We are thrilled to announce three new Featured Sessions in the SXSW EDU 2026 lineup!
These sessions explore what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing world. By examining how technology, opportunity, and human connection shape the way we learn and grow, each conversation challenges us to design systems that expand possibilities rather than limit them.
Plus, you can start planning your schedule today! Session dates, times, and venues are now available in the SXSW EDU Schedule, so you can begin building a personalized agenda filled with the sessions that matter most to you.
Featured Sessions
How to Support Resilient Youth in an AI World
Generative AI is rapidly reshaping how young people learn, connect, and understand themselves. From AI tutors and creative tools to always-on digital companions, these technologies promise new opportunities, but also raise urgent questions about children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Rather than focusing on whether AI should be used in education, how do we ensure AI strengthens—rather than undermines—young people’s capacity to think, relate, and thrive?
Drawing from the recent Brookings report "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect,” with data across 50 countries, this panel will include a rich mix of perspectives and explore what it truly means to support resilient youth in an AI-saturated world.
- Martin McKay, Executive Chair & Founder, Everway
- Maureen Polo, CEO, Hello Sunshine
- Rebecca Winthrop, Director of the Center for Universal Education, Brookings
Redefining Redemption Through Talent, Culture, & Opportunity
America has a problem: 80 million people with records are locked out of work. This panel explores how cultural influence and gold standard hiring practices open pathways to education, apprenticeships, and meaningful second-chance employment. Attendees will learn from accomplished leaders who served time but refused to let their past define their future. They’ll share a practical playbook for building skills, leadership, and the transformative power of belief in possibility—and what it takes to achieve upward economic mobility with generational impact.
- Ken Oliver, President, JUMP (Justice and Upward Mobility Project)
- Larry Miller, Chairman of the Jordan Brand at Nike & Founder, JUMP (Justice and Upward Mobility Project)
Social Health Trends & Predictions: Connection is the New Frontier
Social health is today where mental health was 10-15 years ago—but we’ve reached a turning point. That was the bold claim from leading expert Kasley Killam in her SXSW 2025 opening keynote. This year, she’s back to reveal the most important breakthroughs, trends, and predictions shaping the rapidly growing movement to transform society through connection and community. Drawing on new research and cutting-edge innovation around the globe, Killam will surface surprising insights, the most promising opportunities for impact, and an inspiring vision of what’s next. No matter your industry, this is the session you can’t miss if you want to understand—and help lead—the future of relationships, longevity, and human thriving.
- Kasley Killam, Author, The Art and Science of Connection: Why Social Health is the Missing Key to Living Longer, Healthier, and Happier
Don’t Miss Out On SXSW EDU 2026
Register and book your hotel today to break new ground in education through compelling sessions, in-depth workshops, mentorship, film screenings, trailblazing competitions, a dynamic expo, networking opportunities, and so much more at SXSW EDU from March 9-12, 2026.
Be the first to know of any information leading up to the event through Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and our newsletter.
SXSW EDU Speaker Photos (left to right in order of appearance): Kelsey Killam, Ken Oliver, Larry Miller, Maureen Polo, Rebecca Winthrop, Martin McKay
