Our annual Entrepreneurs Xmas Party was a wonderful success, hope you could make it! Below a review of the panel and a stack of pics!
We kicked off with our all-star panel on AI in Entrepreneurship in 2025+:
Kate Carruthers, Top 10 Global Power Women in Data, Former Chief Data Officer, UNSW
Mark van Rijmenam, Global Keynote Speaker & AI Entrepreneur
Yash Varma, General Partner, Empress Capital – AI VC fund
Selected insights from the panel discussion
AI democratizes capability.
Tools today allow non-technical users to achieve results once limited to highly skilled data scientists. This democratization is paving the way for businesses of all sizes to leverage AI for automation and innovation.
Two modes of AI thinking.
AI can now simulate both reactive, fast-thinking modes and deliberate, problem-solving modes. This evolution mirrors human cognitive styles and enables machines to solve complex problems with increased reliability.
AI as an action-taker.
Autonomous systems are advancing from providing insights to executing tasks, such as analyzing safety breaches from video footage or integrating customer data into business tools. These capabilities are enabling massive efficiency gains across industries.
The rise of one-person billion-dollar companies.
AI tools allow entrepreneurs to build scalable businesses without needing large teams. From generating content to creating entire software platforms, the potential for lean innovation is unprecedented.
Human authenticity will gain a premium.
As AI replicates digital and creative tasks, there will be increased value placed on in-person, experiential, and uniquely human creations. This duality will shape future industries.
AI enhances impact at scale.
From using drones to plant trees to developing preventive healthcare systems, AI amplifies the scale of problem-solving and impact, creating new possibilities for sustainability and social benefit.
Governance remains critical.
To ensure AI serves humanity, people must remain in control of the processes it powers. Transparent oversight is essential to prevent harm and maintain ethical standards.
Exponential progress.
The speed of AI development is unprecedented, with tools becoming exponentially better in months. This rapid improvement creates both opportunities and challenges for businesses to adapt.
AI and human potential.
The ultimate promise of AI is in amplifying human potential and creativity. By leveraging AI tools responsibly, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes aligned with positive societal goals.
Excitement for entrepreneurship.
AI opens doors for innovation by combining technologies like robotics, wearables, and autonomous systems. Entrepreneurs now have access to tools that can transform ideas into impactful ventures faster than ever.
Pics from the party
We then went into party mode, with fabulous people and connections as we celebrated. Here are a few pics from the evening:
