Alex Moffat – a Sydney-based trailblazing interactive keynote speaker and magician combining neuroscience, leadership, and live cognitive illusion – was crowned winner in the fiercely contested Best Newcomer category at the Speaker Awards 2026.
The Speaker Awards shine a much-deserved spotlight on the most inspiring and innovative speakers from around the world. Hundreds of international entries were submitted across this year’s categories, covering a wide array of specialisms, from AI and future technology speakers to motivational voices and event hosts.
Alex Moffat has become the first and only Australian winner of a judged category at The Speaker Awards, in the five years it has been running.
Entries were evaluated by a prestigious panel of judges, including prominent bookers, bureaus, strategists, and coaches, with razor-thin scoring margins separating many categories. The winners were revealed as part of a glamorous ceremony on Friday 3rd July 2026 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London St. Paul’s.
Moffat began performing magic professionally at 16 before spending two decades in financial services, including at RBS, Bankwest, Westpac, and ANZ Bank. He later transitioned into leadership development, becoming a Certified Brain-Based Coach and facilitator with the NeuroLeadership Institute. This unique blend is exactly what gives him the ability to turn audiences from passive listeners into active participants, combining science, storytelling, and magic to transform how people think, lead, and adapt.
With experience working with global and local companies and speaking at leading conferences, such as the AISWA Leaders Conference, on topics ranging from strengthening human connection and mental agility to unlocking potential, resilience, and thriving through change, Moffat is already recognised as a leading expert in his field, with this award win cementing his expertise.
“When I heard my name announced as the winner of the Best Newcomer category, I was both stunned and thrilled! I am honoured to have been recognised by such an esteemed industry panel,” said Moffat. “I want to thank everyone who has helped me achieve this milestone and feel privileged to have featured alongside such a high calibre of fellow speakers,” he added.
“The quality of applications this year was truly phenomenal, demonstrating the depth, breadth and significant contribution of professional speakers. The standard of entries made the judging process particularly tough, so we’d like to extend our congratulations to Alex for achieving this impressive milestone,” adds Elliot Kay, CEO and co-founder of The Speaker Awards and The Speaker Summit.
“We would like to express our gratitude to all those who entered this year’s awards. They are making an inspirational mark on the world, sharing knowledge, telling stories, and making a real impact on audiences across the globe,” Kay concludes.
