Nilesh Ashra, creative technologist + founder of OK Tomorrow to host interactive AI workshop at This Way Up – Wed 14 August, MCA Lecture Theatre

AWARD has announced a new addition to the lineup for This Way Up: an AI-focused workshop fostering creative collaboration and the development of ideas between creatives and media strategists.

Presented by Nine, the interactive session Live Experimentation with AI: Going Deep, Getting Weird, Pushing the Limits, will be held on Wednesday, August 14 at Sydney’s MCA and will be led by Nilesh Ashra, founder and CEO of OK Tomorrow – a renowned creative innovator from Portland, Oregon.

Ashra has spoken at industry events worldwide including the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, FastCo Innovation Festival, and SXSW. His expertise lies in navigating the dynamic creative landscape and helping companies harness innovative thinking.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their laptops for a hands-on learning experience that demonstrates real, and sometimes surprising, uses for generative AI.

Ashra will showcase an array of AI tools that stimulate creativity, spark new ideas, and drive growth, as he explains how ideas are created and shared in this new age while focusing on the needs of creative and media professionals.

A panel discussion will follow, featuring insights from industry leaders Julian Schreiber, partner and chief creative officer, Special Australia and Liana Dubois, chief marketing officer, Nine.

Says Dubois: “AI is not just a tool; it’s a catalyst for creativity, enabling us to connect ideas and media in ways we’ve never imagined. We’re excited to partner with Nilesh to explore how media strategists and creatives can collaborate and innovate to inspire and engage audiences like never before.”

Adds Ashra: “This masterclass means rolling up your sleeves and going all in to reach those ‘aha’ moments. Creativity is about making and doing, not just talking. This technology rewards curiosity and experimentation—essential traits for creative cultures. I’m excited to share my ideas in Sydney.”

Live Experimentation with AI is the latest session on offer at This Way Up, Australia’s only pure-play festival of creativity, from August 13-15 at Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art.

Live Experimentation with AI: Going Deep, Getting Weird, Pushing the Limits
When: 9am -10.15am, Wednesday 14 August
Where: MCA Lecture Theatre, Level 2, 140 George St, Sydney
Cost: $50 + GST (members),$75 + GST (non-members).
Limited seats, register here