Hot off the presses here is an interview with Victoria Cote the conference producer of AI Summit in New York

SPOILER ALERT I will be speaking there with my dear friend Romi Mahajan!

Q:  Informa’s AI Summit has become an important conference on the AI circuit. Can you tell us a bit about your role and what your vision for the Conference is?

As the Conference Producer for The AI Summit series, my role centers on curating and developing content that captures the most urgent and innovative developments in AI today. I’m responsible for producing the Practitioners, VisionAIres, and Solution Center stages at our flagship events in New York and London, while also anchoring The AI Summit Cape Town within the Africa Tech Festival, which has been a cornerstone of the industry for 27 years. My goal is to create a platform that not only showcases groundbreaking advancements but also connects AI leaders across different sectors, influencing impactful partnerships and actionable insights.

Specifically for Cape Town, my aim is to ensure the summit addresses Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities by bringing in global leaders like Google, HPE, and Meta to share their insights. Through this addition, we’ll also provide attendees with access to a broader, more diverse audience, creating unique opportunities for global collaborations. My ultimate vision is to make The AI Summit Cape Town and Africa Tech Festival the must-attend AI event on the continent, where industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers converge to shape the future of AI in Africa.

Q: What is the VisionAIres program, and how does it enhance the AI community?

The VisionAIres program is designed to elevate the AI Summit experience by bringing together senior-level executives and thought leaders who are at the forefront of AI innovation. It’s more than just a networking opportunity; it’s a space where industry leaders can engage in deep, strategic conversations about the future of AI. Peer-to-peer connections, knowledge sharing, and networking are at the heart of this program, and they are more imperative now than ever as the AI market evolves so rapidly. What sets VisionAIres apart is that it’s not limited to our live events—it’s an active community that connects members on a monthly basis through virtual roundtables, ensuring ongoing engagement and collaboration. By focusing on both global perspectives and local challenges, especially in regions like Africa, the program enhances the AI community by driving high-impact discussions that lead to tangible outcomes. This is essential in bridging the gap between different markets and nurturing relationships that have the potential to make a significant impact on a global scale.

Q: What role do events play in the overall marketing landscape?

Events like The AI Summit are crucial in today’s marketing landscape because they offer a unique opportunity for brands to connect with their target audience in a meaningful way. Unlike other marketing channels, events provide an immersive experience where brands can showcase their innovations and interact directly with industry leaders and decision-makers. This is particularly true in the context of Africa, where The AI Summit Cape Town, offers more access to a diverse and rapidly growing market. By participating in these events, brands can build strong relationships, gain insights into emerging trends, and position themselves as leaders in the AI space.

Q: What are some of the AI trends you are seeing, and what do we need to look out for?

AI is moving at lightning speed, and several key trends are really shaping its future across the globe. A major focus right now is on Responsible Innovation and Ethical AI, ensuring that as we push the boundaries of what’s possible, we’re also managing AI’s impact thoughtfully to promote sustainable and equitable growth. AI Governance is another hot topic, with ongoing discussions about creating policy frameworks that strike the right balance between innovation and societal needs.

We’re also seeing a big push for AI-driven Economic Growth, especially in areas like agriculture and healthcare, where AI can make a huge difference. Generative AI is another exciting trend—it’s making technology more accessible to non-experts, which is helping more people get involved in the digital economy.

Another pressing trend is the focus on addressing the AI skills gap, which is crucial as the demand for AI expertise outpaces the current supply. Upskilling initiatives are becoming essential to equip the workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Q: What is the best message to AI marketers for sponsoring or connecting to the AI Summit?

For marketers, The AI Summit offers a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse and influential audience. The key message for sponsors should focus on the value your brand brings to the technology ecosystem, especially in addressing specific challenges and opportunities within emerging markets. By aligning with The AI Summit, you’re not just gaining visibility—you’re positioning your brand as a leader in a market ready for significant growth. It’s about creating meaningful connections and contributing to the broader conversation on how technology can be leveraged for sustainable development.