Calling for Young Innovators and Changemakers in Australia and Globally
Dr. S Zaung Nau, Curtin University
Workshop 1:
Harnessing Data to Shape Inclusive Policies in Multicultural Australia
Australia’s cultural diversity, shaped by migration, presents opportunities and challenges for innovators, entrepreneurs, and migrant communities. This workshop explores demographic trends using census and public data to analyse shifts in diversity across states and cities. Key indicators include country of birth, language spoken at home, and ancestry. The session examines how multiculturalism influences business opportunities, workforce trends, education, and public services, highlighting the need for inclusive policies. By fostering data-driven decision-making, this workshop equips entrepreneurs, innovators, and migrant leaders with insights to navigate and leverage Australia’s evolving multicultural landscape for economic and social success.
Categories: Data Science, Public Policy & Strategic Planning, Education & Community Engagement, Innovation & Workforce Development
Justin Barnes, Rocket Launcher & Perth Networking Club
Workshop 2:
Marketing Strategy Workshop for Startups
At Rocket Launcher, we understand that startups need a clear, actionable marketing strategy to gain traction, attract customers, and establish a competitive presence in the market. Our Marketing Strategy Workshop for Startups is designed to provide entrepreneurs with the foundational knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to develop a strong, results-driven marketing plan tailored to their business goals. This interactive and practical workshop covers key aspects of marketing strategy, including brand positioning, customer identification, digital marketing tactics, and content creation. Startups will learn how to define their unique value proposition, understand their target market, and develop compelling messaging that resonates with customers.
Categories: Marketing & Branding for Startups, Digital Strategy & Growth Hacking, Innovation & Startup Ecosystem
Gry Stene, IT Girls Rock (STEAM Engine Global)
Workshop 3:
Raising AI Responsibly: How to Be Good Parents to Artificial Intelligence
As AI evolves rapidly, innovators, entrepreneurs, and migrant communities have a unique opportunity to shape their future responsibly. This interactive workshop, inspired by Mo Gawdat’s Scary Smart, Gry Stene’s TEDx Talk, and personal research, explores AI as a "child" learning from us. Participants will examine AI’s biases, ethics, and accountability while discovering strategies for human-centric AI in business, innovation, and social impact. Through discussions and real-world examples, we’ll explore how diverse perspectives—especially from migrant entrepreneurs and underrepresented voices can positively influence AI. Attendees will gain actionable insights to harness AI for inclusive, ethical, and impactful innovation.
Categories: Ethical and Responsible AI, Technology and Innovation, DEI, Entrepreneurship and Business
Min Sheen Tan, Centre for Entrepreneurial Research and Innovation (CERI)
Workshop 4:
What You Really Need to Know in the Startup World
The startup world is exciting, but it’s also unpredictable, demanding, and full of challenges. This hands-on workshop is designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, and migrant founders navigating the fast-paced startup ecosystem. Learn what separates successful startups from the 90% that fail, covering adaptability, financial survival, investor expectations, and team dynamics. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, participants will gain actionable strategies to build resilience, avoid common pitfalls, and grow sustainably. Whether launching a startup, working in one, or investing, this session will equip you with the tools to thrive, not just survive.
Categories: Entrepreneurship, Startup Growth, Innovation, Business Strategy, Investment, Funding Strategies, Leadership & Startup Culture
Dr Lydia May Wong, Decarbonate
Workshop 5:
Breaking Into Sustainability Careers in WA – Opportunities for Students & Migrants
Interested in a career that makes a real impact? Wondering how to enter the sustainability job market in Western Australia? Looking for guidance on ESG, climate action, and corporate responsibility roles? If you’re a student, graduate, or migrant curious about sustainability careers, this roundtable is for you! Sustainability is more than a buzzword. It’s a fast-growing industry with opportunities in renewable energy, ESG strategy, circular economy, carbon management, and climate governance. But how do you break into the field? What skills do employers look for? How can newcomers navigate the job market, especially in WA? This workshop offers career insights, industry trends, and real-world advice to help you turn your passion for sustainability into a thriving career.
Categories: Sustainability & Green Careers, Career Development, Job Market Insights, Migrant Entrepreneurship, Future of Work, ESG, Upskilling
Aaron D'Cruz and Yuri Cartland, Untitled Media
Workshop 6:
Content Strategy Matchmaking: How to Create Content for Your Business Goals
Struggling to create content that hits your business goals? Join Aaron D’cruz and Yuri Cartland from Untitled Media for a fun and engaging session where they’ll break down how to pick the perfect content for your unique goals from attracting new customers and converting leads to building lasting loyalty. Get insider secrets, proven strategies, and no-nonsense advice to make your content work harder for you. No fluff, just actionable advice.
