How hard could it be?

Welcome to "Thriving Creatively," a transformative workshop designed specifically for creative professionals seeking to enhance their mental wellness while excelling in their careers. Join us for an immersive experience that combines the art of creativity with the science of mental health, providing you with the tools to thrive both personally and professionally. In "Thriving Creatively," Barney and Alisha combine their unique perspectives to address the common career hurdles faced by creative professionals. Barney's extensive experience in creative direction and branding complements Alisha's therapeutic insights, providing a holistic approach to managing work-induced stress and enhancing mental wellness. Together, they will lead immersive sessions that blend practical strategies for creative success with therapeutic techniques for personal growth. Attendees will gain valuable insights into overcoming creative career challenges and managing work-related stress. The workshop will equip you with practical tools to improve mental well-being and enhance your creative output. You'll leave with actionable strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, fostering resilience, and achieving your career aspirations. This transformative experience is designed to help you unlock your full potential and thrive creatively.

Are you advocating for yourself in your current position, and in your career? How are you “managing up”? Is Management for you? How do you run your team with both authenticity and effectiveness? What makes a really great 1×1? In this talk, you’ll gain access to the best practices from veteran UX leader – Alison Gretz, ACC. Learn Alison’s blueprint for mid-year advocacy ahead of annual reviews, what goes on behind the scenes of promotions, and how to operate as a UX leader, who is also a good human. Alison will pull back the curtain on some successes and failures that rising leaders should know. Walk away with actionable plays for rising in your career and beta access to the Good Manager OS created for Design Leaders.

Explore the exciting world of video game careers, from game design and programming to art and production. This talk will guide you through the essential skills, educational paths, and industry insights needed to break into and thrive in the video game industry. Discover tips on building a standout portfolio, networking effectively, and staying current with industry trends to turn your passion for gaming into a rewarding profession.

In a world where technology shapes our future outcomes, ethical design is not just a choice; it's an imperative. This talk will present a practical Framework for Planetary-Centric Design, entirely developed by Gabriela L. Lorenz and Betina Mazzarino. It’s a framework for regenerative product design, rooted in the principles of Permaculture. Permaculture is a systemic eco-design, a compass to navigate the complex interplay of creativity, innovation, economic viability, and social and environmental responsibility. Using this framework we are expanding our view of the world as designers, shifting the focus from user-centric to a broader, holistic, planet-centred approach. This talk is for designers, founders and investors that want to create better products for a thriving world.