Jess Janz is an author, community facilitator, and the creator of Dinner With Strangers, which brings people from different walks of life to share their stories over a meal - all while omitting what anyone does for work. Her work examines identity, connection, and what binds us all together. Jess has hosted events for Wealthsimple, lululemon, Altea Active Club, OpenTable, The W Hotel, Staub, and Writers Collective of Canada, and runs monthly writing workshops and Poetry Club for her writing community of over 70k people. Her forthcoming book, 'The Table Where We Meet,' will be published by Source Books in July 2026. 

Jess Janz is an author, community facilitator, and the creator of Dinner With Strangers, which brings people from different walks of life to share their stories over a meal - all while omitting what anyone does for work. Her work examines identity, c... Show more

Maggie Ivanova is pursuing a Ph.D. in Theatre, Hawaiian and Indigenous Performance, at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM). She holds a Ph.D. in Comparative and World Literature (Drama) from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an M.F.A. in Directing - Asian Performance, from UHM. Maggie is a multi-lingual teaching artist: a dramaturg, theatre director, and researcher, working with the performance traditions of Ireland, Britain, Sweden, Norway, Japan, and Russia. Since 2020, Maggie has been affiliated with the East-West Center as Student Affiliate and Foundation Scholar. Currently, Maggie is serving as a co-dramaturg and stage manager for "Panji and the Last Princess," a Balinese wayang listrik show which opens in April 2026 at Kennedy Theatre, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

Maggie Ivanova is pursuing a Ph.D. in Theatre, Hawaiian and Indigenous Performance, at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM). She holds a Ph.D. in Comparative and World Literature (Drama) from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an ... Show more

Creative Technologist and Visual Artist with over 15 years of experience specializing in immersive audiovisual experiences
and interactive installations. Recognized for bridging the gap between art and advanced technology. Extensive
international experience leading projects and teaching in major hubs including Tokyo, Hong Kong, Berlin, and the
United States. Dedicated educator with a strong track record of conducting workshops on interactive technology for
universities and cultural institutions worldwide.

Creative Technologist and Visual Artist with over 15 years of experience specializing in immersive audiovisual experiences and interactive installations. Recognized for bridging the gap between art and advanced technology. Extensive international e... Show more

Jack Sheehan is a journalist, author, and storyteller who has spent decades documenting the people and moments that shaped Las Vegas and American culture. Rather than focusing on headlines alone, Jack is known for uncovering the stories behind the city, the personalities, power dynamics, and turning points that helped define an iconic place.

Over his career, Jack has written more than 30 books, authored over 2,000 magazine articles, and contributed countless newspaper columns exploring culture, community development, entertainment, and notable crime stories across the country. His reporting has included interviews with serial killers, conversations with men on death row, and work that has helped bring attention to unresolved and emerging murder cases.

His work draws on extensive interviews with casino owners, performers, producers, law enforcement officials, and influential figures who helped shape Las Vegas and, at times, the darker chapters of American history from the inside.

Jack is a sought-after speaker for conferences and corporate events, known for blending firsthand insight with compelling, accessible storytelling. He is also currently developing a multi part presentation series with The Mob Museum, drawing from his long history of documenting the city’s evolution.

Jack Sheehan is a journalist, author, and storyteller who has spent decades documenting the people and moments that shaped Las Vegas and American culture. Rather than focusing on headlines alone, Jack is known for uncovering the stories behind the ci... Show more

Bo Clifton is a Senior Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, specializing in helping organizations adopt cloud-native, scalable, and secure application architectures. With deep experience in Azure, distributed systems, and modern software delivery practices, Bo partners with enterprise customers to solve complex technical challenges and accelerate digital transformation. Prior to Microsoft, he has a history in music and manufacturing.

Bo Clifton is a Senior Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, specializing in helping organizations adopt cloud-native, scalable, and secure application architectures. With deep experience in Azure, distributed systems, and modern software delivery p... Show more

Dr. La-Toya Scott is a scholar and cultural critic whose work examines African American literature, digital culture, and the political stakes of storytelling. She serves as Assistant Professor of African American Literature and Culture and is the founder of In-House Scholar, a community and digital education initiative that bridges literary craft, cultural theory, and public discourse. Through workshops, talks, writing instruction, and humanities programming, she makes research-driven literary education accessible to broader audiences beyond the university. Her debut book, In Hush to Harbor: Black Sanctuary from Slavery to Trump’s America, will be released by Rutgers University Press in 2026. Dr. Scott’s work centers public humanities, narrative craft, and the creative futures of Black thought.

