Experiences

A DAY OF LEARNING: How We Are Shaping the Future

AcademyEX, Grafton

Auckland

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22 Aug 2026, 10:00am–3:00pm

Saturday, 10:00am to 3:00pm

$95.00 per person

How are we, as people, shaping the future?

Technology is transforming almost every aspect of our lives, but behind every innovation are people asking better questions, solving meaningful problems, designing for human needs, and imagining what's possible.

Through four engaging and accessible presentations, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the ideas, technologies and people influencing the world around us.

This is not a technical conversation. It is a day designed for curious people who want to better understand the forces, technologies and consequences shaping our collective future.

No prior experience needed, grab a friend or two and come and enjoy a wonderful day out meeting new people, learning something new and experiencing Love Heart - Social Learning.

10:00am – 11:00am - Frances Valintine CNZM: The Next Great Shift: Preparing for a World That Doesn't Yet Exist

Frances opens the day by exploring the profound changes taking place across technology, work, education and society. Why is this era different from previous periods of change? What skills, mindsets and approaches will help us thrive? And why has lifelong learning never been more important?

11:00am – 12:00pm - Kriv Naicker: Designing the Future: Why Great Technology Starts with People

Technology only succeeds when it solves real human problems. Drawing on his work in design, emerging technology and innovation, Kriv explores how human-centred thinking, creativity and collaboration are helping shape the next generation of products, services and experiences.

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm - Lunch

Bring your own lunch or pop out for a bite to eat at the local cafe before we head into our afternoon session.

12:30pm – 1:30pm - Louise Nash: Building the Future: Solving the Problems That Matter Most

The world's most meaningful innovations don't begin with technology - they begin with people and the challenges they face. Louise shares how entrepreneurs, innovators and investors are tackling some of society's biggest opportunities through purpose-driven innovation, and why curiosity, courage and collaboration are essential to creating lasting impact.

1:30pm – 2:30pm - Dr Roy Davies: The Invisible Future: When Technology Becomes Part of Everyday Life

As artificial intelligence, smart devices and digital experiences become increasingly woven into our daily lives, what will the future actually feel like? Roy explores how technology is becoming more intuitive, more human and, in many cases, almost invisible - challenging us to think not just about what technology can do, but how it can enrich our lives.

2:30pm – Connections & Conversation

We'll conclude the day with an informal networking session, giving participants the opportunity to continue the conversation, ask further questions of our speakers, and connect with other curious minds. Some of the most valuable learning happens through the conversations sparked after the presentations, and this is a chance to reflect on the day's ideas, share perspectives, and build new connections within the Love Heart community.

Date & Location:

This Day of Learning will run on Saturday 22nd August from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm at academyEX, Grafton.

About the experts

Kriv Naicker

Kriv Naicker is a senior international executive, entrepreneur, lecturer, industry commentator and professional director with 25+ years’ experience in leadership, strategy and technology. He is the Founder and co-Chair of IoT Forum New Zealand (previously New Zealand IoT Alliance), board member of Connected Technology Alliance Australia (previously IoT Alliance Australia) and Managing Director of Synaptec NZ (an innovation and strategy advisory organisation that focuses on the impact of Emerging, Exponential & Disruptive Technologies).

A regular commentator and lecturer on IoT, AI, Telecommunications and emerging technologies, Kriv brings a unique blend of governance experience, industry insight, and global perspective.

Louise Nash

Louise Nash is a strategist, business transformation specialist and founder of Circularity, where she helps organisations navigate complex change and build more resilient, future-focused businesses. Over the past two decades, she has advised leaders across New Zealand, Australia, Asia-Pacific and beyond on technological disruption, sustainability, innovation and business transformation. Prior to founding Circularity, Louise was Chief Strategy Officer for WPP across New Zealand and Asia-Pacific, working with organisations including Fonterra, Coca-Cola Amatil and The Walt Disney Company.

Passionate about creating meaningful change, Louise combines expertise in strategy, design thinking and technological futures to help organisations thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Known for simplifying complexity and inspiring new ways of thinking, she believes the best innovations begin by solving real human problems.

Dr Roy Davies

Dr Roy Davies works across emerging technology, design, and big ideas, with a particular interest in calm computing, mixed reality, assistive technology, and new ways for digital tools to become more natural, human, and quietly helpful in everyday life. He enjoys helping people make sense of complex change, explore new possibilities, and build strong ideas with confidence. Roy brings a thoughtful and engaging style that encourages curiosity, conversation, and the pleasure of learning.

Frances Valintine CNZM

Frances Valintine CNZM is a leading technologist and educator focused on the technologies shaping the world and impacting how we live, work and connect. She has led and founded multiple institutes of higher education and is currently the Chair of academyEX Group, an Australian and New Zealand postgraduate institute focused on qualifications and programmes for working professionals. Frances is also on the Board of the University of Silicon Valley; she is a recipient of the Flying Kiwi Award and an inductee to the New Zealand Hitech Hall of Fame. She was also recognised by the CIO Awards for her lifetime contribution to technology. In 2014, her organisation, The Mind Lab, won the Best Start-Up in Asia-Pacific award, as judged by Sir Richard Branson and Steve Wozniak. She has a Master's degree from the University of Melbourne and is an alumnus of the Singularity University.