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Inspiring Design

Author: Rashan Senanayake

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Inspiring Design... hosted by Rashan Senanayake is the intersection of design, technology and education. Our featured guests are the best of the best, sharing their knowledge in design, global technologies, design thinking, industry standards and most importantly how it connects back to education.

For more information on your host, please visit www.rashansenanayake.com.au

It’s the way to transform new realities, enabling new futures.
88 Episodes
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In this international episode, our host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Maria Basso, Head of AI Applications and Impact at the World Economic Forum’s Centre for AI Excellence, for a sharp, insightful look into how AI is transforming industries at a global perspective. Maria breaks down how organisations are moving beyond pilots into real, measurable AI deployment, offering rare inside perspectives on the Forum’s MINDS programme and the AI-First initiative, which are reshaping business models, operating systems and global collaboration. Tune into understand the latest AI development as they explore the biggest opportunities and risks with AI’s rapid rise, the importance of inclusive adoption across economies, and how international cooperation will define the next decade of responsible innovation. Maria also shares which emerging AI capabilities excite her the most, including AI agents, outlook towards Agentic AI and what concerns global leaders are paying closest attention to as AI reshapes societies, especially in developing regions. A powerful, future-focused conversation you won’t want to miss. Want to understand AI at a global scale? This episode is for you.   Watch Full Video on Youtube: Click Here Shownotes and more! Click Here
The next generation of mapping is here! In this episode, our Rashan Senanayake sits down with design visionary Amber Standley, Co-founder and CXO of Terria, to explore the cutting edge of spatial technology and its future impact on our world. From her roots in creative design to pioneering in augmented reality and digital twins, Amber shares how her journey has led to reshaping the way we visualise data. Learn how platforms like Terria are empowering everyday users, governments, and industries to create immersive, accessible, and intelligent geospatial experiences—no coding required, open sourced! Both Amber and Rashan detail and break down complex terms like reality mesh, BIM models, and automation in digital twins, and discuss how they're revolutionising urban planning, sustainability, property management, and even education. Exploring how digital twins are evolving from visualisation tools to real-time decision-making engines,  to the power of visual data in tackling climate change and community engagement for meaningful impact! Whether you're into tech, design, data, or urban innovation—this episode will change the way you see the world (literally).
We are in the era of a mixed reality – to be specific, many types of ‘realities’! Our host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Pradeep Khanna, a global thought leader and coach in immersive technologies, to explore the transformative world of Spatial Computing. Pradeep unpacks the fundamentals of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Extended Reality (XR), collectively shaping the future of immersive experiences. He explains how these technologies work, their capabilities, and what we can expect as they continue to evolve with the mix of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Highlighting the critical role of Spatial Computing in education, Pradeep discusses the skills students need to thrive in a tech-driven future and the adjustments policymakers must consider for a safe and successful use of this amazing technology. He dives into how educators can leverage design thinking to foster creative and critical thinking skills, enabling students to navigate and elevate human capability alongside this technology. Pradeep also shares strategies for schools to integrate Spatial Computing into learning and offers practical advice for students aiming to succeed in this rapidly advancing field. Join us for this creative and insightful conversation with Pradeep Khanna and discover the many realities that include the world of Spatial Computing technology. 
‘Computing’ as you have never seen before, Welcome to the Quantum Era! Stephanie Pons (Deloitte Australia and part of the Quantum Technologies team), alongside our host Rashan Senanayake, explore the cutting-edge world of Quantum Computing (QC). Stephanie breaks down what exactly entails QC and why it’s crucial for our future, and how it differs from the personal computing world that we know. She also sheds light on other quantum technologies, such as quantum sensing, and the critical role they will play in various industries. Stephanie discusses why it’s essential for schools to introduce quantum concepts, outlining the key skills needed for students to thrive in this field. She also shares strategies for educators to help students understand and engage with quantum technologies. Additionally, the episode dives into the role of design thinking in harnessing quantum's potential and offers insights into why students should get involved in this revolutionary area. Tune-in to learn about this disruptive technology, shaping the future ahead of us.
Join us in this episode as we explore the future of architecture with Chris Paterson, Principal Architect at Populous Brisbane. Chris shares his story and explains Building 2.0, including its technologies, sustainability practices, and the concept of Smart Buildings. He discusses the future of construction, its impact on conventional architecture, and the integration of IoT, Mixed Reality, and Big Data. Chris highlights the importance of these advancements for schools, the skills required, and the role of design thinking in modern architecture. He also offers advice for future professionals and educators and provides resources for further learning. Whether you're a professional, educator, or student, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of architecture.
