Member Spotlight – Arek Rejman
Director, AI Compass
Where do you live?
Parrearra
Tell us about your family?
Married with two teenage kids who’ve caught the entrepreneurial bug. My son runs YouTube channels focused on e-scooters and electric vehicles. My daughter is passionate about app development and was invited to present at a Swift Student Challenge event.
Favourite location on the Coast?
La Balsa Park, just beneath Point Cartwright hill. It’s peaceful, green and happens to be steps away from the best Merlo Coffee.
Which local person inspires you?
Richard Thompson, from Thompson Legal. He’s done an outstanding job branding his firm around practical outcomes and genuine client care. His podcast Success x Happiness is like a Sunshine Coast version of Diary of a CEO, authentic, sharp and deeply local. I admire how he blends the discipline of an elite athlete into his business leadership.
Favourite local business?
Bundle of Rays. I first discovered it at The Google Factor event, and what struck me wasn’t just its tech but its boldness. It tackles big, global problems with immersive ideas and real courage – that rare startup energy that feels both grounded and visionary.
Best thing about living on the Sunshine Coast?
The perfect blend of lifestyle and innovation. We’re evolving into Australia’s ethical tech hub with world-class infrastructure, a vibrant business community and a coastal pace that reminds you to breathe.
What’s the best thing about being a Chamber member?
The depth of connection. It’s not just business cards, it’s conversations that lead to collaborations, insights and real support. It’s an abundance of knowledge and experience. I’m a lifelong learner and absolutely thrive in this environment.
Favourite ChamberCast with the President and Pep?
It’s on my to-do list! With everything moving so fast in AI, it’s been tricky to carve out time, but the series is downloaded and queued. I love how it blends real conversations with leadership insights.
Favourite Chamber event?
The leadership event at Pier 33 with David Neal, from The Eighth Mile Consulting. His reflections on combat leadership and business paradoxes were unforgettable. His story of Brigadier Appleton standing with his back to an oncoming tank still gives me chills.
How can the Sunshine Coast be improved?
Continue encouraging collaboration between startups, educators and local government. Let’s invest in AI and tech education from the ground up – not just tools, but mindset.
What excites you about the future of the region?
The transformation into the ‘Silicon Coast’. We’re no longer Brisbane’s sleepy cousin. We’re now a testbed for ethical tech, innovation and human-centred AI.
Read Arek’s full Member Spotlight in My Weekly Preview.
