Arts

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

Kateryna Martin Bannikova

Kateryna Martin Bannikova

With 20 years of experience in HR leadership, workforce planning, and global talent acquisition strategy, I have built and scaled TA&HR functions for startups, scale-ups, and global enterprises across tech, fintech, and travel industries.

I have led Talent Acquisition and HRBP teams, built HR infrastructures, and scaled engineering and product hiring across the UK, US, LatAm, Europe, and Asia. As HR Director in the cruise industry, I managed complex, multinational HR operations. As a Product Owner for an in-house HR tech product, I developed solutions that enhanced workforce planning, HR analytics, and data-driven decision-making.

My Expertise:
- HR Business Partnering & Organizational Strategy – Aligning people strategies with business goals to enhance performance and engagement.
- Tech Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning – Optimizing hiring strategies, scaling engineering and product hiring, and ensuring strong leadership pipelines.
- HR Infrastructure & Global Expansion – Scaling HR functions in high-growth environments across multiple regions.
- Employee Relations & Compliance – Navigating complex labor laws and fostering a high-performance culture.
- HR Analytics & Data-Driven Decision-Making – Leveraging insights to improve talent strategies, retention, and workforce optimization.

Qualifications:
- PhD in Sociology (Organizational Culture & HR)
- CIPD Level 7 | SHRM Certified | GTML Certified
- Certified Career Coach | Certified Master Life Coach

I thrive on building scalable HR solutions that drive business success, support global expansion, and develop high-performing teams.

Currently, I’m also developing an AI-powered career coach, integrating insights from organizational culture, social capital, and behavioral science to help professionals grow and succeed.

Let’s connect - whether you’re hiring a strategic HR leader or investing in the future of AI-driven career coaching.

With 20 years of experience in HR leadership, workforce planning, and global talent acquisition strategy, I have built and scaled TA&HR functions for startups, scale-ups, and global enterprises across tech, fintech, and travel industries. I have ... Show more

Michaela Köhler

Michaela Köhler

Michaela Köhler works as a communication designer, curator and design consultant. She is Professor of Communication design at HfK+G, Hochschule für Kommunikation und Gestaltung in Stuttgart. Her teaching concept is focused on content based visual conception, typography and cross-media formats. She has a great experience in interdisciplinary projects, in social and civic design projects and emphasizes her professional interest in all forms of visual identities.

Michaela Köhler works as a communication designer, curator and design consultant. She is Professor of Communication design at HfK+G, Hochschule für Kommunikation und Gestaltung in Stuttgart. Her teaching concept is focused on content based visual con... Show more

Hayleigh Thompson

Hayleigh Thompson

Hayleigh is the author of Lustre, Gleam's most popular frontend Web framework as well as an ecosystem of packages that support it. She is an experienced Web developer and Elm engineer. More recently, Hayleigh has spent the last few years acting as a developer evangelist; spreading the good word about types, the BEAM, and Gleam to anyone with the patience to listen to her.

Hayleigh is the author of Lustre, Gleam's most popular frontend Web framework as well as an ecosystem of packages that support it. She is an experienced Web developer and Elm engineer. More recently, Hayleigh has spent the last few years acting as a... Show more

Herbert Hernandez

Herbert Hernandez

Herbert Hernandez is a visionary leader in both the advertising and music industries. He co-founded GIGIL, a top independent advertising agency in the Philippines, which has won major awards such as the APAC Effies Gold and the title of Philippines Independent Agency of the Year.

Herbert Hernandez is a visionary leader in both the advertising and music industries. He co-founded GIGIL, a top independent advertising agency in the Philippines, which has won major awards such as the APAC Effies Gold and the title of Philippines I... Show more

Mark Engle

Mark Engle

I am a Certified Heroic Coach, a grandfather, an entrepreneur, an outdoorsman, and a life long learner that happens to own and operate a small Apple consultancy located in central Pennsylvania. I have been working in this industry for 42 years and have been in business for myself for 34 of those years. I like to share my humble "hero's journey" and practice of becoming the best possible version of myself in service to something bigger, so that I may support you in doing the same.