Are we living in a Black Mirror (Netflix) episode? Continuing our hunt for knowledge in understanding emerging technologies, this episode features Amy-Rose explains the fundamentals of blockchain technology, its importance for the future, and its impact on various industries. She highlights the need for blockchain education in schools, essential skills for students, and its effect on industry. Additionally, Amy unpacked the great convergence that is forecasted where various emerging technologies will be uniformly working together and what can be expected in the near future. Blockchain is close to working alongside AI and Quantum Computing, working towards personal computing. Finally, Amy explores the role of design thinking in blockchain and offers advice for students to succeed in this evolving field. This episode is not to be missed so tune in for an insightful discussion on blockchain technology and its implications for industry and education.
In this episode inspiring emerging technologies, join Brendan Newell, General Manager of Cyberpathways, and Adam Jacobs, Managing Director and CEO of EdTechGroup, as they explore the crucial topic of cybersecurity. Covering the basics, Brendan and Adam define cybersecurity and its global importance, with a focus on Australia's unique challenges. Alongside our host, Rashan Senanayake, they delve into the technology behind cybersecurity, discussing its evolution over the past decade and speculating on its future trajectory. Both Brendan and Adam emphasise the essential hard and soft skills needed to succeed in cybersecurity, highlighting the role of creative and critical thinking and amazing strategies and stories related to the Cyber world! Offering valuable advice, Brendan and Adam share insights for students, graduates, professionals, and businesses interested in cybersecurity. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with industry insights and practical guidance on navigating the dynamic field of cybersecurity. Huge thanks to our sponsors: CyberPathways & EdTech Group, filmed at Brisbane Grammar School, STEAM Precinct.
Kicking off Season 5: Emerging Technologies, our Host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Associate Director Natalie Oostergo from the University of Southern Queensland exploring the impact of Gen-AI on Australian education. Natalie discusses the significance of Gen-AI for our future and its potential to revolutionise teaching and learning. She emphasises the importance of maintaining academic integrity in the face of technological advancements. Offering practical strategies and resources, Natalie highlights ways schools and universities can integrate Gen-AI responsibly into education. She also explores the role of design thinking in fostering critical skills for navigating Gen-AI. For students, Natalie provides advice on using Gen-AI ethically by emphasising the importance of digital literacy alongside ethical awareness. Tune into this episode with Natalie Oostergo at the University of Southern Queensland. Join us for an insightful discussion on Gen-AI and its implications for education.
In this episode, join Dr. Kylie Warren, a pioneering figure in Advanced Manufacturing (AM), for an in-depth discussion on the aspects that result in business innovation within an exciting industry. Explore the nuances between quality control, assurance, and management systems, and discover their diverse applications across stakeholders within AM. Kylie shares insights into the pivotal role of technology in driving advancements, showcasing cutting-edge tools and methodologies. Breaking stereotypes in a historically male-dominated field, Kylie highlights exciting career pathways for both genders in AM. She emphasises the crucial blend of hard and soft skills, including design thinking and STEAM education, essential for success in this evolving landscape. For students, graduates, and educators alike, Kylie offers invaluable advice drawn from her experience, guiding aspiring professionals and educational institutions toward preparing for the demands of this exciting industry. Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with industry insights, career guidance, and the evolving landscape of Advanced Manufacturing.
Dive into the realm of design and manufacturing workflows with Nathan Rice, the innovative force behind iFab. Discover how concepts evolve into steel masterpieces through meticulous design and advanced manufacturing, powered by the technologies incorporating Augmented Reality, CAD and automation in future. Nathan unveils the crucial details of the workflow in bringing a concept idea to life, through to construction! Along the way he humbly shares insights on the impact of technology on the industry, reflecting on the past and forecasting the future. Learn about the key skills driving success in this field—sketching, critical thinking, research, and communication—all grounded in design thinking's fusion of creativity and problem-solving. Tune into this video episode, offering a roadmap into the captivating world of design, manufacturing, and innovation workflows.
