I’m a CX and product leader obsessed with designing experiences that feel as good as they work. From building customer journeys and operational systems from scratch, to driving adoption and loyalty with behavioral nudges—I help brands move with clarity, empathy, and intention.

Right now, I lead Customer Experience at Magnum Insight, where I shape service design and experience strategy across key touchpoints. I’ve worked across tech, AI, fintech, and immigration—especially in fast-moving environments where nothing existed before.

Whether it’s CX, ops, or product thinking, I care about structure that serves both customers and teams. I also mentor up-and-coming CX professionals and believe the best systems are the ones that make people feel seen.

I’m a CX and product leader obsessed with designing experiences that feel as good as they work. From building customer journeys and operational systems from scratch, to driving adoption and loyalty with behavioral nudges—I help brands move with clari... Show more

For 20 years Bohdan Dmytryshyn has provided expertise as Solution Architect, Project Manager and Data Analysis consultant in one of the biggest Ukrainian IT outsourcing companies. Altogether, Bohdan has gained 25 years of experience in the universe of data management and software application development (java and open-source stack) and all related fields of software engineering, project management and technology.

For 20 years Bohdan Dmytryshyn has provided expertise as Solution Architect, Project Manager and Data Analysis consultant in one of the biggest Ukrainian IT outsourcing companies. Altogether, Bohdan has gained 25 years of experience in the universe o... Show more

Hi There,

I have worked with Microsoft data technologies since SQL Server 7.0. Initially, I was a VB developer, but in 2000 I pivoted into a data role and since then I have worked on hundreds of projects using combinations of MS SQL DB Engine, Analysis Services, SSIS, SSRS, PowerBI, Tabular, Power Automate, Power Apps, and more.

I have run my own consultancy company since 2012 and have a range of clients from just a few users to 5000+ users, across retail, automotive, public sector, and food production. I now split my time between
-> Client Consultancy Engagements
-> Client Data Solution Development Skills
-> Training - Private and Public

I am a regular speaker on Microsoft Data Platform topics and co-leader of the Cork SQL User Group, Cork PowerBI User Group, and Data Céilí. All of my talks and training courses are heavily influenced by real work problems and solutions that I encounter on a daily basis.

Hi There, I have worked with Microsoft data technologies since SQL Server 7.0. Initially, I was a VB developer, but in 2000 I pivoted into a data role and since then I have worked on hundreds of projects using combinations of MS SQL DB Engine, An... Show more

Meet celebrity hairstylist and barber, Contressa Oliver. As a published licensed master cosmetologist, barber, and instructor in the state of Georgia, Contressa is a serial entrepreneur and a mogul in the beauty industry. While working for companies such as the very popular Regis Corporation, Contressa has earned a reputation in the beauty industry and is a member of the Professional Beauty Association. As an educator for the Bronner Bros. International Beauty Show, Contressa is able to showcase her skills while continuously spreading her knowledge to cosmetologists and instructors worldwide. Her work has been featured on MSN and Rolling Out.

With over 25 years under her belt, Contressa teaches for the Georgia Department of Education and for the Technical College System of Georgia. "As a high school educator, teaching the cosmetology pathway is a great way for students to not only get a jump start on earning college credits but also a great opportunity for students to gain knowledge and hands-on experience. Students graduate from high school with a certificate(s), diploma, and/or an associate’s degree that allows them to go straight into their career field.

"Teaching post-secondary education allows me to prep students for their state board licensure exams and teach them the rules and regulations of their state. My number one priority is building their confidence, pushing them to their highest potential, and helping them accomplish their goals. I’ve served as a judge and advisor for Georgia’s SkillsUSA Cosmetology for the past two years. By having experience in both areas, I can properly train students for regional, state, and national competitions."

Contressa is the founder and CEO of Noble Glam Hair Collection LLC, an e-commerce beauty supply store that services customers worldwide. She is also the founder of REVILO Gives, Inc., a nonprofit organization that bridges the gap between beauty and wellness and shares helpful articles for men and women to spread awareness on ways to increase inward health, leading to longer outward beauty.

Meet celebrity hairstylist and barber, Contressa Oliver. As a published licensed master cosmetologist, barber, and instructor in the state of Georgia, Contressa is a serial entrepreneur and a mogul in the beauty industry. While working for companie... Show more

Andrew Smart is the CEO and owner of Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company, based in Greenville, South Carolina. With years of experience in food manufacturing and brand development, he has established a strong reputation for his commitment to quality and innovation. His leadership is defined by his focus on the products his companies create and the people contributing to their success.

