DAY 2
Wednesday, 14 May 2025
9:00 am - 10:00 am
Arrival and Networking
After the unforgettable Pinterest Welcome Party, ease into the day with a coffee and conversation. Catch up with industry leaders, visit brand activations and get ready for another day of inspiration and big ideas.
KEYNOTES
10:00 am - 10:05 am
MC Welcome
Ex TV Producer Now Keynote Speaker
10:05 am - 10:35 am
The Leadership Reckoning
In an era of uncertainty and a world on the brink of seismic change, leadership isn’t just about survival, it’s about shaping the future. Join Sherilyn Shackell, founder and global CEO of The Marketing Academy for a wake-up call to brands and creative leaders. In this fearless keynote, she'll unpack what it takes to lead when the old playbook no longer applies, where hesitation is fatal and where only the bold will drive culture, creativity and business forward.
Founder & Global CEO, The Marketing Academy
10:40 am - 11:25 am
Big, Bold, Crazy Ideas – Why The World Needs Them (And You) Now More Than Ever
The UN Foundation’s David Ohana will be jetting in from the US for an inspiring keynote address sharing his unique insights into the power of global communications and marketing. He’ll also offer a peek behind the curtain of path-breaking global campaigns and discuss how organisations and individuals can drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world. Expect thought-provoking perspectives on aligning purpose with strategy and the challenges and opportunities of creating meaningful impact through global initiatives.
Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, United Nations Foundation
11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Cool is Not a KPI: Winning With Gen Z
In a world where brands keep trying (and failing) to be ‘cool,’ Pinterest took a different route. By leaning into what really matters to Gen Z—authenticity, inclusivity, and utility—Pinterest found its sweet spot. And found itself again.
In this talk, Xanthe Wells offers a new playbook for going beyond “cool,” and for creating meaningful connections with your audience instead.
Presented by Pinterest
VP of Global Creative, Pinterest
12:05 pm - 12:35 pm
Jase & Lauren on Resilience, Reinvention & Ratings Wins
In this no-holds-barred keynote, the duo bring their signature wit, unfiltered honesty, and behind-the-scenes insights to the stage. Expect big laughs, bold truths, and a fresh take on what it really takes to cut through, stay relevant and own the airwaves in an industry that never hits snooze.
Editor-in-Chief, Rolling Stone Australia
Co-host and Newsreader, Nova 100
Radio Breakfast Show Hosts, Nova 100
12:35 PM - 12:40 PM
MC CLOSE
12:40 pm - 1:45 pm
Networking break
Make the most of your time! Visit partners, explore activations and grab your swag before the day wraps up.
REEF
1:45 pm - 1:50 pm
MC Welcome
1:50 pm - 2:20 pm
Session TBA
Session TBA
2:25 pm - 2:55 pm
Big Ideas, Tight Budgets: How Marketers Make It Work
How do industry leaders push creative boundaries while keeping the CFO happy? In this candid session, top marketers reveal how they stretch every dollar, prioritise what truly moves the needle and turn constraints into creative gold.
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Future-Proofing Brands
Building a brand that stands the test of time requires forward-thinking strategies and innovative approaches. This session delves into the moves marketers are making today to ensure their brands remain relevant, resilient and ready for the future.
3:35 pm - 4:05 pm
The Short Film Wowing Sundance: Meet the Creators Redefining Cinema
Stranger, Brother wowed crowds at the Sundance Film Festival. Join us for an exclusive preview and hear from the film's creators as they share their journey, unpacking their inspiration, the power uniquely Australian stories hold on a global stage and how they're redefining cinema's future. They'll also discuss their broader approach to creativity and the challenges of balancing artistic vision with commercial objectives. It's a must-see for anyone passionate about creativity, culture and the next wave of groundbreaking talent.
Presented by Irresistible Magazine
4:10 pm - 4:40 pm
Turning Green into Gold
Sustainability sells—right? Or is it just pricey PR? As brands ride the green economy wave, are they making real change or just ticking boxes? Professor Veena Sahajwalla flips the script on waste, revealing how trash is a goldmine of untapped resources. Then, our panel gets real: Does sustainability shape media buying, or does it crumble when budgets tighten? No greenwashing, no fluff—just the hard truths on what it takes to turn sustainability into success.
