With its unwavering commitment to innovation, the eleventh ‘We Love Learning Summit’ captivated all attendees. Held last Friday at Casa de América in Madrid, the summit saw over 200 L&D professionals come together for a unique event where leading voices in the field shared insights and experiences on trends shaping the future of corporate training. This year, Artificial Intelligence (AI) took centre stage.
Ana Armell, Strategic Content Manager at Netex Learning, hosted the event which was divided into two main sections. The first focused on current trends and topics, while the second was dedicated to sharing real-world experiences. Donald H. Taylor, Chairman of the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI), kicked off the day with a keynote presenting exclusive findings from the ‘Global Sentiment Survey’. This survey, involving thousands of L&D professionals from over 100 countries, acts as a barometer for annual e-learning trends. Taylor set the tone by revealing, “You are the first to see the survey results. As expected, AI dominates“.
Throughout his talk, he unpacked the survey findings, emphasizing the need to integrate data and skills for effectively incorporating AI into L&D strategies. He also highlighted the growing interest in learning analytics and personalisation, expressing surprise at the decline in social learning.
Following Taylor’s presentation, Teresa Rose, founder of ConsultHer, delved into implementing skill-based L&D strategies. “AI should be used to ensure data accuracy and focus on the right candidates”, she stated, stressing the importance of evidence-based practice and design thinking in optimising L&D resources. Rose encouraged attendees to consider how organisations can analyse and effectively apply data to their L&D strategies.
The first half of the ‘We Love Learning Summit’ concluded with a talk by Víctor Ramos, Head of Education & Research Spain at AWS. Ramos broadened the AI discussion, pondering on “how we can build a generative AI strategy leveraging all available machine learning models”. He also underscored the significance of transparency and personalisation in learning, pointing out that successful collaboration among stakeholders is key to success.
After a networking coffee break, the event’s second part commenced, focusing on real-life experiences. Estrella Galicia was awarded ‘Project of the Year’ for digitising its MEGA academy. This was followed by a panel discussion on upskilling and reskilling, featuring Liliana Meneses, Digital Learning Global Director at Banco Santander, and David López, National and Operations Director at Adecco, who provided practical insights on how AI and L&D strategies are transforming organisations from within.
Meneses highlighted, “generative AI tools are crucial for providing people with the information they need. Regarding skills, the key is for individuals to connect with the content and engage with the training effectively”.
López noted, “The most frustrating aspect of a learning process is when it barely touches you, lacking personalisation. Today, we have many tools to enhance personalisation. I see AI as another L&D colleague I must work with. It’s essential to have the capacity for seamless integration”.
Constanza García, B2C Commercial Channels Training Manager at Telefónica, then presented the Spanish operator’s success story as an example of large-scale training digitisation. García showcased the potential of innovative e-learning solutions and the benefits of implementing such strategies in organisations.
García emphasised the need for L&D strategies to have a tangible impact on employees. “We are at a crucial moment. We’re more connected than ever, but success isn’t just about having a digital component. Success is defined by professional development. How can we shift from ‘how many attended’ to ‘how much they learned’? That’s the focus, and personalisation is key“.
The summit concluded with an inspiring speech by Bisila Bokoko, founder and director of the business development agency BBES and one of the top 10 influential Spanish women in the US business world. Bokoko spoke on the value of education in professional and personal development. “Education is the key to unlocking doors. You may not choose where you’re born, but you can choose your actions”, she said. “The digital age requires leadership with a human touch. Without it, we’re missing something”.
The event’s most heartfelt moment came with the presentation of a special award to Ousman Umar for NASCO Feeding Minds, the NGO Umar founded that supports African youth’s education. ‘We Love Learning Summit’ has long supported NASCO, dedicating all proceeds from event tickets to Umar’s NGO. Umar thanked Netex for their support, highlighting education’s transformative impact on African youth. “‘We Love Learning Summit’ also helps thousands of African youths believe in a better future. Sincerely, thank you”.
The event wrapped up with a cocktail reception at Casa de América, where attendees enjoyed another networking session, sharing experiences and thoughts. This edition of ‘We Love Learning Summit’ served as a forum for discussing ideas and trends in L&D, demonstrating Netex Learning’s commitment to technological innovation and professional development.