Since 2005, Andrew has served as the CEO of DiscoverFresh Foods, which produces homemade-style food products like dips, spreads, granola, and desserts. DiscoverFresh has a high food safety standard and holds a Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification. Beyond food manufacturing, DiscoverFresh offers product development, marketing, and creative design services, helping brands efficiently bring new products to market. The company has partnered with major brands like Hidden Valley® Ranch, Texas Pete® Hot Sauce, and Louisiana Hot Sauce, offering solutions to meet diverse needs in the food industry.

Andrew’s approach to leadership centers on building strong teams and fostering an environment of growth and development. He believes that the people behind a company drive its success. At DiscoverFresh, the “Serve, Connect, and Make a Difference” mission guides every aspect of the business, from the relationships the company builds with clients to the opportunities it creates for employees. His commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining a positive company culture has been instrumental in DiscoverFresh’s success.

In 2018, recognizing the growing need for specialized food safety testing, Andrew founded Core Catalyst Food Sciences. The laboratory, ISO-IEC 17025-certified, provides essential testing services to food manufacturers, helping them ensure their products meet rigorous safety and quality standards. Core Catalyst’s services include shelf-life testing, challenge trials, and food safety consultations. By offering these services, Core Catalyst assists food companies in bringing safe, high-quality products to market. Clients of Core Catalyst include U.S. Waffle Company, Lean Kitchen Company, and Signature Seasonings, among others.

In addition to his work in the food industry, Andrew Smart of Greenville, SC, is dedicated to supporting education and community development. He has been involved with Clemson University and Wingate University, making significant contributions. In 2022, he and his wife, Julie, made a $2 million donation to Wingate University Athletics to fund the construction of a new training facility for student-athletes. This donation reflects their belief in the value of education and their desire to support the next generation of leaders.

Andrew and Julie, who work as the director of the Doctor of Education program at Anderson University, have two children, Drew and Claire. As a family, they prioritize community involvement and supporting causes that promote education, personal development, and growth. His leadership and philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to making a meaningful impact in the food industry and the communities where he lives and works. He makes a lasting difference in his businesses and community through his dedication to quality, service, and innovation.

Andrew Smart is the CEO and owner of Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company, based in Greenville, South Carolina. With years of experience in food manufacturing and brand development, he has established a strong reputation for his comm... Show more

I'm a developer passionate about making large language models work on small budgets. From full-stack apps to containerised AI workloads, I love building things that are clever, efficient, and production-ready—even without enterprise-level resources. Currently exploring how far Kubernetes can stretch when you're resource-conscious but ambition-heavy.

I'm a developer passionate about making large language models work on small budgets. From full-stack apps to containerised AI workloads, I love building things that are clever, efficient, and production-ready—even without enterprise-level resources. ... Show more

Sue Malesa is a dynamic leader known for driving innovation and growth in the school nutrition landscape. With a proven track record of success over 26 years as a School Nutrition Director, Sue has established herself as someone who can lead others to accomplish great things. Sue’s 16 years in the Menasha Joint School District were marked by incredible growth and success in her programs and cross-categorical collaboration.

At the heart of Sue’s leadership is a commitment to excellence in all endeavors. She helps inspire and empower the districts she works with to strive for a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement while making a significant impact on the communities they serve.

Sue Malesa is a dynamic leader known for driving innovation and growth in the school nutrition landscape. With a proven track record of success over 26 years as a School Nutrition Director, Sue has established herself as someone who can lead others ... Show more

An AI enthusiastic with high skills in Front End development , combine my personal journey along with skills that adds tons of values in developers day to day using AI

An AI enthusiastic with high skills in Front End development , combine my personal journey along with skills that adds tons of values in developers day to day using AI Show more

Taeyang Kim is a dynamic Machine Learning Engineer and Computer Scientist with a passion for innovation and a track record of excellence in the field of data science and artificial intelligence. He studies Master of Science in Computer Science at the Georgia Institute of Technology, building upon his strong foundation from Brigham Young University (BYU), where he will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, emphasizing Data Science.

