Josh Hankins is a seasoned IT professional and leader with 30 years of experience. He started as a network engineer in 1996 and transitioned to the cybersecurity field 10 years later. Beginning 2006, he worked in various cybersecurity roles, such as: a security architect, analyst, engineer and incident handler. These roles spanned businesses ranging from a Fortune 500 financial institution, a credit card processor and a global consulting company. Next, he served 9 years as the Director of Security & Incident Response for a data analytics subsidiary for the 5th largest retailer in the world. During this time, Josh successfully built and matured several cyber security programs, such as: Vulnerability Management, DevSecOps, Cyber Risk Metrics, and Incident Response for both on-prem & the cloud, respectively. Before returning to his consulting roots, as a Consulting CISO at CBTS, Josh served as the Americas Chief Technical Security Officer for a global SaaS security & compliance vendor. Here, he assisted customers in achieving their strategic business goals in a secure manner. He holds many industry certifications (a CISSP and 3 different GIAC designations.) Josh frequently presents at conferences across North America, the UK, and Europe. Lastly, he volunteers his time by mentoring others and serving on the board for a local startup.

Josh Hankins is a seasoned IT professional and leader with 30 years of experience. He started as a network engineer in 1996 and transitioned to the cybersecurity field 10 years later. Beginning 2006, he worked in various cybersecurity roles, such as:... Show more

Vanessa Omeokachie is the founder and CEO of TravBudd. TravBudd is an Event (and experiences) Discovery + People Matching platform reimagining how people meet, connect, and engage with each other. Inspired by her own experiences with loneliness and social isolation, she started TravBudd to help foster genuine human connections through mutual interests and shared experiences. Ms. Omeokachie is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics and International Business.

Vanessa Omeokachie is the founder and CEO of TravBudd. TravBudd is an Event (and experiences) Discovery + People Matching platform reimagining how people meet, connect, and engage with each other. Inspired by her own experiences with loneliness and s... Show more

Karl Lillrud is a globally acclaimed expert in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business innovation, known for empowering audiences to transform challenges into opportunities. As one of the TOP10 AI Thought Leaders by Thinkers360 and ranked 11th among the world's TOP30 speakers by Global Gurus, Karl combines a wealth of knowledge with a dynamic, engaging speaking style that has captivated audiences across the globe.

With 28 years of experience, Karl has collaborated with Fortune 500 companies, groundbreaking startups, and global leaders to deliver transformative results. From driving e-commerce expansion in 12 countries for H&M to managing global technology migrations for clients like Tele2 and H&M, Karl’s career exemplifies innovation and impact at scale. His expertise spans industries such as AI, telecom, e-commerce, and customer experience, with projects that have reshaped organizational strategies and unlocked unprecedented growth.

A two-time TEDx speaker and best-selling author of nine books, including "AI: Your Second Brain—Evolve or Go Extinct," Karl demystifies complex topics, offering practical insights into leveraging AI, fostering innovation, and navigating the digital age. His accolades, including multiple global awards for leadership and innovation, underscore his authority and impact in shaping the future of technology and business.

Karl’s presentations are renowned for their actionable takeaways and transformative ideas. Whether addressing AI ethics, the future of work, or strategies for scaling businesses in an increasingly digital world, Karl delivers content that is tailored to resonate with each audience. His ability to translate technical complexity into relatable insights has made him a sought-after speaker at events such as the World Economic Forum, Seamless KSA, and other high-profile global stages.

By choosing Karl Lillrud for your event, you’re not just hiring a speaker—you’re bringing in a catalyst for inspiration, growth, and innovation. His proven track record of empowering organizations and individuals ensures your audience will leave equipped to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Karl Lillrud is a globally acclaimed expert in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business innovation, known for empowering audiences to transform challenges into opportunities. As one of the TOP10 AI Thought Leaders by Thinkers360 ... Show more

Sauvage is a European tech leader, entrepreneur, consultant, and investor. He has founded four companies (two successful exits), built 40+ apps with 400M+ downloads, and advised startups and global groups like Airbus, Chanel, and LVMH. As a business angel (32 startups) and LP in two funds, he actively supports the next generation of innovators.

Sauvage is a European tech leader, entrepreneur, consultant, and investor. He has founded four companies (two successful exits), built 40+ apps with 400M+ downloads, and advised startups and global groups like Airbus, Chanel, and LVMH. As a business ... Show more

Connie Byers is the founder of Byers Ranch Apothecary, a botanical skincare and wellness brand based in Durango, Colorado. What began as a small handmade business has grown into a recognizable regional brand known for its cohesive visual identity, elevated customer experience, and thoughtfully crafted products rooted in herbal tradition.

