Queensland's Something Digital Festival to return in August

The Queensland Digital Festival, Something Digital, will be back for a seventh year in August, with the theme Empower Every Human — a nod towards nurturing a culture where every human is equipped to innovate, create and contribute to the technological tapestry of this era.

The festival will feature international and national headliners from organisations including Meta, Doctors without Borders, NASA and Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Something Digital headliner Kathryn Hymes, Director of Product and Innovation at humanitarian aid organisation Doctors Without Borders, knows all too well about the importance of keeping digital human-focused.

“For us to truly empower every human, there’s an urgency to understand both the potential and the blind spots of technologies like artificial intelligence, and it is essential that we focus AI development on sustainable, equitable solutions that address the complexities of human needs across the globe,” she said.

Another headliner is Professor and Chair in Digital Economy at QUT, and member of the Ministerial ICT Advisory Council at Queensland Government, Marek Kowalkiewicz.

Fresh from the launch of his new book The Economy of Algorithms, Kowalkiewicz’s view is that “algorithms have changed the ways we live and do business and with a deeper understanding of these complex tools, we can use their power more effectively for the greater good”.

In December 2023, Kowalkiewicz was named one of the Top 10 Global Thought Leaders in Artificial Intelligence by Thinkers360.

“Awareness of the power of algorithms is not only a business imperative but critical for individuals. In doing so we become active participants in promoting a sustainable future that benefits everyone — I look forward to digging into this and more at Something Digital,” he said.

Co-founder of Something Digital Nadine Zrinzo said the digital heavyweights headlining the festival are just the start of what is gearing up to be the biggest festival yet.

“Organisational growth is solely dependent on our ability to harness digital innovation. Something Digital looks to strengthen Queensland’s economy by building capabilities across industries,” said co-founder of Something Digital Nadine Zrinzo.

More than 750 attendees from 200 organisations attended the various activations which formed last year’s festival, including Allianz Australia, BHP, CSIRO, Department of Tourism, Sunshine Coast Council, EasyAI, RACQ, South Australia Government, TAFE Queensland and Translink.

“We’re looking forward to bringing together the digital ecosystem to not only learn but also to network, collaborate and celebrate the great innovations found right here in our backyard,” Zrinzo said.

The Something Digital festival will run from 27–30 August.

Early bird specials:

• Something Digital (27–28 Aug): Starting at $449
• Something Fest: Comprehensive access for $720
   

Early bird specials end 12 July. Prices increase until 19 August, with last-minute rates from 19–28 August.

Tickets can be booked here.