Davide is a software developer, with a strong interest in games as tools for learning, experimentation, and community building. Over the years, he has collaborated on board games, urban games, and game-related events, often working alongside people who "do this for real". His journey with Game Jams started as a participant and naturally evolved into taking organizational roles, after countless Jams experienced both on-site and online. What began with curiosity during his first hackathon in 2017 quickly turned into an ongoing exploration of how constraints, play, and imperfect environments can spark creativity. Davide enjoys mixing structure with chaos, serious problem-solving with playful experimentation. When he's not developing or designing games, he is part of an improvisational theatre troupe, an experience that strongly influences how he approaches collaboration, facilitation, and embracing the unexpected.

Davide is a software developer, with a strong interest in games as tools for learning, experimentation, and community building. Over the years, he has collaborated on board games, urban games, and game-related events, often working alongside people w... Show more

In over 25 years of creative leadership in branding and marketing, Adam has discovered that the most powerful form of connection, communication, and persuasion is also the oldest—great storytelling. With rich support from neuroscientists, psychologists, and behavioral economists, he shows audiences why that is, and how they can use it to their advantage.

Best of all, the insights in Adam’s keynotes explain phenomena that many people sense are true without knowing why. Armed with the tools, research, and empathy Adam brings to the stage, they emerge as more confident communicators in their personal and professional lives.

Based in Rhode Island, Adam has earned rave reviews by audiences from Boston to Borneo. And with the rise of AI, Adam is determined to empower as many people as possible to become compelling, connection-building storytellers.

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In this high-energy, aha-moment-filled keynote, you’ll learn why stories have such a powerful hold on us, how they work, the transformative effect storytelling can have on your business, and how to do it.

Here are just a few of the benefits you can enjoy immediately:
- Unparalleled ROI
- Increased sales and fundraising revenue
- Greater productivity
- Higher retention
- …and much, much more

Learn more at https://www.rustleandspark.com/story

In over 25 years of creative leadership in branding and marketing, Adam has discovered that the most powerful form of connection, communication, and persuasion is also the oldest—great storytelling. With rich support from neuroscientists, psychologi... Show more

Ryan is a Principal Engineer at John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group (ISG) where he oversees API standards and architecture for systems farmers depend on for connecting with experts like agronomists, dealers, other experts.

Ryan is a Principal Engineer at John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group (ISG) where he oversees API standards and architecture for systems farmers depend on for connecting with experts like agronomists, dealers, other experts. Show more

Scott Popular is an Atlanta native, Tokyo based game designer, community organizer, and event producer working between the U.S. and Japan. Known for building grassroots gaming and creative communities, Scott produces social gaming events that connect indie developers, industry professionals, and emerging creators in collaborative spaces.

His work bridges community-driven culture and professional game development, demonstrating how local networks can evolve into global opportunities. Alongside developing original games, Scott continues to advocate for accessible pathways into the tech and gaming industry, encouraging creators to leverage their communities as catalysts for growth.

Scott Popular is an Atlanta native, Tokyo based game designer, community organizer, and event producer working between the U.S. and Japan. Known for building grassroots gaming and creative communities, Scott produces social gaming events that connect... Show more

From paintbrushes to Power BI 🎨📊, my path blends art and analysis: I studied hairdressing, special effects makeup, and fine arts, and today I analyze data in a call center. Where I once created imaginary worlds, I now use my imagination to innovate with KPIs, dashboards, and strategic decisions 💡. I still tell stories, but with data as the protagonists. Because creativity isn't abandoned… it transforms 🚀

From paintbrushes to Power BI 🎨📊, my path blends art and analysis: I studied hairdressing, special effects makeup, and fine arts, and today I analyze data in a call center. Where I once created imaginary worlds, I now use my imagination to innovate... Show more

