AI: The Possibilities and the Pitfalls

This event is themed on the good, the bad, and the ugly of AI as it currently stands. Four New Zealand based speakers will provide insights into how to navigate the opportunities and challenges with clarity, creativity, and confidence. Whether you’re into technology, you’re a leader, or just a curious observer, these sessions will leave you equipped to contribute to a future where AI serves us and not the other way around.

Presentation: Youssef Mourra, Director – Nonsuch Youssef Mourra | LinkedIn
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and think but we need to remain cautious. Like all powerful things it has possibilities and an equal number of pitfalls. In this session, we’ll explore a couple of missteps, a couple of ethical dilemmas, and some unintended consequences that come with AI.

Panel:
Caelan Huntress, Head of Learning and Enablement- Agentic Intelligence Caelan Huntress | LinkedIn
I help professionals master Generative AI so they can think faster, create smarter, and lead with confidence into the future of work. As a marketing automation strategist and author of Marketing Yourself, I have guided thousands of experts and entrepreneurs to grow their impact, income, and influence through smarter systems and standout storytelling.
A decade as a digital nomad taught me how to build businesses that move as freely as their founders. As a former circus acrobat and street performer, I bring showmanship and play to the serious business of skill-building—turning every keynote, workshop, and training into an engaging experience. My AI training sessions are fast-paced and hands-on—packed with prompts, games, and experiments that leave participants feeling empowered, confident, and prepared for the future of work.
As the Head of Learning and Enablement for Agentic Intelligence, an AI consultancy that helps businesses grow with artificial intelligence, I help people learn how to use new technology, by finding the uniquely human work that robots cannot do.

Sean Whitaker, Project Management Consultant & Trainer – Crystal Consulting Sean Whitaker | LinkedIn
I’m the Founder and CEO of Crystal Consulting, where I help organisations excel in project management.
With nearly 30 years of experience delivering complex projects across construction, infrastructure, IT, software, telecoms, and organisational change, I know what good project management looks like.
I’ve advised organisations worldwide on improving portfolio, program, and project management capability, as well as practitioner competency—always in a practical, jargon-free way.
Since 2005, I’ve trained thousands of professionals at all levels, from beginners to PMP exam prep and postgraduate courses. I’m an experienced educator and author of several project management books.
Recognised as a top influencer and a Fellow of PMI New Zealand, I’ve built a reputation for pragmatic, sensible approaches to project delivery and teaching. Passionate about the profession, I’m always happy to talk project management.

Cel (Maricel) Medes Dijamco, PMP, Director – PMO and Operations – Alxemy Cel (Maricel) Medes Dijamco, PMP | LinkedIn
I am the PMO and Operations Director at Alxemy Business Solutions recognised for leading global initiatives, business migrations, and PMO setups that accelerate business growth. With over two decades of experience in programme and project management in ERP, e-Commerce, PSA, CRM, HCM implementations, and remediation programmes. I have built and scaled PMOs that drive measurable business growth, integrating governance, delivery excellence, and technology enablement.
I have served as a PMI PMO Global Awards judge for six years, a PMI New Zealand Awards judge for two years and is an active PMI Sustainability Committee Member, advocating for ethical and sustainable project practices. I champion the integration of AI, Resource Optimisation, Sustainability, and people-centred leadership in modern project management, helping organisations deliver successful strategic initiatives, and utilising AI for a high-performing PMO.

Tom Sweeney, Director of Business Development – Ilaria Tom Sweeney | LinkedIn
My role at Ilaria is driving partnership growth and business development, helping to expand our brand and impact across New Zealand. I am focused on building strong client relationships and delivering practical, high-value solutions in digital transformation, automation, and AI that lift productivity and create lasting results. I am passionate about helping New Zealand businesses make workflow.
We partner with organisations to boost productivity and efficiency through lean process improvement, automation, and practical AI solutions delivering outcomes that stick and freeing teams to focus on what matters most.
Previously, I co-founded Crew Technology Recruitment, growing it into the South Island’s largest IT recruitment agency before merging with Potentia Group. With over 20 years in customer-facing leadership roles, I have built high-performing teams, shaped brands, and grown major client partnerships. My track record includes 3× Deloitte Fast 50 wins, SEEK Awards recognition, and a reputation for connecting businesses with top technology talent.

5:00pm – Pre-meeting drinks and finger food
5:20pm – 5 minutes – Welcomes and Introductions
5:25pm – 15 minutes – Presentation (including questions)
5:40pm – 40 minutes – Panel (including questions)
6:20pm – 10 minutes – Final Questions
6:30pm – 5 minutes – Signoff, Thanks and Next Meeting details
6:35pm – 25 minutes – Networking
7:00pm – Close