Sr Cloud Architect | AWS Community Builder | AWS New Voices Speaker

Sr Cloud Architect | AWS Community Builder | AWS New Voices Speaker Show more

✦ With 7+ years of experience, Rittika is an awarded designer, researcher and author. She believes ‘Good Design’ is a service/product that solves problems, improves lifestyle and enhances user satisfaction through innovative as well as optimistic intervention. Currently, she serves as a Senior UI Designer at Dentsu. Her past roles include positions at Walt Disney, Toshiba, and OCAD University, spanning regions such as India, Canada, and France.

✦ During her time at the National Institute of Design (NID), Rittika was selected for an exchange student program at ÉSAD de Reims, France, due to her academic merit. She is the recipient of OCADU Dean scholarship, enabling her to complete a Master of Design (M.Des) from OCAD University, Toronto.

✦ Rittika's expertise includes Accessibility Design, UX Research, Gerontological Design, and Design Systems. She is passionate about crafting digital experiences for the elderly netizens and differently-abled consumers. As an active member of the design community, she is affiliated with 'Women Talk Design,' contributes to INDIAai, and serves as a design mentor at UMO Design, which organizes the renowned UX INDIA Conference.

Beyond her professional endeavours:

✦ Rittika has co-authored two research papers, which were presented at the HCI International 2021 conference.

✦ She has delivered keynote addresses at various international conferences, events, and educational institutions such as IIT and NID, where she advocates for Accessibility (WCAG 2.1), UX Design, and design-thinking methodologies.

✦ In her personal time, Rittika enjoys traveling, reading mystery thrillers, practicing calligraphy, and watching movies.

✦ With 7+ years of experience, Rittika is an awarded designer, researcher and author. She believes ‘Good Design’ is a service/product that solves problems, improves lifestyle and enhances user satisfaction through innovative as well as optimistic int... Show more

Shivam is a Senior Product Designer at eBay’s core AI team, based in Berlin, shaping the future of e-commerce. Prior to eBay he worked on leading the designs efforts for couple of AI driven initiatives at Trivago, global leader in travel tech. He advocates for a human-centered approach to AI, emphasizing the critical balance between technology and empathy in shaping user experiences. Before trivago, he contributed to Sprinklr, helping to redefine unified customer experience management. He also interned at Microsoft.

Shivam is a Senior Product Designer at eBay’s core AI team, based in Berlin, shaping the future of e-commerce. Prior to eBay he worked on leading the designs efforts for couple of AI driven initiatives at Trivago, global leader in travel tech. He adv... Show more

I’m a Power Platform and Microsoft Dynamics Developer with 4 years of experience building and deploying customized business solutions using Microsoft technologies. I specialize in leveraging Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI to automate processes, enhance user experiences, and provide actionable insights.

I have hands-on experience working with Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM and ERP, creating tailored solutions to improve workflows across sales, customer service, and operations. I design custom Power Apps to meet unique business needs and use Power Automate to streamline processes, ensuring efficiency. Additionally, I build interactive Power BI dashboards to deliver data-driven insights for better decision-making.

I am currently leading a team of 24 developers from a technical perspective.

I’m a Power Platform and Microsoft Dynamics Developer with 4 years of experience building and deploying customized business solutions using Microsoft technologies. I specialize in leveraging Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI to automate proces... Show more

A software generalist with over 13 years of consulting experience.
Recognized for being versatile, picking up new tools and technologies, driving value for clients and achieving outcomes.

Passionate about test driven development, continuous delivery and event driven architectures.

A software generalist with over 13 years of consulting experience. Recognized for being versatile, picking up new tools and technologies, driving value for clients and achieving outcomes. Passionate about test driven development, continuous deli... Show more

SISA certified Solution Architect in the Modern Workplace area at Avanade. For enterprise, corporate and SMB level projects in all markets, managing complete solutions on Microsoft Platform Modernization technologies: Mffice 365, Intune, Phone System, MS DCCP, W365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. Complex migration and M365 adoption projects. Management of the pre-sales phase with relations with C-Level customers, definition of economic targets, High-Level and Low-Level project, staffing resources for delivery, management of economic, legal, contractual and capability components.
Supervision and management of projects during delivery and post go-live service.

