Instead of asking what if things go wrong, ask what if things go right.
Dr Ben Hamer is a renowned sociologist and accredited futurist, who was recently awarded the number one thought leader for the Future of Work in the Asia-Pacific by Onalytica.
Ben has undertaken work and research around the world, including time spent leading critical projects at the World Economic Forum as well as being a Visiting Scholar at Yale University. He is an Adjunct Professor at Edith Cowan University’s School of Business and Law and a Non-Executive Director for the Australian HR Institute, where he was appointed as the youngest Non-Executive Director in the organisation’s history, as well as being on the Board of Netball NSW, which includes oversight of both the NSW Swifts and Giants professional netball teams.
A sought-after media commentator and keynote speaker on future trends, Ben is the host of the ThinkerTank podcast, which is all about the trends shaping the way we will live, work and play in the future.
Talking Points
The Trends Shaping Tomorrow
The world is evolving rapidly, but understanding where we’ve been provides critical insight into where we’re headed. This keynote dives into the key trends and disruptions shaping the future across industries and society, presenting an optimistic outlook despite the challenges we face. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of hope and practical strategies to build their "future fitness"—the mindset and skills needed to adapt and thrive in a world of constant change. It’s a call to action to embrace the opportunities of tomorrow with confidence and preparedness while learning about some of the cool trends and technologies shaping the future.The Trends Shaping Tomorrow
Content:
- How we got here: A brief overview of the key milestones that have shaped the world today, highlighting how far we’ve come and how, as a society, we are built to weather and thrive in change.
- Emerging trends: A breakdown of the biggest global trends and disruptions shaping the future, including their potential impacts on the way we live, work and play - from technology to the environment, geopolitics, generations, and work.
- Future fitness: Understand how to build adaptability, resilience, and skills for the future.
Key Takeaways:
- A clear understanding of the major trends shaping the future and their implications.
- A positive and hopeful perspective on how to navigate disruption and change.
- Strategies to build future fitness, including adaptability and resilience for personal and professional growth.
- Inspiration to embrace innovation and seize opportunities amongst uncertainty.
Australia 2050
Australia has transformed dramatically since the turn of the millennium, and the changes ahead promise to be just as profound. This keynote takes a bold leap into 2050, painting a vivid picture of life in the future—from demographics and the homes we’ll be living into the environment, economy, work, and industries yet to emerge. By connecting future trends to present-day challenges, this keynote helps organisations and individuals prepare for what’s next, building a bridge between the opportunities of tomorrow and the actions needed today.Australia 2050
Content:
- Looking back to look forwards: From Y2K 25 years’ ago to today, before jumping another 25 years’ forward into the future.
- Life in 2050: Exploring trends and forecasts around things like demographics, homes, environment, economy, work, and emerging industries.
- Implications for today: Insights on what these future trends mean for organisations and individuals in the present.
Key Takeaways:
- A deep understanding of Australia’s future across demographics, work, environment, and culture.
- Inspiration to think beyond current challenges and embrace future opportunities.
- Strategies to align organisational goals with the trends shaping 2050.
- Practical steps to prepare for emerging industries and shifts in work and society.
Rise of the Humans: The Future of Work
The future of work is being reshaped by powerful megatrends, from the rise of AI and generational shifts to the demand for flexibility and wellbeing. This keynote explores these transformations, drawing on proprietary research from Dr Ben Hamer to reveal what workers truly want and how organisations can respond, which is of particular importance in an environment where 47% of workers are looking at changing jobs. Attendees will gain insights into how work has evolved and actionable strategies to adapt to what’s coming next. This is a forward-looking exploration of work’s future, with practical implications for navigating today’s challenges.Rise of the Humans: The Future of Work
Content:
- How work has evolved: A brief look at how work has transformed over the years.
- Megatrends shaping the future: Deep dives into AI, generational shifts, flexibility, and wellbeing and more, tailored to the current climate.
- Proprietary research insights: Exclusive findings on what workers value most and what motivates them in the changing workplace.
- Implications for today: Actionable strategies for organisations to align with these trends and future-proof their workforce.
