From AI to Agency - Conversations That Shape the Future of L&D

An interactive evening of insight, connection, and practical ideas

This event brings together Queensland’s standout AITD National Conference speakers for an interactive evening of conversation and practical insight. You’ll hear from five leaders shaping the future of learning and development in Australia, then dive into a dynamic World Café where you’ll explore the most pressing questions facing our profession.

Through fast-paced discussion and peer-led exchange, you’ll gain new perspectives on the big shifts in L&D and walk away with ideas you can apply straight away.

 Key takeaways  

• Discover the shifts happening in L&D right now that we can’t afford to ignore
• Explore practical experiments to try in your own organisation this quarter
• Engage with speakers and peers to unpack innovative approaches for 2025 and beyond

Speakers

Cathy James

Cathy has been a Learning & Development practitioner for over 15 years. She has won several awards for her instructional design, worked across multiple industries in design and facilitation, and led the introduction and success of an Internship Program which was recognised as Australia’s Top Internship Program only 3 years after its launch. In her current role as Head of Design – Development at Fusion Graduate Consultancy, Cathy champions young professionals as they embrace a new career in their chosen organisation, designing and delivering innovative, contextualised and impactful learning journeys for clients and their early talent programs. “I love supporting the growth and empowerment of early talent in this current role, and it brings together my passion and experience in corporate L&D and understanding the next generation of leaders.”

Catriona Malcolm

Catriona Malcolm is a Learning Experience Specialist with expertise in creating innovative, evidence-based learning solutions. Combining behavioural science with cutting-edge technologies, she designs engaging programs that improve knowledge retention and learner outcomes.

Michelle Parry-Slater 

Michelle Parry-Slater is a distinguished people development business strategist, author, and practitioner. Recognized as a leader in her field, she was included on the 2023 HR Most Influential Thinkers list. Michelle leads Kairos Modern Learning, a boutique consultancy specializing in helping organizations navigate change for more impactful capability and people development. With years of experience in people development, Michelle has contributed significantly to the People Profession. She is the author of the globally acclaimed book "The Learning and Development Handbook" and hosts the "Learning From The Edges" podcast, which explores workplace friction. Michelle also authors the "Learning From Life" blog in Training Journal and is a monthly contributor to People Management Magazine. A sought-after speaker, she shares her insights globally at conferences, webinars, podcasts, and on Learning Now TV. Additionally, Michelle serves as an industry awards judge. Michelle is on a career mission to drive cultural change within organizations. She advocates for a shift from traditional "Injection Education" practices towards fostering workplace capability through effective, efficient, enjoyable, and engaging everyday learning and human-centered cultures. A pragmatic People Professional, Michelle possesses a deep understanding of business impact and strategy concerning all aspects of Talent.

Tracy Sheen 

Tracy Sheen is an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and media commentator with over three decades of experience helping businesses navigate digital transformation. Her latest book, AI & U: Business Reimagined, introduces a practical 9-step REIMAGINE framework to help organisations integrate AI ethically and effectively, while keeping human-centered values at the core.Tracy’s first book, The End of Technophobia, was awarded the 2021 Australian Business Book of the Year and Best Technology Book, cementing her reputation as a trusted guide in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Having delivered over 2,000 presentations, keynotes, and webinars, Tracy is celebrated for her ability to break down complex topics into relatable, actionable insights. She regularly appears as a media commentator on AI and digital trends, sharing her expertise across platforms like Kochie’s Business Builders and mainstream media. As "The Digital Guide," Tracy works with business owners, government departments, and community organisations globally to demystify AI and empower them to embrace innovation with confidence. Passionate, engaging, and practical, Tracy ensures every audience leaves inspired and equipped to take action in the age of AI.

David Smith

David has an extensive career spanning fast moving consumer goods, gas and most recently refining industries. During this time, he has actively participated in national skill councils and advised on government workforce skills and capability strategies. He has led global project teams to successfully implement integrated HRIS and learning management systems utilising alternate technologies to improve end-user experience. He is passionate about how people learn and the role technology can play in improving learning and performance. In addition to applying traditional L&D methodologies, his current work includes utilising generative artificial intelligence, other technologies as well as traditional methods to improve the learner’s experience whilst evaluating other immersive and adaptive AI technologies to improve learning outcomes. 

Naomi Waldron

Naomi Waldron is a Strategic Solutions Consultant at BSI Digital Learning, where she leads innovation initiatives, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence. With over 20 years of experience in corporate learning and development, Naomi is passionate about helping individuals and organisations adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of modern work. She is committed to finding innovative ways to upskill the BSI team in AI and future-focused technologies. Naomi is a seasoned consultant, senior account manager, learning designer, and facilitator, holding qualifications in Adult Education and Information Technology. Her broad expertise allows her to effectively support organisations through both the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies and ways of working. A little-known fact about Naomi is that she is also a trained wilderness survival guide! Whether navigating the complexities of modern work or leading teams through the bush, Naomi excels at guiding people through uncertainty, helping them build the skills and resilience to succeed.

Please Note

• Registrations close 25 2025
• Event time listed is AEST
• Finger food and light refreshments will be served. Please note any dietary requirements when booking.
• CLOSEST TRAIN STATIONS • Central Station, 170m (2 min walk)
• CLOSEST BUS STOPS • Adelaide Street: multiple stops (1-2 min walk)
• NEAREST PARKING • Queens Plaza Car Park, Edward Street (1 min walk) • King George Square Car Park, Roma Street (3 min walk) • Wintergarden Car Park, Elizabeth Street (5 min walk)

By registering for this event, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions. Event and course cost pricing is quoted gst exclusive.

Catch up on key AITD conference themes and connect with your local professional community