The Power of Connection Live

The Power of Connection Live

Purpose. Connection. Momentum.

A premium one-day experience exploring leadership, innovation and the enduring power of human connection.

Friday 28 August 2026

Amora Herencia Riverwalk Melbourne

Founding Prinicipal Partner

The world has never moved faster.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries. Technology is reshaping the way we work. Automation is changing the way we communicate. Yet, despite all of that progress, one thing remains unchanged:

People still choose people

The conversations we have – The relationships we build – The trust we earn – The way we make others feel – They remain our greatest point of difference.

That’s why I created The Power of Connection Live. Not simply as another conference with a series of speakers, but as a carefully curated experience bringing together some of Australia’s most respected leaders for a day of fresh thinking, meaningful conversations and genuine connection.

High Touch > High Tech

Whether you’re leading a business, growing a team or simply looking for renewed momentum, this day has been designed to challenge your thinking, strengthen your leadership and remind you that whilst technology continues to evolve, human connection will always matter.

Together we’ll explore where our profession is heading. We’ll hear from some of Australia’s most respected leaders. We’ll challenge conventional thinking. We’ll celebrate timeless principles. And we’ll discover why, in a world increasingly shaped by technology, human connection has never mattered more.

This isn’t a day about having all the answers. It’s about asking better questions. It’s about creating better conversations. It’s about leaving with fresh ideas, renewed energy and practical strategies to make a greater impact on the people we serve. Because whilst technology will continue to change the way we work… Connection will always change the way people feel.

Welcome to The Power of Connection Live. Purpose. Connection. Momentum.

Meet Your Speakers

Four respected leaders. Four unique perspectives. One unforgettable day.

Steve Sammartino

One of Australia’s leading futurists, entrepreneur and best-selling author, Steve has spent more than two decades helping organisations understand the impact of technology, artificial intelligence and innovation on the future of business.

Known for making complex ideas practical and engaging, Steve will challenge you to think differently about the opportunities that lie ahead – and why those who embrace change will thrive.

Philip Webb OAM

One of the most respected figures in Australian real estate, Phil has spent more than five decades building one of the country’s most admired independent agencies and shaping the profession through his leadership, contribution and commitment to excellence.

His insights into leadership, culture and building businesses that stand the test of time are drawn from a lifetime of experience at the highest level.

Leanne Pilkington

Managing Director of Laing+Simmons, former President of the Real Estate Institute of Australia and former President of the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales, Leanne is one of Australia’s most influential voices in real estate leadership.

With decades of experience leading businesses, developing people and advocating for the profession nationally, Leanne brings practical insight, authenticity and a deep understanding of what exceptional leadership looks like in a rapidly changing industry.

Caleb Venneri

Representing the next generation of Australian real estate, Caleb has quickly established himself as one of the industry’s emerging leaders through his energy, innovation and commitment to building relationships that genuinely make a difference.

His perspective offers a refreshing insight into what the future of leadership and client experience can look like.

Hosted by Rik Rushton

For more than 35 years, Rik Rushton has helped thousands of professionals improve the way they communicate, lead and connect.

As one of Australia’s most respected communication coaches, bestselling author of The Power of Connection and a sought-after keynote speaker across the real estate industry, Rik believes that whilst technology continues to transform the way we work, human connection remains our greatest competitive advantage.

Through The Power of Connection Live, Rik brings together respected leaders, future thinkers and meaningful conversations to create an event designed to inspire long after the day is over.

What you’ll experience

Getting on Purpose – The Power of Small Moves

Discover why lasting momentum begins with purpose, discipline and the small decisions we make every day.

The Future of AI, Innovation & Opportunity

Steve Sammartino explores how technology is reshaping our future – and why those who embrace change will create extraordinary opportunities.

Leadership Conversations

A unique fireside conversation with Philip Webb OAM, Leanne Pilkington and Caleb Venneri. Three remarkable leaders. Three generations. Three very different journeys. Yet each began their real estate career as a teenager. Together we’ll explore the lessons that endure, the moments that shaped them and the wisdom they’d share with the next generation.

The Power of Connection

Rik Rushton brings the day together with a practical and inspiring keynote exploring why communication, relationships and human connection remain the greatest competitive advantage in business.

More Than a Conference

The Power of Connection Live has been intentionally designed to create meaningful conversations both on and off the stage. With extended networking breaks, premium hospitality and a carefully selected audience, this is a day where the conversations over coffee may prove just as valuable as those delivered from the stage.

View the Full Program

Who should attend?

This event is designed for:

Business owners
Real estate principals
Sales professionals
Property managers
Industry leaders
Anyone who believes relationships remain the foundation of long-term success.

Be a part of a carefully curated audience of approximately 80 real estate leaders, business owners and high-performing professionals from across Australia.