When Aboitiz Group CEO Sabin Aboitiz opened the 2023 Aboitiz Leaders Conference (LeadCon) alongside his own hologram avatar, it was a clear signal that technology would play a larger role in future LeadCons. The 2024 LeadCon confirmed that by showcasing advanced technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) that enhance event experiences through interactive digital tools. Our annual gathering of the Group's top leaders is evolving to highlight the transformative potential of tech and AI in creating more engaging and interactive events.

The AEV Transformation Tech and Core Teams spent months preparing a range of AI and tech integrations for the conference. They reviewed and processed files, documents, emails, publications, and media containing vital information on GT2025 and its related topics to train and test the AI co-host, 'Albert' and AI digital event assistant, 'Elsie.' The teams also closely collaborated with SBUs to develop the GT Walk, a presentation showcasing milestones from across the Group under the Great Transformation.

“Hey, Albert!”

Albert is an AI-driven digital persona created by the AEV Transformation Tech and Core Teams, which served as a LIVE co-host during LeadCon. This interactive avatar engaged the audience by responding to cues from the main hosts and speakers in real-time, leveraging state-of-the-art AI algorithms in speech recognition, reasoning and text generation, voice synthesis, and facial animation together with a pre-established knowledge base. Albert's presence on stage demonstrated the practical use of AI in enhancing attendee experience at live events.

Co-hosting LeadCon with Albert is a major breakthrough in my hosting experience. It was surreal to be sharing the stage and interacting with an AI co-host. What was once an idea has become a reality, and showcasing it at LeadCon echoed the endless opportunities that we can unlock as a techglomerate.

–Aldwin Dumago, Main Host and Industrial Operations Head, LIMA Estate

Elsie (Avatar)

In her avatar form, Elsie acted as a dynamic digital assistant in the lobby during LeadCon. Powered by latest AI models, the capability to autonomously search the internet, and informed by a knowledge base developed by the AEV Transformation Tech and Core Teams, she addressed inquiries ranging from the event's agenda to broader concepts like what it means to be a techglomerate. Elsie provides insights into organizational subjects, including highlights from the latest Annual Integrated Report, extending the capabilities of her chatbot counterpart. Like Albert, Elsie’s presence showcased how AI can further enhance attendee experience.

Elsie the Chatbot

Elsie the Chatbot, developed in joint effort by the AEV Transformation Tech and Core Teams, was integrated into the exclusive LeadCon app created by UBX. This AI-powered chatbot was designed to answer a wide range of questions from event-specific details like venue to broader organizational topics such as leadership traits and the A+10 Behaviors. The Elsie team developed its comprehensive knowledge base, making it a vital resource for attendees needing information on the event, GT2025, and the Aboitiz Group. Post-event, Elsie the Chatbot will soon serve as a resource for team members to learn more about the Great Transformation and the Aboitiz Group and will be available to team members via Google Chat.

GT Walk

The GT Walk was an immersive display that chronicled 72 of the Aboitiz Group's key achievements in the Great Transformation initiative from 2022 onwards. Consolidated by the Transformation Team in collaboration with Strategic Business Units and the GT Pillars, it showcased the dedication and transformation highlights across different units on how they are advancing the GT2025. It attracted 149 leaders at the event as it featured an interactive photo booth that allowed the leaders to express their support for the transformation efforts.

Confirmed attendees were required to install the Aboitiz LeadCon Navigator app, designed to be their primary resource for LeadCon 2024. The app's embedded QR code served as the event ticket, allowing attendees to register and enter the venue seamlessly. The app also featured the full event program, detailed information on speakers, the Elsie chatbot, a special photo booth gallery, venue information, and more. The app, powered by UnionDigital and UBX, ensured a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for all participants.

The 8th LeadCon was the summit's first fully in-person edition after four years and the AI and tech integrations introduced at the event have made a strong impression on people's minds. There is a healthy mix of excitement and curiosity on how future LeadCons will continue to transform by leveraging data, AI, mobile apps, and emerging digital applications to create more engaging experiences that further unlock our techglomerate potential. Look out for future announcements on where to engage with Albert and Elsie soon!

Read more about our leaders' conversations at the LeadCon and find out what's next for the Great Transformation: https://aboitizeyes.aboitiz.com/post/acquisitions-synergy-and-technology-headline-aboitiz-groups-great-transformation