YWP Program

Opening Keynote
Dr Samuel Skinner 
Associate, Water, Aurecon

Sam will share his unique water story, offering insights into what inspired him to pursue a career in water and what continues to drive his passion for the industry. His session will not only reflect on the journey of the past but also explore how we can accelerate action for a sustainable water future. As one of the highlights of the day, Sam's keynote will inspire the next generation of water leaders, providing them with new perspectives on how they can shape the future of water.

Session 1: Indigenous ways of thinking: Water & Community
Featuring: Kiara Johnson, Managing Director, KSJ Consulting Service

Join us for an inspiring session featuring a First Nations keynote speaker, followed by an interactive 5 Minds workshop. In this session, you’ll learn how to apply Tyson Yunkaporta’s 5 Minds thinking (from Sand Talk) to tackle real-world water challenges. Explore kinship, story, dreaming, ancestor, and pattern as tools for framing solutions, and dive into systems thinking through diverse ways of knowing. 

Morning Tea

Session 2: Futures and Foresight
Featuring: Dr. Ariella Helfgott, Director of Foresight and Strategic Learning, World Energy Council

A practical introduction to futures and foresight with discussion on upcoming trends. Engage in scenario creation to explore potential different futures.

12.40pm – 1.30pm

Session 3: Looking Back, Moving Forward - presented by AECOM
Featuring:
Laura Fluck, Business Line Director for Water and Program Management, AECOM
Mike Karl, Vice-President, Global Digital Leader, AECOM

Join us for “Looking Back, Moving Forward,” an immersive session bridging tradition and modern breakthroughs to address real water challenges. Through a time-travel lens—past, present, and future—you’ll exchange ideas, test new approaches, and refine solutions for a resilient water industry. Each table’s unique theme sparks lively discussion, anchored by tangible experiences and forward-facing technology. Rapid-fire pitches from every group keep the energy high, culminating in valuable insights from peers and industry leaders. This event values diverse voices and collaboration—expect engaging conversations, fresh perspectives, and a chance to shape practical, lasting concepts around the future of our water industry.

Site Tours + Takeaway Afternoon Tea

1. Adelaide Botanic Gardens Walking Tour
2. Breakout Creek / Purruna Pari – Transforming a drain into a river
   
3. Amiblu Flowtite Factory Tour – Showcasing local SA piping systems manufacture

Ozwater’25 Welcome Reception