Six top creatives from across Asia and North America challenge the next generation to think independently, embrace human judgment, and find their creative edge in the age of AI.
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 October 2026 – If artificial intelligence can generate ideas in seconds, what will make the next generation of creatives stand out?
That was the central question addressed during the recent ONE Asia “Resist the Robot” Student MasterClass and Portfolio Review in Kuala Lumpur, organised by The One Club for Creativity and Level Up Professional Training.
Held immediately after the final judging for the 2026 ONE Asia Creative Awards, the free event brought together six acclaimed creative leaders, drawing a packed audience of over 200 students and lecturers from various educational institutions. Additional attendees followed the sessions from an overflow viewing space, while a YouTube livestream extended the event’s reach to virtual audiences.
The setting was equally significant. Hosted at Limapulo @ Tong Shin Terrace, a restored 1930s heritage building in Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Bintang district, the event brought conversations about creativity’s future into a space celebrating the craftsmanship of the past.
With its original architectural character, intricate flooring and restored interiors, the historic venue provided a fitting reminder of the value of human craft, imagination and cultural heritage.
“Resist the Robot” Student MasterClass sessions
While each speaker approached the challenge of AI from a different perspective, their presentations shared a common conviction: technology may change how creative work is produced, but the next generation must develop the distinctly human qualities that give that work meaning.
Below is a recap of their sessions.
Gigi Lee, Founder and Principal Designer, Klinik Gigi, Kuala Lumpur, “EVERLUTION”
Gigi Lee opened the MasterClass by examining creativity as a continuous process of evolution. Tracing the development of human expression from prehistoric times to the age of artificial intelligence, she challenged students to recognise change as a constant rather than a disruption. Her presentation positioned AI within a much longer history of creative transformation, encouraging young designers to embrace emerging technologies while continuously adapting their thinking, skills and perspectives to remain relevant in an evolving industry.
Rizza Garcia, Founder, Design Chief and Executive Creative Director, Lennon Group, Manila, “Creativity Is Life”
Rizza Garcia reminded students that creativity is shaped as much by living as by making. Drawing from her personal interests, cultural influences and creative projects, she demonstrated how curiosity, empathy and individual experiences develop original perspectives. Through campaigns celebrating independent filmmaking and Filipino National Artist Larry Alcala, she illustrated how creativity can connect communities and inspire participation. Her central message encouraged students to live fully, care deeply and create work that matters beyond commercial success.
Nick Noh, Creative Director, Rethink, Toronto, “Two Heads Are Better Than A.I.”
Nick Noh explored why meaningful human partnerships remain essential when AI can generate ideas almost instantly. Drawing from his longstanding collaboration with creative partner Jordan, he explained how trust, constructive disagreement and shared experiences help develop creative taste. Unlike AI systems that often respond within the expectations of a prompt, creative partners can challenge assumptions and push each other toward unexpected solutions. His session celebrated productive conflict as a powerful driver of originality.
Simon Au, Executive Creative Director, The Kitchen North America, Toronto, “The Authenticity Inflection: Why Your Human Voice Matters More in 2026”
Simon Au examined how brands can remain culturally relevant in an increasingly AI-driven environment. Through examples from Kraft Heinz, he explored the evolution of brand engagement with culture and the importance of recognising changing human behaviours and expectations. His presentation emphasised that understanding culture requires more than identifying patterns or following trends. It demands authentic human perspectives, sensitivity to context and the ability to build meaningful connections with audiences.
Pathida “Jern” Akkarajindanon, Chief Creative Officer, BBDO Bangkok, “Be Bad at Being a Robot (Some Bad Advice for Your Future)”
Pathida Akkarajindanon challenged conventional advice about becoming a successful creative professional. As AI makes knowledge, answers and idea generation increasingly accessible, she encouraged students to reconsider which skills truly distinguish human talent. Rather than competing with machines on speed or quantity, she emphasised the importance of asking better questions, framing problems intelligently and exercising judgment. Her deliberately unconventional advice demonstrated why independent thinking and thoughtful decisions matter more than producing endless ideas.
Asheen Naidu, Group Executive Creative Director, LEO Singapore, “Human Storytelling in the Age of AI”
Asheen Naidu demonstrated why human storytelling must remain at the centre of creative communication, even as AI becomes more sophisticated. Drawing on campaigns including Vaseline and the Real Nigerian Prince, he illustrated how technology can provide evidence, enhance credibility and support execution, while human characters create emotional connection. His presentation reinforced the importance of empathy, personality and storytelling in creating work that resonates with audiences, positioning AI as a supporting tool rather than the creative leader.
The event also featured a photography perspective from veteran photographer David Lok, who reflected on the importance of artistic sensitivity, technical craft and self-trust. Drawing from his own creative journey, he encouraged emerging artists to develop their skills and remain connected to their personal vision rather than becoming overly dependent on technology or commercial expectations.
Portfolio Reviews
Running simultaneously alongside the MasterClass sessions, the Portfolio Review provided students with valuable opportunities to receive direct, one-on-one feedback from experienced creative professionals.
The initiative gave aspiring designers, art directors and creative thinkers the chance to present their work, gain practical industry insights and better understand the expectations of creative employers.
Creative professionals who volunteered to serve as reviewers were:
- Mo Nazmi Ahmad, Senior Creative Director, Leo Malaysia
- Shireen Ang, Creative Director, Havas Malaysia
- Chee Wee Choo, Creative Partner, MUMA Malaysia
- Christyna Fong, Creative Director, Chariot
- Jaz Lee, Executive Creative Director, Leo Malaysia
- Kekfeng Lee, Founder & Designer, Studio Kekfeng
- Claudia Low, Creative Director, Ampersand Advisory
- Loo Swee Mei, Senior Creative Director, NagaDDB
- Justin Phang, Former Global Group Creative Director, Riot Games
- Surya Salleh, Executive Creative Director, VML Kuala Lumpur
Their participation reinforced The One Club’s commitment to bridging creative education and professional practice by making industry expertise accessible to emerging talent.
The club extended its appreciation to Level Up Professional Training, co-organiser of the MasterClass and Portfolio Review, for its partnership in bringing this educational initiative to Kuala Lumpur.
Special thanks also went to 4As Malaysia, Cotra Enterprises, Directors Think Tank, Wow Broadcast and Rtist Creative Platform for their support in making the event possible.
The organisers also acknowledge Limapulo @ Tong Shin Terrace for providing a distinctive heritage setting, along with Borderless, Klinik Gigi, the participating educational institutions, industry portfolio reviewers, volunteers, production teams and everyone who contributed to the day’s success.
As the industry continues to evolve, the event offered students an important reminder: the future of creativity is not simply about what technology can generate, but what human beings choose to imagine, question, and create.
The One Club for Creativity – home of The One Show, ADC Annual Awards, Art Directors Club of Europe (ADCE) awards, ONE Asia Creative Awards, Type Directors Club TDC competition and scholarships, ADC Young Guns, Young Ones Student Awards, global AI Creative Challenge, Next Creative Leaders, WAATBP Career Essentials career fair, Portfolio Night, Creative Week, and more – is the world’s foremost non-profit organization whose mission is to support and celebrate the success of the global creative community. Revenue generated from entries to its global awards shows goes back into the industry to fund programs that support industry access, creative education, professional development, and enhancement of creative careers around the world.