In addition to running Byers Ranch Apothecary, Connie works as a freelance designer and creative consultant, helping small businesses develop branding, packaging, websites, and visual storytelling that feel both authentic and professionally polished. Her work focuses on helping makers and creative entrepreneurs build brands that connect emotionally with customers while standing out in competitive handmade markets.

Connie is also the 2026 Creatives & Makers Track Captain for West Slope Startup Week.

Connie Byers is the founder of Byers Ranch Apothecary, a botanical skincare and wellness brand based in Durango, Colorado. What began as a small handmade business has grown into a recognizable regional brand known for its cohesive visual identity, el... Show more

Taiany Bittencourt est UX Researcher et UX-UI Designer freelance avec 14 ans d'expérience, dont plus de 4 ans spécialisés en recherche utilisateur. Elle accompagne des entreprises et porteurs de projet à mieux comprendre leurs utilisateurs avant de concevoir, d'optimiser ou de refondre leurs produits et services numériques.

Après des années à travailler pour des organisations de toutes tailles et de tous secteurs, elle a récemment créé La Chouette Enquête pour recentrer son activité freelance sur ce qu'elle aime le plus : les projets portés par une démarche de recherche utilisateur.

Elle s'intéresse particulièrement aux projets qui cherchent à avoir un impact concret : éducation, parentalité, santé mentale, alimentation, inclusion et diversité, économie circulaire et protection animale.

Elle y mène des études qualitatives et quantitatives, des tests utilisateurs et des audits, convaincue qu'un bon produit n'oppose pas les intérêts du business et ceux des utilisateurs. Elle aime travailler sur des projets qui ont une stratégie gagnant-gagnant : un produit qui sert vraiment les utilisateurs, remplit les objectifs business pour accomplir une mission qui a du sens.

Depuis mi-2025, elle est également mentor du parcours UX Design sur OpenClassrooms, où elle accompagne des étudiants en reconversion ou en spécialisation dans leurs projets.

Brésilienne installée en France depuis 2008, elle peut accompagner des clients des deux côtés de l'Atlantique, en français et en portugais brésilien.

Taiany Bittencourt est UX Researcher et UX-UI Designer freelance avec 14 ans d'expérience, dont plus de 4 ans spécialisés en recherche utilisateur. Elle accompagne des entreprises et porteurs de projet à mieux comprendre leurs utilisateurs avant de c... Show more

Arne van Oosterom is a creative facilitator and keynote speaker helping design and product teams navigate complexity and build future-ready human skills. He founded Future Skills Academy and previously built DesignThinkers Academy into a global network. His work sits at the intersection of brand, strategy, and making, with a focus on human skills, decision-making, collaboration, and thoughtful use of AI.

Arne van Oosterom is a creative facilitator and keynote speaker helping design and product teams navigate complexity and build future-ready human skills. He founded Future Skills Academy and previously built DesignThinkers Academy into a global netwo... Show more

Shelly Townsend is a very gifted and imaginative woman who is well-known for her creative thinking. One of London's most esteemed colleges, Imperial College, awarded her a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2013. Shely Townsend has dreamed of becoming a fashion designer since she was a young girl. She did, however, pursue a BBA at her father's request. She still wanted to follow her ambition, though, even after all these years. She made the decision to start her brand at that point. On December 25, 2015, Shelly Townsend's birthday, she debuted her first line of Men's Cotton Jackets UK. In Malvern, she set up her brand's headquarters.

Shelly Townsend is a very gifted and imaginative woman who is well-known for her creative thinking. One of London's most esteemed colleges, Imperial College, awarded her a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2013. Shely Townsend has dreamed ... Show more

Ed leads the Americas Microsoft AI and Data practice and the Americas Microsoft Fabric & AI Platform CoE, steering analytics and AI initiatives within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. His focus is on Analytics Modernization, GenAI, accelerating complex projects and enhancing value for clients. Ed is a experienced in design thinking and product/solution development, as well as a specialist in data visulization and business intelligence.

Ed has 30+ years of industry and technology consulting experience with the last 12 years dedicated to the Microsoft AI & Data ecosystem. Industry sector experiences include Life Sciences, Healthcare, Engineering & Construction, Media & Entertainment, and Consumer Goods.