During his time at BYU, Taeyang distinguished himself both academically and through leadership roles. He was the recipient of a Full Academic Scholarship for the 2021-2022 academic year and served as the Tech President for the BYU Korean Business Student Association. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his remarkable achievements in various competitions:

1st Place in the 2025 Utah AI Hackathon Competition (1st out of 186)
1st Place in the 2024 Utah Developer Hackathon Competition - Justbuild.ing
1st Place at the 2024 BYU Computer Science Senior Capstone Project Competition in Machine Learning
1st Place at the 2024 BYU ACM YHack Hackathon Competitions, earning the prestigious Benny Award
1st Place at the 2023 BYU ITCSA Raspberry Pi Competition, recognized as the best robotics competition at BYU
1st Place at the 2022 BYU ACM YHack Hackathon Competitions
1st Place at the 2017 DIPA Internet of Things Hackathon Competition in South Korea

Professionally, Taeyang has made significant contributions in the tech industry:

At Pattern (Apr 2023 – Present), he serves as a Machine Learning Engineer in Lehi, UT. Notably, he was honored as Pattern’s 2024 "Employee of the Year" out of 1,700 employees. His innovative work in automating IT ticket resolutions using advanced AI models drastically reduced ticket numbers by 75% and resolution time by 87%.
With Converus (Jun 2023 – Sep 2023), he developed sophisticated web applications utilizing GraphQL, Firebase, and modern JavaScript frameworks.
At Podflow (Mar 2023 – Apr 2023), he spearheaded the deployment of real-time audio editing software, enhancing text-to-speech and speech-to-text conversion capabilities.
As a Research Assistant at the BYU DRAGN Lab (May 2022 – Apr 2023), Taeyang developed a full-stack web application for an Amazon Alexa Competition finalist LLM model and invented a multifunctional farming robot integrating advanced sensors and robotics.
His earlier roles include software engineering positions at Leftovers and BYU Broadcasting, where he showcased his skills in full-stack development, database management, and optimizing CI/CD pipelines.

With a blend of academic excellence, professional expertise, and innovative project experience, Taeyang Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the field of machine learning and data science. His contributions have not only advanced technologies within his organizations but have also set the stage for future innovations in the industry.

Taeyang Kim is a dynamic Machine Learning Engineer and Computer Scientist with a passion for innovation and a track record of excellence in the field of data science and artificial intelligence. He studies Master of Science in Computer Science at the... Show more

Jabari Stafford is a lifelong enthusiast of racquet sports, a field that has shaped his personal and professional paths. His dedication extends beyond playing to building and leading organizations that promote the sport and its community. Over the years, he has served in multiple leadership roles, including Director of Rackets & Operations at Jamira Tennis Center and Managing Director at Philadelphia Tennis Club. His approach combines skill, experience, and a deep understanding of how athletics can strengthen individuals and communities.

His connection to racquet sports began at age five when he started playing tennis with his sister at the Arthur Ashe Youth and Tennis Center. Their father’s commitment to their growth led him to create a private training facility, giving them a structured environment to develop discipline and determination. This early foundation became the cornerstone of his lifelong relationship with racquet sports and inspired the future creation of the Jamira Tennis Center, named after the siblings. What began as a personal training space would later evolve into a respected institution serving athletes and the local community.

He transformed the Jamira Tennis Center into one of Philadelphia’s leading racquet-sports venues through steady leadership. He expanded its offerings to include tennis, pickleball, and wellness programs, creating opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. The center also became a hub for youth development and community engagement, reflecting his belief that sports can be a platform for education and empowerment. His ability to balance competitive excellence with inclusivity helped the facility grow into a model for modern racquet-sport management.

His own achievements as a player further reinforce his credibility as a leader. As a Division I athlete at George Washington University, he made his mark by setting records in singles and doubles and contributing to an Atlantic 10 Conference Championship. His success extended beyond college, as he competed professionally in over 50 tournaments across over 20 countries, earning official world rankings in singles and doubles through the ATP and ITF circuits.

He later brought the same energy and focus to his work at the Philadelphia Tennis Club, where he revitalized programs, modernized operations, and introduced new sports such as pickleball to engage a wider audience. His leadership emphasized blending tradition with innovation, ensuring the club remained relevant and dynamic while honoring its history.

