Arts

Talented creative individuals working in the field of visual, auditory and performance arts

Fletcher Groseclos

Fletcher Groseclos

Fletcher Groseclos is a media professional and community advocate based in Bentonville, Arkansas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Journalism from the University of Arkansas with a focus on creative writing. His work in broadcast news has included positions as a producer, camera operator, audio operator, and live television director at Hearst Television's 40/29 and KFSM-TV (Channel 5). In 2018, he also worked in television production on the set of True Detective, Season Three, serving as Property Production Assistant (Jan.Feb.) and later as Locations Assistant (July).

Fletcher was born in Rogers and raised in Bentonville, Arkansas. His interest in communication led him to study in Fayetteville, where he graduated in December 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Journalism. During his time at the university, he was involved with the student news outlet and worked as a field producer, assistant producer, and lead producer. His responsibilities included scheduling and conducting interviews, editing video content, mixing audio through Adobe Premiere Pro, and creating graphics such as lower-thirds, on-screen text, and full-page visuals. He also coordinated live broadcasts with the production team to ensure smooth delivery.

Before finishing his degree, he gained professional experience through a summer 2017 internship at KNWA (NBC)/Fox 24 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. During that time, he wrote VOSOT and pacer stories, assisted with live shots, filmed b-roll for packages, and logged interviews. He also observed producers to understand how broadcasts were organized. After the internship, he continued contributing to the university station as a reporter, producing packages and conducting on-camera interviews.

In September 2018, Fletcher joined a television station in Rogers, Arkansas, as a camera operator, where he coordinated live newscast shots, clipped video segments, and posted content to social media. By December 2018, he became an associate producer, creating newscasts using ENPS producer software and designing graphics with the HATMOS graphics engine. In June 2019, he again worked as a camera and audio operator, maintaining equipment and supporting live broadcasts. By July 2020, he advanced to weekend director, directing live programs and supervising transitions, videos, and graphic elements. In December 2022, he joined another news station in Springdale, Arkansas, as a news producer, producing morning shows, editing video packages, coordinating with anchors and reporters, and responding to breaking news.

In August 2023, he began independent contracting with the Literacy Council of Benton County in Arkansas. In this role, he produces promotional and fundraising videos, manages tutor-student matching through Laces software, and volunteers as a tutor, helping adult learners and immigrants improve their reading, writing, and English pronunciation. From March 2021 to November 2022, he also taught English online to international students, helping them strengthen their vocabulary and speaking confidence. In his free time, Fletcher Groseclos enjoys creative writing, reading, and playing chess.

Fletcher Groseclos is a media professional and community advocate based in Bentonville, Arkansas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Journalism from the University of Arkansas with a focus on creative writing. His work in broadcast news has ... Show more

Ellyse Cedeno

Ellyse Cedeno

Language nerd (Elixir, Haskell, Rust, Nix, Cobol, 6502 Assembly), retrocomputing and game development. Worked making games at Nickelodeon, medical research at Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, and making internet stuff at Netscape.

Language nerd (Elixir, Haskell, Rust, Nix, Cobol, 6502 Assembly), retrocomputing and game development. Worked making games at Nickelodeon, medical research at Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, and making internet stuff at Netscape. Show more

Nadia Tokerud

Nadia Tokerud

Nadia is skilled at being angry and even more skilled at seeing through the anger of others. She revels in frustration and loves figuring out what angry users really need.

Nadia is skilled at being angry and even more skilled at seeing through the anger of others. She revels in frustration and loves figuring out what angry users really need. Show more

Heath Ledet

Heath Ledet

Heath Ledet is spending this chapter of his life on the work he started with: making music. A blues and Americana musician, singer, and songwriter, Heath Ledet is getting back into the music business in earnest after retiring from the oil and gas industry. He is returning to live performance with a focus on festivals and events, and he has a full album of unreleased music that he plans to release one song per month.

Alongside the music, Ledet runs a new business. Through Top Shelf Development, his home and property development company, he buys property, builds homes on it, and sells them. The work applies what he learned building a business in the energy industry to residential construction.

Ledet is originally from South Louisiana. For more than 16 years he has lived in The Woodlands, Texas, which is part of the greater Conroe and Montgomery County area.

