Amanda Johnstone

AI technologist, entrepreneur and innovation leader helping organisations navigate the future of technology

Overview

Amanda Johnstone is an internationally recognised AI technologist, entrepreneur and keynote speaker who helps organisations understand the rapidly evolving relationship between technology, leadership and human potential. Combining deep expertise in artificial intelligence, innovation and social impact, Amanda translates complex technological trends into practical insights that leaders can apply immediately. Her work focuses on helping organisations embrace emerging technologies responsibly while ensuring people remain at the centre of innovation.

Who is Amanda Johnstone?

Amanda Johnstone is an award-winning entrepreneur and technology leader with more than two decades of experience building businesses, developing innovative solutions and driving positive social impact through technology. Her entrepreneurial journey began at just 17 years old when she co-founded Sebachi, one of Australia's earliest e-commerce retail businesses, under the mentorship of Cotton On founder Nigel Austin.

Alongside her success in business and technology, Amanda has dedicated much of her career to mental health advocacy and youth wellbeing. Personal experiences and years of involvement in suicide prevention initiatives inspired her to develop technology solutions designed to improve emotional wellbeing and mental health outcomes, including the creation of Be A Looper and EmotionAI.

Today, Amanda is recognised globally for her expertise in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and future-focused leadership. Through keynote speaking, advisory roles and digital education, she helps organisations understand how emerging technologies can be leveraged to create positive outcomes for both businesses and society.

Career Highlights

• Recognised by TIME as a Next Generation Leader
• Named Start-up Executive of the Year by CEO Magazine
• LinkedIn Top Voice in Artificial Intelligence (2023)
• Founder of innovative mental health and EmotionAI technologies
• Co-founder of early Australian e-commerce retailer Sebachi
• Advisor to organisations including Google Cloud, Optus, Allianz and Commonwealth Bank
• Built a global digital audience reaching millions of people
• Internationally recognised voice on AI, innovation and leadership

Key Speaking Themes

• Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
• The future of work and leadership
• Human-centred innovation and transformation
• Responsible AI and ethical technology adoption
• Digital disruption and organisational change
• Mental health, resilience and technology for good
• Entrepreneurship and innovation mindset

What Your Audience Will Gain

Amanda helps audiences cut through the hype surrounding artificial intelligence and emerging technologies by providing practical, real-world insights into what these developments mean for businesses, leaders and society. Participants gain a clearer understanding of digital transformation, future workforce trends and responsible innovation, while also exploring how technology can be used to create positive human outcomes. Her presentations leave audiences informed, inspired and better prepared for the future.

Ideal For

• Artificial intelligence and technology conferences
• Leadership and innovation forums
• Women in technology and entrepreneurship events
• Future-of-work and digital transformation summits
• Mental health and social impact programmes
• Executive strategy and business growth conferences

Frequently Asked Questions...

What does Amanda Johnstone speak about?
Amanda Johnstone speaks about artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, digital transformation, leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship and technology for social impact.

Who is Amanda Johnstone?
Amanda Johnstone is an AI technologist, entrepreneur, keynote speaker and internationally recognised advocate for human-centred innovation.

Why is Amanda Johnstone recognised globally?
Amanda has received international recognition including being named a TIME Next Generation Leader and a LinkedIn Top Voice in Artificial Intelligence for her contributions to technology and innovation.

What companies has Amanda Johnstone worked with?
Amanda has advised and collaborated with organisations including Google Cloud, Optus, Allianz, Commonwealth Bank, Zoom and Stanford-affiliated initiatives.

What is Amanda Johnstone's entrepreneurial background?
Amanda co-founded one of Australia's early e-commerce businesses at age 17 and has spent more than 20 years launching and growing technology-driven ventures.

What are EmotionAI and Be A Looper?
EmotionAI and Be A Looper are technology initiatives developed by Amanda that focus on improving emotional wellbeing, mental health support and socially impactful innovation.

Why do organisations book Amanda Johnstone as a keynote speaker?
Organisations value Amanda's ability to explain complex technological concepts in a relatable way while providing practical insights into leadership, innovation and the future of AI.

Is Amanda Johnstone available for keynote speaking engagements?
Yes. Amanda Johnstone is available for conferences, executive forums, technology events and keynote presentations throughout Australia and internationally.