Josh Crafford is a neurodivergent global learning leader who has committed his life to mastering the art and science of learning. Professionally, he led the wing-to-wing design and creation of several International Learning and Development departments within Fortune 200 companies, such as GE Capital.
Additionally, he works with several universities as an Expert Partner in the Practice of Creative Thinking, Complex Problem Solving, Neurodiversity in the Workplace, and Leadership Development. Partnering universities include Emory, UConn, UIUC, SCAD and UH Manoa. Since 2023 he has also led the first of its kind, Neurodiversity Early Career Program, with UConn and University of Illinois.
Josh is an engaging keynote speaker who has been featured in multiple publications including USA Today and Training Industry. He produced the Neuro Creatives Podcast and the documentary, Blessed with Dyslexia and Neurodiversity, which can be found at NeuroCreatives.org
Holding a master’s degree in design management & innovation, Josh brings a fun and engaging perspective wherever he goes.

Josh Crafford is a neurodivergent global learning leader who has committed his life to mastering the art and science of learning. Professionally, he led the wing-to-wing design and creation of several International Learning and Development department... Show more

Matthew is a maker, artist, and Flutter developer based in Virginia Beach. He’s obsessed with “engineering optimism” at the intersection of technology and art. He’s been working with Flutter since 2018 for a variety of non-profit organizations and startups. His current passion is his new YouTube channel “Makerinator” where he shares his unique creations with the world!

Matthew is a maker, artist, and Flutter developer based in Virginia Beach. He’s obsessed with “engineering optimism” at the intersection of technology and art. He’s been working with Flutter since 2018 for a variety of non-profit organizations and st... Show more

Naizgled izgleda kao prosječni stari roker,a zapravo se radi o 36-godišnjaku koji obožava igre socijalne dedukcije, tabletop RPGove i kiselu hranu.

Tabletop RPGom kao hobijem bavi se već 20 godina, te smatra to velikim postignućem (većim i od svoje fakultetske diplome).

Naizgled izgleda kao prosječni stari roker,a zapravo se radi o 36-godišnjaku koji obožava igre socijalne dedukcije, tabletop RPGove i kiselu hranu. Tabletop RPGom kao hobijem bavi se već 20 godina, te smatra to velikim postignućem (većim i od svoj... Show more

As a technical trainer and security researcher, it is my goal to spread awareness and knowledge. Daily experiences include lecturing about cybersecurity, moderating open discussions about vulnerabilities, and building hacking labs. Like many others, I often delve too deep into the weeds of the internet.

As a technical trainer and security researcher, it is my goal to spread awareness and knowledge. Daily experiences include lecturing about cybersecurity, moderating open discussions about vulnerabilities, and building hacking labs. Like many others, ... Show more

Adrian Swish is a Los Angeles-based entrepreneur, talent strategist, and tech innovator revolutionizing the intersection of entertainment, AI, and Web3. With over 14 years of experience in music, sports, and digital marketing, he has negotiated over $10 million in contracts, pioneering new monetization models that give creators true ownership of their work.

As the Founder & CEO of LABEL IQ and DMCAI (Digital Music Coin AI), Adrian is building AI and blockchain-powered ecosystems that empower artists through transparency, direct revenue streams, and decentralized distribution. His work is reshaping music publishing, streaming, and brand partnerships for the digital-first era.

He has collaborated with ESPN, PUMA, Powerade, T-Mobile, and PETA, delivering high-impact marketing campaigns, multi-platinum releases, and Top 10 Billboard hits. At NFT NYC, Adrian will discuss how AI and NFTs are transforming generative art, music monetization, and fan engagement giving creators full control of their future

Adrian Swish is a Los Angeles-based entrepreneur, talent strategist, and tech innovator revolutionizing the intersection of entertainment, AI, and Web3. With over 14 years of experience in music, sports, and digital marketing, he has negotiated over ... Show more

AI & Data leader with 14+ years of experience. Women in AI California State Ambassador. Talks about #AI in Life Sciences #Building solutions using Gemini #GenAI #Career in tech

AI & Data leader with 14+ years of experience. Women in AI California State Ambassador. Talks about #AI in Life Sciences #Building solutions using Gemini #GenAI #Career in tech Show more

Joris Quarshie is an Events and Programs Officer at Open Knowledge Impact Foundation, where he leads the planning and execution of impactful programs that promote open knowledge, community engagement, and digital inclusion. He works closely with diverse stakeholders to design initiatives that empower contributors, strengthen collaborative networks, and advance access to free and open information across communities.