The path to this point started with music, his first calling. As a musician, Ledet made the decision to focus on building a company that would give his family financial security. That choice took him into power generation for oil and gas infrastructure. There he grew Montco Oilfield Solutions, a power generation business that supported major oil companies with their infrastructure.
Building Montco is the accomplishment in his professional life that Ledet is most proud of. That chapter closed when he sold the company to a large company that will continue to grow the business and its employees. With the sale, the company he built and the people who helped build it moved forward under new ownership, and Ledet retired from the power generation and oil and gas infrastructure business.

Music did not leave his life during the business years. In October 2013, Heath Ledet released the album Chasing My Dreams, a 10-song collection with Pershing Wells featured throughout. Its tracks are "Chasing My Dreams," "Wrapped Around Your Finger," "Too Good for Me," "Dirty Money," "You're Not Alone," "Forever," "We Dance," "Time Under the Sun," "Got My Eyes On You," and "Nothing to Lose." Other musicians credited on individual tracks include Todd Sorenson, Todd Adams, Randy Ellis, Kathy Ledet, Troy Percle, Cory Duplechin, Lonnie Lapeyrouse, Terri Chiasson, and Charles "Chucky C" Elam. The album can be streamed on Apple Music, Spotify, Shazam, and SoundCloud.

Away from music and business, Ledet is a father, and his family is an important part of his life. His ranch in Arkansas is where he goes to hunt, fish, ride ATV trails, spend time on the lake, hike, and go rock hunting.

Ledet has also been involved in his community through charitable giving and volunteer work. His support has included the Midland Police Department, contributing to the work of local law enforcement. It has included United Way, the nonprofit that works to strengthen communities through local partnerships. It has included schools, where he has invested in the education of students. He has also been part of a wide range of other charitable and volunteer efforts.

For Heath Ledet, this chapter brings him back to where he started. His oil and gas career is complete, and his time is now divided among his music, Top Shelf Development, his family, and his ranch in Arkansas.

Heath Ledet is spending this chapter of his life on the work he started with: making music. A blues and Americana musician, singer, and songwriter, Heath Ledet is getting back into the music business in earnest after retiring from the oil and gas ind... Show more

Geoffrey Goetz

Geoffrey Goetz

Apple Fanboi, Grateful Deadhead, Doctor Whovian, Bimmer Enthusiast, EOS Digitarian.

Apple Fanboi, Grateful Deadhead, Doctor Whovian, Bimmer Enthusiast, EOS Digitarian. Show more

Yossi Sassi

Yossi Sassi

Seasoned technologist, infoSec researcher & friendly hacker. Sassi has accumulated extensive experience in information security for 35+ years, in Red-Blue team assessments, conducting forensic investigations and more, including Fortune100 accounts. Advisory board member of Javelin Networks (acquired by Symantec in 2018). Worked for Microsoft ~8 years as Technology Group Manager and coded support tools for Windows Server. Sassi spoke at TED and TEDx events, and was awarded 4 Peace and friendship awards. Sassi holds a M.A in law, CISSP etc, and speaks regularly at various technology conferences worldwide. Volunteer for youth at risk, aviator & oriental rock guitarist.

Seasoned technologist, infoSec researcher & friendly hacker. Sassi has accumulated extensive experience in information security for 35+ years, in Red-Blue team assessments, conducting forensic investigations and more, including Fortune100 accounts. A... Show more

Toluwase Olugbemiro

Toluwase Olugbemiro

My name is Toluwase Olugbemiro.

I am a brand communicator with experience building global communities for startups, offering strategy, and telling great stories.

In my short time in the industry, I have worked for startups bringing in a collective revenue of $10,000 and more via direct partnerships, negotiations and creative storytelling.

I love anime, food and jazz music.

My name is Toluwase Olugbemiro. I am a brand communicator with experience building global communities for startups, offering strategy, and telling great stories. In my short time in the industry, I have worked for startups bringing in a colle... Show more

Hrishikesh Barua

Hrishikesh Barua

My expertise lies in building SaaS products, Systems Engineering, building and managing cloud infrastructure, TechOps, and Site Reliability Engineering. I've worked in leadership roles at Pramati, Bicycle, and Imaginea. I'm currently building IncidentHub - a vendor outage monitor and status page aggregator for MSPs and IT teams.

I'm also a part-time classical violinist at the Indo-European Chamber Orchestra.

