Fort to host free XpoNorth Digital Shared Perspectives conference
A thought-provoking oneday conference is to explore the potential for digital to unlock transformative new opportunities for the creative and heritage sectors across the Highlands and islands
XpoNorth Digital’s Shared Perspectives conference will take place on Saturday (May 13), in Highland Cinema, Fort William, and will be the first in-person event for the organisation in three years.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise’s support mechanism for the creative and digital sector, XpoNorth Digital’s event unites a range of speakers to share insights into the current landscape for Highlands and islands businesses. With digital technology having played a crucial role for creative businesses over the last few years, this year’s conference will focus on what technology can offer to the region.
Among the workshops on offer will be a session focusing on how digital storytelling can drive business strategies, insights into the role artificial intelligence has in business practices, and how crowdsourcing can give heritage organisations the edge.
The conference will also provide an opportunity to make new connections and discuss collaborative approaches to shared challenges and opportunities.
Speakers including Kate Hooper, creative director and co-founder, Strategy Story; Willeke Van Rijn, CEO of The Resource Alliance; Bridget McNulty, writer and entrepreneur; Iseabal Hendry, designer; Lomond Campbell, musician, producer and studio owner; and Simon McKerrell, professor of media and music and head of media and journalism at Glasgow Caledonian University will all be sharing their experiences and success stories with the audience.
XpoNorth Digital’s specialist advisors and HIE’s creative industries team will be on hand to offer bespoke, 1-2-1 sessions with participants looking for expert insights on how to enhance their business prospects. As this event will be delivered hybrid, the panellists will be presenting both in person and through virtual connection.
Alex Smith, XpoNorth digital programme manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to deliver this exciting, new oneday conference in person and for it to be taking place in the heart of the Highlands in Fort William.”
The conference, which is free to attend, will take place at Fort William’s Highland Cinema between 10.30am and 4pm. There will also be an option to join virtually thanks to the event’s hybrid format.
To join online, participants can follow this link: www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/xponorth-digital-shared-perspectives-conference-virtual-tickets-600184256267.
For those joining in person, book your free ticket here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ xponorth-digital-shared-perspectives-conference-tickets-600179130937.