Ed leads the Americas Microsoft AI and Data practice and the Americas Microsoft Fabric & AI Platform CoE, steering analytics and AI initiatives within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. His focus is on Analytics Modernization, GenAI, accelerating complex... Show more

Alex Levin is an American entrepreneur, strategist, and design innovator. He is the Founding Partner of L+R, a global technology design and strategy firm where interdisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, and consultants help organizations integrate emerging technologies. L+R's work has earned recognition from the Red Dot Design Awards, Webby Awards, and other industry honors.

Since founding L+R in 2012 after graduating from Parsons School of Design, Alex has led the firm’s consulting practice and its luxury-focused special business unit, Liquid Crystal. He’s partnered with clients like Amazon Web Services, Google, Hilton Worldwide, Printemps New York, and the Estée Lauder Companies to bring emerging tech into real-world applications.

In 2017, Alex launched LookSee, an iOS mobile VR prototyping tool later adapted for Louis Vuitton. The following year, in collaboration with AWS, he led the creation of SeeLook, a 3D and AR iOS and Android mobile app powered by Amazon Sumerian. His team’s design frameworks have contributed to the Meta Spatial SDK and resulted in the fully in-house development of Media View, an open-source app for the Meta Quest, built entirely in Kotlin. L+R continues to partner with Meta to support mobile designers entering the spatial computing space with Meta’s Device Access Toolkit SDK for the Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta AI Glasses.

Alex also founded Meridian, a global spatial computing meetup with chapters in Berlin, Nairobi, Brooklyn, and beyond. He serves on the Parsons Alumni Committee Board, mentors at XRC Labs, advises the Ad Council, and is an alum of the Luxury Education Foundation. He was recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2019.

Alex Levin is an American entrepreneur, strategist, and design innovator. He is the Founding Partner of L+R, a global technology design and strategy firm where interdisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, and consultants help organizations integr... Show more

Passionate about Technology, Sociology and Philosophy

Passionate about Technology, Sociology and Philosophy Show more

A Symphony of Talent, Service, and Entertainment
T. S. Edwards or Teresa, affectionately known as "MiZZ Entertainment," is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, weaving a tapestry of diverse experiences and talents. With an MBA from Kennesaw State University and over two decades of distinguished service in the U.S. Air Force, Edwards has seamlessly transitioned from global military operations to commanding stages and boardrooms alike.

As an entrepreneur, author, executive producer, playwright, and music consultant, Edwards brings unparalleled energy and expertise to every endeavor. Her magnetic presence as a speaker and host has electrified audiences across hundreds of events, collaborating with industry titans such as Warner Bros. Discovery, AT&T, and the Technology Association of Georgia.

Edwards' journey from telecommunications professional to entertainment mogul is a testament to her adaptability and passion. As co-founder of Terror Dome Entertainment, LLC, she channels her creative vision into groundbreaking video and music productions. Her commitment to social causes shines through Silence the Tears, a non-profit she founded to support abused children. And From School to Possibilities, a non-profit she found to support minority high school students interested in media and entertainment.

Featured in CanvasRebel and VoyageATL, Edwards' influence extends beyond the spotlight. She dedicates her time as a KSU Executive MBA Program coach and serves on numerous entertainment and technology boards, shaping the future of the industry.

Her artistic repertoire is as diverse as her skill set, spanning television shows, podcasts, plays, movie shorts, and books. The "Adventures of Hildie and Carlos" children's book series stands as a heartwarming tribute to her granddaughter.

In every role - be it entrepreneur, veteran, consultant, mentor, or family woman - T.S. Edwards brings an infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication. Those who work with her don't just become clients; they become part of a legacy built on passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

T. S. Edwards doesn't just entertain; she inspires, innovates, and ignites the potential in others, truly embodying the essence of "MiZZ Entertainment" in every aspect of her multifaceted career.

A Symphony of Talent, Service, and Entertainment T. S. Edwards or Teresa, affectionately known as "MiZZ Entertainment," is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, weaving a tapestry of diverse experiences and talents. With an MBA from Kennesa... Show more

I help large engineering organizations improve flow, resilience, and delivery speed at scale. Building on global speaking experience and now driving continuous improvement for 1,300+ engineers at TechNL, I focus on DevSecOps, engineering effectiveness, developer experience, and product-oriented ways of working.

I help large engineering organizations improve flow, resilience, and delivery speed at scale. Building on global speaking experience and now driving continuous improvement for 1,300+ engineers at TechNL, I focus on DevSecOps, engineering effectivenes... Show more

John Mead is a youth development speaker and entrepreneur dedicated to helping young people recognize their potential and change the trajectory of their lives. For 15 years, John worked inside a juvenile detention center, where he witnessed firsthand how environment, mindset, and opportunity shape the choices young people make.

