Innovation. Technologist

Based: Johannesburg

Dr Adam Pantanowitz is an iconic biomedical and electrical engineer, well-known for initiating and leading the first group in the world to connect a human brain live and mobile to the internet in a project called the Brainternet – a term he coined. As a technologist, he enjoys using his applied sciences skills to have real-world impact. He has co-founded a number of businesses/social impact projects including AURA, Resolute Education, PRTL Medical, shift.stream, and others. Adam lectured Engineering and Medicine at Wits University in Johannesburg, where he currently holds the Angela & David Fine Chair in Innovation and is the Director of the Wits Innovation Centre. His innovations are numerous and include a variety of human computer interaction devices, assistive devices, and novel AI technologies and applications. He is one of the youngest global Fellows of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (UK), and is an Expert at the Singularity Group. Adam is an internationally chartered engineer and holds a PhD in AI applied in healthcare innovation.

How might we use the tools around us to build massively impactful technologies? From early prototyping to impact at scale, Adam has blended Artificial Intelligence, electronics, and humans, to solve problem with impact. This talk takes the audience on an inspiring journey of practical frugal innovation, upliftment, and empowerment that can transform lives. First, Adam describes how he changed his own life from his teenage years when he could not walk. Then, stories from heading up innovation at Wits University, to creating impactful solutions for real world problems. The audience will be inspired by an innovation mindset of prototyping, solving problems, and using the tools around us to create impactful change.

This session is about utilising modern tools for frugal innovation. Participants will learn that from their imaginative ideas, real, tangible outputs are actually achievable and readily possible in these modern times. As we have more tools accessible to us through the democratisation of technology and information, the possibility of real innovation comes to life for us all. We can achieve our goals, and often we can do this at remarkably lower costs than we realise, leading to frugal innovative prototypes which can snowball into successful realised projects creating businesses and impacting society.

This session will cover examples of frugal innovation and how to realistically forge ahead with innovative work. Often we put imagined filters and barriers in place for ourselves, and by seeing practical examples of how simple and accessible innovation can be, participants will be galvanised to change their approach, and hopefully to get going with their own goals. This session is ideal for individuals who want to start their own projects and who have perceived barriers to doing so, or to individuals who want to be inspired regarding the accessibility of modern innovation.

The session is customisable and can be tailored to audiences of different sizes and durations ranging from 60 to 240 minutes. 

The session has been delivered for multiple Universities, SU Audiences, SU summits, and corporate clients.

In this motivational keynote, the audience will hear about Adam’s personal journey from “paralysis” to “analysis” and how technology played a crucial role in his transformation and ultimately his work. His experience of struggling with a medical condition and missing out on an education resonates with many people, as we all endure struggles. In particular, this led to his creativity in approaching his tertiary education. This created his “Step Change” as he overcame his own disability to go on to work on innovations to help the disabled.

Adam’s story highlights the power of technology to transform lives and overcome obstacles. The keynote will inspire the audience by demonstrating how a positive attitude and a willingness to learn can lead to success, regardless of past setbacks.

The audience can expect a highly engaging session that uses multimedia elements to bring Adam’s story to life. Through the use of storytelling, humour, and interactive media, the audience will be taken on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. They will learn about the potential of technology to enable personal growth and to overcome adversity.

This keynote is ideal for individuals who are looking for inspiration and motivation to overcome obstacles in their personal or professional lives. It is perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to embrace a positive attitude and leverage technology to transform their life. The session will empower the audience to take control of their lives and create their own “step change.”

The session is customisable and can be tailored to audiences of different sizes and durations ranging from 50 to 80 minutes. This session has been delivered at SU summits, corporate clients, and was scheduled for closing two summits but cancelled due to COVID

“Experience a transformational journey as participants discover the power of their thoughts and the impact it has on creating their reality in this motivational keynote.”

This talk delves into the unique examples of individuals who have overcome adversity and forged their own paths in life. The importance of embracing challenges and recognizing the impact they can have on personal growth is emphasized. Participants will learn to leverage the power of their thoughts to create their reality and shape their future.

Through rare and inspiring examples, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery. They will explore the idea that their thoughts create their reality and how this concept can be applied in their own lives. Engaging activities and interactive elements will be used to drive home the key takeaways and encourage participants to put their newfound knowledge into practice.