Joris Quarshie is an Events and Programs Officer at Open Knowledge Impact Foundation, where he leads the planning and execution of impactful programs that promote open knowledge, community engagement, and digital inclusion. He works closely with dive... Show more

Shannon Jenkins, founder of Connect Create Labs, is a UX designer, artist, and creative community-builder who uses design to make technology feel more human. With a background in customer experience, education, and design leadership, she transforms complex ideas into digital experiences that spark connection and trust. She has spoken at conferences like Render ATL, where she championed Privacy by Design, and has led live design sessions and mentored rising creatives across the tech industry. Her work lives at the intersection of creativity, empathy, and transformation—and through her talks, Shannon invites audiences to rethink what’s possible when we dare to evolve beyond yesterday.

Shannon Jenkins, founder of Connect Create Labs, is a UX designer, artist, and creative community-builder who uses design to make technology feel more human. With a background in customer experience, education, and design leadership, she transforms c... Show more

Jiahao Sun is the founder and CEO of FLock.io, a decentralized AI training platform that combines federated learning with blockchain to enable privacy-preserving, collaborative AI development. An Oxford alumnus with a background as AI Director at the Royal Bank of Canada and AI Research Fellow at Imperial College London, Jiahao brings deep expertise across AI research, enterprise deployment, and Web3 infrastructure. Under his leadership, FLock.io has partnered with Alibaba Cloud Qwen, Base, UNDP, and the Ethereum Foundation. FLock.io's network spans 10,000+ AI models, 200+ AI developers, and serves over 700K model users globally.

Jiahao Sun is the founder and CEO of FLock.io, a decentralized AI training platform that combines federated learning with blockchain to enable privacy-preserving, collaborative AI development. An Oxford alumnus with a background as AI Director at the... Show more

After 15 years as a unit production manager in the film and television industry, I’ve made the pivot to tech. Here to share my journey and insight with fellow pivoters!

After 15 years as a unit production manager in the film and television industry, I’ve made the pivot to tech. Here to share my journey and insight with fellow pivoters! Show more

I have been writing code for about 25 years yet strive to learn something new every day. I’ll never let a technical issue get the best of me and will always find a solution to the problem. My specialties over the last 10 years have been NET C# and Office 365 development. I can make SharePoint look good!

I have been writing code for about 25 years yet strive to learn something new every day. I’ll never let a technical issue get the best of me and will always find a solution to the problem. My specialties over the last 10 years have been NET C# and ... Show more

José Alberto Colón-Rodríguez is a bilingual content strategist with a Master in Journalism and Innovation (focus in IA) and AI Certificate from FIU. With experience at Telemundo PR, Houston and Philadelphia, he masters Artificial Intelligence tools for audiovisual production and data analytics. His profile blends editorial rigor with a technological vision tailored for new generations of news consumers.

José Alberto Colón-Rodríguez is a bilingual content strategist with a Master in Journalism and Innovation (focus in IA) and AI Certificate from FIU. With experience at Telemundo PR, Houston and Philadelphia, he masters Artificial Intelligence tools f... Show more

Damir Šlogar, a luminary in the video game industry, has dedicated over four decades to advancing interactive entertainment. His journey began in the 1980s, developing proprietary games for platforms like MSX and Commodore Amiga. Transitioning through roles in broadcasting and journalism, he eventually ventured into game development in North America, contributing to over 150 titles, including renowned franchises such as Shrek, Barbie, and Battlefield.
In 2004, Šlogar founded Big Blue Bubble, a Canadian video game company that gained international acclaim with titles like "My Singing Monsters," reaching over 250 million players worldwide.
Returning to his hometown of Zagreb, Šlogar established the Video Game Museum to showcase the evolution of video games and their impact on technology and pop culture. He aims to share his passion with the world, especially younger generations who may not have experienced the magic of gaming's early days.
Damir Šlogar's remarkable career and dedication are poised to significantly enrich Zagreb's cultural and tourist offerings, providing a comprehensive look into the history and significance of video games.

