Who is Amanda Johnstone?
Amanda Johnstone is a globally recognised AI technologist and futurist keynote speaker trusted by Fortune 500 companies, governments and world leaders to decode, design and deploy artificial intelligence that puts people first. With over two decades of experience in technology, leadership and impact-driven innovation, she has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most globally acknowledged voices on the future of technology.
Her contributions have been recognised on an international level. Amanda has been named a TIME Next Generation Leader, awarded Startup Executive of the Year by CEO Magazine, and recognised as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Artificial Intelligence from 2023 to 2025, placing her among a select group of global experts shaping the conversation around AI.
Expertise in AI and leadership
Amanda is widely respected as a subject matter expert in both emerging technologies and modern leadership. Her work focuses on helping organisations understand how AI can be implemented in a way that balances innovation with human impact. She brings a unique perspective that blends deep technical understanding with strategic insight and communication skills.
She has shared her expertise with a wide range of organisations, including Xero, Shopify, TikTok, Google Cloud, Allianz, Zoom, Stanford, Kellogg’s, Universal Music and many more. Across industries, Amanda helps leaders cut through the noise around AI and focus on what truly matters—practical application, ethical considerations and long-term value.
Beyond the stage, Amanda has built a substantial global audience through her social audio platform, where she engages over 300,000 subscribers and reaches tens of millions with content focused on emerging technologies and the future of work.
Entrepreneurial journey and innovation
Amanda’s entrepreneurial journey began early. At just 17, she co-founded the award-winning retail chain Sebachi in Tasmania. Guided by mentorship from Cotton On founder Nigel Austin, the company became one of Australia’s first e-commerce stores in the early 2000s, demonstrating her early ability to identify and act on future trends.
Over the years, she has continued to build and scale ventures that sit at the intersection of technology and social impact. Her work reflects a consistent focus on innovation that serves people, not just systems.
Social impact and purpose-driven technology
A defining part of Amanda’s career is her commitment to social impact. At 18, she became Australia’s first Youth Development Officer within local government at West Tamar Council. She later spent 15 years contributing to suicide prevention initiatives, working in management, policy and strategy at a youth suicide prevention retreat in Tasmania.
These experiences shaped her approach to technology. Motivated by personal experiences with suicide, Amanda developed her proprietary mental health app “Be A Looper” along with EmotionAI technologies. These innovations reflect her belief that technology should actively improve lives and support mental wellbeing.
Her work stands out because she doesn’t just speak about the future—she builds it. Amanda creates award-winning products that demonstrate how AI can be used responsibly and meaningfully in real-world contexts.
Book Amanda Johnstone for your event
Amanda Johnstone is one of Australia’s leading business keynote speakers, known for delivering insightful, engaging and forward-thinking presentations. She combines deep expertise with a compelling stage presence, making complex topics accessible and relevant for diverse audiences.
Organisations including Salesforce, PwC, Commonwealth Bank, LinkedIn, EY, SAS, Selfridges, The New York Times, Stanford University and the Australian Government have chosen Amanda to inspire their teams and communities. Her keynotes are tailored to each audience, ensuring practical takeaways alongside big-picture thinking.
When you book Amanda Johnstone, you bring in a speaker who understands both the technical and human sides of AI. She equips leaders with the tools and mindset needed to navigate change, unlock opportunity and shape a future where technology works for people.
Whether addressing executives, innovators or policymakers, Amanda delivers clarity, inspiration and direction in a space that often feels overwhelming.