My expertise lies in building SaaS products, Systems Engineering, building and managing cloud infrastructure, TechOps, and Site Reliability Engineering. I've worked in leadership roles at Pramati, Bicycle, and Imaginea. I'm currently building Inciden... Show more

Daniel Isler

Daniel Isler

Daniel Isler, holds a Bachelor's degree in Performing Arts, weaponizing his background in theatrical representation, pretexting, and human behavior to reverse-engineer corporate conditioning. Active in the offensive security field since 2015, he serves as the Team Leader of Fr1endly RATs, the specialized awareness, social engineering and initial access for Red Team unit at SEK. Certified in OSINT, Red Team, and Social Engineering, he has spent more than a decade architecting both high-fidelity tactical intrusions and enterprise Awareness service lines. His unique approach relies on a multidisciplinary, highly creative team of elite operators who strictly design and deliver educational content based on the advanced threat techniques they actively execute in the field.

Daniel Isler, holds a Bachelor's degree in Performing Arts, weaponizing his background in theatrical representation, pretexting, and human behavior to reverse-engineer corporate conditioning. Active in the offensive security field since 2015, he serv... Show more

Mike Signorelli

Mike Signorelli

Mike Signorelli is recognized for shaping ministry in a way that blends traditional pastoral leadership with modern platforms, connecting with millions around the globe. He is the founding lead pastor of V1 Church and the host of The Narrow Way on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, where his teachings reach both local communities in New York and international audiences. From his early beginnings in Chicagoland to becoming a pastor, author, filmmaker, and philanthropist, his journey reflects a consistent focus on service, faith, and leadership.

When he launched V1 Church in New York City, his vision was to create a place for people who had drifted from faith to rediscover it. In just eight years, the church expanded into seven campuses across Long Island, Brooklyn, Manhattan, New Jersey, Miami, and Northwest Indiana. Beyond its physical presence, the church grew internationally through hundreds of weekly watch parties. The rapid growth has been recognized nationally, with V1 Church listed at No. 26 on Outreach magazine’s 2023 “Outreach 100 Fastest-Growing Churches,” and earlier called the “fastest-growing church in America” by INJOY Stewardship Solutions.

For many, V1 Church is more than a gathering place; it has become a movement founded on values of freedom, generosity, and excellence. His leadership has been dedicated to fostering transformation at both the individual and community levels.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mike Signorelli V1 Church began livestreaming messages as a way to remain connected with congregants. What started as a necessity soon reached over five million viewers each month and eventually expanded to more than ten million listeners across platforms. This momentum led to the creation of V1 College, which now serves more than two hundred students from over twenty nations, offering training in theology and leadership that equips them for impact in many areas of life. He also launched The Breakers App, providing instruction in evangelism, healing, prophecy, and deliverance, making practical teaching available to a global audience.

Community service has remained central to his work. Together with his wife, Mike founded V1 Community Impact, a nonprofit that distributes food monthly to families across the United States, provides disaster relief, and offers holiday support to shelters in Brooklyn and Long Island. He also leads the MVMNT Network, supporting pastors in six countries and emphasizing unity, generosity, and resilience in leadership.

His influence extends into film and writing. In 2023, his movie The Domino Revival was shown in theaters nationwide, sharing stories of healing, deliverance, and renewed hope. As an author, his most recent book, Inherit Your Freedom (2024), quickly became a best-seller, further extending his message to readers around the world.

At the heart of his life is family. Signorelli and his wife are raising their daughters in New York City, balancing the demands of ministry, travel, and content creation while upholding the values that guide their home.

From his early years in Chicagoland to leading one of the nation's fastest-growing churches, Mike Signorelli has built a ministry marked by teaching, leadership, and service. His work through V1 Church, creative projects, and community initiatives continues to influence countless lives worldwide. Mike’s story demonstrates how vision, perseverance, and faith can bring lasting transformation to both individuals and communities.

Mike Signorelli is recognized for shaping ministry in a way that blends traditional pastoral leadership with modern platforms, connecting with millions around the globe. He is the founding lead pastor of V1 Church and the host of The Narrow Way on th... Show more

Santiago Lator Arias

Santiago Lator Arias

Actualmente tengo el rol de Observability Program Responsible en Global Processing como parte del equipo de Arquitectura IT, liderando el diseño e implementacion de la estrategia de monitoreo y observabilidad de la compañia.

