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ICOT
Event Review: ICOT 2024 by @npub1cyla8...

I recently had the privilege of attending and speaking at ICOT 2024, an event that brought together an impressive roster of thought leaders from diverse fields, ranging from education and health sciences to ethics and the arts. The event showcased a rich tapestry of perspectives and expertise, serving as an inspiring reminder of the potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Keynote and Featured Speakers

The lineup was nothing short of stellar. Heather Morris, known for her poignant storytelling in The Tattooist of Auschwitz, captivated the audience with her insights on resilience and empathy. Similarly, Nicholas Opie’s talk on neural interfaces highlighted groundbreaking advancements in biomedical engineering, leaving attendees in awe of the future of technology in medicine.

Standout presentations included Yong Zhao, who explored global education and the importance of cultivating creativity and innovation in students, and Chris Pollard, whose insights into open-source software and freedom technology were both enlightening and motivating. Electra Frost’s next-level presentation on Bitcoin and blockchain technologies also garnered significant attention, showcasing how decentralisation is transforming the accounting landscape.

My Presentation

I was honoured to present on "The School of Bitcoin," where I delved into the educational aspects of Bitcoin and its potential to reshape financial literacy. Following my talk, I ran a panel discussion on Nostr, introducing it to an audience that had never heard of the platform before. The lively discussion allowed participants to engage with new ideas about decentralised communication and its implications for privacy and innovation. The curiosity and enthusiasm from the attendees made the session particularly rewarding.

Leadership and Connections

A special highlight for me was reconnecting with Maheen, a dedicated student from my school who played a significant role in the conference, both as a presenter and an organiser. It was inspiring to see her actively contributing to such an impactful event. I also had the pleasure of catching up with her mum, which added a personal touch to the experience.

Karin Morrison did an incredible job leading the event. Her vision and organisational skills were evident throughout, creating an environment that fostered meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

I had the opportunity to connect with Patrick Newell as well, whose insights as Co-national Project Manager for OECD SSES were invaluable. Our conversation about leadership in education and innovation sparked ideas that I’m eager to explore further.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

The event was not just about listening; it was a vibrant space for networking and collaboration. Engaging with fellow attendees—educators, innovators, and practitioners—fostered meaningful conversations about pressing issues in our respective fields. I found myself deeply inspired by the passionate discussions around sustainable practices and social impact, particularly those led by figures like Simon Goodrich and Lina Le.

Final Thoughts

ICOT 2024 was a resounding success, blending intellectual rigour with a genuine commitment to social change. The variety of topics and expertise showcased underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to solving today’s challenges. I left feeling invigorated and excited about the future, armed with new ideas and connections.

I highly recommend attending ICOT in the future for anyone looking to expand their horizons and engage with forward-thinking leaders from around the globe. The event not only highlights critical issues but also inspires action and collaboration.