Apec 2021: Today's leaders and tomorrow's thinkers

Amber Mac. Photo / Supplied

Canadian Amber MacArthur (aka Amber Mac), will deliver a keynote speech on the Business of Technology. An award-winning podcaster and president of AmberMac Media, she is a leader and expert in digital innovation including the future of work, commerce and emerging technologies.

Herald: What innovations will have the most impact in the next five years?

MacArthur: When it comes to innovation, I'm most excited about the future of communication, transportation, healthcare, as well as automation. In the next five years we have an incredible opportunity to build the next generation of technology. Technology that improves people's lives, helps businesses grow, and most importantly, also protects the planet.

Herald: What technology does the world need right now?

MacArthur: Right now, the world needs humane technology. For decades we have been talking about how technology can truly improve the world, but too much of our technology today actually exploits users.

This shift to humane technology will likely require a new set of leaders. Leaders that are focused on people first, and the profits will follow.

How will digital transformation change the world?

MacArthur: Digital transformation has the power to change the world, if it is used responsibly. This question is less about whether we have the right technology to change the world, and more about whether we or not we have the right leaders in place to change the world and make a better tomorrow.

What are you most excited about talking about at the APEC CEO Summit?

MacArthur: I'm most excited to talk about relentless adaptation, and how making a better future it is less about innovation and more about adaptation. I want attendees to really reimagine the magic of technology through a human lens. A lens that can help us to improve businesses and the world. The Apec CEO Summit will expose today's leaders to tomorrow's thinkers, so we have a chance to work together and move forward in a responsible way.