THURSDAY 27 AUGUST

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27 AUGUST
  • Join Melbourne's indie agency community for an evening of insight, connection and future-focused conversation. Hear from strategist and futurist Katie Rigg-Smith as she explores the trends shaping what's next for independent agencies, before networking with industry peers and media partners.

For independent agency members only.

For media partners/sponsors only.

AGENDA

4:30pm

Arrival

5:00pm

Proceedings begin

5:30pm

Keynote: Katie Rigg-Smith, Futurist, Say Robots

Keynote Title: Fact, fiction, or fad? Which are the futures that Indies need to prepare for in 2026.

6:00pm

Networking

7:30pm

Close

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EVENT HOST

Sam Buchanan

The CEO of Independent Media Agencies Australia and a founding leader of the organisation. With 25+ years across media owners, agencies and clients, Sam has grown IMAA into a powerful industry voice, championing independent agencies, collaboration, sustainability and meaningful industry change.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Katie Rigg-Smith

Katie Rigg-Smith is a renowned strategist and futurist who helps organisations navigate change and prepare for what’s next. As founder of Say Robots, Katie specialises in translating complex data signals, cultural shifts and technology trends into clear, future-ready strategies leaders can act on today. She advises governments, corporations and industry bodies on the capabilities and mindsets required for the next phase of growth, and was recently commissioned by the Media Federation of Australia to examine the future skills of the industry. Widely recognised as “a window into the future and a key to unlock the now,” Katie brings clarity, challenge and practical foresight to the stage.

About the keynote

Fact, fiction or fad? Which are the futures that Indies need to prepare for in 2026.

Whilst we can’t predict the future, we can use signals, trends, and data to help prepare for it. Katie will explore some of the big trends impacting consumers in the next 12-24 months and what that means for Indies as you (we?) prepare for the year ahead.

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EVENT DETAILS

Location

Bells Hotel, 157 Moray St,
South Melbourne VIC 
View on Google Maps

Event details

Thursday 27 August 2026
Arrival 4:30pm
Program 5:00pm–7:30pm

Event enquiries

Jo Moss, Event Manager
jo@theimaa.com.au