I am a Certified Heroic Coach, a grandfather, an entrepreneur, an outdoorsman, and a life long learner that happens to own and operate a small Apple consultancy located in central Pennsylvania. I have been working in this industry for 42 years and ha... Show more

Jean-Baptiste Letaconnoux

Jean-Baptiste Letaconnoux

Au service de la création graphique et du web depuis 15 ans, adepte du pixel perfect et des maquettes dev-friendly. Amateur de musique extrême et de skateboard.

Au service de la création graphique et du web depuis 15 ans, adepte du pixel perfect et des maquettes dev-friendly. Amateur de musique extrême et de skateboard. Show more

Xzion (Lounge)

Xzion (Lounge)

I'm a long-time FE attendee (every FE since 2010!) and at this point a long-time staffer, either on Photography or Lounge event staff. I try to be friendly and easy to talk to, but I can be awkward and shy at times!

I'm a long-time FE attendee (every FE since 2010!) and at this point a long-time staffer, either on Photography or Lounge event staff. I try to be friendly and easy to talk to, but I can be awkward and shy at times! Show more

Vann Jones

Vann Jones

Vann Jones is a transgender political analyst, community organizer, educator, and caretaker, born and raised in the East Bay Area. Vann got his start in working towards community care at the age of 12 when he became heavily involved in the Castro Valley Unified School District, fighting for LGBTQ+ inclusion and education at every grade level. He is proudly a first-generation college student, graduating from the University of California, Santa Cruz with highest honors in Feminist Studies and the History of Art & Visual Culture. During his time in college, he published and presented his own research and educational website on transmasculine reproduction which has become a staple in transgender health care across the UC system, and is now permanently preserved by the GLBT Historical Society. He has collaborated with a plethora of renowned organizations and activists both while still in college and after graduating. Vann has experience working both at the California State Capitol in Sacramento as a legislative intern and on The Hill in Washington, D.C. as a policy & field intern for the National LGBTQ+ Task Force and a journalism intern for internationally acclaimed reporter Erin Reed. Throughout his life, Vann has worked with and lobbied at every level of government in order to help pass progressive legislation on a wide variety of intersectional issues in order to protect our most vulnerable.

Vann Jones is a transgender political analyst, community organizer, educator, and caretaker, born and raised in the East Bay Area. Vann got his start in working towards community care at the age of 12 when he became heavily involved in the Castro Val... Show more

Bcbreakaway Referee Zebra

Bcbreakaway Referee Zebra

bcbreakaway entered the Furry Fandom in 2013 and most recently became the Convention Chair of Fur-Eh! in Edmonton, AB. His main character is Strypes the Referee Zebra. This will be bcbreakaway's third time attending Furnal Equinox.

bcbreakaway entered the Furry Fandom in 2013 and most recently became the Convention Chair of Fur-Eh! in Edmonton, AB. His main character is Strypes the Referee Zebra. This will be bcbreakaway's third time attending Furnal Equinox. Show more

Aakash Dhakshnamoorthy

Aakash Dhakshnamoorthy

I am Aakash Dhakshnamoorthy, a AI Developer in the R&D Department at Torry Harris Integration Solutions and an Oracle Certified GenAI Professional. My expertise spans Python, Gen AI, DevOps, Jenkins, React, and JavaScript, with a keen interest in Generative AI Application Development.

Additionally, a winner of the National Level Smart India Hackathon 2022 and a finalist in the UNESCO India Africa (UIA) International Hackathon, I have actively contributed to the AI and technology landscape.

I am also a speaker at Global AI Bootcamp 2025, Dev Summit 2025, an AI workshop conducted by Microsoft, AI Agents workflow by Google and many more industry events, where I share insights on AI and emerging technologies.

I have delivered session on Ktor in Kotlin for college students and have served as a mentor in multiple AI-domain hackathons, helping participants navigate AI challenges and solutions.

Beyond my professional work, I am passionate about teaching underprivileged students and actively participate in environmental initiatives. I also enjoy painting and designing, blending creativity with technology to innovate and inspire.

