Microsoft Ignite, an annual conference for developers, IT professionals, and partners, was held in Chicago on November 18 - 22, 2024. AI dominated the conference this year, with lots of sessions about AI and new announcements of AI products. Season of AI is a Microsoft Community Pilot where Microsoft provides free content (slide decks, videos, etc.) for anyone to use at community events. Each quarter, there is a differently themed Season of AI, and given the coverage of AI at Ignite, this quarter’s theme is Season of AI - Best of AI @ Ignite.
Figure 1: Data & AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI - AI @ Ignite++
We, Azure, AI/ML & Data Community Durban, want to continue our uber-successful Season of AI events, so we are proud to announce that Season of AI - Best of AI @ Ignite is landing in Durban on March 22, 2025, in the guise of Data & AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI — AI @ Ignite++. The “++” indicates that the event will have much more than just AI at Ignite.
Data & AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI - AI @ Ignite++**
Data & AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI - AI @ Ignite++ is - as all our events - a full-day, in-person event where we deep dive into the most exciting innovations in AI, data, and cloud technologies. It is packed with cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities and promises an exciting, in-depth exploration of artificial intelligence and other hot topics in the realm of Data & AI.
What to Expect
Seeing the title of the event you can obviously expect topics around what was presented at Ignite in terms of AI. However if you are not into AI and think that Ignite is something you do with a lighter, don’t worry. Since the event is organized by Azure, AI/ML & Data Community Durban we have a mix of other cool topics. So, expect topics along the lines of:
- AI at Ignite: Sessions covering the latest advancements in AI as presented at Ignite.
- Generative AI: Explore the transformative power of AI in content creation and innovation.
- AI Agents & LLMs: Delve into the world of intelligent agents and large language models shaping the future of AI.
- Database Development: Learn best practices and emerging trends in modern database management.
- Streaming Data & Real-Time Analytics: Harness the potential of real-time data processing for actionable insights.
- And Much More: Engage with a variety of topics that cater to all facets of Data & AI.
Even though Season of AI is a Microsoft initiative, there will be topics covering non-Microsoft tech as well. The event will feature a mix of 60-minute and 20-minute sessions, with speakers from a diverse panel of experts, architects, and Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) who are all at the forefront of their fields. This time we also will have a panel discussion where you can ask questions to the speakers.
So, whether you’re interested in what happened at Ignite, Azure Open AI, eager to explore the latest in Generative AI, passionate about database development, fascinated by machine learning, or interested in the world of streaming, there’s something for everyone. Our expert speakers are ready to share their insights and experiences, providing you with the knowledge and inspiration to propel your projects and career forward. This event is a MUST-ATTEND! 📈🤖
Why Attend
Data & AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI - AI @ Ignite++ is a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts, network with peers, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in Data & AI. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, this event offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to connect with like-minded individuals, expand your knowledge, and take your career to the next level.
Here are some quotes from previous events:
Event was well planned and organised. Catering was on par and the speakers were amazing. Organizers were welcoming and very helpful
Another awesome event 👏 Thanks to the organizers and all the sponsors for having such an amazing conference here in Durban for free An absolute privilege to attend and listen to such talented individuals and companies do wonders using AI and IT
What an incredible time at the Data and AI event in Durban! We had a blast sharing knowledge and connecting with 230 AI enthusiasts who are as passionate about the future of technology as we are! A massive shoutout to the organizers and sponsors for making this event possible. Your hard work and support made it a huge success!
This wasn’t just a local event but a world class AI and Data Conference for KZN , it reminded me as though I was at the Africa AI Expo last November in Sandton, this is how much this event has grown, and many new corners. Well done to all the amazing speakers and sponsors.
Links
Click on respective link for more information:
Speakers
The call for speakers (CfS) has now closed, and we are happy to announce that we have a stellar line-up of speakers for the event: thought leaders in their respective fields, Microsoft MVPs, Software Architects, etc. The line-up looks like so:
Even though the CfS has closed, we are still looking for speakers for upcoming events. If you are interested in speaking, please contact us.
Sessions
The awesome speakers you see above will be presenting on the following topics:
When you view the sessions, please note the following:
- We are feverishly working on the agenda, and it will be published here as soon as it is ready.
We, the organizing committee, are very excited about the topics and speakers, and we hope you are too!
Registration
The registration is now closed as the event is officially sold out! We are looking forward to seeing you all at the event!
Agenda
We believe we have a pretty solid agends for the event (there may be a change or two). The agenda looks like so:
When looking at the agenda, please note the following:
- Registration starts at 08:00, and the event starts at 08:20 sharp. There will be some interesting keynotes so please try to be there on time.
- The event ends at 17:45. Please try to stay for the entire event, as we have some exciting things planned for the end of the event.
- Some sessions are 20 minute sessions and some ar 60 minutes. In the agenda, we have indicated the start time of the session and the length above the session title.
- Thera are 10 minute breaks between sessions, and a 90 minute break for lunch.
- Also notice that for the first time in one of our events we have a panel discussion. This will be a great opportunity to ask questions to the speakers.
Just to be clear, the agenda is subject to change. We will update the agenda as and when changes occur. However, we are extremeley excited about the agenda, and we hope you are too!
Venue
Thanks to UNISA, our main sponsor for the event, we are happy to announce that the event will be held at Coastlands Musgrave Hotel in Musgrave, Durban.
Figure 2: Coastlands Musgrave Hotel
The venue is easily accessible by car and there is ample parking available. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a large auditorium, breakout rooms, and a spacious lobby area for networking.
The venue is located at: 315-319 Peter Mokaba Ridge, Musgrave, Durban.
If you come by car you park at the hotels secure parking.
Sponsors
We are excited to announce the upcoming Data and AI Community Day Durban: Season of AI. If recent events are any indication, this event promises to be a memorable and impactful experience for our community.
Figure 3: Season of AI
As organizers, we seek sponsors who share our commitment to supporting our community and would like to participate in this exciting event.
Your sponsorship would not only help us make this event a reality but also showcase your company’s dedication to our community. We have various sponsorship packages available to suit different budgets and marketing goals.
By partnering with us, you can promote your brand to a diverse audience, gain exposure through our marketing efforts, and align your company with a positive community initiative.
If you want to learn more about our event and the sponsorship opportunities available, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We would be happy to provide you with a detailed sponsorship proposal and discuss how your support can make a meaningful impact.