Anteriormente me desempeñé como SR Consultant en MajorKey Technologies, Team Leader del equipo de Monitoring & Observability en BGH Tech Partner y como Analista de System Management y Gestor de Problemas en Claro Argentina.

💬 Podes preguntarme sobre Monitoring & Observability 🙂
📫 Para contactarme: santiago.lator@gmail.com | santiago.lator@globalprocessing.com.ar

Actualmente tengo el rol de Observability Program Responsible en Global Processing como parte del equipo de Arquitectura IT, liderando el diseño e implementacion de la estrategia de monitoreo y observabilidad de la compañia. Anteriormente me desem... Show more

Sebastian Alvarez

Sebastian Alvarez

I am a dedicated Senior Fullstack Software Engineer based in Ecuador with +6 years in the industry, with a passion for creating innovative solutions for web and mobile applications, REST APIs, GraphQL and microservices. I leverage a diverse range of cutting-edge technologies to deliver robust and scalable software. My expertise spans backend and frontend development, UI-UX design, and infrastructure management, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency across all aspects of a software project. Recently, I have delved into the exciting realm of Artificial Intelligence, specializing in developing computer vision applications and integrating LLM models for intelligent conversational systems in personal projects.

I am a dedicated Senior Fullstack Software Engineer based in Ecuador with +6 years in the industry, with a passion for creating innovative solutions for web and mobile applications, REST APIs, GraphQL and microservices. I leverage a diverse range of ... Show more

Alexandra Zakharova

Alexandra Zakharova

Alexandra Zakharova is a Senior Partner Solution Architect AI and Apps at Microsoft working closely with partners on AI adoption across the Microsoft Data and AI Platform. She has more than ten years of experience at the intersection of data artificial intelligence and human skills.
She has delivered over three hundred talks and training sessions worldwide and teaches at Sorbonne Nouvelle University. She is also a published author and frequently speaks about how data and AI professionals can remain relevant creative and irreplaceable in an AI driven world.

Alexandra Zakharova is a Senior Partner Solution Architect AI and Apps at Microsoft working closely with partners on AI adoption across the Microsoft Data and AI Platform. She has more than ten years of experience at the intersection of data artifici... Show more

Micah Raskin Poker

Micah Raskin Poker

Born on August 8, 1968, Micah Raskin Poker is a semi-professional poker player living in New York, NY. He began his professional poker journey in 2007 and gradually built his career by competing in various tournaments. His steady approach and focus have helped him gain recognition over time.

Micah has earned more than $ 2 million in poker. More than 25% of his total earnings have been donated to charitable causes, reflecting his intention to support others. His performance has placed him among the ranks of well-known semi-professional players in the United States.

Alongside poker, he has also built a presence in business. He launched a direct marketing agency in Queens, New York, which grew into a stable business. He also played a role in establishing one of the largest chiropractic centers in New York. These efforts show his ability to apply careful planning and discipline in different areas.

For nearly two decades, Micah Raskin has remained active in philanthropy. He has supported temples, houses of worship, hospitals, and schools, with a focus on children. His contributions include supporting children with autism and providing resources. He also started an after-school program in Queens to create a safe and structured environment for children. In addition, he helped fund a hospital in Israel that serves the sick and elderly.

He has also supported the elderly by funding three temples where they can gather for prayer, meals, and connection. His involvement with children with disabilities includes funding and participating in weekend swimming programs that promote inclusion and well-being.

His family background influences his interest in music. Raskin sponsors an annual concert in Hyde Park, with proceeds benefiting local children’s hospitals. He also performs in a New York-based rock ' n ' roll cover band.

He currently lives in Old Westbury, New York, balancing his time between business, poker, and music. He stays closely connected with his twin brothers and often collaborates with them on music projects. He graduated from Baruch College with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

In his daily life, he enjoys poker, skiing, and cooking meals for his elderly parents. His routine reflects his strong connection to family and community. Micah Raskin Poker continues to balance his professional work with his personal commitments and charitable efforts.