AR – The Technology that can transform the way we design & create! Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Augmented Reality (AR) with visionary expert Gwyllim Jahn (Co-founder and Creative Director of Fologram). Discover the background, applications, and future prospects of this groundbreaking technology that is reshaping industries and changing the way we design. Gwyllim shares his inspiring journey and the reasons behind his passion for AR alongside the history, fun facts, and the growing importance of AR in various sectors. Gain valuable insights into the immediate future of AR in 2025 as well as its long-term prospects. Explore exciting career pathways within the AR sector and the key skills valued in the industry, from design thinking to STEaM to communication. Uncover the complementary technologies that enhance AR's potential with expert advice for students, graduates, teachers, schools, and tertiary institutions on navigating the world of AR. Tune into this episode for a thought-provoking discussion that unlocks the door to a world where reality and imagination merge, shaping the future of technology and human experiences.
Drive? Fly? No problem! In this episode, we present the futuristic concept of flying cars, brought to life by an advanced manufacturer: Pegasus. To speak about this amazing feat, this episode features the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of Pegasus, Jacky Yang. Jacky with his unique background of helicopter piloting and driving / mechanical experience in race car driving shares his experience and insight into what it takes behind the scenes to design and manufacture flying cars in Australia. He humbly shares the story behind the start-up, the challenges and the many skill sets, engineering disciplines, alongside design thinking, physics and material understanding that paves the way for a successful flying car designer. Jacky also shares the amazing combination of technologies that are behind the scenes to make flying cars a possibility and how AI integration will be a future milestone. It is said to become a trillion-dollar industry within the next few decades and is the perfect time to harness the power of flying!  Tune into this episode and gain the valuable insights into the combo of vehicle x aerospace sector.
AI – the leading technological development in 2023. In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of AI and its impact on education with one of the leading Principals in the field, Dr. Paul Browning – Headmaster of St. Paul’s School, Brisbane. We start off by discussing the age-old question: Should we fear AI or embrace it? Pauls shares his insights on this topic and explains how AI is the future and has the capabilities to revolutionise education in the coming years – as it should! Expanding on this, Paul shares his thoughts on how AI can transform the way students learn and how educators need to teach, especially in preparing our students for the future world. Coming to main focus to creative thinking, Paul shares an insightful answer to the question, "Can you actually measure it?", he introduces us to the concept of "Realms of Thinking" and discusses how measuring the unmeasurable is possible with the help of AI, across any curriculum, while being able to measure it in an amazing way. Tune in to this episode and join us as we explore the exciting world of AI, creativity, design thinking, creativity and future of education with Dr. Paul Browning.
Let’s fly! In this episode, we feature an aerospace sector prodigy Karl Domjahn, a Lead Propulsion Engineer at Gilmour Space Technologies. Karl begins by discussing the Aerospace industry's different aspects, such as defence, commercial, and space, and how they contribute to Australia's economy. The Aerospace industry provides direct employment to more than 20,000 people in Australia and contributes billions of dollars to the economy. Karl then expands his insights on the industry's potential for the immediate future and in the next 10-20 years and explains that there is significant growth potential in the industry, particularly in the space sector, as Australia's capabilities in space technology continue to develop. As we continue, Karl sheds light on the exciting career opportunities available in the Aerospace industry. He explains that the industry offers a diverse range of roles, including engineers, scientists, technicians, and project managers, among others. These roles require a mix of hard and soft skills, such as design thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration. Tune into this episode and gain the valuable insights into the Aerospace sector and the exciting career pathways it offers as a major sector in the coming decades.
Design thinking - It is the No. 1 transferrable skill for more than 85% of careers in 2030. This episode features one of the leading minds in design thinking, Ariel Raz - Head of Learning Collaborations at Stanford d.School. Coming from a non-design background, but with a unique experience in the education sector, Ariel goes on to discuss a unique perspective on design thinking and its details. He insightfully discusses detailed answers and resources for questions such as What is the evolution of Design Thinking?, What are the key values of design thinking? How is this skill positioned for the future of work & future of education? How does design thinking work alongside key technologies? Armed with a unique perspective in education and design thinking, Ariel goes on to humbly share valuable advice for educators as well as amazing life advice integrating design thinking. Tune into this video episode and learn more about the most sought-after skill set, globally.