Dr. La-Toya Scott is a scholar and cultural critic whose work examines African American literature, digital culture, and the political stakes of storytelling. She serves as Assistant Professor of African American Literature and Culture and is the fou... Show more

Consuelo Lollobrigida, Ph.D., is Professor of Art History at the University of Arkansas Rome Program. Her research focuses on early modern women artists and Baroque visual culture.
She is the curator of the Annual International Women in the Arts Conference (AIWAC) and author of Plautilla Bricci. Pictura et Architectura celebris. L’architettrice del Barocco Romano and Following Women Artists. A Guide to Rome; her forthcoming monograph is The Forgotten Brush: Virginia da Vezzo (1600–1638), The Hidden Muse (Brepols, 2025).
She co-convenes AIWAC (Annual International Women in the Arts Conference) and is series co-editor, with Adelina Modesti, of “Women and Gender in the Arts: New Horizons” (Brepols/https://www.brepols.net/series/wia - https://www.brepols.net/products/IS-9782503606828-1

Consuelo Lollobrigida, Ph.D., is Professor of Art History at the University of Arkansas Rome Program. Her research focuses on early modern women artists and Baroque visual culture. She is the curator of the Annual International Women in the Arts Co... Show more

Ana Lydia Monaco is a U.S.-born, internationally raised bilingual storyteller, Producer, and Writer-Director championing culturally intelligent narratives across film, television, and branded content. Her work bridges global perspective, creative strategy, and authentic human experience to tell stories that resonate across cultures and industries.
With a career spanning studio, indie, and branded spaces, Ana Lydia brings a rare ability to translate lived experience into compelling, market-aware storytelling. Her creative voice is shaped not only by her international upbringing, but also by navigating chronic illness and cancer — experiences that have strengthened her leadership, empathy, and commitment to meaningful representation.
Ana Lydia speaks on storytelling, creative leadership, cross-cultural narrative development, resilience, and building inclusive creative ecosystems. She is passionate about mentorship, access, and empowering the next generation of culturally fluent storytellers.

Ana Lydia Monaco is a U.S.-born, internationally raised bilingual storyteller, Producer, and Writer-Director championing culturally intelligent narratives across film, television, and branded content. Her work bridges global perspective, creative str... Show more

Priscilla Pfeiffer, a seasoned professional with a two-decade career in entertainment and business, is celebrated for crafting mesmerizing talks with empowering messages that inspire audiences to make an impact in the world.

Renowned for creating "wow factor" moments, her esteemed clientele includes brands like BMW, LinkedIn, iHeart Radio, Michael Jordan’s Air Jordans, Pfizer, Bacardi, Cosmo Latina Magazine, and Zappos, while her impressive credits include sharing the stage with icons Joan Jett, Will-i-am, Pitbull, Enrique Iglesias, and Marc Anthony, as well as performances on America’s Got Talent, The Latin Grammy Awards, The NHL Awards, Comic Relief, and Celebrity Cruises. Priscilla has also graced the prestigious TEDx stage, where she delivered a compelling talk that resonated with audiences, showcasing her ability to captivate and inspire on a global platform.

In addition, Priscilla hosts the podcast "Spark Your Inner Fire," delving into the creative mind, torching the inner critic, and reigniting purpose by sharing stories and wisdom from world-renowned creatives in illuminating interviews.

In essence, Priscilla Pfeiffer is not only a veteran but a trailblazer whose performances consistently inspire, motivate, and create lasting impressions.

Priscilla Pfeiffer, a seasoned professional with a two-decade career in entertainment and business, is celebrated for crafting mesmerizing talks with empowering messages that inspire audiences to make an impact in the world. Renowned for creating ... Show more

I’m an intermediate musician actively working through the challenges many players face after the beginner stage. Rather than presenting theory from the outside, I talk about experiences grounded in real experiments, failures, and lessons learned while actively making and recording music.

I’m an intermediate musician actively working through the challenges many players face after the beginner stage. Rather than presenting theory from the outside, I talk about experiences grounded in real experiments, failures, and lessons learned whil... Show more

Gus Vieweg is a writer, educator, and emcee with over a decade of facilitation experience. He facilitates workshops for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and students who want to improve their communication, adaptability, and listening skills in a fun and engaging way.

Gus's refreshing approach leverages techniques of professional performers to bring about personal and professional change. Through these techniques, performing becomes not only a tool for comedy or drama, but a tool for communication transformation and connection.