SISA certified Solution Architect in the Modern Workplace area at Avanade. For enterprise, corporate and SMB level projects in all markets, managing complete solutions on Microsoft Platform Modernization technologies: Mffice 365, Intune, Phone System... Show more

Ho fatto lo sviluppatore full-stack per 14 anni, ad un certo punto ho scoperto l'agilità ed è nata una forte passione che mi ha portato ad approfondire i temi del coaching e della leadership.

Dopo un'esperienza da Scrum Master, oggi lavoro come consulente e accompagno le aziende e i team nel loro percorso di transizione verso uno sviluppo agile di prodotti.

Nel tempo libero mi piace camminare, suonare la chitarra e navigare sul web.

Ho fatto lo sviluppatore full-stack per 14 anni, ad un certo punto ho scoperto l'agilità ed è nata una forte passione che mi ha portato ad approfondire i temi del coaching e della leadership. Dopo un'esperienza da Scrum Master, oggi lavoro come co... Show more

With 15+ years of experience in the ERP industry, I have progressed from support roles to becoming a Solution Architect, specialising in manufacturing solutions across diverse sectors including plastics, design-driven manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food & beverage. My passion lies in designing and implementing systems that not only streamline business operations but also enhance people's lives by reducing stress and enabling smarter, more efficient workflows. Witnessing the transformative power of technology in driving business growth is what fuels my dedication and passion to this field.
Academically, I hold a BA (Hons) in English Literature and am currently pursuing an MSc in Computer Science with a focus on AI. Alongside my academic endeavours, I maintain professional Microsoft certifications and continue to expand my expertise in the latest technological innovations.

With 15+ years of experience in the ERP industry, I have progressed from support roles to becoming a Solution Architect, specialising in manufacturing solutions across diverse sectors including plastics, design-driven manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, ... Show more

Born and raised in Texas, Ahniyah Perry is a community advocate renowned for her innovative ventures and steadfast commitment to social impact. Embarking on her college academic journey at the age of 15, Ahniyah demonstrated exceptional potential as a leader.

In 2017, she launched an online retail company, achieving remarkable success with a threefold increase in profits. Her entrepreneurial zeal led her to establish numerous startups, further solidifying her reputation for creative business ventures. Ahniyah's philanthropic spirit shone through with the founding of Santa's Helpers, a seasonal initiative offering free, gift-wrapping services to local community members. She currently works as an Aide for the District 6 office of Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda, while also pursuing a dual master's degree in Organizational Leader and Business Administration. Her outstanding achievements earned her statewide recognition, highlighting her exceptional entrepreneurial and servant leadership qualities.

Born and raised in Texas, Ahniyah Perry is a community advocate renowned for her innovative ventures and steadfast commitment to social impact. Embarking on her college academic journey at the age of 15, Ahniyah demonstrated exceptional potential as ... Show more

Emanuel Toledo es Licenciado en Gestión Pública y Analista-Científico de Datos. Con más de 13 años de experiencia en el sector público, especializado en administración, auditoría y análisis presupuestario , ha impulsado en los últimos años su desarrollo hacia la tecnología, liderando la transformación digital desde el análisis, visualización, ciencia de datos e inteligencia artificial. Es CEO y fundador de Thinking OUT!, una consultora digital especializada en datos, comprometido con la inclusión, la innovación y el aprendizaje continuo. Interesado en colaborar con proyectos de impacto social que integren tecnología, educación y equidad, Emanuel es un firme creyente de que la decisión política y las herramientas accesibles son la clave para un servicio público más eficiente y transparente en América Latina.