One word – Drones. As Bill Gates once said, “Drones overall will be more impactful than I think people recognize in positive ways to help society.” To lead the way, this video episode (Click Here to Watch on YouTube) features Rob Sutton – The founder and CEO of the record-breaking Drones and AI consultancy: Mirragin Consultancy. Learning from his unique background in the Australian Defence, Rob shares his passion and drive for utilising Drone Technology to do good, to save lives, improve organisational capabilities and not to mention designing world class light shows over Sydney Harbour to a global audience! This episode, being recorded live at the World Drones and Robotics Congress, Rob shares insights (such as the Air Taxis being deployed in the near future) and what technologies, mindsets, thinking patterns, knowledge attributes and skill sets required lead the way in the drones’ sector. He goes on to share the existing career pathways possible and how to enter the industry with constant insights into the amazing world of drones, alongside resources to learn more. Tune into this video episode and learn more about one of the cornerstone 21st century technologies in the modern world.
In this video episode we feature one of the leading minds in the laser technology sector Simon Moore (Director of sales at Trotec Australia) to unveil the latest innovations in laser technology. Simon shares how his passion for pushing the boundaries and continuously improving the use of laser technology has resulted in streamlining workflows and now effectively embedding this technology into 21st century education alongside integrated software and hardware. With his 30+ years of experience, Simon goes on to share and demonstrate how simple it is to now create and manufacture ideas quickly, bridging lo-fidelity prototyping with high-fidelity prototyping without complex software skills – an absolute game changer! This is the new standard and changing the way we design, ideate, iterate and manufacture. Tune into this video episode to learn more about this exciting technology and how it can be utilised in our day-to-day life as well as in the modern 21st century classroom.
“Design isn't just what it looks like and feels like — design is how it works.” Steve Jobs (Founder of Apple Inc.). In an essence, this is what ‘Industrial design’ is all about and hence one of the most versatile and integrated design careers in the modern world. The experts on this episode – Tim Williams & Andrew Peterson (Industrial Designers and Senior Lecturers of Industrial Design) shares practical and contemporary details of this exciting sector. Tim and Andrew speak passionately about how industrial has been shaped by technology, its evolution and the amazing career paths available as an Industrial Designer. Ideation developed from sketching, through to CAD and now the integration of designing in Virtual Reality (VR), the speakers share their expert opinion on the progression of mass customisation within Industry 5.0, alongside additive manufacturing. Both the experts identify the key skills required to succeed as an Industrial Designer and valuable advice applicable to students, teachers, and educators as well as any aspiring designer. Tune into this episode to learn more about this exciting industry that Steve Jobs himself dubbed as “one of the coolest careers” in history.
Combining the best of science, design and manufacturing, the Orthotics industry has been transformed with the integration of 21st century technologies such as CAD, SMART device scans, 3D printing etc. A leading expert in this industry, Dean Hartley (Chief Technical Officer of iOrthotics) shares his humble beginnings transitioning from conventional podiatric practice and effectively integrating the use of industry 4.0 technologies to lead the market in orthotics manufacturing. Working with leading brands such as MyFootDr and now diversifying their services, Dean shares his knowledge and experience in this rich industry – unveiling insights on where this industry is headed, the skills required to succeed, exactly how technology has transformed what they do to achieve amazing feats as well as the various career paths available in the 21st century. Dean, as one of the brightest minds in this industry, goes on to share his valuable advice for teachers, schools & universities as well as students interested in exploring this as a career possibility. Tune into this episode to learn more about how science, design, technology and manufacturing meets to create life changing outcomes in this exciting sector.
Dams – A magnificent harmony of design and engineering. A crucial component within the built environment. A thoroughly underrated sector! In this episode we feature one of the leading minds in Dam Engineering and Safety on a global scale: Dr Gamini Adikari. As the Chief Technical Principal of Dam Safety at SMEC, coupled with over 43 years of experience in the industry, Gamini humbly shares his knowledge and learnings, uncovering the vast field of Civil Engineering and how it branches off into a variety of disciplines and industries, including Dams Engineering. He details how this colourful industry has evolved and where it is headed, how technology is integrated as well as the crucial skills and attributes aligned with STEM required to be successful in this sector. Gamini, not only an industry expert, but also an academic, goes on to share his valuable advice for teachers, schools & universities as well as students interested in exploring this fascinating industry. A key component for civilisation within Industry 4.0. Tune in to celebrate an exceptional career of a leading expert and dive into the amazing world of Dam Engineering.
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