nedbank Private Wealth shared insights on the knowledge, tools, and strategies leaders need to prevent financial crime today - and how to stay ahead of emerging threats in the future.
Integrating Diversity and Reclaiming Humanity in an AI world
Naomi Sesay, Head of Creative Diversity - Channel 4
Indigenous intelligence offers a blueprint for balance - a deep-rooted understanding of sustainability, connection, and holistic problem-solving that has guided communities for generations. This keynote challenged organisations to embrace diverse knowledge systems, ensuring that as AI and technology evolve, we preserve wisdom, challenge bias, and align innovation with ethical responsibility.
Imposter Syndrome: Not just Individual, nor Imaginary - How Tackling it can Benefit a Whole Industry
Poorna Bell, Author and Award-winning Journalist
Award-winning journalist and author Poorna Bell examined the evolving nature of imposter syndrome in 2025, highlighting its wider impact on industries and workplace culture. This session explored insights from younger generations, addressed barriers facing diverse talent, and identified unconscious biases within the tech sector. Attendees gained practical solutions to overcome imposter syndrome and create more inclusive, empowered workplaces.
Empowering the Future: Upskilling for an AI-Driven World
Priya Lakhani OBE, CEO - Century Tech
Sheridan Ash MBE, Founder & Co-Chief Executive Officer - Tech She Can
Sonya Barlow, Founder and Entrepreneur - Like Minded Females Network
As AI continues to transform industries and reshape the workplace, organisations must equip their teams with the skills to keep pace. This session explored strategies for building a culture of continuous learning, bridging knowledge gaps, and empowering employees to thrive in an AI-driven world. Speakers shared practical insights for creating adaptable, future-ready workforces.