Emanuel Toledo es Licenciado en Gestión Pública y Analista-Científico de Datos. Con más de 13 años de experiencia en el sector público, especializado en administración, auditoría y análisis presupuestario , ha impulsado en los últimos años su desarro... Show more

Bala has rich experience in retail technology and process transformation. Most recently, he worked as a Principal Architect for Intelligent Automation, Innovation & Supply Chain in a global Fortune 100 retail corporation. Currently work for luxury brand as Principal architect for Intelligent Automation providing technology advisor for the responsible use of technology (Low Code, RPA, Chatbots, and AI ). He is passionate about technology and spends his free time reading, writing technical blogs and co-chairing a special interest group with The OR Society.

Bala has rich experience in retail technology and process transformation. Most recently, he worked as a Principal Architect for Intelligent Automation, Innovation & Supply Chain in a global Fortune 100 retail corporation. Currently work for luxury br... Show more

Colin Griffin is CEO at Krumware, and a Co-Chair of the CNCF Platforms Working Group. Colin Griffin is a software engineer by trade, specializing in cloud-native application and infrastructure development; with an emphasis on developer enablement and platform engineering. He founded Krumware with the goal of enabling companies to build better environments for their developers, through technology development.
Krumware helps organizations build better software.

Colin Griffin is CEO at Krumware, and a Co-Chair of the CNCF Platforms Working Group. Colin Griffin is a software engineer by trade, specializing in cloud-native application and infrastructure development; with an emphasis on developer enablement and... Show more

http://about.me/manuel.vidaurre
Manuel Vidaurre is the Chief Technology Officer at Galileo - Ben&Frank, the largest direct-to-consumer lenses brand in Mexico and throughout Latin America. With over 30 years of experience in information systems, Manuel has led successful projects across multiple countries.

A recognized international consultant, speaker, workshop leader, and facilitator, Manuel brings comprehensive expertise across the entire product development lifecycle—from conceptualization and implementation to quality assurance and optimization.

His strategic vision combines technical excellence with business acumen, enabling organizations to leverage technology as a competitive advantage in rapidly evolving markets. Throughout his career, Manuel has specialized in guiding companies through digital transformation, developing resilient software architectures, and building high-performing technical teams.

Prior to joining Galileo - Ben&Frank, Manuel served as CTO of OCC, where he led technological initiatives that significantly enhanced the company's market position and operational capabilities.

Manuel is passionate about evolutionary architectures, developer experience as a strategic pillar, and implementing antifragile design principles inspired by Residuality Theory.

*For speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, or collaboration proposals, please contact Manuel via LinkedIn or his professional email.*

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*"Technology should evolve with your business, not constrain it. The best architectures are those that transform uncertainty into opportunity."*

http://about.me/manuel.vidaurre Manuel Vidaurre is the Chief Technology Officer at Galileo - Ben&Frank, the largest direct-to-consumer lenses brand in Mexico and throughout Latin America. With over 30 years of experience in information systems, Manu... Show more

Principal AppMod Containers Specialist in LATAM, I'm deeply immersed in the Kubernetes and container ecosystem, helping organizations scale their containerized applications. With hands-on experience leading large-scale container deployments bringing practical insights on implementing enterprise-grade Kubernetes solutions.

I'm passionate about sharing knowledge through my book "Modern Applications Strategy" and speaking engagements worldwide. My expertise spans container orchestration, microservices architecture, and as a DevOps Amabassador. I focus on real-world Kubernetes implementation strategies, helping teams overcome challenges and achieve cloud-native success at scale.

Principal AppMod Containers Specialist in LATAM, I'm deeply immersed in the Kubernetes and container ecosystem, helping organizations scale their containerized applications. With hands-on experience leading large-scale container deployments bringing ... Show more

I am Brazilian. I started working remotely before it was a thing and became a digital nomad in 2011, living in 11 countries and learning six languages along the way. Ten years later, I settled in my favorite place, Lucerne, Switzerland. I have over 25 years of design experience, working with more than 150 companies including well-known tech startups, educational organizations, and service-based companies. I am a UX/UI & Digital Product Design consultant and mentor, and I've launched more than a dozen apps.

