Elon Musk hosted an impromptu Q&A session / Photo: geektechnews.tk
Since its inaugural event back in 1987, South by Southwest (SXSW) has evolved into a ten-day series of conferences and festivals encompassing the worlds of technology, culture, music and media. Unlike similar events, which often focus on product launches and new innovations, the Austin, Texas expo has developed a reputation as a national meeting place, bringing people together from all walks of life to discuss the hottest topics and enjoy the latest music, and this year has been no exception.
The conference program traditionally attracts a range of diverse speakers, and among this year's Keynotes have been Nonny de la Peña, one of the most influential pioneers in virtual and augmented reality, philanthropist Melinda Gates, film director Darren Aronofsky and London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Co-founder of Tesla and founder of SpaceX, Elon Musk, also made a surprise appearance last weekend, hosting an impromptu Q&A session.
Panelists at the various break-out sessions tackled many of the issues dominating current conversation, including cryptocurrencies and cybersecurity, sexual harassment – co-founder of the ‘Time's Up’ campaign Nina Shaw was among the speakers - fake news and the power and responsibility of social platforms.
Reflecting current lifestyle trends, a dedicated health and well-being expo was included in the schedule for the first time this year. And as well as the many more familiar tech-focused fashion sessions, the issue of ethics and sustainability has also been hotly debated.
SXSW continues until Sunday, 18th March.
Click here to listen to Hassan Pierre of Carmen-backed MAISON-DE-MODE.COM speaking as part of the ‘Ethics in the Luxury Market: The Human Element’ panel.
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Ethical Fashion Focus At SXSW '18