Key Takeaways:
- A clear understanding of the key megatrends influencing the future of work.
- Insights into what workers want and how to meet their expectations.
- Strategies for adapting to emerging trends like AI, flexibility, and wellbeing.
- Practical steps to future-proof organisations and empower workers in an evolving landscape.
The AI Advantage
AI is transforming the way organisations operate, from automating routine tasks to enhancing decision-making and reshaping entire industries. This keynote explores the real impact of AI on businesses today, cutting through the hype to reveal where AI is already driving value—and where it’s falling short. Drawing on the latest trends and real-world examples, Dr Ben Hamer unpacks how leaders can navigate the AI revolution while keeping people at the centre of change. Attendees will gain a future-focused perspective on AI’s role in the workplace, with practical insights for harnessing its potential.The AI Advantage
Content:
- The AI Landscape: What’s happening right now? A look at the latest developments, from generative AI to automation.
- AI in Action: Real-world examples of how businesses are using AI to improve productivity, decision-making, and customer experiences.
- The Human Factor: What does AI mean for leadership, culture, and the skills we need to thrive?
- Preparing for the Future: Practical strategies for organisations to embrace AI without losing sight of what makes them human.
Key Takeaways:
- A clear understanding of AI’s real impact on organisations—beyond the headlines.
Insights into how companies are successfully integrating AI (and what’s going wrong).
- Actionable steps to leverage AI while keeping people at the centre of the transformation.
- A future-focused mindset to navigate AI-driven change with confidence.
Talkin' About Your Generation
For the first time in history, Millennials and Gen-Z outnumber older generations in political elections. At the same time, Gen Alpha has just begun entering the workforce while the first of Gen Beta has now been born. This keynote dives into the characteristics and influences shaping each generation, with a particular focus on Gen-Z and the emerging Gen Alpha, especially as Gen-Z will represent quarter of all workers within the next couple of years. Attendees will gain forecasts and actionable insights into what these generational shifts mean for the future of work, leadership, and high-performing organisations, equipping leaders with the tools to navigate and thrive in a multi-generational landscape.Talkin' About Your Generation
Content:
- Generational overview: Key traits and influences shaping Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. In this keynote, we’ll deep dive specifically into emerging generations and their impact on the workforce and society.
- Managing an intergenerational workforce: Insights into generations in the workforce and their implications for leadership and organisations.
- Interactive exploration: Take part in an interactive activity to help embed learnings.
Key Takeaways:
- A deep understanding of generational differences and their influences on work and society.
- Specific insights into Gen-Z and Gen Alpha as drivers of change in organisations.
- Strategies for leading and managing multi-generational teams effectively.
- Tools to adapt leadership styles and organisational practices to generational trends.
Thriving in Transformation
In a world of continuous disruption, people are grappling with change fatigue and are feeling overwhelmed. This keynote is the ingredient to ensure the success of your transformation program. It unpacks why transformation is constant, how to navigate uncertainty with confidence, and offers practical ways to build resilience. Attendees will discover tools grounded in neuroscience and wellbeing that empower them to thrive in disruption while cultivating a future-ready mindset. Through relatable insights and actionable strategies, this keynote inspires optimism and adaptability in the face of ongoing change.Thriving in Transformation
Content:
- Understanding transformation: What it is, why it’s constant, and how to embrace it instead of resisting it.
- Navigating fear and resistance: The human response to uncertainty and strategies to work through fear and resistance.
- Building resilience: A practical, evidence-based framework for developing personal and professional resilience.
- Thriving in disruption: Tools tied to neuroscience, wellbeing, and high performance for riding change effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- A clear understanding of the nature of transformation and how to make peace with constant change.
- Strategies to overcome fear, resistance, and uncertainty in their personal and professional lives.
- A resilience framework to adapt and thrive, even in disruptive environments.
- Practical tools for enhancing health, wellbeing, and performance to support a future-ready mindset.