Today, he continues his professional journey at Lancaster Country Club, one of the Top 30 Platinum Clubs in the United States. He teaches tennis, pickleball, and padel there, broadening his impact across multiple racquet disciplines. His work highlights the value of mentorship, dedication, and growth through sport.

Jabari Stafford remains committed to advancing racquet sports and fostering community through his leadership, competitive spirit, and enduring passion for the game.

Jabari Stafford is a lifelong enthusiast of racquet sports, a field that has shaped his personal and professional paths. His dedication extends beyond playing to building and leading organizations that promote the sport and its community. Over the ye... Show more

Munikumar Pindi is a seasoned OTM/GTM Techno-Functional Consultant with over 12 years of comprehensive experience in Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) and Global Trade Management (GTM). Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in implementation, performance tuning, upgrades, cloud and version migrations, and integration of advanced tracking systems.
Currently serving as an OTM Business Analyst at Kik Consumer Products, Munikumar specializes in analyzing functional requirements, resolving complex production issues, and managing both onsite deliverables and Oracle enhancement releases. His leadership in onsite-offshore coordination ensures timely and quality project outcomes.
Previously, at Zenfair-Solutions Inc., he played a key role in implementing scalable OTM solutions for high-profile clients like Coca-Cola, focusing on seamless ERP integration and system performance optimization. His tenure at Oracle India Pvt Ltd saw him leading a team of professionals for Unilever's OTM projects, retrofitting on-premise solutions to cloud, and spearheading configuration and troubleshooting initiatives. Munikumar’s technical acumen extends across diverse client environments including Trane Technologies, Ricoh USA, GE Healthcare, and DHL Global Forwarding. His expertise covers core OTM/GTM modules such as Order and Shipment Management, Contract and Rate Management, Trade Compliance, and Business Process Automation. He is proficient in SQL, PL/SQL, XML, HTML, CSS, XSL, and data analytics, and has a strong command of user interface customization and system integration.
An alumnus of JNTU University Anantapur, holding a B.Tech in Information Technology, Munikumar combines technical depth with a client-focused mindset, making him a valuable contributor to enterprise supply chain and logistics transformations.

Munikumar Pindi is a seasoned OTM/GTM Techno-Functional Consultant with over 12 years of comprehensive experience in Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) and Global Trade Management (GTM). Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional capa... Show more

Abubakar Yahaya is a pioneer Geology and Gemology undergraduate student at the University of Abuja, Nigeria. He is passionate about the intersection of geoscience, sustainability, and youth empowerment. As a student leader in the NAPE (Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists) Student Chapter, Abubakar actively promotes geoscience education, student-industry collaboration, and field-based learning opportunities for young geoscientists.

Beyond academics, he is an emerging entrepreneur and founder of The Luxe Bazar, an online marketplace focused on modest Islamic fashion, lifestyle, and children’s educational products. Through his business, he champions creativity, digital innovation, and economic inclusion.

Abubakar is known for his leadership, proactive engagement in student-driven initiatives, and a strong commitment to community growth and professional development. He aspires to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s energy sector and the broader business landscape by combining technical expertise, youth advocacy, and entrepreneurial vision.

Abubakar Yahaya is a pioneer Geology and Gemology undergraduate student at the University of Abuja, Nigeria. He is passionate about the intersection of geoscience, sustainability, and youth empowerment. As a student leader in the NAPE (Nigerian Assoc... Show more

Currently an Engineering Manager at Thermondo, where we are making living climate neutral a reality!
I previously led a team of Android Engineers to build Android Apps at Kyosk. I have consulted on various tech projects as a developer and as a systems architect specialising in App optimisation for the developing markets. Ex-Intel, Ex-SnappMobile and ITU. I started one of the first coding bootcamps in Africa.
I love building and empowering developer communities: KotlinKenya, Android254 & AzureKe. A chef, reader, mountain climber, i play with cameras, pro-Lifeguard , pro-diver and swimmer.

Currently an Engineering Manager at Thermondo, where we are making living climate neutral a reality! I previously led a team of Android Engineers to build Android Apps at Kyosk. I have consulted on various tech projects as a developer and as a syste... Show more

Erik Pronk is a passionate software engineer that has been working in IT since 2001. During this period he has gained a lot of experience in a variety of technologies, roles, development environments and market segments. His main focus is on implementing enterprise solutions in an agile way. In his spare time, Erik loves to run and experiment with VR and domotics. Erik works at JDriven where he shares his passion and drive with other colleagues.