I am Brazilian. I started working remotely before it was a thing and became a digital nomad in 2011, living in 11 countries and learning six languages along the way. Ten years later, I settled in my favorite place, Lucerne, Switzerland. I have over 2... Show more

Head of Design | Product Designer | Design Thinking | User Experience (UX) Coaching | System Design ~ Your Digital MacGyver a fix-it-with-a-pocketknife-and-duct-tape guy.

Head of Design | Product Designer | Design Thinking | User Experience (UX) Coaching | System Design ~ Your Digital MacGyver a fix-it-with-a-pocketknife-and-duct-tape guy. Show more

Markus supports organizations in unlocking the potential of data, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technologies through strategic guidance and practical enablement.

As an advisor with over 15 years of experience, he combines deep technical expertise with a strong business mindset - helping teams and executives overcome complex challenges and develop future-ready solutions.

He has extensive experience in the leadership, execution, and scaling of projects across the data, AI, and blockchain domains. Over recent years, he has advised renowned companies on the adoption and integration of cutting-edge technologies. In addition, he serves as a university lecturer, delivering hands-on education in data engineering and decentralized data platforms.

Whether through projects, keynotes, or mentoring programs - his mission is to make digital innovation understandable, actionable, and impactful.

https://linktr.ee/markusbegerow

Markus supports organizations in unlocking the potential of data, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technologies through strategic guidance and practical enablement. As an advisor with over 15 years of experience, he combines deep technical ... Show more

As a Senior Engineering Leader at Walmart and a Forbes-recognized expert in AI-driven digital transformation, I’d love to contribute a guest article on how modern enterprises can scale AI platforms securely using MCP Server and microservices.

With over 16+ years of experience in web development, web usability, product management, and program management, I am a senior engineering leader who can quickly build high-performing teams and deliver complex software applications across various industries. I hold certifications in software architecture, engineering management, and system security, and I am passionate about solving challenging business and technology problems through innovative approaches to big data, low latency, and distributed applications.

I'm passionate about giving back through mentoring, writing, and speaking on how software engineering leadership shapes business impact and society change using AI. Feel free to connect at ajitsahu@outlook.com or book time with me via https://adplist.org/members/ajit-sahu or contact me by submitting a query at https://ajittech.com/contact

As a Senior Engineering Leader at Walmart and a Forbes-recognized expert in AI-driven digital transformation, I’d love to contribute a guest article on how modern enterprises can scale AI platforms securely using MCP Server and microservices. With... Show more

Muadh is a Computer Scientist specialising in XR technologies. He is currently part of the Web Standards team at Samsung where he contributes to the evolution of W3C’s WebXR and related standards.

Muadh is a Computer Scientist specialising in XR technologies. He is currently part of the Web Standards team at Samsung where he contributes to the evolution of W3C’s WebXR and related standards. Show more

Hi, I'am Leah, an Physiotherapist As a dedicated physiotherapist, I am committed to helping individuals recover, regain mobility, and live pain-free. I use evidence-based treatments and personalized rehabilitation plans to address a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain.

My approach focuses on restoring function, improving movement, and enhancing overall well-being, with the goal of empowering my clients to take control of their health and achieve their full potential.

Hi, I'am Leah, an Physiotherapist As a dedicated physiotherapist, I am committed to helping individuals recover, regain mobility, and live pain-free. I use evidence-based treatments and personalized rehabilitation plans to address a wide range of con... Show more

Limor Hadas-Sonnenschein is the Head of Product for Mobile Apps at zooplus, Europe’s leading online pet retailer, where she drives the vision, strategy, and execution of mobile experiences for millions of pet lovers across the continent.
With over a decade of experience in digital product management, Limor blends sharp business acumen with a deep passion for UX and customer value. She’s led high-performing, cross-functional teams through transformative app journeys—from onboarding optimization to churn prevention, retention strategies, and mobile growth.
Known for her dynamic stage presence and engaging moderation style, She brings not only expertise but also energy, humor, and real-world insights into what makes mobile products thrive.

