Australian founder wins awards for mental health AI

Australian psychologist and entrepreneur Marika Conomos, founder and CEO of UpLift AI, has been honoured with a total of six major awards across two global stages — in Sydney and London — recognising her trailblazing work in ethical AI, mental health accessibility, and tech-for-good innovation.

Marika made history at the Women Leading Tech Awards, hosted by Atlassian in Sydney, where she became the first individual to win a Trifecta of awards, which included Developer of the Year, Entrepreneur/Founder of the Year, and the evening’s highest honour, Woman of the Year. Her wins beat finalists from powerhouse companies like Canva, Google, Meta, Atlassian, and Woolworths Group.

Just days later, she was celebrated on an international stage at the Women Changing the World Global Awards in London, presented by Sarah, The Duchess of York. There, Marika received three more global honours in Health Tech Innovation, Health & Wellbeing, and Rising Star for her creation of UpLift AI — a human-AI hybrid model transforming the delivery of mental health care in Australia and beyond.

“To be recognised both at home and internationally for building something so personal and purpose-driven is incredibly humbling,” said Marika.

“This isn’t just about awards. It’s a sign that the world is ready for ethical, human-first tech that serves real people in real systems.”

UpLift AI is Australia’s first AI Co-Therapist platform, developed to help bridge the growing gaps in the mental health care system. The platform uses generative AI to support clinicians with administrative tasks, extend care between sessions, and provide patients with personalised, accessible support — without replacing the human connection at the core of therapy.

As a psychologist, clinic owner, and mother of three, Marika created UpLift AI from firsthand experience of the challenges facing both patients and practitioners. With her proof of concept complete, early investment secured in just four days, and her MVP in development, UpLift is now preparing for its next phase of growth, global partnerships, and pilot clinic implementation.

About UpLift AI
UpLift AI is a pioneering Australian mental health technology platform using generative AI to enhance care delivery. Through its Human-AI Therapist Hybrid model, it supports clinicians and clients with scalable, personalised care while preserving the therapeutic relationship. UpLift is currently completing its MVP phase and preparing for launch.