Publicis Groupe opens the doors to ‘Le Checkpoint’ lounge at SXSW Sydney

In partnership with Reddit, Publicis Sapient and AWS, Publicis Groupe ANZ hosted the ‘Le Checkpoint’ lounge at SXSW Sydney 2025 – a curated space designed to help brands take the next step in their tech and marketing transformation journey.

A mix of client events, interactive demonstrations and even game shows featured in the lounge throughout the week. The curated talks included keynotes by Matthew Gerrard, International Head of Creative Strategy at Reddit; and Selim Unlusoy, Global Head of AI at LePub – previously named the most creative agency in the world by WARC. Other industry leaders on the speaker line up included Ben Colman, CMO of Superloop; Rita Arrigo, Strategic Engagement Manager at the National AI Centre; Ben Moir, Head of AI Innovation and Financial Services at AWS; Dr. Sam Chan, lecturer in Digital Cultures at the University of Sydney; and Georgia Grace, certified sex and relationship practitioner, somatic therapist and best-selling author.

Publicis Groupe ANZ speakers included Angela Robinson, Publicis Sapient Australia MD; Maurice Riley, Publicis ANZ Chief Data Officer; Mandie van der Merwe Saathi & Saatchi Australia CCO; Cat Wilkinson, Influential Australia GM; and Simon Brock, Digitas Australia ECD.