Those experiences transformed his perspective and inspired him to build a mission focused on empowering youth through empathy, accountability, and growth mindset. Today, John is the founder of MVA Wellness, where he delivers workshops and talks that help students develop self-awareness, resilience, and self-efficacy.

Through powerful storytelling and real-life lessons from working with justice-involved youth, John helps students challenge limiting beliefs and recognize the power they have to rewrite their future. His work focuses on leadership, personal responsibility, and helping young people believe in what is truly possible for their lives.

John Mead is a youth development speaker and entrepreneur dedicated to helping young people recognize their potential and change the trajectory of their lives. For 15 years, John worked inside a juvenile detention center, where he witnessed firsthand... Show more

With over a decade of experience in big tech - and a majority of that time dedicated to Trust and Safety - Aniket represents a small but passionate community of engineers committed to making the internet a safer place.

Currently, Aniket contributes to Airbnb’s mission of creating safer holiday and experience platforms for users worldwide. Over the course of his career, he has made significant contributions to products and platforms at leading technology companies including Meta, Google, and Yahoo.

At Meta, Aniket led engineering efforts for responsible recommendation across the Facebook app, focusing on groups, pages, and creators. He played a pivotal role in handling global initiatives such as the COVID-19 misinformation mitigation, and crisis response strategies for global events on Facebook platforms. This work was recognized by the Head of the Facebook app and resulted in more than a 10x improvement in recommendation quality on the platform.

At Instagram, he spearheaded a ground-up initiative to build a sustainable revenue-sharing program for creators, launching a successful pilot in South Korea that became the model for expansion to the U.S. and Japan.

Earlier in his career at Google, Aniket was one of the early engineers on YouTube TV, developing the backend infrastructure for recommendations and growth features that helped scale the product from a few hundred users to hundreds of thousands.

He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from New York University’s Courant Institute and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Mumbai.

Aniket is passionate about building responsible, large-scale technology systems that promote trust, safety, and equity.

With over a decade of experience in big tech - and a majority of that time dedicated to Trust and Safety - Aniket represents a small but passionate community of engineers committed to making the internet a safer place. Currently, Aniket contribut... Show more

Bruce Abernethy is a seasoned developer with over 30 years of experience in corporate, consulting, and product companies. He has developed, written, presented, and taught front-end development as user interface technologies have evolved since 1992. He is currently the Software Development Manager for a financial services company in Grand Rapids, Michigan - leading two teams working on active development in Flutter and supporting back-end technologies.

Bruce Abernethy is a seasoned developer with over 30 years of experience in corporate, consulting, and product companies. He has developed, written, presented, and taught front-end development as user interface technologies have evolved since 1992. ... Show more

Bennett D. Bennett (he/him) is currently Cultural Strategy Director, US at GUT. In this role, Bennett oversees inclusion strategy and trend curation, ensuring GUT’s clients and teams meet the moment in multicultural, lifestyle, and entertainment projects. Bringing a multi-disciplined background, his past lives as a creative director, journalist, talent advocate, and content strategist combine to help future-forward brands create intentional, non-traditional campaigns and content.

A career-long advocate of talent equity for media professionals from marginalized groups, he’s a founder of the nonprofit 600 & Rising, and the inclusion summit Allyship and Action.
Bennett’s decade-plus in marketing and media have has included stints at Interbrand, BBDO New York, The Drum, Saatchi & Saatchi, and 22Squared. A 2013 MAIP Alum, Bennett’s been honored as a 2017 ADWEEK Young Influential and one of the 4As 100 People Who Make Advertising Great.

Bennett D. Bennett (he/him) is currently Cultural Strategy Director, US at GUT. In this role, Bennett oversees inclusion strategy and trend curation, ensuring GUT’s clients and teams meet the moment in multicultural, lifestyle, and entertainment proj... Show more

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle magazine Hispana Global, where she offers inspiration, tips and information in English and Spanish. Previously she cofounded multimedia parenting company Todobebé and was one of the first Latina mom bloggers. She was a Special Advisor to The Bank of America Institute for Women's Entrepreneurship at Cornell and was included in the Forbes #Next1000 2021 list. Her latest venture is Midlife Elevated, which hosts workshops for women over 40. Find her on social media @jeannettekaplun.

