How social media has taught us to perform identity, rather than live it

James Cook University is committed to creating a brighter future for life in the tropics world-wide through graduates and discoveries that make a difference. From the picturesque Thursday Island to the beautiful Cairns and all the way down to Townsville, Mackay and Brisbane, JCU students are working in the community. Across the world, JCU’s research centres and alumni are working at the cutting edge of their fields to make the world a better place.Our students can study throughout Queensland in Townsville, Cairns, Mt Isa, Mackay, Thursday Island, or Brisbane, and internationally in Singapore. Exchange programs can also expand study further afield. Students also benefit from incredible research facilities, which include our Orpheus Island Research Station, Fletcherview Research Station, Daintree Rainforest Observatory and 26 specialised research centres and institutes.CRICOS Provider Code: 00117J

JCU: College of Business, Law and Governance

An exploration of performative behaviour and how, in the prolific era, identity has become a driver of engagement rather than authenticity.

JCU: James Cook University, Australia, Townsville, Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas, Building 142 Room 111

Join us at a public lecture by guest presenter, and JCU Alumni, Alexis Zahner, a business psychology professional, communications leader, and author of Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies.Drawing on her expertise in human behaviour, communication and digital culture, Alexis explores how technology and social media are reshaping the way we think, connect and work. Her work examines how social platforms shape attention, behaviour, and self-concept, and offers practical insights into leading, connecting and living authentically in an increasingly attention-driven world.What attendees walk away with:<ul><li>Understanding how their identity is developed, and how the version rewarded by likes, comparison, and algorithmic legibility becomes an addictive loop</li><li>Why performance, comparison, and validation-seeking online are a design outcome of the platforms, not a personal failing — removing the shame so change feels possible</li><li>How authenticity has been commoditised and monetised on social media – and what we should be striving for instead.</li><li>When life becomes the performance, how to step back Realise - Align - Expand and Live (REAL).</li></ul>We look forward to seeing you there! Please note the lecture will take place in Building 142, Room 111 in The Science Place.

How social media has taught us to perform identity, rather than live it

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How social media has taught us to perform identity, rather than live it

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