I am Aakash Dhakshnamoorthy, a AI Developer in the R&D Department at Torry Harris Integration Solutions and an Oracle Certified GenAI Professional. My expertise spans Python, Gen AI, DevOps, Jenkins, React, and JavaScript, with a keen interest in Gen... Show more

Bre Murray

Bre Murray

Bre Murray is a visionary creative technologist and the Founder of HYP Labs, an innovative immersive technology company at the forefront of developing cutting-edge mixed reality products and experiences. With a remarkable journey spanning over various industry giants, including Disney, Ticketmaster, and Verizon, Bre brings a wealth of expertise as an engineer and designer.

Bre's journey is defined by her innate ability to merge engineering prowess with artistic finesse, addressing intricate challenges at the nexus of technology, design, and culture. Her drive stems from a passion to unlock opportunities and pave pathways for underrepresented communities in the tech world, making her a true technological trailblazer. Under her leadership, HYP Labs continues to redefine the landscape of immersive technology, solidifying her commitment to a diverse and accessible future in the tech world.

Bre Murray is a visionary creative technologist and the Founder of HYP Labs, an innovative immersive technology company at the forefront of developing cutting-edge mixed reality products and experiences. With a remarkable journey spanning over variou... Show more

Ana Jembrek

Ana Jembrek

Ana Jembrek neodlučno je biće koje baš i ne voli pitanje "A čime se ti baviš?". U svoj će eklektičan CV upisati operno pjevanje, game design i rad u izdavaštvu.

Nije sigurno u kojem je trenutku Ana shvatila da joj upravo knjige pričinjavaju najveće zadovoljstvo. Nije baš sigurno ni u kojem je trenutku shvatila da su joj priče potrebne kao što joj je potreban zrak.

Stoga je za Anu book bloganje (Books Rock My World, Knjige su moj svijet) bio prirodan korak u svojem naumu da proširi radosnu knjišku vijest; spoji knjigu s njezinim čitateljima, i posebnu sreću pronađe u nekoliko literarnih klubova koje vodi.

Ana Jembrek neodlučno je biće koje baš i ne voli pitanje "A čime se ti baviš?". U svoj će eklektičan CV upisati operno pjevanje, game design i rad u izdavaštvu. Nije sigurno u kojem je trenutku Ana shvatila da joj upravo knjige pričinjavaju najveć... Show more

Wendi Blum Weiss

Wendi Blum Weiss

Wendi Blum Weiss is an international speaker, a 2X best selling author who co-produces anthology books, founder of The Speakers and Coaches Society and the CEO of her company, Success Blueprint that she launched 12 years ago after transitioning out of a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry.

Today, as a heart centered leader, mission driven coach & business mentor, Wendi is soulfully committed to help men and women across the globe tap into their unique superpowers to unleash their life’s highest calling. She is most known for her collaborative spirit, community building, and her revolutionary “Reverse Engineer Your Identity” Method.

Wendi Blum Weiss is an international speaker, a 2X best selling author who co-produces anthology books, founder of The Speakers and Coaches Society and the CEO of her company, Success Blueprint that she launched 12 years ago after transitioning out o... Show more

Nadine aka Panda

Nadine aka Panda

Nadine Johnson is a thought leader in design and research and known for her innovation and creativity throughout her career. She has worked for a wide range of companies from multi-national corporations to startups, as an artist, a designer and future thinker. She has been a respected speaker at TechCircus, Struktur, and Horizon Leadership Summit in Sweden. She is committed to empowering digital artists to embrace innovative techniques and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of digital art.

Nadine Johnson is a thought leader in design and research and known for her innovation and creativity throughout her career. She has worked for a wide range of companies from multi-national corporations to startups, as an artist, a designer and futur... Show more

Susan McKenzie

Susan McKenzie

Susan McKenzie is a seasoned event planner and fundraising expert with a profound impact on the nonprofit sector. She brings over 15 years of experience in designing and executing large-scale events that elevate brand presence and foster community engagement. Her career has been defined by her unique ability to blend creative strategy with a keen understanding of the nonprofit landscape, ensuring each event she oversees not only meets, but exceeds its fundraising goals.

