Title
“Extended and Virtual Reality in action for Tomorrow’s Innovators.”
Date
October 22, 2025
Thematic
Free Time & New Media
Focus and Goal
The event will explore the latest advances in mixed reality – as applied to leisure, sport and work – and how these immersive technologies evolve from initial ideas to concrete applications, profoundly transforming the world of work and entertainment.
Speakers
- Howest XR Lab – Charlotte Larmuseau, Research Coordinator Smart Technology:
→ Charlotte Larmuseau provided an overview of the activities of the Howest XR Lab and demonstrated how extended reality (XR) technologies are supporting organisations in training, product development and remote collaboration. She highlighted a range of practical applications, including virtual learning environments, simulation-based training and the growing convergence between XR and artificial intelligence. - ULiA – Mario Matthys – Architect, urban planner, expert in XR and founder of UGent spin-off ULiA:
→ Mario Matthys explored how XR technologies can enhance urban planning, spatial design and stakeholder engagement. Through interactive visualisation tools and digital city models, he illustrated how XR can help organisations and policymakers better understand complex environments and support informed decision-making. - Hovertone – Nicolas d’Alessandro, Co-founder and Head Designer:
→ Nicolas d’Alessandro presented innovative immersive experiences that bridge design, technology and human interaction. His presentation showcased how XR can create engaging digital environments and new forms of interaction, opening up opportunities across a variety of sectors and use cases.
- VR Base case studies- Lode Snackaert, CEO VR Base & Co-Founder @ Spectr BIM:
→ Lode Snackaert shared several real-world case studies demonstrating how virtual reality is being used for training, skills development and knowledge transfer. He explained how VR enables safe, realistic and highly engaging learning experiences while helping organisations improve learning outcomes and operational efficiency.
- SupportSquare – Niko Verhaegen (Consultant XR, WIKomIQ) and Ben Mahy (Founder and CEO):
→ Niko Verhaegen and Ben Mahy demonstrated how augmented reality and remote assistance technologies can support employees and customers in real time. Their presentation focused on practical XR applications that facilitate knowledge sharing, improve efficiency and enable faster problem-solving across distributed teams.
- OneBonsai – Evarest Schoofs, Co-founder and AI Strategy:
→ Evarest Schoofs discussed the combination of XR and artificial intelligence in immersive learning and training environments. He presented examples showing how AI-driven simulations and virtual environments can deliver personalised learning experiences and support workforce development in sectors such as healthcare and industry.
