Top 10 Human Centred Technology Speakers for Your 2026 Event

Entrepreneur, AI thought leader, and founder of CENTURY Tech, Priya Lakhani is transforming the way technology serves learners, teachers, and wider society. With her background in law, business, and education, Priya blends real world experience with a passionate belief in responsible innovation. Her talks explore how AI can support human potential rather than replace it, and how organisations can build systems that are ethical, transparent, and inclusive. Priya speaks with clarity and conviction, offering a pragmatic vision of how technology can address global challenges while still protecting the values that matter. Audiences leave inspired to use innovation not only to improve efficiency but to improve lives.

A futurist and advisor on the impact of artificial intelligence, Zack Kass helps organisations prepare for an era of exponential technological growth. His talks focus on how leaders can adapt with purpose, empathy, and clear thinking, ensuring AI implementation strengthens rather than disrupts human potential. Zack demystifies the fears surrounding AI by grounding his insights in transparency, ethics, and inclusive strategy. He encourages teams to develop the skills and mindsets needed to thrive alongside intelligent technologies. Optimistic and pragmatic, Zack shows that the future belongs not to machines, but to people who learn to collaborate with them intelligently.

Dr Kate Darling, a research scientist at MIT Media Lab, is one of the world’s leading experts on robot ethics and the emotional relationships people form with machines. Her work examines the social and psychological impact of robotics and AI, revealing how our interactions with technology mirror our interactions with one another. Kate’s talks are a compelling blend of cutting edge research, surprising case studies, and accessible storytelling. She challenges audiences to think carefully about empathy, autonomy, and responsibility in a world where the line between human and machine continues to blur. Her insights are fresh, engaging, and deeply relevant to any organisation navigating the future of automation.

Futurist, broadcaster, and founder of Futurescape 248, Shivvy Jervis explores the innovations that enhance human wellbeing, creativity, and performance. Unlike many voices in tech, she focuses on advances that strengthen emotional, cognitive, and social intelligence. Shivvy’s talks uncover emerging trends in neurotechnology, digital wellbeing, immersive tools, and AI systems designed to support human capability. She delivers her content with energy, clarity, and optimism, offering audiences an inspiring view of a future where technology uplifts rather than overwhelms. Shivvy encourages leaders to embrace innovation in a way that strengthens purpose, people, and long term value.

Technologist, hacker, and former Chief Technology Officer for President Barack Obama’s re election campaign, Harper Reed brings a refreshingly human perspective on innovation. With a background that spans civic tech, digital culture, and creative experimentation, he highlights how curiosity and empathy shape the most impactful breakthroughs. Harper’s talks reveal the human stories behind major tech transformations, emphasising community, collaboration, and the need to design tools that empower rather than divide. Insightful, funny, and grounded, he inspires audiences to rethink their relationship with technology and to build digital experiences that feel personal and meaningful.

A global authority on AI ethics and responsible innovation, Toju Duke previously led fairness and inclusion initiatives at Google. She now helps organisations build governance frameworks that ensure technology is transparent, equitable, and aligned with human needs. Toju’s sessions break down complex ethical challenges into practical, actionable tools that teams can implement immediately. She speaks with calm authority, guiding audiences through topics such as bias, accountability, and the urgent necessity of inclusive design. Her message is empowering and grounded, showing leaders how to create systems that work for everyone rather than a select few.

Senior editor at The Economist and co author of the best seller Big Data, Kenneth Cukier is a global commentator on data, AI, and technology policy. He explores how societies can harness new technologies responsibly while protecting individual rights and human dignity. Kenneth’s talks are sharp, engaging, and rich with examples from around the world, offering audiences a sophisticated yet accessible understanding of the forces shaping the digital age. His focus on governance, trust, and ethical leadership helps organisations navigate the grey areas of innovation with confidence and clarity.

As one of the world’s leading cyberpsychologists, Dr Mary Aiken studies how technology shapes human behaviour at scale. Her research has influenced global policy and law enforcement, making her an essential voice on digital wellbeing, online safety, and the psychological impact of emerging tech. Mary’s talks combine scientific depth with compelling storytelling, helping audiences understand how digital environments affect cognition, identity, and community. She offers clear, practical guidance on designing safer, healthier, and more supportive digital spaces, ensuring technology protects rather than harms.

Former Chief Business Officer at Google X, Mo Gawdat is known for his powerful work exploring happiness, meaning, and human flourishing in the age of AI. His talks bridge technology, philosophy, and emotional wellbeing, offering a deeply human approach to innovation. Mo speaks candidly about the risks and rewards of artificial intelligence, emphasising the importance of compassion, awareness, and ethical responsibility. His message challenges audiences to build a future where technology supports the best aspects of humanity. Thought provoking and uplifting, Mo leaves audiences with a renewed sense of purpose.

Nathalie Nahai is a leading expert in behavioural science and author of Webs of Influence. She examines how psychological principles shape online behaviour and how digital products can be designed with empathy and ethics. Nathalie’s talks explore the influence of culture, emotion, and identity on human decision making, helping organisations create digital experiences that feel intuitive and respectful. Her approach blends research with practical examples, offering clear strategies for building ethical user journeys. Nathalie inspires leaders to build technology that reflects the full complexity of human needs and values.