Gus Vieweg is a writer, educator, and emcee with over a decade of facilitation experience. He facilitates workshops for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and students who want to improve their communication, adaptability, and listening skills in a fun... Show more

Ich bin ausgebildeter Mediengestalter in der Fachrichtung Konzeption und Visualisierung und habe gerade das Kommunikationsdesign Studium abgeschlossen. Da mein Fokus seit Studienbeginn auf Interaction- und Informationsdesign lag, habe ich Fähigkeiten des "klassischen" Grafikdesigns erweitert durch umwelt- und gesellschaftskritische Themen, generative Gestaltung, virtuelle Realität, Klang- und Bewegungsinteraktion und mutlisensorische Inszenierungen im Raum.

Ich bin ausgebildeter Mediengestalter in der Fachrichtung Konzeption und Visualisierung und habe gerade das Kommunikationsdesign Studium abgeschlossen. Da mein Fokus seit Studienbeginn auf Interaction- und Informationsdesign lag, habe ich Fähigkeiten... Show more

Otoniel Emanuel é Design Engineer e Software Developer no Banco BIR

É membro da Angola Open Source Community, onde contribui com projetos e escreve sobre tecnologia. Antes do BIR, colaborou com a INOKRI no desenvolvimento de produtos digitais como o SÓCIA, trabalhou para o estrangeiro (brasil) e startups nacionais.

Tem experiência como formador no INEFOR e no Digital.ao, consolidando a sua vocação para educação tecnológica e partilha de conhecimento.

Além da engenharia, explora fotografia, escrita e projetos experimentais que combinam design, código e criatividade.

Otoniel Emanuel é Design Engineer e Software Developer no Banco BIR É membro da Angola Open Source Community, onde contribui com projetos e escreve sobre tecnologia. Antes do BIR, colaborou com a INOKRI no desenvolvimento de produtos digitais como... Show more

Katherine Martinez (Katosonika) is an ATL-based Afro-Latin Cultural Wellness Architect, multimedia DJ, and creative strategist. Through her studios Kreative Mutants and Sona Flora, she’s spent nearly a decade designing immersive experiences that blend storytelling, ritual, and community-powered creativity. Since 2023, she’s been integrating AI to explore how soulful tech can amplify underrepresented voices and shape inclusive creative futures.

Katherine Martinez (Katosonika) is an ATL-based Afro-Latin Cultural Wellness Architect, multimedia DJ, and creative strategist. Through her studios Kreative Mutants and Sona Flora, she’s spent nearly a decade designing immersive experiences that blen... Show more

Triple Major Psychology, Anthropology and Māori Visual Art
MA in Kaupapa Māori Art Therapy
PhD Candidate Māori Womens History

Passionate about community and healing.
I share my tools for cohesive environments and well being techniques.

Keynote Speaker at Musical Theatre NZ Conference 2025: Performance Art and Mental Health

I can also run workshops, wānanga pertaining to any of my special areas.
I have been a mentor, tutor, teacher in the arts and social sciences for over 15 years.

Triple Major Psychology, Anthropology and Māori Visual Art MA in Kaupapa Māori Art Therapy PhD Candidate Māori Womens History Passionate about community and healing. I share my tools for cohesive environments and well being techniques. Keyno... Show more

A globally recognized poet-author pioneering therapeutic storytelling through micro-poetry, hybrid novels, and AI-driven emotional healing tools—bridging South Asian feminine narratives with modern literary innovation.

A globally recognized poet-author pioneering therapeutic storytelling through micro-poetry, hybrid novels, and AI-driven emotional healing tools—bridging South Asian feminine narratives with modern literary innovation. Show more

Born in Rijeka 1980.
Start with arts; paintings and writting in 1996.

Born in Rijeka 1980. Start with arts; paintings and writting in 1996. Show more

Øyvind Rogstad har en bakgrunn i klesdesign og grafisk design. Prosjektet med digitaliseringen av manuset til «De tause taler ut» var hans avsluttende masteroppgave i grafisk design og illustrasjon ved Kunsthøgskolen i Oslo. Etter uteksaminering har prosjektet blitt bevilget stipend fra Fritt Ord og Kulturrådet, med mål om lansering høsten 2024. Han jobber i dag som lærer og verksmester ved KHiO.

Øyvind Rogstad har en bakgrunn i klesdesign og grafisk design. Prosjektet med digitaliseringen av manuset til «De tause taler ut» var hans avsluttende masteroppgave i grafisk design og illustrasjon ved Kunsthøgskolen i Oslo. Etter uteksaminering har ... Show more

Dedren Snead (he/him/his) is a computer scientist, artist, and Ford Foundation Global Fellow in Gaming and Artificial Intelligence. As founder of SUBSUME Media and SUBSUME Studios, featured in CNN and Black Enterprise, he established the world's first Afrofuturism technology studio in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. His work focuses on creating inclusive technologies and storytelling experiences that bridge digital divides while celebrating diverse cultural narratives through gaming, artificial intelligence, and interactive media.