Limor Hadas-Sonnenschein is the Head of Product for Mobile Apps at zooplus, Europe’s leading online pet retailer, where she drives the vision, strategy, and execution of mobile experiences for millions of pet lovers across the continent. With over a... Show more

In the course of the last five years, Patrick became an hands-on Apache Kafka expert and dedicated educator with a proven track record of successfully teaching audiences of varying expertise levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Known for his engaging teaching style and ability to simplify complex concepts with a playful touch he consistently receives positive feedback.

As a passionate advocate for knowledge-sharing, he actively contributes to the Rhine-Main Area tech community. He regularly participates in meet-up events focused on event streaming, providing a platform for learning and discussion.

Beyond teaching, Patrick leverages his Kafka knowledge in hands-on projects, enriching his training sessions with real-world experiences. This practical expertise enhances the value of his teachings, ensuring participants not only grasp theoretical concepts but also acquire skills directly applicable to their projects.

In the course of the last five years, Patrick became an hands-on Apache Kafka expert and dedicated educator with a proven track record of successfully teaching audiences of varying expertise levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Known for... Show more

Sanchit Srivastava is a seasoned data strategist with a distinguished career spanning over 18 years. With a deep understanding of advanced Data Analytics, Data Engineering, Generative AI, Data Observability and modern Data Architecture, Sanchit has successfully delivered transformative data solutions across diverse industries, including consumer packaged goods, manufacturing, pharmacy, and retail. His motto, "make data easier, faster and more reliable" encapsulates his belief in the transformative power of data.

Currently leading Data Analytics and Data Architecture at a Fortune 500 CPG company, Sanchit is responsible for delivering robust data platforms and fostering a data-driven culture. His focus on Responsible Generative AI is driving innovation and efficiency across the organization. His forward-thinking approach has positioned him as a pioneer in the adoption of Responsible Generative AI, empowering teams to leverage the power of AI ethically and responsibly. Sanchit’s current focus on AI on unstructured data, large language models, generative AI, guided data analytics, data observability, data architecture, and data catalogs positions him as a thought leader in the industry.

Sanchit Srivastava is a seasoned data strategist with a distinguished career spanning over 18 years. With a deep understanding of advanced Data Analytics, Data Engineering, Generative AI, Data Observability and modern Data Architecture, Sanchit has s... Show more

CJ is a Strategic storyteller. Marketer. Innovator. Leader. Educational & inspirational speaker. Adventure, travel and “locally grown” enthusiast. Farm owner. Animal lover.

She leads with business strategy, consumer psychology, and unique short and long-term vision coupled with bespoke marketing through the art of storytelling. A great story takes years of experience to build, and CJ has over 25 years of that experience. Marketing experience. Business experience. Digital experience. Omnichannel experience. And beyond that, life experience. Learn how to take your business to new heights with a unique approach to integrating consumer sentiment with economic reality through one of CJ's sessions.

CJ is a Strategic storyteller. Marketer. Innovator. Leader. Educational & inspirational speaker. Adventure, travel and “locally grown” enthusiast. Farm owner. Animal lover. She leads with business strategy, consumer psychology, and unique short a... Show more

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

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

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

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

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

Kriti is a Kaggle Grandmaster, with 7 years of analytics experience across Fortune 500 giants specialising in BFSI, CPG and Healthcare.

TECH TALKS
TECH TALKS and FEATURES

** Featured in 'Women in AI Ethics'[https://womeninaiethics.org/directory/]

** Featured on the Podcast 'Would you Data scientist' on Responsible AI: https://omny.fm/shows/would-you-data-scientist/kriti-doneria-responsible-ai-and-data-and-decision

** Talk on Cognitive Biases and Ethics in AI at #IWD2021 #WTMUK&I here: https://youtu.be/MMSBVoeNfdw?t=9234

** Watch Kriti's talk on Cognitive Biases and Ethics in AI at #IWD2021 #WTMCasablanca #GDGMorocco here:
https://youtu.be/iUGiwmE2hwo?t=4677