Damir Šlogar, a luminary in the video game industry, has dedicated over four decades to advancing interactive entertainment. His journey began in the 1980s, developing proprietary games for platforms like MSX and Commodore Amiga. Transitioning throug... Show more

Bringing people together is something that lives on through my workshops and training. Whether they take place online or on-premise, I facilitate workshops and learning experiences that focus on high participation, on learning by doing and verifying that the concepts are integrated. I use Live Online Learning Activities to ensure people get a chance to practice their understanding of the new concepts.

What better way is there to give meaning to what we say than to draw to make our thoughts explicit? When we add visual information to what we’re saying, suddenly our intention becomes much more precise, and we can begin to work on shared understanding. This is why I love bringing people in contact with the power of Visual Thinking, of getting back to our roots and using pen and paper to bring people closer together.

Stories are another option for bringing sensitive topics to the surface, which I recently started to explore through my self-development practice, as well as during numerous Around the world in (less than) 80 days workshops throughout the past years!

Bringing people together is something that lives on through my workshops and training. Whether they take place online or on-premise, I facilitate workshops and learning experiences that focus on high participation, on learning by doing and verifying ... Show more

Kae9mm is a cyber musician who blends hip-hop, techno and futuristic themes in his music. He is known for his innovative use of virtual reality and augmented reality in his live performances and music videos. He has recently partnered with United Realites, a leading metaverse company, to create immersive and interactive experiences for his fans. Kae9mm aims to push the boundaries of music and technology and to explore new dimensions of creativity and expression.

Kae9mm is a cyber musician who blends hip-hop, techno and futuristic themes in his music. He is known for his innovative use of virtual reality and augmented reality in his live performances and music videos. He has recently partnered with United Rea... Show more

Vedran dolazi iz Sv. Ivana Zeline, gdje ponajviše čita, a nešto manje piše i crta.
Čime se bavi kad ne šeće svojih osam i pol mačaka, saznajte na:
www.vedranmavrovic.com

Vedran dolazi iz Sv. Ivana Zeline, gdje ponajviše čita, a nešto manje piše i crta. Čime se bavi kad ne šeće svojih osam i pol mačaka, saznajte na: www.vedranmavrovic.com Show more

I am a designer from the Brazilian Northeast and a Digital Business specialist, whose practice connects design, technology, and communication. My work focuses on building solutions that make sense in real-world contexts, especially where structural inequalities still define access and opportunities. I view design as a powerful mediation tool between people, systems, and possible futures. More than just solving problems, my interest lies in questioning which problems we choose to solve, driving a critical and impactful approach.

I am a designer from the Brazilian Northeast and a Digital Business specialist, whose practice connects design, technology, and communication. My work focuses on building solutions that make sense in real-world contexts, especially where structural i... Show more

Mihaela Marija Perković je autorica, urednica, prevoditeljica, novinarka, PRuša, poduzetnica, SFerašica i još svašta nešto. U SF fandomu je predsjednica žirija za nagradu SFera, GUFF delegat za Australiju 2013, Hospitality head za Worldcon 2017. Dobitnica nagrade nagrade ESFS Best Promoter 2015 i nagrade SFERA 2021. za novelu "Teutina lađa",

Mihaela Marija Perković je autorica, urednica, prevoditeljica, novinarka, PRuša, poduzetnica, SFerašica i još svašta nešto. U SF fandomu je predsjednica žirija za nagradu SFera, GUFF delegat za Australiju 2013, Hospitality head za Worldcon 2017. Dob... Show more

david (they/them) is a professional web developer focused on WordPress theme and plugin development. They emphasize helping small businesses, providing ongoing support, and educating users through their service FixUpFox.

