The National Speakers Bureau (NSB) has long been a hub for thought leaders who inspire, challenge, and inform audiences across industries. Their Engage Speaker Showcase is a highly anticipated event that brings together experts in various fields to share insights and provoke meaningful discussions. This year’s NSB Engage 11 took place at 200 Bay Street, near Union Station in Toronto, offering attendees an immersive experience with some of the most influential speakers in AI, politics, and space exploration.
Photo credit-www.nsb.com
Exploring the Future of AI with Iliana Oris Valiente
The event kicked off with Iliana Oris Valiente, an Innovation Lead at Accenture Canada, who delivered a thought-provoking talk on AI’s evolving role and its collaboration with humans. She introduced her 2D digital twin, a virtual replica of herself, designed to interact and operate as she would. Her discussion delved into the layers of AI, emphasizing how machine learning, automation, and cognitive AI are shaping industries. Iliana’s vision of AI wasn’t about replacing human intelligence but augmenting it, ensuring that AI and humans work hand in hand to drive innovation.
Navigating Political Landscapes with Sean Speer
Next up was Sean Speer, a political commentator and public policy analyst, who focused on current affairs and the evolving relationship between the U.S. and Canada. He addressed the recent remarks made by Donald Trump about Canada, analyzing their potential implications on trade, diplomacy, and economic policies. Speer’s session encouraged a deeper understanding of the geopolitical landscape, offering perspectives on how Canadian policies might shift in response to global trends. His talk was particularly engaging, as it provided a mix of historical context and contemporary analysis, sparking insightful discussions among attendees.
Lessons from Space and the Deep Sea with Dr. Shawna Pandya
The most exciting and eagerly awaited speaker was Dr. Shawna Pandya, Canada’s first named female commercial astronaut. Her session was nothing short of inspiring as she shared her journey as an aquanaut and astronaut-in-training. She described the unique experience of wearing a water-filled suit while training underwater, simulating the zero-gravity conditions of space.
Dr. Pandya also spoke about the five key lessons she learned throughout her career:
1. Success and failure can be two sides of the same coin.
2. Language matters: learn to communicate effectively.
3. Learn to make decisions in tight spots!
4. Fear is not a static trait.
5. Keep pushing the limits.
Her discussion covered her experiences in scuba diving, flying, and working as a hospital physician, highlighting how interdisciplinary skills contribute to success. She also shared how her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut became a reality, emphasizing the importance of having a role model and never giving up on one’s aspirations. Her energy and passion left the audience feeling empowered to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.
A Perfect Ending: Networking, Takeaways, and More
After the engaging sessions, I had the privilege of personally speaking with some of the guests, which was a fantastic opportunity to gain deeper insights. The event concluded with a delightful refreshment spread, featuring snacks, juice, coffee, and desserts. As a thoughtful touch, attendees were gifted potted daffodils and books to take home. I picked up The Working Brain by Dr. Brian Winegard, a book that I am excited to read.
Beyond the talks, the event was an excellent space for networking, where I connected with like-minded individuals who shared their thoughts on AI, politics, and space exploration. It was incredible to exchange ideas with professionals from different fields, all brought together by a shared curiosity and passion for learning.
Final Thoughts
NSB Engage 11 was an unforgettable experience filled with knowledge, inspiration, and meaningful conversations. The speakers left a lasting impact, pushing attendees to think critically, embrace innovation, and pursue their dreams fearlessly. Events like these are a testament to the power of shared knowledge and collaboration, reminding us that the future is shaped by those who dare to dream big and push boundaries.
I am grateful to have been part of this insightful and thought-provoking event, and I look forward to future editions of NSB Engage.
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