Born on August 8, 1968, Micah Raskin Poker is a semi-professional poker player living in New York, NY. He began his professional poker journey in 2007 and gradually built his career by competing in various tournaments. His steady approach and focus h... Show more

Aaron Williams

Aaron Williams

Aaron Williams

Aaron Williams, known professionally as Artikyoul8, is a blockchain executive, ecosystem strategist, educator, and entrepreneur specializing in digital assets, tokenization, decentralized finance, and community-driven growth. He serves as Growth Lead for the Coreum DAO. As a validator operator and industry advocate, he has helped educate and onboard thousands through conferences, podcasts, X Spaces, and global Web3 initiatives.

Aaron is the Project Lead of the Smart Meme Ecosystem and creator of Smart Meme Token ($MART), recognized as the first Edumeme project verified by Grokipedia. His work explores the convergence of education, culture, and decentralized capital formation, demonstrating how community ecosystems can drive sustainable blockchain adoption. A four-time NFT.NYC VIP Speaker, two-time guest on Mario Nawfal's global X broadcasts, and co-host of the SuperLedger Podcast, Aaron is a recognized voice on tokenization, RWAs, DeFi, AI, and emerging digital asset infrastructure.

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@iamartikyoul8

Aaron Williams Aaron Williams, known professionally as Artikyoul8, is a blockchain executive, ecosystem strategist, educator, and entrepreneur specializing in digital assets, tokenization, decentralized finance, and community-driven growth. He ser... Show more

Chris Taylor

Chris Taylor

Chris Taylor is a security consultant with a 25+ year background in digital forensics and incident response who specializes in building security programs for media & entertainment companies. His company is a specialized MSSP that provides security for film studios, production companies, game development studios, and the companies that support them.

Chris Taylor is a security consultant with a 25+ year background in digital forensics and incident response who specializes in building security programs for media & entertainment companies. His company is a specialized MSSP that provides security fo... Show more

Theresa Schlag

Theresa Schlag

Theresa Schlag (she/her) is a Berlin-based Art Director and Stylised 3D Artist specialising in visual development, handpainted workflows, and real-time production pipelines for games. With over 14 years of experience across game development, interactive media, and education, she combines artistic vision with technical execution to create distinctive stylised worlds in Unity.
Her work focuses on art direction, shader-driven stylisation, and scalable asset workflows that bridge concept, production, and in-engine final look. Alongside freelance work for game studios and interactive projects, she lectures on 3D art, UI/UX, and game production pipelines in Germany.

Theresa Schlag (she/her) is a Berlin-based Art Director and Stylised 3D Artist specialising in visual development, handpainted workflows, and real-time production pipelines for games. With over 14 years of experience across game development, interact... Show more

Tanisha Bradley Bradley Leadership Co.

Tanisha Bradley Bradley Leadership Co.

Tanisha Bradley is a powerful voice in leadership development, known for helping professionals transform the way they show up, communicate, and lead.

With a passion for empowering others, Tanisha equips individuals and organizations with the tools to build confidence, strengthen their voice, and lead with clarity and purpose. Her approach blends real-world insight, relatable storytelling, and actionable strategies that audiences can immediately apply.

Whether speaking to corporate teams, educational institutions, or conferences, Tanisha delivers high-energy, transformative experiences that inspire lasting change. Her mission is simple: to help people break through limitations, own their voice, and lead boldly in every room they enter.

Tanisha Bradley is a powerful voice in leadership development, known for helping professionals transform the way they show up, communicate, and lead. With a passion for empowering others, Tanisha equips individuals and organizations with the tools... Show more

Michael Collier

Michael Collier

Michael Collier is a Software Developer, coach, trainer with 25+ years of experience spanning many different industries delivering value to his customers. He has been involved with Agile transformations since 2013 as an Agile Developer Coach.
Michael’s passion is helping teams deliver customer value. He conducts trainings focusing on agile Development practices XP and Lean combined with TDD – BDD –Teaming.
Michael currently holds CAL-E|CAL-T|CSP-SM|CSP-PO|CSP-D|CSP-PO CSM|CSD|CSPO|A-CSD|CSS|CRS
and loves Alphabet soup.
In his off time, he enjoys entertaining, recently retired after 14 years as a member of an internationally known pirate themed musical group but still enjoys playing Cajon as well and many other instruments

Michael Collier is a Software Developer, coach, trainer with 25+ years of experience spanning many different industries delivering value to his customers. He has been involved with Agile transformations since 2013 as an Agile Developer Coach. Michae... Show more

Sweeya Ghanta

Sweeya Ghanta

Sweeya Ghanta is a computer science senior at Georgia State University, a lifelong Minecraft player, and an artist who drew every asset in this project herself. She also plays piano. Outside of class she works on getting younger students into tech, including starting an AI engineering club at Georgia State for people who have never built with AI before, because she thinks the field is a lot more fun than it looks from the outside.

