Islamabad: SOT Events launched its 20th edition, Possible Worlds, in Islamabad on October 24, bringing together leading voices from diverse fields for a day of discussions on the future of humanity.
Themed around the idea that the future is shaped by the decisions made today, Possible Worlds examines a range of possible futures and the choices that could influence them. The Islamabad edition, the first of three events planned across Pakistan, featured eight sessions covering the future of learning and work, climate resilience, online safety, artificial intelligence, beauty, geopolitics, conflict and the arts.
Despite stormy weather, the event attracted large audiences from Islamabad and surrounding areas.
One of the highlights was “Who Owns Imagination?”, a combination of discussion and music featuring Ali Azmat and other voices from the music and arts communities. Curated in collaboration with the Lahore Biennale Foundation, the session explored how artificial intelligence is affecting creativity and artistic expression. A live DJ performance added an experiential dimension to the conversation.
Another widely attended session brought together aestheticians and psychologists to examine growing pressures around idealised appearance. The discussion explored the role of AI in shaping beauty standards as well as the physical and psychological costs associated with pursuing them.
A separate debate examined whether AI is making people less human, weighing its potential benefits against concerns surrounding creativity, judgement and human connection.
Journalist Syed Talat Hussain moderated a discussion with Dr Moeed Yusuf, Fahd Husain and Munizae Jahangir on shifting global power dynamics and the implications of an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.
Other sessions focused on issues affecting families and communities. “Growing Up Online” examined the shared responsibility of protecting children from digital harm, while “Communities on the Climate Frontline” explored how communities most exposed to climate shocks can strengthen their resilience.
Organised by Beaconhouse Group, SOT Events has evolved over more than 25 years into a major platform for public discourse in Pakistan. In 2026, the event is being held across three cities.
Following Islamabad, Possible Worlds will move to Lahore on November 28 and 29 at Faletti’s Hotel, featuring two days of discussions, debates, performances and interactive experiences. The series will conclude in Karachi on December 12 at Beach Luxury Hotel.
Speaking about this year’s theme, SOT Events Chair and Beaconhouse CEO Kasim Kasuri said, “SOT has always created space to question, challenge and exchange ideas openly. Taking Possible Worlds to three cities allows us to widen that exchange and bring more people into conversations that will ultimately affect us all.”
UBL is the Lead Sponsor of SOT Events 2026, supporting the event series across all three cities.