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Workday Rising Las Vegas began with an electrifying Welcome Keynote, setting the stage for an unforgettable week of innovation, learning, and collaboration. Attendees were treated to insights from industry leaders, powerful conversations, and bold visions for the future of work. From the first moment, it was clear that this year’s event was all about driving transformation, with AI at the forefront.

Innovation in Action

The keynote opened with Workday CEO Carl Eschenbach, who was joined on stage by McLaren CEO Zak Brown. Together, they took the audience behind the scenes of Formula 1 racing, exploring how agility, innovation, and bold decision-making are key drivers of success in both business and racing. Brown’s insights highlighted how success is not just about the technology itself, but about understanding and maximizing its potential—a metaphor that resonated deeply with attendees across industries.

Carl Eschenbach emphasized that Workday is at the center of a global transformation, driven by AI. He introduced Workday Illuminate, the next-generation AI platform designed to revolutionize business operations. Eschenbach’s memorable statement, “It takes an evolution to spark the AI revolution,” captured the essence of Workday’s approach: continuous improvement and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Workday Illuminate represents a bold new step in using AI to enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and accelerate growth for organizations worldwide.

Eschenbach’s message was clear: technology is evolving from simply working with people to working for them, creating a future where AI empowers us to achieve more than ever before.

Empowerment and Leadership: A Conversation with Michelle Obama

The keynote reached a powerful crescendo with the much-anticipated conversation between Former First Lady Michelle Obama and Workday CMO Emma Chalwin. From the moment Michelle Obama took the stage, the atmosphere shifted—her presence and words resonated deeply with everyone in the room.

Michelle Obama spoke passionately about resilience, authenticity, and leadership, reflecting on her own journey as a woman of color breaking barriers. She shared how phrases like “You can’t” and “You shouldn’t” were challenges she had to overcome in order to define her own path. Her message of staying true to oneself and embracing vulnerability struck a chord with the audience, reminding us all that true leadership isn’t just about strength but also about being open and authentic.

One of the most powerful metaphors she shared was the idea of the “kitchen table,” a safe space where honest conversations happen, where strength is built, and where genuine connections are made. This metaphor resonated as a call to build communities of trust and support, both in personal and professional spheres. Obama’s reflections on mentorship also emphasized that leadership is not just about formal roles, but about the example we set through our everyday actions.

Her concept of the “symptom of climbing” illustrated the real challenges of success. While many strive for achievement, the true test comes during the climb—navigating obstacles, staying resilient, and growing through adversity. She emphasized that success requires perseverance and the ability to handle the pressure that comes with rising to the top.

Michelle Obama’s conversation left the audience not only inspired but also empowered to lead with resilience, kindness, and authenticity. Her message was a reminder that success is about more than reaching the summit—it’s about growing through the challenges of the journey.

Setting the Stage for the Week Ahead

The Welcome Keynote wasn’t just about looking ahead—it set the tone for the entire week. With AI, innovation, and human-centric leadership at the forefront, attendees were encouraged to dive into the sessions with these themes in mind. The focus was clear: transforming the way we work, with AI as the driving force for change.

The keynote reinforced the importance of community and collaboration as we explore these new technologies together. Whether through exploring the latest tools or engaging in thoughtful discussions, the Workday community is stronger than ever, united by a shared vision for the future of work.

The Welcome Keynote was met with enthusiasm, both in-person and online. Social media buzzed with reactions as attendees shared their favorite moments, from Carl Eschenbach’s bold vision for AI to Michelle Obama’s powerful words on leadership and resilience. The energy in the room was undeniable, setting the stage for a week of exploration, innovation, and meaningful connections.

Stay tuned for more highlights and insights as Workday Rising 2024 continues!