AI Unplugged II — The Maskandi Sessions

Overview

Data enthusiasts, AI innovators, and tech explorers are invited to Data & AI Community Day Durban: AI Unplugged II — The Maskandi Sessions. This is a full-day, in-person event designed to deliver honest, practical, no-hype talks about AI, data, and cloud technologies with a local Durban focus. The event is organized by the Azure, AI/ML & Data Community Durban and aims to bring together a packed house of developers, data professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts for an immersive learning experience. Attendees can expect a day of real-world insights, deep technical depth, and opportunities to connect with local and global voices in the field. The session lineup emphasizes practical patterns, architectures, and hands on knowledge that participants can apply on Monday morning. The theme centers on authentic, actionable content rather than buzzwords, tuned to a Durban frequency.

What to Expect

The program blends AI, data analytics, development, and industry topics into a cohesive learning experience. Topics span AI agents and multi-agent systems, generative AI, model context and integration patterns, AI coding and development workflows, small language models, responsible AI, and African use cases. There is a dedicated track on data and analytics covering technologies such as Microsoft Fabric, data engineering, database development, streaming data, and Power Platform. The development track includes .NET, DevOps, platform engineering, cybersecurity, career development, and real world use cases. A highlight is the legendary panel discussion where experts tackle tough questions in a live forum. The event also features the Future Heroes Student Showcase, offering students a chance to present work to industry professionals and potential employers. The format is a mix of deep dives and lightning talks, with breaks to foster networking among peers.

Agenda

The day is planned as a full schedule of sessions, including 50 minute deep dives and 20 minute lightning talks. A panel discussion is anticipated, along with opportunities for networking and the Future Heroes student showcase. Specific session topics and times are to be announced as the agenda is confirmed. Registration is expected to open in advance, with the event running from morning until late afternoon.

Speakers and Session Proposals

The event encourages local and regional speakers, including Microsoft MVPs, architects, and other experts in AI, data, and software development. There is a call for speakers for AI Unplugged II, inviting proposals that deliver practical, hands on content. The page notes that session proposals are welcome across a range of topics and that some sessions may be submitted through external portals.

Venue

The venue is Richfield College, Umhlanga Campus, Centenary Boulevard, Park Square, Umhlanga. The campus is described as having modern lecture theatres, strong Wi-Fi, excellent A/V equipment, and secure parking. Address details place the event at Park Square in Umhlanga, with directions and maps available for attendees.

Who Should Attend

This event targets developers, data professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts who want practical AI and data content without hype. Attendees can expect to gain real world insights, practical patterns, and direct access to a community that values learning and collaboration.

Registration

Registration for this event is free and in high demand. Details indicate that space is limited and registration is required to guarantee a spot. Attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this community driven event.

FAQs

The page notes that the event is in person and free, with limited seats. It also emphasizes the community driven nature of the event and invites attendees to engage with speakers and sponsors for further opportunities. For those seeking more information, contact channels are provided.