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM
MC CLOSE
RAINFOREST
1:45 pm - 1:50 pm
MC Welcome
1:50 pm - 2:20 pm
Why Trump Works... Mastering the Art of Polarising Branding
Session details TBA
2:25 pm - 2:55 pm
How Do We Rise Without Compromise?
Join industry leaders as they share bold, actionable ideas to drive the sector forward. From redefining masculinity in media and arming brands with tools to avoid stereotypes, to creating spaces where female talent boldly thrives on its own terms, each leader will pitch one key area for real change and outline the actions needed to make a difference.
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Creatives Changing The Narrative
Join us for an insightful session that dives into the journeys of First Nations creatives as they navigate the media world. This panel will explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these storytellers, shedding light on the powerful perspectives and deep-rooted cultural insights they bring to their craft. Hear from industry trailblazers as they discuss their creative process, the impact of their work on representation and how they are reshaping narratives to elevate First Nations voices in film, television and digital media.
3:35 pm - 4:05 pm
Why Accessibility is Your Next Competitive Advantage
Leading brands are turning accessibility from a checkbox into a core marketing strategy, unlocking massive untapped value. This dynamic panel explores how inclusive content is driving customer engagement, with lessons from landmark work such as BUPA's 2024 Paralympics campaign. Discover why brands that prioritise accessibility aren’t just doing good—they’re gaining a competitive edge. Learn the key strategies, innovations and metrics that make inclusive marketing a must-have for future success.
4:10 pm - 4:40 pm
WTF is The Limitless Equation?
After hosting a self-leadership session called 'Am I Okay?' at Cairns Crocodiles 2024, Chloe Hooper was asked, “Where do you get your strength?” Her answer? “My partner.” The next day, her eight-year relationship ended. She was not okay. Through this journey, Chloe discovered the missing piece in self-leadership: self-belief. With 85% of women struggling with low self-belief, it’s time to change the narrative. This session unveils The Limitless Equation: a formula for growth built on self-leadership, self-belief, self-care, and sharing your superpower.
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM
MC CLOSE
1:45 pm - 1:50 pm
MC Welcome
1:50 pm - 2:20 pm
Who Should Fund Your Future?
What’s best— cash, control or a capital partner? For agencies and startups alike, the right growth path isn’t always clear. Should you chase venture capital for rapid scale, bring in private equity for strategic expansion, sell through M&A, or stay independent and fully in control? In this session, we'll share real-world insights on making the right call for long-term success.
2:25 pm - 2:55 pm
Session TBA
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Henry Innis Unfiltered
Known for his sharp insights and bold approach, Henry Innis, Mutinex’s co-founder, certainly has strong opinions. With millions in VC funding and a vision reshaping the industry, this fireside chat is a must-see. Hear first-hand about his journey, from breakthroughs to mistakes and the lessons learned. Expect thought-provoking ideas, humour and a glimpse into the mind of an industry disruptor.
3:35 pm - 4:05 pm
The Price Isn’t Right: The Silent Exit
Get ready for a wild, fast-paced quiz show that’s as eye-opening as it is entertaining! Brought to you by The Experience Advocacy Taskforce, this interactive session takes aim at ageism in our industry—one question at a time. Join our lively session co-hosts for 30 minutes of laughs, surprises and inspiration, where (almost) every attendee plays a part in spinning the wheel, tackling myths and competing for prizes. Expect big energy, bold truths and a wake-up call you won’t forget!
4:10 pm - 4:40 pm
From Podcasts to Powerhouses: The Rise of Creator-Led Media
Podcasts and creator-led shows are reshaping media, turning personal stories into cultural movements. But with this influence comes big questions: How do creators build sustainable careers and grow audiences without losing authenticity? And how can brands go beyond sponsorship to become active participants audiences love? Join this deep dive into appointment-to-view media, exploring bold predictions for the future of creator-led content—and how it’s shaping the industry, audiences, and the way we engage with media.
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM
MC CLOSE
4:45 PM - 6:00 PM
ESPN’S HALFTIME HAPPY HOUR
