SPEAKERS

Doug Kamo - MC

Doug Kamo is one of New Zealand’s most sought-after MCs, entertainers, producers and creative directors, renowned for delivering engaging, high-energy experiences across conferences, awards ceremonies and corporate events.

Stuart Carr - Keynote Speaker

Stuart C. Carr, is the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Livelihoods and a Professor of Psychology in the Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology Programme at Massey University of New Zealand. Stuart is a co-founder of Humanitarian Work Psychology, which focuses on eradicating poverty through universal access to decent work.

Welby Ings - Keynote Speaker

Dr Welby Ings is Professor of Narrative Design at Auckland University of Technology and an internationally respected advisor on education, creative thinking and technology. Not a stranger to controversy, he has been both reprimanded and awarded for his approach to teaching. Recipient of New Zealand’s Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for Tertiary Teaching Excellence and author of the influential "Disobedient Thinking" and bestselling "Invisible Intelligence", Welby challenges conventional approaches to assessment and learning and believes that humanity and human relationships are at the core of educational transformation.

Mark Patterson - AI Plenary Session

Mark Patterson is Founder and Executive Director of Magnet, a centre of innovation dedicated to helping employers, workers, and communities adapt to a rapidly changing economy. A recognized leader in workforce innovation, his work focuses on how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping jobs, skills, and organizational strategy. Mark advocates for human-centred approaches to AI that help organizations build inclusive, future-ready workforces and support people in navigating a rapidly evolving labour market.

Sareena Hopkins - AI Plenary Session

As CEO of the Canadian Career Development Foundation (CCDF), Sareena bridges policy, research, and practice in order to strengthen the reach and impact of career development across Canada and internationally. Sareena currently chairs the International Centre for Career Development and Public Policy (ICCDPP) and is an International NICEC Fellow. Sareena has deeply rooted frontline experience, a strong background in mental health, and over 30 years of leadership in the career development sector. Sareena was awarded the International Gold Medal for Leadership in Career Development in 2014 and the Etta St. John Wileman Award for Outstanding Achievement in Career Development in 2026.

David Carney - Plenary Session

David is a recognised leader in career development, with over 25 years of experience shaping policies and practices to enhance career services. As the Executive Director of the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA), he has driven innovative, research-based strategies to advance career development. His expertise spans career development policy, practice, and advocacy, with a strong focus on evidence-based guidance, workforce readiness, and skills development. His work has made him a key voice in policy discussions, shaping impactful programs that optimise human potential. Beyond his leadership at CICA, David advises government and industry groups on employment, training, and workforce transitions, influencing policies that enhance career development infrastructure in Australia and internationally. As a Board member of the International Centre for Career Development and Public Policy, he contributes to global discussions on best practices. His tenure on the Australian Government’s National Careers Institute Advisory Board helped shape national career development strategies. Committed to innovation, David has played a pivotal role in integrating career development into broader workforce planning, setting a benchmark for national and international career services.