JLA Speaks
Navigating Disruption Through Creativity: Five Voices to Inspire Embracing Change
In a time characterised by rapid technological change, particularly with the advancement of AI, the importance of creativity as a catalyst for navigating disruption has never been greater. Organisations are grappling with constant uncertainty, making it essential to harness innovative thinking to thrive, grow and remain resilient.
The following list of exceptional keynote speakers explores how businesses can combat uncertainty and disruption through the lens of creativity, while examining how AI and digital transformation can be leveraged to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Margaret Heffernan is celebrated for her insights into how the world’s most creative thinkers find inspiration in uncertainty. As a former CEO and author, she highlights the value of embracing ambiguity to foster innovative ideas. Her talks examine how businesses can learn from creative minds and adapt to the unpredictability of today’s environment. Heffernan analyses effective leadership, drawing on examples from emerging tech disruptors to established multinationals, and explores the culture of disruptive companies that have transformed the workplace.
Manon Dave is a technologist, music producer, and songwriter who thrives at the intersection of creativity, technology, and social impact. As the Principal Lead AI Engineer for will.i.am and Idris Elba, and the Chief Innovation and Creative Officer at Mindvalley, Dave champions equitable and inclusive AI. He believes that thoughtfully designed AI can foster a more connected and fair global economy. By developing powerful, intuitive, and inclusive tools, he transforms complex challenges into opportunities, paving the way for smarter, more connected communities.
Karen Blackett is a thought leader in creating vibrant and resilient organisational cultures. Having led UK operations for the global advertising giant WPP, Karen also served as CEO of Group M, WPP’s media investment arm. With over 20 years at the forefront of the media and advertising industry, she is one of the most influential figures in the sector. She focuses on how to motivate and engage diverse teams, merging growth with creativity. Blackett’s approach encourages organisations to foster environments that thrive on inclusivity and innovation, enabling them to navigate disruptions more effectively.
As Head of the Fashion Innovation Agency (FIA) at the London College of Fashion, Matthew Drinkwater leads efforts to integrate emerging technologies such as AI, AR and IoT into traditional industries. His work demonstrates how the fashion sector can adapt to disruption, with technology reshaping every stage of the industry – from manufacturing and supply chains to retail and design – through the adoption of innovative tools and forward-thinking design practices.
Vanessa Kingori made history as the first female business lead at British Vogue and now serves as Managing Director for Technology, Media & Telecoms at Google. Her work champions diversity, social responsibility and female empowerment while highlighting the value of inclusive perspectives in driving creativity and innovation. Kingori also shares practical advice on how organisations can embrace digitalisation, encouraging companies to remain agile, adopt new technologies and evolve their strategies while staying true to their original purpose in an increasingly fast-changing digital landscape and shifting consumer expectations.
Final Thoughts: Putting Creativity and Innovation at the Forefront of Change
In a world facing limitless disruption and uncertainty, these conference speakers exemplify how creativity can be harnessed to navigate challenges and inspire innovation. They offer valuable insights into fostering resilient cultures and thriving in a rapidly evolving world.
If you would like more information on these or any other speakers, or would like to discuss you own requirements more generally, please contact your JLA Agent or call 020 7907 2800.