Susan's expertise extends beyond traditional event planning; she is known for crafting immersive experiences that resonate with audiences and inspire action. She has successfully managed everything from galas to community fun runs to theatre productions, incorporating innovative fundraising strategies to ensure organizations meet their goals. Her ability to cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors has led to significant financial growth for the organizations she supports.

Throughout her career, Susan has been dedicated to supporting causes close to her heart, particularly those that focus on child advocacy, education, and community development. Her commitment to driving positive change through her work has earned her a reputation as a trusted partner for nonprofits looking to make a lasting impact.

Susan McKenzie is a seasoned event planner and fundraising expert with a profound impact on the nonprofit sector. She brings over 15 years of experience in designing and executing large-scale events that elevate brand presence and foster community en... Show more

Jessy Jeanne

Jessy Jeanne

JessyJeanne, a French/Lebanese artist and entrepreneur, began her creative journey at École des Arts Décoratifs. After studying Cultural Management at ESCP Business School, she entered the NFT space in January 2021. She founded Art From Future DAO, created art under the name JessyFries, and co-founded Gxrls Revolution—a web3 collective empowering women artists powered by Jean-Michel Pailhon, ex-Chief of Staff at Ledger.

JessyJeanne, a French/Lebanese artist and entrepreneur, began her creative journey at École des Arts Décoratifs. After studying Cultural Management at ESCP Business School, she entered the NFT space in January 2021. She founded Art From Future DAO, c... Show more

James Bryan

James Bryan

James has been captivated by the web since building his first personal site on Geocities back in 2008. Over the years, he has witnessed and adapted to numerous revolutions in web development, including the advent of mobile-responsive design, the rise of monolithic content management systems, and the emergence of the JAMstack. Today, James focuses on leveraging modern web technologies and open-source tools to create everything from small brochure sites to full-scale web applications.

As a civil engineer by trade, James uniquely combines his engineering expertise with his web design and development skills to craft real-world applications that solve practical problems and streamline workflows.

James has been captivated by the web since building his first personal site on Geocities back in 2008. Over the years, he has witnessed and adapted to numerous revolutions in web development, including the advent of mobile-responsive design, the rise... Show more

Jake Jorgovan

Jake Jorgovan

Jake Jorgovan is a unique blend of creative and capitalist, combining his passion for art with his entrepreneurial drive. As the Founder of Alpha Apex Group, Content Allies, and Listen Network, he has helped B2B companies like Meta, Siemens Energy, and Gusto grow while generating over $100M in sales for his clients.

Jake is deeply rooted in the Fort Collins art community, organizing the TechnoPhobia concert series, supporting Noise Floor and the FoCoMod Dome, working on a short film, and creating YouTube content. With a degree in entrepreneurship & audio engineering from Belmont University, Jake was named Nashville’s Youth Entrepreneur of the Year. His insights have been featured in Forbes, Inc., and more, and he has spoken at SXSW and HOW Design Live.

Whether he's building businesses or creating electronic music, Jake exemplifies the intersection of creativity and capitalism.

Jake Jorgovan is a unique blend of creative and capitalist, combining his passion for art with his entrepreneurial drive. As the Founder of Alpha Apex Group, Content Allies, and Listen Network, he has helped B2B companies like Meta, Siemens Energy, a... Show more

Scott Southworth

Scott Southworth

Raised by radioactive raccoons in the forests of Eastern Tennessee, Scott Southworth fell in love with programming when confronted with the awesome power of a Commodore 64. After studying poetry and astrophysics at college, he belatedly realized that you can, in fact, get paid to develop software. His programming adventures have included industrial manufacturing and distribution (books and fridges with lasers, scales and RFID), digital signage, touch-screen kiosks, video games, data visualization and healthcare integration. A senior developer at HCA, he is currently focused on Elixir, a language from the future that is destined to create Skynet.