Sweeya Ghanta is a computer science senior at Georgia State University, a lifelong Minecraft player, and an artist who drew every asset in this project herself. She also plays piano. Outside of class she works on getting younger students into tech, i... Show more

Marcus Omri

Marcus Omri

Omri Marcus is a creative strategist and tech-concept developer with over 25 years of experience creating global television formats for media giants like Viacom and Red Arrow. Currently, he leads the pioneering AI integration programs at the Sam Spiegel Film and Television School, training producers and screenwriters on multi-agent AI orchestration.

Blending strategic execution with human storytelling, Omri focuses on building agentic workflows that maintain a unique creative edge. As Mike Reiss of The Simpsons noted, he is also "the funniest man in Israel."

The reality behind the credentials:
I spend my days trying to keep the soul inside stories while using tools that are designed to strip it away. As an AI consultant to global enterprises, I don't "theorize" about AI—I build the workflows that screenwriters, directors, and brands use to actually work.

My focus isn't on the "future of AI." It’s on the immediate, practical struggle of staying human in a production room that is increasingly run by statistical models. Having served as an Emmy juror for years, I know what "great" looks like—and it isn't a statistical average. I’m currently showing the industry why our flaws, blind spots, and irrational creative choices are the only things left that matter, and how to weaponize them to win in an AI-saturated market.

Omri Marcus is a creative strategist and tech-concept developer with over 25 years of experience creating global television formats for media giants like Viacom and Red Arrow. Currently, he leads the pioneering AI integration programs at the Sam Spie... Show more

Jessica Ibarra

Jessica Ibarra

I’m a creative, people-first service and experience designer with 15+ years of transforming complex programmes into end-to-end services that leaders, boards, and delivery teams can understand, fund, and scale. I’m successful because empathy is where I start, not where I stop, to deliver quality products, services and experiences that make a positive impact.
My work bridges design thinking, service design, and systems thinking principles applied to AI enablement for products, workflows and teams. In practice, I lead service, experience, and learning design across tech-forward, AI-heavy programmes, often as the first and only designer in the room. In the past, I have helped several emerging teams and startups build a shared practice and find smarter, more inclusive ways through their most ambiguous challenges, so I’m confident as hire #1 or leading a growing team.

I’m a creative, people-first service and experience designer with 15+ years of transforming complex programmes into end-to-end services that leaders, boards, and delivery teams can understand, fund, and scale. I’m successful because empathy is where ... Show more

Erica Burgess

Erica Burgess

Erica is an AI cybersecurity architect and consultant, and was a software engineer and cybersecurity hobbyist for several years before becoming an application security red-teamer in 2018. Since then, she has been earning bug bounties, releasing new CVEs and original exploit techniques, training penetration testers and conducting R&D projects as a cybersecurity technical lead. Erica organizes 2600, a local hacker meetup, and has spoken about hacking, bot writing, and more at many conferences, including Black Hat Europe, SkyTalks, CactusCon, SnowTalks and DEF CON, the world's largest hacker conference. Find her on the DEF CON contest floor designing puzzles to create Lonely Hard Drive, Wall of Bribes, and Lonely Air Tag, or volunteering at Red Team Village. Erica holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Southern Maine.

Erica is an AI cybersecurity architect and consultant, and was a software engineer and cybersecurity hobbyist for several years before becoming an application security red-teamer in 2018. Since then, she has been earning bug bounties, releasing new C... Show more

Aisosa Obasohan

Aisosa Obasohan

As a self-taught product designer, over the past 4 years of my design career, it's been a fun and rewarding experience helping start-up and cross-functional teams globally design and build products across the Fintech, Social commerce, Entertainment and Transportation industries with an impact on over 100's of users.

Currently, I am part of the product team at Rafiki.works fostering growth opportunities for freelancers in Africa. In addition, as a Mentor at Na'amal, a UK-based non-profit organisation for social good, I provide mentorship training for refugees and individuals in underrepresented communities with skills training and mentorship needed to strive in the digitised global labour market in collaboration with the World Bank.