Through SUBSUME's pioneering initiatives, Dedren develops educational gaming platforms and AI-driven solutions that connect K-12 and early career learners to creative and technical professions. His innovative approach to combining technology with cultural storytelling has earned him positions as an Innovator in Residence at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Artist in Residence at Georgia State
University's Creative Media Industries Institute, where he contributes to Digital Media, Game Design, and Futurism studies.

Dedren Snead (he/him/his) is a computer scientist, artist, and Ford Foundation Global Fellow in Gaming and Artificial Intelligence. As founder of SUBSUME Media and SUBSUME Studios, featured in CNN and Black Enterprise, he established the world's firs... Show more

Halima Muhammad is an AI Artist and Strategist who merges art, ancestry, and artificial intelligence to unlock creative genius. With 20+ years in tech and a soul rooted in storytelling, she helps women entrepreneurs, creators, and visionaries embrace AI as a tool for both branding and spiritual remembrance. Halima is the creator of The Visual Drop, an AI stock photo membership, and founder of byH., a digital agency and lifestyle brand at the intersection of tech and expression. As a sought-after speaker and creative guide, she delivers talks that blend AI literacy with ancestral wisdom, helping audiences see that AI isn’t artificial—it’s ancient.

Halima Muhammad is an AI Artist and Strategist who merges art, ancestry, and artificial intelligence to unlock creative genius. With 20+ years in tech and a soul rooted in storytelling, she helps women entrepreneurs, creators, and visionaries embrace... Show more

Shefali Desai is a multidisciplinary designer, educator, and entrepreneur with over 17 years of experience.
She is a Professor of Practice at Somaiya School of Design and the Founder of BASE 501, a design and strategy studio.
Shefali’s expertise spans visual communication, strategic design thinking, personal branding, and creative leadership. She's worked with brands such as Pepsi, Redbull, Starbucks, Disney, KFC etc.

Alongside her professional practice, she has built a thriving personal brand as The Doodleist—an artistic persona through which she explores storytelling, illustration, and the intersection of creativity and mindfulness.

Passionate about empowering the next generation of creative professionals, Shefali brings a resilience-driven, identity-first approach to leadership, mentorship, and innovation in the design industry.

Shefali Desai is a multidisciplinary designer, educator, and entrepreneur with over 17 years of experience. She is a Professor of Practice at Somaiya School of Design and the Founder of BASE 501, a design and strategy studio. Shefali’s expertise sp... Show more

Amy has been telling stories since she could draw on the backs of paper placemats. She reads slush for The Masters Review and has published several book reviews with them. She also hosts a fiction-focused open mic called Stories Live!

Amy has been telling stories since she could draw on the backs of paper placemats. She reads slush for The Masters Review and has published several book reviews with them. She also hosts a fiction-focused open mic called Stories Live! Show more

Joan Nobile (she/her) is an interdisciplinary artist & educator from Brooklyn, NY. She holds a BA in Media Production from Buffalo State University and an MFA in Media Arts Production from the University at Buffalo. Her research and work broadly focus on media theory and critique, gaming, cyberfeminism, and glitch aesthetics/feminism. Her practice involves work in film, video, zines, and video games. When she’s not working or creating, Joan enjoys visiting farmer’s markets, reading & watching non-fiction, and spending too much time playing video games. She currently lives in Buffalo, NY with her partner.

Joan Nobile (she/her) is an interdisciplinary artist & educator from Brooklyn, NY. She holds a BA in Media Production from Buffalo State University and an MFA in Media Arts Production from the University at Buffalo. Her research and work broadly focu... Show more

shanelle julia rosita is a renowned abstract artist and model from Brooklyn, NY. She began exhibiting her marker art in 2022 following an extended hiatus from drawing that spanned nearly two decades. Her work has been featured everywhere from the flagship Bergdorf Goodman retail location on 5th Avenue, NYC to Miami Art Basel to NFT Asia in Japan. She recently began expanding into digital art, making her sold out debut on Bitcoin Ordinals through the Visible Violets collective drop in March 2025.

shanelle julia rosita is a renowned abstract artist and model from Brooklyn, NY. She began exhibiting her marker art in 2022 following an extended hiatus from drawing that spanned nearly two decades. Her work has been featured everywhere from the fla... Show more

Angela is currently enjoying her time as a researcher at the A*STAR Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety, and as a doctoral student in the Social Brain Science Group at ETH Zürich. Angela is committed to using science & technology to benefit society and aspires to merge her technical knowledge with public policy to serve others in her career. Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Angela volunteering and helping improve access to science & technology When she finds a moment to herself, she enjoys delving into photography, baking, and exploring nature through hiking.

