Conference Review: “Empower. Inspire. Celebrate. Humanity, Thinking and the Age of AI”
On 6 June 2026, RISEBA University hosted the conference “Humanity, Thinking and the Age of AI”, jointly organised by the International Coaching Federation Latvia (ICF Latvia) and RISEBA. The event brought together students, alumni, coaches, HR and talent development professionals, managers, entrepreneurs, and other interested participants, creating a platform for knowledge exchange, discussion, and the development of new ideas.
While artificial intelligence is capable of providing answers within seconds, an increasingly important question remains: how can we preserve our ability to think critically, analyse information, and make high-quality decisions in a world where more and more processes are becoming automated?
The role of human beings in an era of rapid change and technological advancement was explored by Artur Chernikau, MCC coach and founder of TeamLead Academy. In his presentation, “Change. Crisis. Coaching. Remaining Human in the Age of AI”, he highlighted the importance of empathy, self-awareness, and leadership, emphasising that these competencies will remain essential for professionals in the future.
Alla Kazajeva, graduate of RISEBA’s International Business MBA programme, coach, and mediator, introduced participants to the possibilities of using artificial intelligence in coaching, demonstrating how AI can support the development process of both coaches and clients. Elīna Tiliba, a student of Business Psychology, focused on the role of artificial intelligence in personal development, highlighting the importance of self-management and purposeful growth.
A practical perspective on implementing AI solutions in organisations was provided by Rūdolfs Emīls Brakšs, founder and CEO of RR Network. In his presentation, “Advisor or Executor? How Work Changes When AI Joins the Team”, he shared insights into automation and AI implementation in Latvian companies, stressing that the ability to collaborate effectively with technology will become increasingly important in the future.
Particular interest was generated by the panel discussion “Does AI Make People More Effective or More Superficial?”, featuring RISEBA Business Psychology student Inga Eņģele, Katrīna Zolneroviča, and entrepreneur Ents Putniņš. The discussion was moderated by Tatjana Kučerenka. Panellists explored the impact of artificial intelligence on workplace efficiency, attention span, and the quality of human thinking, reflecting on how to balance the opportunities offered by technology with the need to maintain critical and independent thought.
The quality of decision-making in the age of AI was addressed by Liene Freija Lund, who emphasised the importance of reflection, conscious listening, and the ability to pause when making well-considered decisions. Gita Meldere focused on authentic communication, examining how to preserve trust, authenticity, and meaningful human interaction in a time when digital tools and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly prevalent.
In closing, conference host Baiba Zāmuele encouraged participants to reflect on the insights and skills they could carry forward into their professional and personal development in the age of artificial intelligence.
The conference demonstrated that artificial intelligence is not merely a technological tool but also an opportunity to reassess and appreciate uniquely human capabilities. Critical thinking, empathy, authentic communication, collaboration, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions are skills whose value will only continue to increase. At the same time, collaborative initiatives between universities, students, alumni, and industry professionals foster meaningful dialogue about the future of work and the role of people within it.
We are particularly pleased to strengthen our cooperation with ICF Latvia and extend our sincere gratitude to ICF Latvia President Evita Melne and her team for their successful partnership and valuable contribution to the organisation of this conference.
Photo: Jevgenijs Davidkins