(Note that my name is properly spelled in lowercase only as david wolfpaw. Platforms like Sessionize are an easy example of the values of code coming before people and their lived experiences.)

david (they/them) is a professional web developer focused on WordPress theme and plugin development. They emphasize helping small businesses, providing ongoing support, and educating users through their service FixUpFox. (Note that my name is prop... Show more

Lee Silber is the award-winning author who turns his best selling books into fun and interactive presentations that make people think, laugh, learn, and interact. For more about Lee go: www.leesilber.com

Lee Silber is the award-winning author who turns his best selling books into fun and interactive presentations that make people think, laugh, learn, and interact. For more about Lee go: www.leesilber.com Show more

As a fan of Evan Roderick, I’ve found his journey to be both motivating and meaningful. Watching someone go from the intensity of competitive sports to becoming an accomplished actor/songwriter speaks volumes about his focus and willingness to grow.

I first saw Evan on Arrow as Detective Nick Anastas, where his presence felt steady and natural. There was something about the way he carried himself, calm yet purposeful, that drew me in. Later, I learned about his background in hockey, which only added to my respect for him. He played at the Division I level for UMass Lowell before a significant injury changed his plans. That turning point led him to pursue acting, and from what I’ve seen, he gave it the same level of commitment as he did to his time on the ice.

Growing up in Vancouver, Evan Roderick Anderson was always on the move, changing schools to follow his hockey goals. Along the way, he took on summer jobs in commercials, which turned out to be his first step into the world of performance. After his injury, he came back to Vancouver, trained in acting, and started from the ground up. It’s clear that nothing about his career has been handed to him; he’s earned every step.

His performance in Spinning Out, as Justin Davis, was where many fans, including myself, really connected with his work. He portrayed the emotional tension of the role with sincerity, and it was hard not to relate to the character’s struggles and growth.

Now, with If I Run, Evan steps into the role of Dylan Roberts, a character shaped by inner conflict. It’s exciting to watch him take on more challenging material, especially after receiving a Leo Award nomination in 2023 for Sealed with a List.

And with songs like “Early Years,” he shows another side of his creativity, thoughtful, personal, and honest.

Evan Roderick continues to impress with his dedication to both acting and songwriting, and being a fan of his work makes following his journey truly worthwhile.

As a fan of Evan Roderick, I’ve found his journey to be both motivating and meaningful. Watching someone go from the intensity of competitive sports to becoming an accomplished actor/songwriter speaks volumes about his focus and willingness to grow. ... Show more

James Simon didn’t start his career with the intention of becoming a producer. Like many who fall in love with theater, his first experience with the stage was through performing. He acted in plays during his school years and at summer camps, developing a connection to live performance early on. Though he later explored other fields—college and a radio career—he eventually found his way back to theater, though this time behind the scenes.

Today, James L. Simon is a Broadway producer with two Tony Award nominations and a portfolio of work that stretches from Manhattan to the United Kingdom.

James was born and raised in Bronxville, New York. He studied communications at Emerson College in Boston, preparing for a career in media. After working in radio for several years, he moved to New York City in the early 1990s to pursue acting full-time. Like many actors in the city, James balanced performance work with side jobs. One of those jobs introduced him to theater production, and that experience led him down a different professional path.

His first hands-on experience with a Broadway production came during the revival of Damn Yankees. Through that role, he saw just how much work goes into making a show successful. From that point forward, Producer James Simon began to take shape. The process of coordinating the many moving parts of a theatrical production sparked his interest and led to a long-term shift in focus.

James developed an ability to spot projects with potential and bring together teams capable of executing a shared vision. His strength lies in balancing creative ambition with the practical realities of producing. Over time, he established a reputation for being consistent, thoughtful, and adept at managing the challenges of theater production.

James L. Simon earned his first Tony nomination for Bells Are Ringing in the Best Revival of a Musical category. His second nomination came with Operation Mincemeat, recognized for Best New Musical. He also co-produced The Woman in Black Off-Broadway, which received the Best Play Revival award from the Off-Broadway Alliance. His credits include work in London’s West End and at major theater festivals around the globe.

