Why Play Belongs at Work, Now More than Ever

As AI reshapes roles and pressure builds across every industry, it’s not just systems that need to change - it’s mindsets. The teams that will thrive aren’t the ones playing it safe, but the ones willing to explore, experiment, and unlearn. In this new reality, play isn’t a distraction, it’s a strategic advantage.

In this session Frances Valintine explores:

• How curiosity and play lay the foundation for AI adoption and developing a culture of innovation
• How to create the conditions where people can think differently, respond with agility, and grow through uncertainty
   

About Frances:

Frances Valintine CNZM is a passionate educator and technologist who is dedicated to preparing organisations and individuals for the future of work. For over 25 years, she has been dedicated to shifting education and business practice to develop the capabilities, knowledge and mindset needed to respond to the rapidly changing and technologically advancing world.

A Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her lifetime contribution to education and technology. In 2022, Frances was inducted into the New Zealand Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs and in 2020 Frances received the lifetime award for her Outstanding Contribution to Technology and Business at the CIO Awards. Frances has received the NZ Flying Kiwi Award and was inducted into the New Zealand Hi-Tech Hall of Fame, she has been named one of the top 50 EdTech Educators in the World and the Best Start-Up Leader in Asia Pacific as judged by Steve Wozniak and Sir Richard Branson.

Driven by a strong sense of purpose to support positive growth for Aotearoa, Frances is a selection adviser to EHF (Edmund Hillary Foundation) and the National Expert for the global World Summit Awards. Frances is also a mentor to a number of global female technology leaders, and a Director of On Being Bold, supporting female leaders. Frances is also on the Board of Trustees for the University of Silicon Valley.
 
Frances is the author of Future You, a book dedicated to shifting perceptions about learning as an adult and promoting the need to stay connected, relevant and informed throughout our life.