This motivational keynote is perfect for individuals looking to take control of their lives and shape their future. It is designed to inspire and empower participants to embrace their challenges and harness the power of their thoughts to create the reality they desire. This talk will leave participants feeling motivated, empowered, and equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

Previously delivered as a closing talk at an SU Summit

AI is disrupting and enhancing all industries, and notably for all human beings, healthcare is advancing at a rapid pace. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the AI healthcare revolution and its potential impact on the future of healthcare professionals.

The use of AI in healthcare has the potential to greatly improve patient outcomes and streamline processes, but it is important for healthcare professionals to understand the implications of this rapidly evolving field. Participants will learn about the latest developments in AI healthcare used in Adam’s research, and how they are shaping the future of the medical industry. Data augmentation and generation is a major focus and these topics have great applicability in industries other than healthcare.

Throughout the session, participants will engage in discussions and explore case studies to gain a deeper understanding of the implications of AI in healthcare. They will learn about the benefits and challenges of incorporating AI in the medical field and how healthcare professionals can prepare for this change.

This session is ideal for healthcare professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve and understand the impact of AI on their future careers. Professionals who are not in healthcare may also be fascinated and engaged by the relatable examples. By the end of the session, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the AI healthcare revolution and its potential implications for their health and for their careers.

In this session, participants will delve into the connection between technology and humanity, exploring how they are becoming increasingly intertwined.

The integration of technology into our daily lives has dramatically changed the way we interact with the world and with each other. Understanding the interplay between technology and humanity is important for managing the potential consequences of this integration. Through this session, participants will gain insight into the implications of these developments and the research that has informed our understanding of this relationship.

Participants will join Adam on a journey through his research work, exploring the ways in which technology is impacting humanity. They will engage in a thought-provoking and insightful discussion, exploring the benefits and challenges of this integration and the implications for the future.

This session is ideal for those with an interest in the relationship between technology and humanity. It is suitable for professionals, academics, and anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between these two areas. Participants will leave the session with a new perspective on the connection between technology and humanity and the impact this has on our lives.

Customisable – 45 minutes to 1 hour (previously delivered > 50 times, including to SU audiences on 4 continents)

In this session, participants will delve into the relationship between machines and humans and the impact of robotics on our lives. Through a 30-45 minute presentation, participants will gain a philosophical and practical understanding of how robots are encapsulating our humanity.
As robots and AI become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it’s essential to understand the implications and impact of these technologies. During the session, participants will explore the role of robots in society, and how they are affecting the way we live and work. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the benefits and challenges of robots and AI, and how they can be leveraged to enhance human life.
The session will cover a wide range of topics, including the history of robots, the current state of AI, and its potential future impact on humanity. Participants will engage in interactive media, examining the ethical and moral implications of AI, and considering how robots can augment human abilities and capabilities. The session will provide practical insights and examples of how robots can be customised to meet the specific needs and goals of different industries and applications.
This session is ideal for individuals interested in exploring the relationship between humans and machines. It is suitable for professionals, students, and anyone with a general curiosity about AI and its impact on our lives. Participants will leave the session with a new perspective on the role of robotics in society, and how they can be used to improve and enhance human life. Robotics is a function of humanity.

Customisable – 30 minutes to 45 minutes (previously delivered at SU summit)

In this session, participants will delve into the field of AI. Participants will gain both a philosophical and a practical understanding of the field of AI/ML. This includes neural networks, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning.
As robots and AI become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it’s essential to understand the implications and impact of these technologies. During the session, participants will explore the role of robots in society, and how they are affecting the way we live and work. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the benefits and challenges of robots and AI, and how they can be leveraged to enhance human life.
The session will cover a wide range of topics, including the history of AI, the current state of AI, and its potential future impacts. Participants will engage in interactive media, consider the ethical and moral implications of AI, and consider how AI is impacting industries, and augment human abilities and capabilities. The session will provide practical insights and examples of how AI can be customised to meet the specific needs and goals of different industries and applications.
This session is ideal for individuals interested in how AI is disrupting their industry. It is suitable for professionals, students, and anyone with a general curiosity about AI and its impact on our lives. Participants will leave the session with a new perspective on the use of AI, and how AI can be used to improve and enhance our lives.

60 – 90 minute presentation (customisable to an industry, previous delivered for instance with SU for a company in mining/engineering)

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