Dwayne Matthews

Speaking topics

Presentations listed below include in-person and virtual keynotes, as well as workshops, fireside chats, and other presentation formats.

• Principles To Protocols: Upgrading Human OS in the Era of AI

  When technology becomes a commodity, humanity becomes the premium.

  We are living through a step-change in innovation that feels distinct from any that came before. As artificial intelligence commoditizes technical skills and knowledge work, we are collectively experiencing a massive tension between the chaos of disruption and the possibility of a profound rebirth.

  For many, this shift is disorienting. The old rules of success are dissolving, and the new ones haven’t been clearly written yet. In this captivating and compelling keynote, Dwayne Matthews argues that the path forward isn’t found in competing with the machine, but in upgrading the Human Operating System (OS).

  As we stand at the intersection of biology and technology, our success depends on our ability to be intentional about our humanity. Matthews introduces a framework for navigating this reality: moving from principles to protocols. It is no longer enough to simply hold abstract values or beliefs (principles) about creativity, empathy, or connection. We must operationalize them. We must translate our new principles into actionable, daily behaviours (protocols) that allow us to harness this change rather than be swept away by it.

  This session serves as a guide for everyone, from the frontline employee to the boardroom leader, from the education leader to the classroom teacher, to understand that while technology provides the tools, the Human OS provides the direction.

  Key takeaways include:

  • Navigating the tension: Understanding the current friction between “chaos and rebirth,” and how to reframe anxiety into agency.
  • The commoditization of competence: Why technical skills are becoming abundant and cheap, and why distinct human traits are becoming the new gold standard.
  • Defining the key principles: How to identify the core human values that matter most in an automated world.
  • Operationalizing intentionality (the protocols): Practical steps to turn abstract principles into concrete, daily habits that expand our influence and impact.
  • The Human OS upgrade: A roadmap for “showing up” with the cognitive and emotional clarity required to lead yourself and others through the era of AI.

• Shaping Tomorrow: Resilient Leadership in the Era of AI

  In a rapidly changing world, the ability to anticipate and adapt to future challenges is crucial for effective leadership. This keynote will share the principles of strategic foresight and cognitive reframing to equip leaders with the tools to navigate uncertainty and build resilient, future-ready organizations.

  Dwayne Matthews will dive into non-obvious insights and forward-thinking strategies that help leaders to respond to change and proactively shape the future of their organizations. Attendees will leave with actionable frameworks to enhance their leadership capabilities, ensuring they are prepared to thrive in an unpredictable and dynamic environment.

• Unlocking Stranded Brilliance and the Future of Education in an AI-Enabled World.

  In this keynote, Dwayne Matthews highlights how technology and education have been crucial in unlocking “stranded brilliance” and driving societal progress. Reflecting on past global successes, he will show how education has sparked innovation and dramatic societal changes, while outlining the immense potential to unlock even more stranded brilliance as we head into a future shaped by exponential technologies and AI.

  Matthews offers strategic insights and actionable steps for educators and leaders to harness AI tools to ensure education continues to maximize human potential in our rapidly evolving world.