The Future Belongs to the Curious
In a world where no one can predict the future, curiosity is the ultimate superpower. This keynote explores how to harness curiosity to anticipate change, drive creativity, and uncover new opportunities. Attendees will learn about the barriers that inhibit curiosity, such as corporate culture, social norms, and biases, and discover strategies to overcome them. A highlight of this session is the art of asking powerful questions to unlock fresh perspectives and foster innovation. By the end, attendees will see curiosity not just as a trait but as a transformative tool for navigating uncertainty and embracing possibility.The Future Belongs to the Curious
Content:
- Why curiosity matters: Understanding its role as a superpower in a rapidly changing world.
- Barriers to curiosity: Exploring how culture, norms, and biases suppress curiosity and how to overcome them.
- The art of asking good questions: Mastering techniques for asking questions that unlock creativity and innovation.
- Curiosity in action: Practical strategies for leveraging curiosity to anticipate change and see around corners, helping you to thrive in a world where you don’t know what’s next.
Key Takeaways:
- An appreciation of curiosity as a critical skill for thriving in uncertainty.
- Strategies to overcome barriers like corporate culture and biases that hinder exploration.
- Techniques for asking meaningful questions to drive creativity and fresh thinking.
- Practical tools to apply curiosity as a catalyst for innovation and adaptability.
Video
Dr Ben Hamer | Saxton Speakers
The world of work is changing—fast. Dr Ben Hamer is at the forefront, decoding the biggest trends shaping the workplace and helping organisations, leaders, and teams navigate the future with confidence. From hybrid work models to AI integration and the rise of skills-based careers, Ben breaks down what’s next in a way that’s engaging, insightful, and highly practical.Dr Ben Hamer | 2025 Keynote Topics | Saxton Speakers
The future is moving fast—are you ready? Dr Ben Hamer, one of Australia’s leading futurists and sociologists, is helping organisations and leaders navigate uncertainty with confidence. In this video, Ben introduces his seven game-changing Keynote topics for 2025, covering the biggest trends shaping business, leadership, and the future of work.Dr Ben Hamer | The Trends Shaping Tomorrow | Saxton Speakers
Are you ready to help your audience navigate the future with confidence? In this video, Dr Ben Hamer, a leading futurist, sociologist, and keynote Speaker, dives into the rapid changes shaping our world. His keynote, The Trends Shaping Tomorrow, equips businesses and individuals with the adaptability, resilience, and skills needed to stay ahead in a fast-evolving landscape.Dr Ben Hamer | Australia 2050 | Saxton Speakers
In his keynote, Australia 2050, Ben explores the future of our population, homes, work, and the environment, offering practical insights to help businesses and leaders prepare for what’s next. His engaging presentation equips audiences with strategies to embrace change, seize new opportunities, and build future fitness in an unpredictable world.Dr Ben Hamer | Rise of the Humans: The Future of Work| Saxton Speakers
Drawing on his experience with the World Economic Forum, as former Head of Future of Work for a global professional services firm, and his role on the board of the Australian HR Institute, Ben breaks down the megatrends reshaping the workplace—AI, Gen Z, flexibility, well-being, and more. He shares proprietary research on what workers really want, offering practical insights for organisations looking to attract and retain top talent. This isn’t just about buzzwords; it’s about actionable strategies to help businesses stay ahead of the curve and turn workplace disruption into a competitive advantage.Dr Ben Hamer | The AI Advantage | Saxton Speakers
Looking for a Speaker, MC, or Entertainer who can demystify AI for your audience? Dr Ben Hamer, a leading futurist and sociologist, brings clarity to one of today’s most complex topics in his keynote, The AI Advantage. In this thought-provoking presentation, Ben cuts through the noise to explain how AI is transforming the way businesses work, lead, and compete. He answers the pressing questions on every leader’s mind: Will AI replace jobs? How can organisations use AI without losing the human touch? Using real-world examples and industry case studies, Ben offers practical strategies to help businesses harness AI, stay competitive, and future-proof their operations.Dr Ben Hamer | Talkin' About Your Generation | Saxton Speakers