Raised by radioactive raccoons in the forests of Eastern Tennessee, Scott Southworth fell in love with programming when confronted with the awesome power of a Commodore 64. After studying poetry and astrophysics at college, he belatedly realized that... Show more

Kimberly Workman

Kimberly Workman

As a Project Architect, Kim’s passion for design is elevated by her technical acumen. She believes beauty and functionality are necessary components in design that solve client problems and improve the human experience. Through close coordination with the client, Kim seeks to determine what’s most important to the project's success. She believes authentic engagement can reveal solutions rooted in the unique history of a site, a community, and a client.

As a Project Architect, Kim’s passion for design is elevated by her technical acumen. She believes beauty and functionality are necessary components in design that solve client problems and improve the human experience. Through close coordination wit... Show more

Ashwin Callahan

Ashwin Callahan

I am a power platform developer at Blis Digital.

I am a power platform developer at Blis Digital. Show more

McCaela Donovan

McCaela Donovan

McCaela Donovan is a dynamic force across the creative, consulting, and civic sectors, harnessing her creativity to propel organizations and individuals toward their strategic goals. As a revered creative strategist and consultant, her influence spans the arts, education, and business. She founded and directs theloftBRK Creative Consultancy in the scenic Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. This innovative firm champions the growth of small businesses, nonprofits, and arts organizations through comprehensive strategies that encompass leadership development, strategic planning, marketing, and event management.
In addition to her consulting work, she is a pivotal leader at ShireHome Co., a distinguished boutique of luxury vacation rentals and property management services. Working alongside her husband, she steers the company's marketing and operational strategies, solidifying its reputation as a premier business in the region.

Her civic engagement is deeply integrated into her professional endeavors. She actively participates in local initiatives such as the Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust and the Community Development Corporation of Southern Berkshires, focusing on accessible housing and economic development. Previously, she enriched the White Heron Theatre Company as managing director, spearheading marketing and development, and was a key player in launching an intensive program for emerging career artists. Her earlier administrative role at the Boston University School of Theatre and experiences at prestigious institutions like Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre have broadened her professional scope. Her artistic career is highlighted by award-winning performances in Off-Broadway and prominent regional theaters. Her foundational role in Bridge Repertory Theater of Boston and memberships in professional acting associations underscore her dedication to performing arts.

Offstage, she embraces homesteading, reveling in baking sourdough, gardening, and sustainable living. Her commitment to homesteading began after an inspiring bread-making class in Hillsdale, NY, and continues to be a source of joy and a break from digital life. Her philanthropic efforts are notable, with significant contributions to the ACLU and the Southern Poverty Law Center, and support for local arts entities like Jacobs Pillow Dance and Speakeasy Stage Company. Accolades in McCaela Donovan’s career include nominations and awards for her theatrical roles and strategic advisory achievements. Through her work, she exemplifies the impact of creativity, strategic insight, and community involvement, establishing her as a leader dedicated to fostering significant growth and innovation in multiple sectors.

McCaela Donovan is a dynamic force across the creative, consulting, and civic sectors, harnessing her creativity to propel organizations and individuals toward their strategic goals. As a revered creative strategist and consultant, her influence span... Show more

Don Gannon-Jones

Don Gannon-Jones

Don founded PowerShell Summit in 2013, and is one of the bestselling authors of PowerShell books—and now of sci-fi and fantasy novels as well.

Don founded PowerShell Summit in 2013, and is one of the bestselling authors of PowerShell books—and now of sci-fi and fantasy novels as well. Show more

Alvaro Cabrera

Alvaro Cabrera

Soy pacheco, y también programador desde los 14 años, dejé la escuela y me metí en el código abierto. Hago música y también acepto buds si necesitas ayuda con tus bugs.