Angela attained her M.A. in Computing Science and Music at the University of Glasgow, in collaboration with Seoul National University, where she was recognized with Commendation for being one of the highest academic achievers of her college.

Angela is currently enjoying her time as a researcher at the A*STAR Centre for Advanced Technologies in Online Safety, and as a doctoral student in the Social Brain Science Group at ETH Zürich. Angela is committed to using science & technology to ben... Show more

Lana McAra is an award-winning, international best-selling author and ghostwriter of 46 titles through traditional publishing with a million books sold. She has been teaching how to write fiction for 20 years. Lana currently serves as the president of the Northeast Florida Chapter of Sisters in Crime and is the host of The Fiction Writer's Podcast.

Lana McAra is an award-winning, international best-selling author and ghostwriter of 46 titles through traditional publishing with a million books sold. She has been teaching how to write fiction for 20 years. Lana currently serves as the president o... Show more

Emeka Mbah – The Founder: Tailor Gallery Stores - A Visionary Nigerian Fashion Designer

Emeka Mbah is an innovative and dynamic Nigerian fashion designer whose work has captivated the fashion world with its unique blend of traditional African craftsmanship and contemporary design. Known for his bold, elegant, and culturally rich creations, Emeka’s designs reflect his deep appreciation for Nigeria's rich heritage while embracing modern fashion trends.

The Artistic Vision
Emeka’s passion for fashion began at a young age, and he quickly realized that his true calling was in blending the old and new. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors, patterns, and textures of Nigeria's diverse cultures, he has become known for creating stunning, bespoke pieces that tell a story. Whether it’s through intricate beadwork, vibrant prints, or sharp tailoring, his designs are a celebration of the beauty and diversity of African fashion.

A Fusion of Cultures and Styles
Emeka’s work is not only about looking good—it’s about feeling good, too. He’s known for creating pieces that are both striking and comfortable, combining luxurious fabrics and tailoring techniques with elements that reflect the deep traditions of Nigerian culture. His collections often feature a mix of contemporary silhouettes with African textiles, producing looks that are modern yet deeply rooted in his heritage.

Emeka Mbah’s Signature Style

Bold Prints and Colors: Emeka is a master of vibrant prints and bold colors, which reflect the rich diversity of African culture.
Tailored Perfection: His pieces are known for their sharp tailoring and structured fits, making each item not only a fashion statement but also a work of art.
Cultural Storytelling: Each collection tells a unique story, drawing from Nigerian folklore, history, and the designer’s own experiences, allowing wearers to connect with the culture on a deeper level.
Fashion with a Purpose
Emeka is more than just a designer; he is an advocate for African fashion on the global stage. Through his work, he aims to showcase the talent and creativity coming from the African continent while providing a platform for new designers and artisans. His mission goes beyond fashion, striving to support sustainable practices and promote African craftsmanship worldwide.

Whether it’s a red carpet event, a traditional wedding, or a day-to-day ensemble, Emeka Mbah’s designs are a testament to the power of fashion to elevate the individual while honoring culture. His work continues to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the Nigerian and global fashion scene.

Emeka Mbah – The Founder: Tailor Gallery Stores - A Visionary Nigerian Fashion Designer Emeka Mbah is an innovative and dynamic Nigerian fashion designer whose work has captivated the fashion world with its unique blend of traditional African cra... Show more

UNG TEKST er Unge Viken Teaters satsning på unge dramatikere.

UNG TEKST er Unge Viken Teaters satsning på unge dramatikere. Show more

Mariana is a Print designer and artist passionate about blending creativity with technology. She brings together AI-generated textile designs, digital storytelling to create meaningful connections between art, fashion, and audiences. As a Web3 ambassador, Mariana has shared her work at global events like NFT.NYC and Art Basel, inspiring others to explore the potential of new technologies and immersive experiences in the creative world.

Mariana is a Print designer and artist passionate about blending creativity with technology. She brings together AI-generated textile designs, digital storytelling to create meaningful connections between art, fashion, and audiences. As a Web3 ambass... Show more

3 parts designer, 1 part tech-geek, 2 parts writer, 1 part truth-seeker, 2 parts space enthusiast and 1 part realist. Too many parts? Naah!

3 parts designer, 1 part tech-geek, 2 parts writer, 1 part truth-seeker, 2 parts space enthusiast and 1 part realist. Too many parts? Naah! Show more