Erik Pronk is a passionate software engineer that has been working in IT since 2001. During this period he has gained a lot of experience in a variety of technologies, roles, development environments and market segments. His main focus is on implemen... Show more

Alain (Al) Schneiter is one of the scopewyse founders and an Microsoft Secuirty MVP. As an experienced solutions architect he is supporting clients and partners in training, concepts, designs and implementations using cloud solutions from Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365. Alain is focused on Microsoft Technologies, especially on Microsoft 365 Security, Identity and Compliance. He supports communities with his Microsoft 365 know-how. He is a regular speaker at national & international events and conferences and drives a local user groups with focus on security services based on the Microsoft products.

Alain (Al) Schneiter is one of the scopewyse founders and an Microsoft Secuirty MVP. As an experienced solutions architect he is supporting clients and partners in training, concepts, designs and implementations using cloud solutions from Microsoft A... Show more

​Jadean Wright is a prominent figure in South Africa’s tech landscape, known for her commitment to ethical innovation and social impact. Her work uniquely integrates activism, feminism, and technology to address social justice issues and empower marginalized communities.

​Key Roles and Ventures:
​The Makers Club
​Role: Directorate and CMO
​Focus: Building affordable, IoT-powered smart farming solutions for sustainable agriculture. The solutions target educators, farmers, and hobbyists.

​ArcanaTech
​Role: Founder
​Focus: A 100% woman-owned and woman-led tech company. Its flagship products include the Nexus Tower and the Cybersecure Workspace.

​Vision, Values, and Approach

​Jadean's philosophy is rooted in Tech for Justice, actively bridging the gap between social justice and emerging technologies. Her approach emphasizes Inclusive Design, developing trauma-informed, dignity-first platforms that center on the needs of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth.

​Notable Achievements and Recognition

​- Africa’s Top 15 Young Geeks: Named by Geekulcha in 2025.
- Nominee for the "Future Leadership " award by Geekulcha
- ​ITWeb Security Summit Hackathon: Individual prize winner.
​- KZNInnov Tech Makerthon: Led her team to first place, a testament to her determination, having achieved the win despite having no prior coding or tech experience.
- ​BRICS Women’s Startup Contest: Participant.
- Top 10 JCI Durban Hackathon

​Expertise and Community Impact

​Jadean integrates advanced security, automation, and digital transformation into her projects. She holds qualifications in Basic Electronics, Leadership & Development, and is completing a Diploma in Human Resources and an NQF Level 4 in IoT.

​Through her involvement with The Makers Club, she plays a vital role in closing South Africa’s digital skills gap by providing training to youth in robotics, IoT, and AI. Her initiatives consistently prioritize accessibility, gender equity, and real-world problem-solving.

​Jadean Wright is a prominent figure in South Africa’s tech landscape, known for her commitment to ethical innovation and social impact. Her work uniquely integrates activism, feminism, and technology to address social justice issues and empower marg... Show more

Anjali is a human rights and law of war attorney, speaker, athlete, and professional artist, who currently runs a nonprofit dedicated to combating gender-based violence. She is a TEDx speaker and Fulbright Scholarship grantee.

Anjali has worked at the intersection of women's rights, gender-based violence, art, and law in India, the U.K., Colombia, Brazil, and Chile. Her work as a lawyer includes representing foreign governments in human rights cases before international courts, achieving asylum for asylum-seekers persecuted on the basis of their gender, and working on Constitutional rights cases to protect the rights of transgender girl athletes in the U.S.

As an artist, Anjali explores themes of social justice through art. Her movement films have been nominated for several awards, including at the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase, and Anjali has received a Bessie nomination for outstanding performer for her achievement in dance.

She is currently climbing the Seven Summits to amplify the voices and power of survivors, while building a coalition of organizations around the world. She's on track to be the first Indian-American woman to do so. The coalition she is building through this campaign will be part of the first ever global digital hub for survivors, advocates, and grassroots organizations combating gender-based violence to connect in real time, all the time.

Anjali is a human rights and law of war attorney, speaker, athlete, and professional artist, who currently runs a nonprofit dedicated to combating gender-based violence. She is a TEDx speaker and Fulbright Scholarship grantee. Anjali has worked a... Show more

Joe Gavin is from the Greater Boston area. He is a former SQL Server DBA and MSSQLTips.com Author.