Soy pacheco, y también programador desde los 14 años, dejé la escuela y me metí en el código abierto. Hago música y también acepto buds si necesitas ayuda con tus bugs. Show more

Jay Ménard

Jay Ménard

Both an accomplished journalist and communications professional, Jay is primarily responsible for overseeing the company's UI/UX efforts. Jay conducts client and user interviews, and oversees the planning, execution, and analysis of tree tests, card sorts, first-click testing, and moderated user testing. He then translates that information into actionable content strategy plans to ensure that audiences are delivering the right message to the right people, in the way that best aligns to their needs. Jay is also an advocate for universal accessibility and sits on and/or chairs a number of accessibility boards both municipally and provincially.

Specialties: Content strategy, Information architecture, UX/UI research, social media, speechwriting, reporting, profile writing, accessibility.

Both an accomplished journalist and communications professional, Jay is primarily responsible for overseeing the company's UI/UX efforts. Jay conducts client and user interviews, and oversees the planning, execution, and analysis of tree tests, card ... Show more

Bennette Baguisa

Bennette Baguisa

2nd year Ph.D. student in Women and Gender Studies

2nd year Ph.D. student in Women and Gender Studies Show more

Ray MacDonald

Ray MacDonald

Ray MacDonald, CTO of Viracicom Entertainment Group, is an innovative and empowering leader with a deep passion for cutting-edge technology and software development.

Ray is driven by creating exceptional user experiences. He has a proven track record of driving engagement, adoption, and brand growth. His work on high-profile projects, such as building the customer Web and Mobile Apps for ATB, a new Point of Sale system for FGL, and the Shaw Open WIFI project, has significantly impacted brand profile, customer service, and public internet access.

As an entrepreneur and founder of Reckage Interactive, MacDonald successfully launched the game "Crazy Bowling" on the Apple and Microsoft app stores. His expertise extends beyond project management, as evidenced by his contributions as a sound engineer on projects like "Red Dead Redemption II" and the film "MUTE."

A strong believer in the power of experiences and growth, MacDonald volunteers as President of the Music Parents Society, sharing his passion for electronic music and songwriting with young students. Recognized for his contributions to the music industry, he holds a gold record and has served as a JUNO Awards judge. His creative work can be found across various platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, video games, TV shows, and movies.

With a talent for crafting memorable customer experiences, MacDonald has developed successful video games, karaoke apps, documentaries, TV show pilots, music videos, and explainer videos. When not immersed in music or app development, he can be found exploring the latest advancements in technology and music.

Ray MacDonald, CTO of Viracicom Entertainment Group, is an innovative and empowering leader with a deep passion for cutting-edge technology and software development. Ray is driven by creating exceptional user experiences. He has a proven track re... Show more

Krithika Manikavasagam

Krithika Manikavasagam

I’m an enthusiastic professional possessing a graduate degree in Electronic and communication. I thrive at delivering intuitive solutions to internal and external customers and driving the organization towards success. My academic and work experiences have equipped me with the necessary analytical and interpersonal skills required to excel in my career.

I’m an enthusiastic professional possessing a graduate degree in Electronic and communication. I thrive at delivering intuitive solutions to internal and external customers and driving the organization towards success. My academic and work experience... Show more

Viranita Julianti

Viranita Julianti

Vira is a QA Engineer at AnyMind Group. Her journey with firebase started while she was at University. When not working, she is an avid traveler, a community co-organizer, bookworm, and music lover. Balancing professional excellence with a diverse range of interests, Vira brings a dynamic blend of skill and passion to every aspect of her life.

Vira is a QA Engineer at AnyMind Group. Her journey with firebase started while she was at University. When not working, she is an avid traveler, a community co-organizer, bookworm, and music lover. Balancing professional excellence with a diverse ra... Show more

Gabriel Mandler

Gabriel Mandler

Gabriel is a passionate software engineer with over five years of experience at AppsFlyer. Specializing in developing both frontend and backend solution. Gabriel has recently delved into the AWS serverless realm.
Beyond coding, he finds joy in rock climbing, playing and producing music.

Gabriel is a passionate software engineer with over five years of experience at AppsFlyer. Specializing in developing both frontend and backend solution. Gabriel has recently delved into the AWS serverless realm. Beyond coding, he finds joy in rock... Show more

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