The Road Travelled - My Professional Highlights of 2023

About three years ago, I embarked on a journey to learn more about AI and how it was changing the world around us (note: stay tuned for an upcoming post on my observations on how AI changed in the past three years!).

As I started to read, write, and share my learnings, one of my goals was - and still is - the following: to make the seemingly complex world of AI more accessible to a wider audience. Delving deeper into the intricacies of AI, my understanding and appreciation of this field grew exponentially....and I realize that this journey that I am on is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about translating complex ideas into digestible, relatable content.

When I look back on 2023, I can say that I am proud of myself :) It was an amazing year where I felt that the seeds of my effort started to bear fruit in more ways than I could imagine.

Let me share some key milestones of 2023:

Conferences/Roundtables/Seminars:

1. In March, I had the privilege to present at Martechopia in London, a pivotal moment where I shared insights on AI's transformative role in the MarTech landscape. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, reflecting the keen interest of marketers in integrating AI into their strategies. The event not only sparked engaging discussions but also highlighted the growing importance of AI in shaping future marketing trends.

2. During the summer, I had the honor of participating in my inaugural roundtable at the SMPS Fellows Forum, addressing the topic of AI's evolving role in A/E/C marketing and business development. Although I am not directly involved in the A/E/C industry, the discussions proved to be both fascinating and enlightening, offering a deep dive into AI's adoption and the valuable learnings emerging from it (such as prompting and the need to create prompt libraries).

Teaching Opportunities/Lectures:

3. Beyond my focus on AI, I am equally passionate about exploring and writing on leadership. A standout moment from 2023 was the opportunity to address an auditorium filled with exceptionally bright, emerging leaders during the Investiture Ceremony at Christ University. This experience, both inspiring and memorable, is one that I hold dear and will always cherish.

4. On the same visit to India, I was afforded the unique opportunity to deliver two lectures at Amity University. The topics were deeply engaging: exploring the intersection of AI with emotional intelligence and delving into the integration of AI and CRM for more effective marketing. The chance to interact with and engage such a vibrant group of students was a truly special and enriching experience.

5. Ending the year on a high note, I had the privilege of contributing to a guest lecture series, thanks to my mentor, Ed Vengrouskie, Ph.D. The session focused on the impact of AI on entrepreneurship and futureproofing, sparked fantastic discussions, and provided an enriching platform for exchanging ideas on these forward-thinking topics.

Podcast/Video Series Launch:

6. In line with my commitment to making AI more accessible, I partnered with my brilliant colleague, Mara Dettmann , to launch 'The Marketer's Guide to the AI Galaxy' podcast. Together, we've endeavored to unravel AI concepts, delving into their implications in marketing for both B2B and B2C sectors. I'm thrilled to announce that we've successfully wrapped up two seasons, and we're gearing up for an even more insightful and engaging third season in 2024!

7. Additionally, I initiated 'The AI Rundown,' a weekly video series on LinkedIn. While I aim to release a new episode every Monday, the true focus lies in exploring a range of AI topics and reports. My objective is to shed light on these subjects, offering clarity and perspective to a broader audience. Acknowledging the journey towards improvement, I'm setting my sights on enhancing video quality in 2024 – a goal I'm excited to tackle!

Last, but not least....

8. This year marked a significant period of self-improvement and expanding my boundaries, with a special focus on public speaking. I've been honored to speak to diverse groups at conferences and lectures, but my ultimate goal was even more ambitious – to become a TEDx speaker. The year couldn't have ended on a better note, as this dream became a reality! What made this achievement even more memorable was the presence of my parents in the audience, witnessing this milestone firsthand.

As I stand on the threshold of 2024, the future is filled with both uncertainties and possibilities. One thing, however, remains steadfast in my journey: my commitment to demystifying AI and making it more accessible to a broader audience. This path is not just about sharing knowledge; it’s about creating a community where complex ideas become approachable and engaging for everyone.

As we bid farewell to this year, I wish a very happy New Year to all. Here’s to embracing the adventures and opportunities that 2024 holds! Let's make it a year of learning, growth, and shared success. Happy New Year, and may 2024 be a remarkable chapter for us all!