A leader in the field of Augmented Reality (AR) has been awarded the THIS IS FREMANTLE Aspire Award for 2023.
Natalie Marinho is the founder of Voyant Augmented Reality, a Fremantle-based studio that designs AR experiences for social impact and creative industries.
"What I love most about my job is working with people at the intersection of design and technology and using cutting-edge technology as a new way of storytelling and immersive experiences," Ms Marinho said.
Extended Reality is being used in a growing number of areas like film and TV production, architecture, mining and resources, and digital marketing.
The annual award, in partnership with Business Events Perth, enables recipients to attend an international business event for professional development purposes.
Ms Marinho holds industry roles with Propel Fremantle, Screenwest, WA Games Week, Immerse Australia and DesignFreo and in her spare time, she is also a mentor to young women pursuing careers in STEM.
"Winning the Aspire Award is an incredible honour and I feel like it's a recognition of the role that I play, not only in my own studio, but also in community and industry organisations," Ms Marinho said.
Ms Marinho plans to represent WA at the Augmented World Expo in California next year, which is the world's leading industry event for professionals working in Extended Reality.
Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said Ms Marinho was a deserving winner.
"Being able to send someone to a conference overseas where they get the latest thinking in their industry and bring it back here to Western Australia is fantastic, not only for them, but for our overall economic development," Mayor Fitzhardinge said.
Ms Marinho is one of eleven Aspire Award recipients this year, who will be able to network with like-minded professionals, and explore new avenues for collaboration, research, innovation, and trade.
Business Events Perth CEO, Gareth Martin, said Business Events Perth proudly recognises a group of Western Australia's brightest minds who will showcase the State's leading capabilities to the world.
"The recipients of the 2023 Aspire Awards represent the diversity of Western Australia's research and entrepreneurial strengths and exemplify the innovation that Western Australia is renowned for," Mr Martin said.
