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Ross Douglas
Founder/CEO Autonomy & The Urban Mobility Summit
Professional Background
Ross Douglas is a visionary South African entrepreneur and a leading force in the realm of urban mobility and sustainability. With a rich career that began in filmmaking, Ross has merged his creative talents with a deep commitment to addressing global challenges, specifically around urban transportation and climate change.
Initially, Ross gained recognition as a filmmaker, creating groundbreaking content that captured the beauty and behavior of sharks in their natural habitat. His work for National Geographic marked a pivotal moment in wildlife documentary filmmaking as he pioneered the use of free-diving techniques to engage audiences with the realities of marine life. Further solidifying his status in the arts, he collaborated with acclaimed artist William Kentridge on the ambitious project '9 Films for Projection,' which showcased his talent in various prestigious venues including New York's Central Park, London's Barbican, and Berlin's Guggenheim Museum.
In 2008, Ross shifted his focus to the arts and entrepreneurship by founding an art event company and launching the FNB Joburg Art Fair. This event marked a significant milestone as it became the first-ever African contemporary art fair, creating an essential platform for artists and art enthusiasts across the African continent.
Driven by a concern for climate change and sustainability, Ross pivoted from the arts to addressing transportation challenges in urban settings. Recognizing that road transport is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, he founded Autonomy in Paris in 2015. This innovative event brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore new mobility solutions dedicated to reducing emissions and traffic congestion. Over the years, Autonomy has built strong partnerships with leading companies including Renault, Engie, Uber, SNCF, and more, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of the new mobility movement.
Now in its fourth year, Autonomy has achieved remarkable success as a platform for discussing and developing sustainable urban mobility solutions. The event has garnered vital partnerships with influential city networks like C40, Polis, and ICLEI, showcasing Ross's ability to connect diverse stakeholders in the quest for a more sustainable future.
Additionally, Ross leads the publication of 'The Urban Mobility Weekly,' a widely recognized source of information and insights on urban mobility issues, reaching over 20,000 readers each week. As a sought-after speaker in the field, he shares his knowledge and vision for the future of mobility at various industry conferences and forums, inspiring change and innovation.
Education and Achievements
Ross Douglas holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Economics and Philosophy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His educational background has provided him with a robust foundation to navigate the complexities of both creative endeavors and entrepreneurial ventures. This unique combination of skills has enabled Ross to successfully bridge the gap between the arts and critical social initiatives in urban mobility.
In his numerous roles, Ross has been instrumental in not just conceptualizing but also executing groundbreaking projects that resonate well beyond their initial scope. The FNB Joburg Art Fair remains a significant achievement in the African art scene, while Autonomy has positioned him as a key advocate for sustainable mobility solutions worldwide.
Achievements
- Founded Autonomy, the first global event dedicated to innovations in urban mobility, creating vital discussions around sustainability.
- Initiated and produced the FNB Joburg Art Fair, the world's first African contemporary art fair, which has become a pivotal event for promoting African art on the global stage.
- Collaborated with notable artists and institutions, including a significant partnership with William Kentridge, leading to successful exhibitions in major cultural hubs.
- Developed strong partnerships with renowned companies and city networks, contributing to the advancement of urban mobility and sustainable practices.
- Launched and oversees 'The Urban Mobility Weekly,' an influential publication that informs over 20,000 readers about trends and innovations in urban mobility.
- Recognized as a thought leader and speaker on new mobility topics, engaging with audiences worldwide to promote sustainable transportation solutions.
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