As a self-taught product designer, over the past 4 years of my design career, it's been a fun and rewarding experience helping start-up and cross-functional teams globally design and build products across the Fintech, Social commerce, Entertainment a... Show more

Steven Wakabayashi

Steven Wakabayashi

Steven Wakabayashi (he/him) is an award-winning designer and founder in New York City. He leads Stranger Creative, an independent creative agency that builds world-class digital experiences and design systems for ambitious brands​, from startups to Fortune 100​ companies.​ Previously, Steven ​led design ​for Apple, Google, Publicis, and Huge. He is also the founder of QTBIPOC Design, a nonprofit creating pathways for underrepresented designers in the creative industry.

Steven earned a BS in Physiology & Neuroscience and a BA in Dance from the University of California, San Diego​, an interdisciplinary foundation that continues to inform his systems thinking and human-centered approach to design. He has also completed a two-year mindfulness teacher​-training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach​, an experience that shapes his commitment to mindful leadership and sustainable creative practices.

Steven ​a​lso hosts Yellow Glitter, a podcast ​amplifying the stories of queer Asian creatives, ​entrepreneurs, and community leaders shaping culture and changing the world.

Steven Wakabayashi (he/him) is an award-winning designer and founder in New York City. He leads Stranger Creative, an independent creative agency that builds world-class digital experiences and design systems for ambitious brands​, from startups to F... Show more

Jason Clark

Jason Clark

Jason specializes in brand strategy, corporate identity systems, and brand architecture for organizations navigating growth and change. He helps companies clarify their structure, unify sub-brands, and build design systems that scale across teams, channels, and markets.

With decades of experience leading rebrands, product launches, and multi-channel campaigns, Jason brings a strategic yet creative approach to solving complex brand challenges. He has partnered with corporations, startups, and nonprofits alike, blending structure with personality to ensure brands are both organized and human.

A Louisville native, Jason has led award-winning projects recognized with Gold ADDYs, AIGA Louisville’s Best of Branding, and the organization’s only Visionary Award. He was also named one of Business First’s 20 People to Know in Advertising.

Jason’s talks explore branding as an essential business function that drives clarity, culture, and growth. He speaks on topics including brand architecture for growing companies, agile creative process, and how to align legacy with evolving markets.

He has presented at CreativeMornings, AIGA Louisville, AAF, and on panels covering branding, AI, and leadership.

Jason specializes in brand strategy, corporate identity systems, and brand architecture for organizations navigating growth and change. He helps companies clarify their structure, unify sub-brands, and build design systems that scale across teams, ch... Show more

James Epale Nairobi Space of Artificial Intelligence Tools (NSAIT)

James Epale Nairobi Space of Artificial Intelligence Tools (NSAIT)

James Epale is the Co-Founder and CTO of Nairobi Space of Artificial Intelligence Tools (NSAIT), where he works on practical AI solutions and initiatives that make artificial-intelligence tools more accessible to young African builders.

He is an AI solutions architect and full-stack software developer with experience creating applied software and automation systems. James was part of the team that built Ongea Pesa, a voice-first payment prototype designed to make digital transactions simpler and more accessible. His work focuses on turning emerging AI capabilities into useful systems while addressing the engineering, reliability, and accessibility challenges that arise when AI interacts with real-world workflows.

James Epale is the Co-Founder and CTO of Nairobi Space of Artificial Intelligence Tools (NSAIT), where he works on practical AI solutions and initiatives that make artificial-intelligence tools more accessible to young African builders. He is an A... Show more

Jason Nissen

Jason Nissen

Jason Nissen is a specialist in ticket brokerage and hospitality marketplaces, with a career spanning nearly three decades. During this time, he has managed large-scale ticket sales, designed hospitality packages, and organized events, including Broadway productions, music festivals, and global sporting competitions. His career reflects a consistent ability to handle complex operations, ensuring audiences and clients experience well-executed, memorable events.

Jason’s professional path has been shaped by two key strengths: mathematics and people skills. His mathematical background enables him to evaluate logistics, financial structures, and strategies with precision and accuracy. Alongside this, his talent for communication and relationship building allows him to work effectively with clients, partners, and colleagues. This combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills has guided his career in industries where both accuracy and collaboration are crucial.

