ADFEST 2026 announces ‘Human+’ theme, putting humanity at the heart of creativity

ADFEST has revealed Human+ as the theme for its 2026 edition, signalling a renewed focus on creativity that empowers while keeping humanity and its core values front and centre. The festival is set to take place from Thursday, 19 March to Saturday, 21 March 2026 at the Royal Cliff Hotels Group in Pattaya, Thailand. The call for entries will be announced shortly.

At a time of accelerating change, it’s easy for the spotlight to shine on technology, platforms and complex systems.

Human+ is founded on the conviction that true, enduring value lies not only in these tools, but in how they empower people.

It is crucial we amplify fundamental human qualities: creativity, curiosity, culture, empathy, resilience and compassion.

We must employ a people-first approach, where humanity is at the very core of everything we do.

The + stands for the powerful forces that can elevate humanity. It’s a framework for expanding human capacity, meaning and impact. Creativity, at its heart, ensures that as the world rapidly evolves, humanity remains at the epicentre of progress.

Join us to explore the endless possibilities of Human+
Inspired by Rob Sherlock, Chair of the ADFEST Collective Advisory Board, “Human+ is more than existing next to AI. It is intentionally making the human element the absolute center of everything. The true power of Human+ is its demand for a paradigm shift. We must move beyond simply ‘being human’ in the age of algorithms and instead insist that the full spectrum of our humanity—our ethics, our empathy, our imagination—is the indispensable core that defines, drives, and governs the technology we create.”

Vinit Suraphongchai, Chairman of ADFEST, said: “The Human+ theme perfectly encapsulates the spirit of ADFEST. At its heart, ADFEST has always been about people. It’s about celebrating the human connections, human insights, and human creativity that drive our industry. Even as we embrace the future of AI, ADFEST remains the essential place where our community comes together, because genuine inspiration and collaboration only happen when humans are at the center.”

As the beacon of Asian branded marketing communications creativity, ADFEST is the dynamic annual celebration of Asian cultures. It offers an unparalleled combination of learning, inspiration, and networking—no other regional event provides such a rich mix of industry forums, breakout sessions, cultural connectivity, and multi-event awards. At its heart, ADFEST is the place to meet and be inspired.

ADFEST is a not-for profit entity that believes passionately in its role to nurture and support the creative industry in the Asia Pacific and MENA region. It is 1 of 12 awards included in the Campaign Brief Asia Creative Rankings.

ADFEST 2026 will be open for program proposal submissions and call for entries very soon, so stay tuned for more updates.