TALLINN, Estonia (May 15, 2025) — Renowned British urban strategist Charles Landry and Estonian tech investor and Wise co-founder (formerly transferwise) Taavet Hinrikus will headline Latitude59’s main stage this year with a joint presentation that will unveil a bold new vision for sustainable urban development in Estonia.
In a statement released Thursday, Marina Bachmann, Press Officer for Latitude59, said the collaboration reflects the conference’s growing focus on cross-sector innovation. She said Landry and Hinrikus together bring a powerful message of imagination, purpose and future-focused leadership that resonates with this year’s theme, Be bold. Build the world you want.
Latitude59 CEO Liisi Org said the keynote will offer more than inspiration. It will provide real insight into how creativity and investment can shape the cities of tomorrow.
“Landry’s vision of how cities can respond to globalization and technological change through creative thinking touches everyone,” said Org. “Together with Hinrikus’s announcement, this session offers a compelling look at how ideas become action.”
Speaking in Estonia for the first time, Landry said he sees strong alignment between his work and the spirit of Latitude59.
“Latitude59 brings together innovation and creativity and the desire for meaningful development,” Landry said. “Urban spaces that adapt to change must be built by people who apply imagination and innovation in everything they do.”
Hinrikus, co-founder of Wise and partner at the investment firms Plural and Skaala, will announce new developments in the Krulli quarter. This former industrial zone in Tallinn is being transformed into a modern hub for creativity, entrepreneurship and inclusive community life.
“We are building a human-centered neighborhood that enables people and companies to grow with purpose,” said Hinrikus. “This is not just about real estate. It is about shaping how we live and work together.”
Landry and Hinrikus will share their ideas on the intersection of culture, economy and urban space. They will present a future-oriented model for urban resilience that values human potential and collaboration. Their keynote will also introduce plans for a major innovation hub based in the Krulli district.
In addition to their main stage appearance, Landry will also participate in an expert seminar at the KOTA Club in the Krulli quarter, where local leaders and stakeholders are invited to discuss the future of cities.
Charles Landry is a globally recognized urbanist and author known for developing the concept of the creative city. He advises governments and cities around the world on unlocking cultural assets and human imagination to drive urban innovation. His books include The Creative City, The Art of City Making and The Civic City in a Nomadic World.
Taavet Hinrikus is an entrepreneur and investor. He co-founded Wise and has been a central figure in Estonia’s technology ecosystem. Through his work with Skaala and Plural, Hinrikus focuses on building ventures and environments that support long-term social and economic impact. He also co-founded Jõhvi Coding School to expand access to digital education in Estonia.
Latitude59 is the leading technology and startup conference in the Baltic and Nordic regions. The 2025 edition will take place from May 21 to 23 in Tallinn, Estonia. The event brings together startups, investors and innovation leaders from around the world to explore the ideas and tools shaping the future.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