** Talk on Introduction to Data Sonification at #TechKnowday #Womenshistorymonth celebration 2021 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZHJhcOEl4U

** Talk on Explainable AI at ODSC Delhi meetup 2019 here: https://learnai.odsc.com/courses/explainable-ai-and-interpret-ability-of-ai-solutions-strategic-overview-challenges-and-caveats

** Talk in AI/ML track at Google Devfest New Delhi,2019, on Cognitive biases in AI: https://commudle.com/gdg-new-delhi/events/devfest-19/session-discussions?speaker_resource=63

Kriti is a Kaggle Grandmaster, with 7 years of analytics experience across Fortune 500 giants specialising in BFSI, CPG and Healthcare. TECH TALKS TECH TALKS and FEATURES ** Featured in 'Women in AI Ethics'[https://womeninaiethics.org/direct... Show more

I'm a tech community architect and storyteller based in Nairobi, Kenya. Over the last five years, I've built and led vibrant communities—helping hundreds of developers, security enthusiasts, and innovators find their voice.

My passion is making complex DevOps and Infosec topics accessible, actionable, and fun. Whether I'm organizing events, creating content, or mentoring, I focus on building bridges between people and technology.

I'm a tech community architect and storyteller based in Nairobi, Kenya. Over the last five years, I've built and led vibrant communities—helping hundreds of developers, security enthusiasts, and innovators find their voice. My passion is making co... Show more

Hans, originally from the Netherlands and now based in Miami, holds an MBA from Erasmus University Rotterdam and an MA in Brand Management. He's the author of the bestseller, "The Why Whisperer: How to Motivate and Align Teams That Get Your Strategy Done," an insightful guide for leaders aiming to build engaged teams for exceptional results and double-digit growth. Early in his career, Hans held various roles in Brand Activation, Development, Sales, and Innovation Management at leading Packaged Consumer Goods companies including Kimberly-Clark and Sara Lee. In 2008, he combined his passion for adventure travel with commercial management as Managing Director of Sawadee Reizen in Amsterdam. In 2010, Hans moved to Toronto, becoming President and CEO of Quark Expeditions, a polar cruise company. Under his leadership, the company was featured as a “best in class” business case in David Meerman Scott’s book The New Rules of Sales & Service. In 2015, Hans oversaw all adventure brands within TUI Travel, a portfolio successfully sold in 2017. Following this, he served as CEO and President of Victory Cruise Lines, a boutique luxury cruise startup, which was also sold in 2019. Most recently, Hans was President of International Businesses at Albatros Travel, managing brands such as Albatros Expeditions and Albatros Arctic Circle, and held a Senior Vice President position at Four Seasons. Hans now leads his own consultancy, Flying Dutchman Consultancy, specializing in strategic and commercial growth challenges. With experience living and working in seven countries, he's known for creating exceptional customer experiences. His ventures range from commanding a nuclear icebreaker to the North Pole to organizing marathons in extraordinary locations, including the Great Wall of China, expedition cruises in the Peruvian Amazon, and camping in Antarctica.

Hans, originally from the Netherlands and now based in Miami, holds an MBA from Erasmus University Rotterdam and an MA in Brand Management. He's the author of the bestseller, "The Why Whisperer: How to Motivate and Align Teams That Get Your Strategy ... Show more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vikash Agrawal is a Software Development Manager at Amazon Web Services (AWS), leading initiatives in the AWS CloudWatch team. Previously, he played a key role in developing Amazon Q Developer, a Generative AI-powered assistant for developers. With over a decade of experience in software engineering and leadership, Vikash has led high-impact teams at Housing.com and Dream11. A strong advocate for open-source, he has contributed to Mozilla and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) through Google Summer of Code. Passionate about AI, cloud computing, and engineering excellence, he is dedicated to building cutting-edge technology that empowers developers worldwide.

Vikash Agrawal is a Software Development Manager at Amazon Web Services (AWS), leading initiatives in the AWS CloudWatch team. Previously, he played a key role in developing Amazon Q Developer, a Generative AI-powered assistant for developers. With o... Show more