Categories: Marketing and Content Strategy, Digital Marketing, Branding, Creative Strategy and Storytelling
Brian Liau, Granich Partners
Workshop 7:
Innovation, Diversity and Tech in Business: Where Does The Law Fit In?
In a rapidly evolving world, innovation, diversity, and law intersect to shape Australia’s tech and business landscape. Brian Liau leads a dynamic roundtable exploring how migrant talent fuels innovation, the role of immigration policies in the tech sector, and legal frameworks impacting business growth. From AI to renewable energy, we’ll examine how intellectual property, employment laws, and data protection regulations influence progress. This discussion bridges the gap between policy and innovation, helping businesses harness diversity while navigating legal complexities. Join us to explore the future of tech, migration, and business success in Australia.
Categories: Innovation and Technology Policy, Business and Legal Frameworks
Nancy Mah, The Platform
Workshop 8:
Events Exposed: The Backstage Pass to Planning Success
This 30-minute interactive workshop provides practical strategies for effective event planning and execution. Led by Nancy Mah, participants will learn essential techniques for event planning, creating impactful themes, and increasing attendee engagement. The session covers cost-saving approaches such as DIY catering options and venue selection tips. Topics include establishing clear event objectives, developing cohesive themes, designing engaging activities, and implementing budget-conscious solutions without sacrificing quality. This table-based workshop format offers personalized guidance through practical examples.
Categories: Event Planning and Management, Leadership, Professional Development, Marketing and Brand Experience
Rob Delane, Delane Migrant Coaching and Mentoring
Workshop 9:
Immigrants are More Innovative- Prove Me Wrong!?
WA is often praised for its innovation, but how does diversity fuel it? In the U.S., immigrants establish more businesses than native-born entrepreneurs, with a higher success rate. Over half of billion-dollar startups have immigrant founders, and they drive advancements in STEM and patents. A global survey of 1,700 companies found that diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones financially. Can WA’s immigrant entrepreneurs match this trend? Join us to explore the link between diversity and innovation, backed by global data and real-world insights.
Categories: DEI, Entrepreneurship, Business, Diversity & Innovation
Minh Hoang and Lisa Longman, Bloom
Workshop 10:
Autopilot is Taking Over. Please Remain Seated.
AI is churning out art, writing scripts, and composing music. It might even be drafting this event description. So if machines can create at scale, is human creativity too expensive to survive? And if algorithms now dictate what we see, prioritising clicks over craft and engagement over ethics, what happens to truth, originality, and meaning? More importantly, have humans ever been good stewards of these things to begin with? If not, what sets us apart from machines?
Categories: AI, Ethical AI, Creativity AI, Human-Centred Design
Agata Dharma, Townshend Capital | Indonesian Chamber of Commerce WA
Workshop 11:
Unlocking Funds & Fueling Growth: Your Startup’s Funding Playbook
Got a game-changing idea but stuck wondering how to fund it? Whether building the next big tech disruptor or championing diversity and inclusion, this workshop is your golden ticket to understanding how to secure the resources you need to thrive. Join Agata Dharma, a powerhouse in strategic business leadership, as she breaks down funding options — from government grants and angel investors to banks, VCs, and even out-of-the-box creative solutions you might not have thought of. We’ll dive into what works best for your startup, how to build a winning pitch and craft the ultimate funding strategy to supercharge your vision. Getting funded is tough, but chasing your passion and making it happen is an exciting ride worth it. Expect insights, practical tips, and plenty of interactive moments to ensure you leave inspired and ready to take action. Because your startup deserves the fuel to go the distance — and I am here to help you find it!
Categories: Business, Finance, Funding, Startups, Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy, VC
Monica Malaga, Find Your Inner Voice Now
Workshop 12:
Unlock the secrets to a memorable elevator speech and elevate your impact today
Do self-doubt or past experiences hold you back from speaking up? This transformative workshop helps you break through emotional barriers, reframe limiting beliefs, and harness your unique communication style. Through interactive exercises and guided self-reflection, Monica Malaga, expert in public speaking and self-leadership, will equip you with practical strategies to build confidence, assertiveness, and presence. Whether you're a professional, leader, or simply seeking to communicate with clarity, this session will empower you to express yourself with conviction. Your voice matters—own it!
