Key Themes of SXSW Austin and Expert Speakers to Match

SXSW has just gone by in Austin, with people like Bryan Johnson and Arvind Krishna leading the keynotes across the conference schedule. During the event, a wide diversity of speakers touched on different themes that are currently top of mind – from quantum computing to the future economy. 

Here at ICMI, we’re proud to have had some of our incredible speakers featured at the event. We’ve got no shortage of experts on hand to guide your audience through the key themes explored at SXSW. Below, we take a look at some of the key topics that took centre stage at the conference with speakers to match.

1. Technology & Innovation

It’d be surprising if such a big conference like SXSW didn’t touch on issues like artificial intelligence and other new technologies. After all, they are such pertinent issues today. SXSW speakers focused on everything from the impact of AI on jobs through to ethics and potential future applications. 

Other tech and innovation topics speakers touched on included Web3, cybersecurity, emerging XR (Extended Reality) technologies, the impact of new tech in music and the evolution of gaming as the dominant form of entertainment. At ICMI, we’re lucky to have a bunch of speakers who specialise in these areas, from AI expert Dr Alan D. Thompson to renowned futurist Steve Sammartino.

2. Future & Sustainability

As always, the future took centre stage at this year’s SXSW. This included perspectives on climate and sustainability, with a focus on developing exciting new solutions and technology to tackle the issue. We also saw discussions on renewable energy, smart grids, aviation sustainability, EVs and autonomous vehicles. 

Other speakers presented more long-term visions, looking at things like space exploration and what the next generations of scientific discoveries and technological development could look like. From sustainability expert and former Mars mission candidate Dr Dianne McGrath to tech innovator Professor Veena Sahajwalla, we’ve got you covered with speakers on future and sustainability.

3. Business, Startups & the Creator Economy

Innovation in business is always a big topic at SXSW, with big names from different industries sharing their secrets to success. This includes rapidly rising startup founders sharing insights into raising funds and growing their business through to creators sharing tips on monetising and growing audiences through content. 

Discover your own insights on business with expert ICMI speakers like Sally Capp AO, former Lord Mayor of Melbourne, or business leader Andrew MacLeod.

4. Media, Entertainment & Culture

What new directions are we going in across film, TV, music, fashion, food and other forms of arts and culture? It’s always another key area that gets a lot of focus at ICMI. Topics typically range from the impact of new technologies to sustainability and challenges in funding and production. Want your insider look into these issues? ICMI can point you in the right direction with talent like actor Takaya Honda or Indigenous food champion Nornie Bero.

Bring Future-Focused Insights to Your Next Event

Create your own little SXW at your next conference or event with an expert speaker from ICMI. We can provide a range of speaker options on the topics listed here, but we can also assist with securing international talent and big name celebrities who featured at SXSW Austin this year. 

We can help out with events and budgets of all sizes, as well as catering to different themes and audiences. Got a specific speaker you want in mind? Just let us know and we’ll see how we can help.

Interested in booking one of our inspiring and thought-provoking speakers? Call us now on 1800 334 625 or make an enquiry online.