Gihan Perera

Keynote Speaker, Opening

    Gihan Perera is a futurist, conference speaker, author and consultant who gives you a glimpse into what’s ahead – and how you can become fit for the future, in your professional and personal life.

    Since 1997, he has worked with business leaders, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and other change agents – helping them with their strategy for thriving in a fast-changing world.

    He has clients throughout Australia, as well as in New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the USA and Canada. He is the author of “The Future of Leadership”, “Disruption By Design”, and 10 other books.

    He has always taken the lead in embracing emerging technologies and trends, from his university thesis in robotics and artificial intelligence, to leading a software development team building the infrastructure for the early Internet. Gihan also founded one of Australia’s first Web development companies in 1996, teaching thought leaders how to engage in e-learning platforms, and helping business leaders build their personal brand and online influence.

    Because innovation is everybody’s business, and the best ideas can come from anywhere, he has worked with a number of industries – including healthcare, financial services, mining and resources, property, local government, education, and technology.

    Forbes magazine rated him the #5 social media influencer in the world (and #1 in Australia) in his area of expertise.

    He is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), the only internationally recognised designation for professional speakers. His formal background is in science and technology, with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Western Australia. But he’s always been interested in people and the way they communicate – and how to become fit for the future, so they embrace change, act on opportunities, and live happier lives.