About this event

Join us for an inspiring showcase celebrating the ideas, discoveries and innovations shaping our future. 

Hosted by accomplished ANU alumni and science communicators Lee Constable and Dr Welton Menario Costa, known artistically as WELI, this immersive event will take you behind the scenes of some of the extraordinary research being led by ANU academics and students. 

Explore the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and language with Dr Ben Swift from the ANU College of Systems and Society, and journey through the cosmos with renowned astrophysicists Professor Brad Tucker and Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Schmidt as they share the latest insights from the frontiers of astronomy. Hear from leading historian Professor Ann McGrath as she explores Australia's deep history and the stories that continue to shape our understanding of the nation's identity and future. 

You'll also hear from some of the University’s brightest emerging researchers through a series of captivating presentations from our Three-Minute Thesis finalists, offering fresh perspectives and bold ideas across a range of disciplines. 
Whether you're passionate about science, technology, society or the big questions shaping our world, The Visionaries Among Us promises an evening of discovery, curiosity and inspiration. 

Event Highlights 

•    Conversations with leading ANU researchers and science communicators
•    Insights into artificial intelligence, language and emerging technologies
•    Discoveries from the frontiers of astronomy and cosmology
•    Presentations from the University's outstanding Three-Minute Thesis finalists
•    Opportunities to connect with fellow alumni, staff, students and members of the community

This event is part of the 80th Anniversary Community Day program. 

Date: Saturday 15 August 2026

Time:  Presentation 3:00pm – 5:00pm

Location: Manning Clark Theatre, Lowitja O'Donoghue Cultural Centre      

Cost: Complimentary. Registration is essential. 

Contact: ANU Alumni

Email: alumni@anu.edu.au


Privacy Collection Notice: The information on this form is being collected by ANU Advancement, Australian National University.

This information is being collected, with your consent for use in accordance with the Advancement Privacy Statement.

The information will be used by authorised staff for the purpose for which it was collected, and any other purpose which you have expressly consented to.

You can manage your preferences or opt out at any time by clicking through links provided in communications or contacting advancement.services@anu.edu.au.

If you do not provide all the information that is requested on this form, it may not be possible for us to ensure appropriate arrangements for the event.

The ANU is committed to protecting personal information provided by you in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the information will be protected against unauthorised access and use.

All information collected by the University is governed by the ANU Privacy Policy.

For further information about how the University deals with personal information, please refer to the ANU Privacy Policy or contact the ANU Privacy Officer at privacy@anu.edu.au.

You may access or request correction of any personal information you have provided to ANU by contacting privacy@anu.edu.au.