Joe Gavin is from the Greater Boston area. He is a former SQL Server DBA and MSSQLTips.com Author. Show more

Originaire d'un sud ouest rural et agricole, mon parcours est largement influencé par le rapport au vivant et la convivialité.
Depuis 10 ans, je travaille sur les problématiques d’organisation de projets toujours dans un souci d’optimiser la création de valeur.
Je mets l’accent sur la pérennité des démarches mises en œuvre en m’appuyant sur : l’intelligence collective, l’humain, les méthodes agiles et le lean management.
Mes expériences récentes m’ont permis de développer une spécialité dans la méthode Scrum et l’approche produit.
Passionné par l’humain, je consacre mon énergie pour permettre à une organisation et aux personnes qui la composent d’être au meilleur de leurs capacités.
Pour l'avenir, j'espère avoir encore plus d'impact positif auprès de mes équipes, afin qu'elles apportent de la valeur et du sens à leur contexte.

Originaire d'un sud ouest rural et agricole, mon parcours est largement influencé par le rapport au vivant et la convivialité. Depuis 10 ans, je travaille sur les problématiques d’organisation de projets toujours dans un souci d’optimiser la créatio... Show more

John Athayde is a designer and developer who spends his days fighting bad coding practices in the Rails view layer. He runs Meticulous, a product design & branding consultancy that has been shipping with Rails since 1.0. He also is a partner in Ocufii, a startup focused on improving safety through movement notifications. He lives on a small permaculture farm outside of Charlottesville where he can garden and play in the dirt with his wife and four children, chickens, goats, and dairy cow.

John Athayde is a designer and developer who spends his days fighting bad coding practices in the Rails view layer. He runs Meticulous, a product design & branding consultancy that has been shipping with Rails since 1.0. He also is a partner in Ocufi... Show more

Alex is an experienced whatever-end developer focusing on system design after conquering many codebases. He is most passionate about improving the developer and content editor experience while reducing the maintenance burden of the applications he works on.

"Code is easy. People are hard." - Alex

Alex is an experienced whatever-end developer focusing on system design after conquering many codebases. He is most passionate about improving the developer and content editor experience while reducing the maintenance burden of the applications he wo... Show more

Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach is a mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur with more than thirty years of experience in the food industry. Based in Newport Beach, California, he has built a career that brings together technical expertise and business knowledge. Over the years, his work has spanned machinery design, large-scale food manufacturing, private labeling, and product development. He is best known as the founder of a food manufacturing company that has remained successful for more than three decades despite the many challenges of a competitive marketplace.

His career began with a degree in mechanical engineering, which gave him the ability to understand systems and find ways to improve them. In the early part of his professional life, he focused on designing and building machinery, skills that later became essential when he moved into food production. Unlike many who start businesses with only a marketing idea, he entered the industry with a technical foundation. Ian Schenkel Haliburton understood the importance of reliable equipment and how small efficiencies in production could build into meaningful results over time.

Before starting his own company, he worked in several parts of the food business. Through private labeling, he gained an understanding of how to maintain brand identity while meeting the demands of large-scale production. Schenkel also developed expertise in specialized areas such as frozen vegetables and fire roasting. When he decided to establish his own company, he knew the risks involved. Margins were often tight, supply chains were complex, and consumer preferences shifted quickly. Still, he focused on creating a business model that could adapt while remaining committed to quality.

That approach shaped the long-term success of the company. It expanded into new opportunities, refined operations, and built a reputation for consistency. His leadership has always centered on key principles: quality control, efficiency in operations, adaptability, and team development. Ian has invested in training and worked to build a culture where employees feel valued, believing that the strength of the company rests with its people.

His leadership style reflects a balance of technical knowledge and strategic vision. He uses both data and long experience while also listening to his team and keeping attention on long-term goals. Outside of business, he enjoys boating and golf, both of which require patience and adaptability. His connection to Haliburton also provides balance and perspective away from daily responsibilities.

Over more than three decades, he has seen shifts in markets, consumer behavior, and technology. What he has learned is that lasting success comes not from one breakthrough but from consistent improvements made over time. With 33 years in business, his company stands as proof of endurance, adaptability, and trust built with employees, partners, and customers. From his early years as an engineer to his long-standing role as an entrepreneur, Ian Schenkel continues to demonstrate that quality, efficiency, and persistence are the foundation of lasting success.

Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach is a mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur with more than thirty years of experience in the food industry. Based in Newport Beach, California, he has built a career that brings together technical expertise and business... Show more

Kayode Makinde
AI Researcher | Data Scientist

Kayode Makinde is an AI researcher at Lawyers Hub, Africa's leading AI policy organization, where he explores the intersection of AI, law, and technology to drive ethical AI development and policymaking in Africa. He is also a multi-award-winning data scientist at Perizer, specializing in AI-driven research analysis, market trends, and optimization.

With a background in engineering, Kayode has gained recognition for his innovative research, including training reinforcement learning agents to play Ayo, a traditional Nigerian game. This project earned him the Best Poster award at the DSN AI Bootcamp and 3rd place at IndabaX Nigeria 2024. His achievements also include winning the Bluechip Data and AI Summit hackathon, the DataFest hackathon, and receiving the prestigious Mr. Algorithm award for excellence in AI.

Kayode is a skilled speaker and educator who has delivered impactful sessions at leading tech events, including DataFest Africa 2024 and TECH MEET Abeokuta 3.0, where he has shared insights on computer vision, object detection with YOLO, and reinforcement learning. His diverse projects demonstrate his practical approach to AI, from developing an AI-powered ripe orange plucking robot to designing optimization algorithms for real-world applications.

A passionate advocate for AI innovation in Africa, Kayode combines deep technical expertise with a commitment to community engagement. He leverages AI to solve local challenges in agriculture, cultural preservation, and beyond, while inspiring the next generation of AI practitioners to harness AI’s transformative potential for sustainable development.

Kayode Makinde AI Researcher | Data Scientist Kayode Makinde is an AI researcher at Lawyers Hub, Africa's leading AI policy organization, where he explores the intersection of AI, law, and technology to drive ethical AI development and policymaki... Show more

I am a Flutter Developer! I love building, and testing things out, and never tired of learning.

I love building and empowering developer communities: Flutter Kenya. An Engineer, and reader, I play bass guitar and piano.

I am a Flutter Developer! I love building, and testing things out, and never tired of learning. I love building and empowering developer communities: Flutter Kenya. An Engineer, and reader, I play bass guitar and piano. Show more

Joel Barjenbruch’s calendar has long been tied to games. Whether it was football on fall Saturdays or baseball through long summers, sports have always been more than a hobby for him. They have been traditions, lessons, and opportunities to share meaningful time with family and friends.

Among his many interests, four teams have become particularly important to Joel: the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team, the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, the Denver Broncos, and the Milwaukee Bucks. Each holds memories and values that Joel continues to carry.

Nebraska football stands as a cornerstone. Joel’s autumns have long been defined by the Huskers, whether in years of success or seasons of rebuilding. The rituals—wearing red, reviewing matchups, and gathering with family—create a rhythm he treasures. Taking his children to Memorial Stadium has been especially memorable, letting them experience the atmosphere and pride of the team firsthand.

The St. Louis Cardinals have shaped Joel’s summers. He values the game’s patience, its traditions, and the sense of consistency it brings. Busch Stadium visits remain highlights, while listening or watching from home provides comfort and continuity. The Cardinals symbolize tradition and discipline, qualities he respects deeply.

The Denver Broncos carry Joel’s loyalty on Sundays. He has supported them through Super Bowl highs and more challenging stretches alike. What he values most is their persistence and ability to rebuild. Watching football is not just about cheering but appreciating the teamwork and planning behind each play.

The Milwaukee Bucks bring the excitement of basketball into Joel’s life. Their 2021 NBA championship was a highlight, not only for the win itself but also for the dedication it represented. The Bucks embody the values of persistence and teamwork that Joel admires.

For Joel, sports have become an extension of family life. With his wife Stacey and their three children, game days have created opportunities for connection and taught lessons about teamwork and humility. His Christian faith also shapes his participation in sports, emphasizing respect and gratitude.

As seasons change, Joel continues to look ahead with enthusiasm. For him, sports will always be more than competition—they are traditions, experiences, and bonds that last.