Categories: Public Speaking, Communication Skills, Mindset Coaching, Leadership and Self-Leadership, Empowerment
Julia Yeow, Destiny Rescue
Workshop 13:
Breaking cultural barriers: Embracing your achievements with confidence
Many professionals, especially immigrants, struggle with self-promotion due to cultural norms or fear of seeming arrogant. Julia Yeow’s interactive workshop helps participants overcome these barriers, build confidence, and advocate for their achievements. Through the I Am Remarkable exercise, attendees will reflect on their unique strengths, develop practical self-advocacy strategies, and create a personalised action plan to embrace self-promotion authentically. Whether seeking career advancement, leadership roles, or personal empowerment, this session equips you with the mindset and tools to own your success and make your achievements count. Your voice matters—let it be heard!
Categories: DEI, Entrepreneurship and Business, Women Empowerment
Dr Nickson M. Karie, NMCYBER
Workshop 14:
Cyber Resilience for Startups & Entrepreneurs: Protecting Your Business in a Digital World (9:15 - 10:00 AM)
In today’s hyper-connected world, cyber threats pose a serious risk to startups and entrepreneurs, particularly those from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. This interactive workshop equips Small and Medium Business (SMB) owners with essential cybersecurity knowledge and tools to safeguard their ventures, sensitive data, and digital trust. Through real-world case studies, hands-on activities, and expert insights, participants will explore common cyber threats, practical security measures, and simple cyber hygiene practices. Engaging exercises like the "Social Engineering Challenge" and "Security Persona Game" will expose hacking tactics and strengthen cybersecurity habits. By the end, attendees will gain actionable strategies, a cybersecurity-first mindset, and the confidence to navigate the digital world safely. Join us to future-proof your business and stay resilient in an evolving cyber landscape!
Categories: Cybersecurity & Data Protection, Risk Management & Compliance, Digital Safety, Entrepreneurship & Business Resilience
Silvana Macri, Stay Cyber Safe
Workshop 14:
The 8th Layer of Cyber Security needs Diversity more than you know (10-10:45 AM)
Silvana aims to highlight the critical role of the human element—the 8th layer of cyber security—as the most frequently exploited attack vector and emphasise the importance of diversity in strengthening cyber resilience. Through this workshop, she seeks to raise awareness about how diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences contribute to a more robust security posture, ultimately reducing the risk of successful cyber attacks. By shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of cyber security, she hopes to inspire organisations to prioritise diversity as a key defence strategy.
Categories: Cybersecurity & Data Protection, Risk Management & Compliance, Digital Safety, Entrepreneurship & Business Resilience
Bec Nguyen, Upbeat Digital
Workshop 15:
Thriving, Not Just Surviving – Navigating a White Workplace as a Marginalised Professional
This workshop provides marginalised professionals with the strategies and confidence to navigate predominantly white workplaces while maintaining their authenticity and well-being. Through guided discussions and practical activities, participants will explore challenges such as code-switching, workplace dynamics, and microaggressions. The session covers key topics including self-advocacy, finding allies, setting boundaries, and building career resilience. By fostering a supportive space for shared experiences and connection, this workshop equips attendees with practical tools to assert their value, strengthen their professional presence, and thrive in their careers without compromising their identity.
Categories: Management, Entrepreneurship, Diversity & Innovation, Women’s Empowerment, Creativity & Innovation, Networking
Danielle Giles, Catalyst CoLab
Workshop 16:
Intro to Innovation and Entrepreneurship
This interactive workshop introduces participants to the fundamental principles of innovation and entrepreneurship, providing practical tools to turn ideas into viable products or services. With a strong focus on a customer-centric approach, the session covers key concepts such as idea validation, market research, and customer discovery through a design thinking lens. Participants will learn how to test assumptions, gather insights through prototyping and user testing, and avoid common pitfalls that contribute to business failure. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a structured roadmap to develop innovative solutions that genuinely meet customer needs, whether launching a new venture or driving innovation within an existing organisation.
Categories: Entrepreneurship, Startup Growth, Innovation, Business Strategy, Design Thinking, Market Research, Customer-Centric Innovation, Product Development, Creativity & Innovation
Karina Machado, WIRAM Australia New Zealand
Workshop 17:
FemPower: Redefining Leadership
This interactive workshop empowers women to redefine leadership on their own terms, fostering confidence, adaptability, and authenticity. The session includes engaging activities such as “Leadership Snapshots,” group brainstorming, and real-world scenario challenges. Participants will explore modern leadership concepts, enhance their presence through body language exercises, and tackle challenges with resilience. The workshop concludes with personal reflections and leadership commitments to drive continuous growth. Through meaningful discussions and peer support, attendees will leave with actionable insights, stronger leadership identities, and valuable connections to support their journeys.
Categories: Professional Development, Women in Leadership, Personal Growth & Confidence Building, Workplace Skills & Career Advancement