An unmissable event for HR and L&D professionals, the HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest 2025 will combine a vast array of speakers with invaluable thought leadership and industry experience, and exhibitors on the cutting edge of HR and L&D technology.

Join Aotearoa New Zealand's most dynamic and innovative thought leaders in HR and L&D as they explore current and emerging developments impacting people, processes and technology.  

Change is a constant for HR and L&D practitioners operating in today’s business environment. The impact of Generative AI, unpredictable market forces and new expectations from both employees and leadership are causing challenges but also offering opportunities for people professionals.

The HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest is two full days of learning, networking and discussion. Join us as we unpack the key drivers of organisational change, use cases for new technologies and discuss effective people strategies for a changing world of work.

With the Agenda released and the First Speaker Line-up announced, here are the Keynote Speakers:

Jocelyn Brewer - Psychologist & Cyberpsychology Consultant 

Jocelyn is a Sydney-based registered psychologist who specializes in the psychology of technology and staying human in the digital age.
She created Digital Nutrition in 2013 as a framework to address digital wellbeing issues and our love-hate relationship with technology. In 2021, Jocelyn completed a Masters in Cyberpsychology at Sydney University. With a background as a high school social sciences teacher and school counsellor, Jocelyn has worked across NSW public schools between 2003 and 2021. She is an affiliate of the Cyberpsychology Research Group at Sydney University and serves on the advisory committee for the Centre for Digital Wellbeing in Canberra.

In her private psychology practice in Sydney's inner-west, Jocelyn supports individuals and families with general mental health challenges, as well as problematic internet and gaming. She is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Gottman Couples Therapy (level 1).
Jocelyn is a sought-after speaker, educator, and media commentator on issues relating to cyberpsychology, digital wellbeing, and mental health. She has provided keynote addresses at EduTechAU and appeared at the renowned Happiness and Its Causes conference. Jocelyn has also been a panelist on ABC TV's Q&A twice. Her warm, humorous, and engaging presentation style allows her to put scientific research into practical perspectives, making her an ideal choice for discussing the impacts of technology and improving digital wellbeing.

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Angus Jenkins - Founder and Chief Slayer, Angus Jenkins Leadership

Angus coaches senior leaders and leadership teams (really) serious about stepping up and he does that in three ways.  He runs a senior leadership team programme called the Building Blocks of Excellence, offers one-to-one coaching and emotionally engages audiences, blending storytelling and learning to create lasting impact. Angus’ hallmark is unapologetic honesty with humanity, because you have to cut through the corporate and leadership BS to free individuals and teams to perform at their best.  This makes Angus, and his processes, a powerful, disruptive and deeply rewarding force. Few organisations have the courage or commitment to do the work they have to do to really step up, which is why Angus only works with those who are ready to get real.

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Dee Hunter - Well-Being Strategist, MeInc

A corporate escapee, Dee has followed her ‘Plan De Vida” and become a relentless advocate for health and well-being. In the last 30 mths she has circled the globe, as a dedicated researcher, establishing hubs around the world and built a global corporate and individual client practice with a network of like-minded health practitioners, clinicians and academics. She is a regular attendee at international conferences, training, and keynotes to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in longevity and well-being, including her own deep in-person studies of the world’s blue zones. Her first book “The Long Weight” – (Transform your relationship with food, and fall back in love with the joy of eating) is due to be published later this year and she is already working on her second “The Loneliness Gap” (building a more connected life). Her practice challenges the status quo of sacrificing well-being to build a secure financial future, at the risk of not experiencing good health to enjoy it.  You will find her here: www.meinchange.com

Live
Longer
Younger 

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Mea Motu - Professional Boxer

Mea Motu is the current IBO Super Bantamweight World Boxing Champion. Defying the Odds and Conquering the Ring, Meet Mea Motu, the embodiment of resilience and the epitome of a champion. From the boxing rings of New Zealand, Motu has emerged as a formidable force, shattering expectations and overcoming adversity with each thunderous punch. Motu's journey is one of triumph over hardships, fuelled by an unwavering passion for the sweet science of boxing. With every training session, she hones her skills, harnessing her raw power and lightning-fast reflexes to dominate her opponents. In the ring, Motu is a spectacle to behold—a whirlwind of skill, precision, and sheer determination. Her relentless pursuit of greatness has propelled her to multiple victories, leaving a trail of fallen rivals in her wake. But Motu's impact extends far beyond the ropes.

As a survivor of domestic violence, she uses her platform to inspire and uplift others, showing them the strength that lies within. Her story resonates with countless individuals, empowering them to face their own challenges head-on. With her sights now set on multiple world titles, Motu's hunger for success knows no bounds. She embodies the spirit of a true champion, pushing boundaries and shattering glass ceilings in pursuit of boxing glory. In the electrifying world of boxing, Mea Motu is a force to be reckoned with—an unstoppable whirlwind of power, skill, and unwavering determination. Her journey serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a true boxing champion.

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Melissa Crawford - Company Director, Tech With Heart

Melissa Crawford is a highly regarded thought leader in the future of work, with a unique blend of expertise that spans both people and technology.
With two technology degrees alongside her extensive People & Strategy experience, Melissa brings a unique perspective to the impact of technology on the future of work. As the Director of Tech with Heart, she consults with companies on creating 'Future Ready' strategies, speaks at global conferences and facilitates sessions to up-skill boards and leaders on evolving psychology and technology trends. Melissa is a CMInstD and CMHRNZ, serving on multiple boards across NZ/US. A certified Futurist/Strategic Foresight practitioner and member of the Association of Professional Futurists. Melissa’s contributions to the field have earned her several recent accolades, including her listing on the 2025, 2024 & 2023 HRD Hotlist, HRNZ Leadership Award winner, and overall winner of the HRNZ HR Person of the Year. Melissa brings a wealth of expertise and commitment to shaping a better future.

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View the full Speaker line-up here: Speakers (techfestconf.com)

With insightful speakers, valuable networking opportunities, and cutting-edge exhibitors, the HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest 2025 has quickly established itself as a must-attend for HR and L&D professionals who want to leverage technology to transform their work. Reserve your place and find out more at: HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest NZ (techfestconf.com)