Joel Barjenbruch’s calendar has long been tied to games. Whether it was football on fall Saturdays or baseball through long summers, sports have always been more than a hobby for him. They have been traditions, lessons, and opportunities to share mea... Show more

Kamal Aliyu is a passionate AI Engineer and tech advocate with extensive experience in machine learning, prompt engineering, and data science. As the Chief Operating Officer at Bravpuls Technologies, a nonprofit startup focused on promoting technology education among students, especially girls in underrepresented regions, Kamal has been instrumental in shaping initiatives that bridge the gender and regional gaps in the tech ecosystem. He is also the GDSC Lead at Ahmadu Bello University, where he empowers students to harness the power of technology. Kamal has a proven track record of developing AI-driven solutions, including CogniEdify, and is dedicated to leveraging AI to solve real-world challenges.

Kamal Aliyu is a passionate AI Engineer and tech advocate with extensive experience in machine learning, prompt engineering, and data science. As the Chief Operating Officer at Bravpuls Technologies, a nonprofit startup focused on promoting technolog... Show more

Creative and Branding Strategist

Creative and Branding Strategist Show more

C. A. Fillekes is an IBM Red Hat partner engineer, actively porting and testing Kubernetes and OpenShift add-ons and features on the s390x architecture to run on the LinuxONE and System Z platforms.

C. A. Fillekes is an IBM Red Hat partner engineer, actively porting and testing Kubernetes and OpenShift add-ons and features on the s390x architecture to run on the LinuxONE and System Z platforms. Show more

Tutaleni, is the driving force behind the growth of Game Development in Namibia and in Africa as a whole, as well as the bridge between South America and Africa when it comes to the Game Development space. After successfully completing the Enter Africa game development program Mr, Ilonga created his own game studio/company called TL Entertainment whereby he created games and was successfully able to import Global Game Jam and Game Jam +, whereby together with the partnership between TL Entertainment and Game Jam+ there was a bridge built between Namibia and Brazil.

With the games that where created not proving to be profitable, Mr Ilonga would take part in a CEP program whereby he would like up with Vaughan, Veronica and Ndamono and together they would form Edu-Game Namibia to create an innovation hub around gaming to ensure that the market because sustainable around gaming and ensure future Namibian generations will be able to profit from it.

With 7 Years’ experience in Gaming Mr Ilonga has won a few awards and also became the flag career for Gaming especially at the Forbes where he and Vaughan would help Edu-Game Namibia make it to the top 3 pitch battle final. Currently Mr Ilonga together with Edu-Game are working on a curriculum to gamify the education system.

List of Achievements
Forbes 30 Under 30 Top 3 Pitch Battle Finalist 2024
Boost Up Pitch Winner 2023
Xbox Games Camp Alumni 2023
Sanlam Bridge Beneficiary 2023
CEP WINNER 2022
Game Industry Africa Awards Winner 2022
Class of 2022 Game Developers Conference SCHOLARS:

Events/Interviews I have Spoken At
Xbox Games Camp - Topic - Why Africa Is The Best Place To Invest When It Comes To Gaming
Africa Partnership For Growth Symposium - Topic - Why Investing In Gaming is Profitable
PathfindinGS -Topic - Gamifying the Namibian Education System
Africa Comicade Topic -Getting Local Businesses to Invest in Game Development
Game Jam Plus Topic -Importance of Game Jam In The Local Ecosystem
African Creative Meeting Topic -E-Sports In Africa
ESQUENTA Topic - Importance of GJ + For the Local Ecosystem
BBC World Service TV Topic - CES 2020: What’s in it for Africa?

Tutaleni, is the driving force behind the growth of Game Development in Namibia and in Africa as a whole, as well as the bridge between South America and Africa when it comes to the Game Development space. After successfully completing the Enter Afri... Show more

As a Green IT Consultant, I strive to design efficient software systems holistically - from conception to development and operation. My main focus is on optimizing cloud environments, DevOps environments and Java-based applications. Minimalism shapes me a lot, which helps me to lead an environmentally friendly lifestyle and provides the basis for implementing and operating systems in the most cost-efficient and ecologically sustainable way possible.
In iSAQB architecture training courses (GREEN advanced module), I regularly provide my expertise, particularly on the aspects of measurement and efficient operation.

In my spare time, I am involved in animal rights activism and I am a passionate trail runner who enjoys running through nature.

As a Green IT Consultant, I strive to design efficient software systems holistically - from conception to development and operation. My main focus is on optimizing cloud environments, DevOps environments and Java-based applications. Minimalism shapes... Show more