Author of Mao's Last Dancer to speak at CIT

The best-selling author of Mao's Last Dancer, Li Cunxin, who played the lead role in the book's big screen adaptation, will be in Canberra on Thursday as the keynote speaker at CIT's DevelopingUS conference.

Renowned for the autobiography that told of his journey from communist China, where he was born into poverty and became one of the world's most celebrated dancers, to his dramatic defection to the West, Li is now one of the most highly sought after motivational speakers on the international circuit.

Other speakers on the day include Centenary of Canberra Creative Director Robyn Archer, Paralympic athlete Michael Milton and creator of the Thunderbirds, Terry Hennessy.

DevelopingUs is an internal CIT conference designed to inspire staff in a time of significant change, with a refreshed strategic vision being driven by CEO Adrian Marron.

"CIT is a robust and innovative provider with an excellent record of achievement and recognition. We are proud of this; it is part of what makes CIT unique and is something we want to celebrate," Mr Marron said.

"The capacity to learn is important - both for the staff as individuals and for CIT as an organisation - and it will see the institution into the next phase in its evolution."

What: Li Cunxin, author of Mao's Last Dancer, DevelopingUs Keynote Address

When: 9:15am, Thursday, January 27

Where: H Block, CIT Bruce Campus, Haydon Drive, Bruce

Media is welcome to attend Li Cunxin's Keynote Address. Li Cunxin will also be available for media interviews from 11–11:30am at CIT's Bruce Campus.

Interviews with other speakers can be arranged.