Through these qualities, Nissen has been able to anticipate challenges, remain adaptable, and deliver consistent results. Whether overseeing a festival, a concert, or an international sporting event, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to translate detailed requirements into smooth and well-coordinated outcomes.

Jason Nissen began developing this foundation at Hamilton College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1994. While at Hamilton, he also played as a wide receiver on the football team and served as social chair of his fraternity. These experiences provided him with opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that would become valuable in his future career in the ticket brokerage and hospitality industries.

For more than 28 years, Jason has served as an officer at The Ultimate Fan. In this role, he has helped the company grow into a respected provider of tickets and hospitality services. The company has delivered access to some of the world’s most prestigious events, including the Super Bowl, the Final Four, Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Olympics. By combining logistical detail with personalized service, Jason has enabled The Ultimate Fan to serve a wide range of clients, from individual fans to Fortune 500 corporations.

Nissen also extended his career into event creation. From 2015 to 2017, he was CEO of Minus Zero Music Festival, an Electronic Dance Music festival held in Stratton, Vermont. The festival combined EDM performances with skiing and snowboarding, offering attendees a distinctive form of entertainment. Jason managed every aspect of the event, from ticketing and merchandise to stage construction and safety protocols. His leadership demonstrated his ability to turn creative ideas into organized, successful events.

Jason Nissen’s philosophy blends long-term vision with direct involvement. He often credits communication, collaboration, and relationship building as key factors in his professional success. From securing his first clients through college connections to maintaining long-term partnerships with corporate groups and sports organizations, Jason has consistently focused on building meaningful, lasting relationships.

Over the years, Jason has also faced challenges, including regulatory requirements in ticket sales and balancing profitability with sustainable practices. For the 2024 Minus Zero Music Festival reboot, he introduced eco-friendly initiatives, reflecting his commitment to responsible business practices and ensuring high-quality audience experiences.

For Jason, professional fulfillment comes from both measurable results and from seeing ambitious projects succeed. He finds inspiration in figures such as Phil Knight and Anthony Bourdain, appreciating their persistence, creativity, and ability to bring their vision to life. He also relies on straightforward tools, such as a whiteboard, to guide collaborative and practical planning.

Looking ahead, Jason Nissen continues to focus on improving and reimagining live event experiences. With the rebranding and relaunch of Minus Zero Music Festival, he plans to combine lessons learned from past experiences with innovative approaches to drive growth. His nearly 30 years in ticket brokerage, hospitality, and event management highlight a career built on careful planning, strong connections, and a dedication to creating events that audiences will always remember.

Jason Nissen is a specialist in ticket brokerage and hospitality marketplaces, with a career spanning nearly three decades. During this time, he has managed large-scale ticket sales, designed hospitality packages, and organized events, including Broa... Show more

Hermet Park

Hermet Park

Hermet Park is the creator of ThorVG and a graphics engineer with over 20 years of experience in rendering and systems development. A longtime open-source contributor and former Enlightenment Project maintainer, he has worked at Samsung Electronics, Krafton’s PUBG Studio, and currently leads Graphics Engineering at LottieFiles.

Hermet Park is the creator of ThorVG and a graphics engineer with over 20 years of experience in rendering and systems development. A longtime open-source contributor and former Enlightenment Project maintainer, he has worked at Samsung Electronics, ... Show more

Lena Reinhard

Lena Reinhard

Lena Reinhard is a VP Engineering, leadership coach, facilitator, and artist. In her 20-year career, she’s served in tech leadership roles, such as VP Engineering with CircleCI, Travis CI, and a SaaS startup co-founder & CEO. Now, she helps leaders and teams succeed in co-located and remote teams in organizations from startups and scale-ups, to corporations. Lena is queer and neurodivergent. She loves to read, sing, and wander around the forests and lakes of her home in Berlin, Germany. In her artistic work, she primarily paints and works with fibers; her pieces currently focus on the themes of loss and letting go.

Lena Reinhard is a VP Engineering, leadership coach, facilitator, and artist. In her 20-year career, she’s served in tech leadership roles, such as VP Engineering with CircleCI, Travis CI, and a SaaS startup co-founder & CEO. Now, she helps leaders a... Show more

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