Looking for a Speaker, MC, or Entertainer who can help your audience navigate the generational shifts reshaping the workplace? Dr Ben Hamer, renowned futurist and sociologist, breaks it all down in his engaging keynote, Talking About Your Generation. For the first time in history, Millennials and Gen Z now outnumber older generations at the voting booth, and Gen Z is becoming a significant force in the workforce. With Gen Alpha on the horizon, understanding these shifts is essential for businesses that want to attract, retain, and lead effectively across generations. Ben explores what makes Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha tick—focusing on practical strategies for managing multigenerational teams and fostering inclusive leadership. This keynote is packed with insights, real-world examples, and a bit of fun (yes, he’ll even explain what “skibidi rizz” means).Dr Ben Hamer | The Future Belongs to the Curious | Saxton Speakers
Looking for a Speaker, MC, or Entertainer who can inspire fresh thinking and innovation at your next event? Dr Ben Hamer, one of Australia’s leading futurists, delivers exactly that in his keynote, The Future Belongs to the Curious. In this engaging session, Ben reveals why curiosity isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a competitive advantage in today’s fast-changing world. He explores how curiosity fuels creativity, innovation, and adaptability, helping leaders and organisations stay ahead of the curve. More importantly, Ben shares practical strategies to reignite curiosity, break down mental barriers, and master the art of asking the kinds of questions that spark new ideas and unlock opportunities. If your organisation wants to foster fresh thinking and drive future-focused innovation, this keynote is a must.Dr Ben Hamer | Thriving in Transformation | Saxton Speakers
Need a Speaker, MC, or Entertainer who can help your audience embrace change and turn disruption into opportunity? Dr Ben Hamer, a renowned futurist and sociologist, shares powerful insights in his keynote, Thriving in Transformation. In today’s world of constant disruption, change fatigue is real—and businesses are feeling it. Ben tackles this head-on by unpacking why change is relentless, how our brains respond to uncertainty, and, most importantly, how to overcome fear and resistance. Backed by science, his strategies help build resilience, boost well-being, and develop a future-ready mindset. This keynote isn’t just about surviving change—it’s about using transformation as a launchpad for growth. With the right tools, your team can turn disruption into a competitive advantage.Audio
The amazing Dr Ben Hamer literally ‘sunset’ the phenomenal two days of the 2024 Australian HR Institute (AHRI) WA Conference. Awe-inspiring research, impactful sound bites and innovative th ... keep reading Wesfarmers
Thank you very much for an excellent presentation yesterday. I also wanted to say, and I'm sure you are already aware of this, but you are such a natural and warm presenter; you are really enjoyable for an audience to watch.
On behalf of my team, thank you so much for taking the time to speak to us yesterday. Your thoughts, ideas and expertise was very insightful. It created great discussion this morning
Thank you so much for your sessions today, they were very well received, and I have had a lot of very positive feedback. Thanks again - you have generated a lot of great conversation, which is exactly what I was after.
It was a pleasure working with you in the lead up - we felt in safe hands all the way through. The day itself was an impressive experience, seamlessly executed. You made us look really good. Probably too good, and off-brand, for us. Also, we weren't fooled by the way you made it look easy. Thanks for all the hard work you put in
Ben totally nailed it at our recent Board Director Development Day. He is well researched, thought provoking and absolutely met the brief. His engaging style allow lots of discussion on the day. thank you Ben.
Talking about the future is always a difficult subject to attempt but Dr Hamer’s presentation yesterday was up there with the best. It was not only the high quality content of his presentation but the way in which he responded to questions. He really cared about the thought processes behind the person’s question and gave perfectly structured and highly intelligent responses. Thoroughly enjoyable and time well spent.
Was an absolute pleasure to deal with and very smooth in terms of preparation, organisation, and execution on the day - our event was a great success! Ben was engaging, professional, down to earth, and authentic with great content that resonated with our audience.
Ben was exceptional, he was professional, warm, entertaining and created a talk thread that was super relevant for our audience
Ben was a great Keynote and as the first speaker, set the scene for our VET National Teaching & Learning Conference.
Ben engaged with the audience and his message was in line with our conference theme. All feedback from attendees was extremely positive and we would definitely look at having Ben present at future events.
Dr. Ben was fantastic ! I loved his positive outlook. He brought great energy to the event and his keynote was very well received.