James is currently preparing to bring The Marriage of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein to the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He is also co-producing a national tour of Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty Sided Tavern in the United States, an interactive production that combines live gaming and traditional theater elements.

When asked what keeps him producing, James often points to his belief in the power of stories. While he appreciates being part of well-known productions, he also values smaller, more intimate works that may not attract as much attention. In interviews and articles, he has noted how hard it can be for new voices to gain access in the theater industry.

He continues to support opportunities for emerging talent. James serves on the board of Untitled Theater Company No. 61 and donates to programs such as Artists Relief and Donors Choose. These platforms help artists at early stages of their careers gain visibility and support.

Outside the arts, James has volunteered with the New York Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. He is also a regular blood donor through the New York Blood Bank and supports the Legal Aid Society, showing his broader commitment to service.

Producing involves far more than choosing scripts. It requires careful budgeting, coordination, conflict resolution, and planning for travel. James L. Simon, the Producer, remains deeply involved in all aspects of production. He finds value in the behind-the-scenes work—quiet tasks that ensure everything comes together on time.

Even with two Tony Award nominations and international credits, James stays focused on the work rather than recognition. He chooses projects based on substance, not trends, and strives to build environments where creativity can thrive.

Though some of his upcoming projects remain undisclosed, one thing is certain: James Simon, the Producer, continues to approach every production with care, dedication, and a deep respect for the process.

James Simon didn’t start his career with the intention of becoming a producer. Like many who fall in love with theater, his first experience with the stage was through performing. He acted in plays during his school years and at summer camps, develop... Show more

EdTech scholar & VE expert, Prof. Jiménez is a prolific author on equity & human rights. His work bridges cultures inspiring empathy. His publications spark critical conversations on global exchange & social justice.

EdTech scholar & VE expert, Prof. Jiménez is a prolific author on equity & human rights. His work bridges cultures inspiring empathy. His publications spark critical conversations on global exchange & social justice. Show more

She is a social impact leader and impact placemaker, She has co-founded the award winning PlayPan - a social movement that transforms underutilised spaces into vibrant community hubs for creativity and social good. In addition, she also co-founded Glass Dome - a Third Space in Central Singapore that brings diverse stakeholders together to build a culture of giving.

With over two decade in philanthropy and a background spanning corporate, nonprofit, and advisory roles, she is a strong advocate for driving impact through purpose-led design and collaboration. Her joint work is archived as part of contemporary Singapore history as well as documented as case study in Harvard Business Review.

She is a social impact leader and impact placemaker, She has co-founded the award winning PlayPan - a social movement that transforms underutilised spaces into vibrant community hubs for creativity and social good. In addition, she also co-founded Gl... Show more

Teresa Potts is a Quality/Engineering Leader, certified Scrum Master, Agile Coach, and Quality Engineer. She has been in the software industry for over 18 years.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in music, she got into tech because someone took a chance on her. She took that chance and ran with it. She has worked in the insurance, marketing & advertising, real estate, and financial industries.

Once in the field, she earned an Associate’s degree in Computer Programming and a Master of Business Administration in Engineering Management. Always learning, she also earned a Scrum Master certification and Google Project Management certificate.

In 2025, she created her own tech consulting company, Stir the Pott Consulting, LLC. She currently works as an Agile Coach for Youngsoft Inc.

She enjoys being a part of tech groups in her community and beyond. She plays the viola in the Mason Symphony Orchestra, is a member of the Michigan Motor Maids (women’s motorcycle riding club), and is a dog owner. She volunteers as a Lucid Legend, author/editor for Kprofiles.com (kpop website), and Wikipedia for topics she cares about.

Teresa Potts is a Quality/Engineering Leader, certified Scrum Master, Agile Coach, and Quality Engineer. She has been in the software industry for over 18 years. After earning a bachelor’s degree in music, she got into tech because someone took a... Show more