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle... Show more

After 28 years driving industrial hyper-efficiency for a global water bottling giant, I experienced a profound wake-up call regarding the fragility and ecological cost of our optimization models. Today, as the co-founder of Permabilis, a purpose-driven R&D pre-seed startup, and holding an Executive PhD from Paris-Dauphine, I challenge corporate leaders to move beyond the 'cult of efficiency' to build systemic robustness in practice. I guide organizations toward regenerative economics and 'Responsible Plastic' trajectories, leveraging decentralized technologies not just to optimize, but to fundamentally transform behaviors and industrial ecosystems.

After 28 years driving industrial hyper-efficiency for a global water bottling giant, I experienced a profound wake-up call regarding the fragility and ecological cost of our optimization models. Today, as the co-founder of Permabilis, a purpose-driv... Show more

Jimmy Clare is an autistic keynote speaker, podcaster, and founder of CrazyFitnessGuy®, a wellness platform that makes neurodiversity, mental health, and sustainable habits practical for everyday life. Growing up autistic with a non‑verbal learning disorder, Jimmy was bullied in school, faced multiple surgeries and health challenges, and was often told what he would never be able to do. Instead of letting those experiences define him, he learned to turn adversity into fuel and now helps audiences do the same.

Through his keynotes and the CrazyFitnessGuy® Show, Jimmy blends lived experience, humor, and clear frameworks to help people build realistic habits, rethink what “healthy” can look like, and support neurodivergent colleagues, students, and family members more effectively. His sessions translate big ideas about inclusion, resilience, and wellness into small, concrete actions that busy people can actually use.

Jimmy likes to joke that he is “the poor Matt Damon of the speaking world”—no Hollywood budget, no stunt doubles, just a real guy who shows up, tells the truth, and helps people laugh while they rethink what they are capable of. Event organizers value his no‑fluff style, professionalism, and flexibility. He collaborates on goals and audience needs, adapts to different room setups and formats, and delivers engaging content that works for both students and professionals. Jimmy is a strong fit for events focused on autism and neurodiversity, mental health and wellness, bullying and resilience, and inclusive workplace culture.

Jimmy Clare is an autistic keynote speaker, podcaster, and founder of CrazyFitnessGuy®, a wellness platform that makes neurodiversity, mental health, and sustainable habits practical for everyday life. Growing up autistic with a non‑verbal learning d... Show more

Sam Jenkins is a community strategist, facilitator, and inclusive event design expert with over a decade of experience leading large-scale public programs, workforce initiatives, and cultural events. She currently serves as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator in local government while also running Empowering Communities, a consulting practice focused on helping organizations move beyond performative efforts and into practical, people-centered action.

Sam’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, culture, and lived experience. She specializes in supporting front-line staff, building psychologically safe teams, and designing events and initiatives that actually reflect the communities they serve. Her background in parks and recreation, combined with her systems-level DEI work, gives her a rare perspective that resonates with both leadership and on-the-ground staff.

Known for her engaging, honest, and highly interactive style, Sam blends real-world scenarios, storytelling, and actionable tools participants can use immediately. She does not shy away from hard conversations, but she always grounds them in compassion, clarity, and practicality.

Sam has facilitated workshops, panels, and trainings for government agencies, nonprofits, and professional associations, and she consistently receives feedback for creating spaces that feel both challenging and supportive. Her sessions are especially impactful for audiences navigating burnout, change fatigue, and the pressure to “get it right” without enough guidance or support.

Sam Jenkins is a community strategist, facilitator, and inclusive event design expert with over a decade of experience leading large-scale public programs, workforce initiatives, and cultural events. She currently serves as a Diversity, Equity, and I... Show more

Michael Benjamin is an entrepreneur, burn survivor, and founder of a fast growing chocolate manufacturing company.

After surviving a catastrophic explosion that left him in a coma with severe burns, Michael returned home to twin boys who did not recognize him. Instead of rebuilding quietly, he chose to build publicly. Companies. Teams. Responsibility.

Today he leads multiple businesses while raising five children under five with his wife, Rivka. He has navigated missed payroll, rapid growth, capital pressure, and high stakes decisions with no safety net and no room to collapse.

Michael speaks to leaders and founders about performing under pressure. Not theory. Not motivation. Real decisions when fear, fatigue, and responsibility collide.

Audiences walk away with a clear framework for leading through crisis, building resilience that is operational not emotional, and making bold moves when retreat would be easier.

His message is simple:

Pressure Is the Environment. Perform Anyway.

Michael Benjamin is an entrepreneur, burn survivor, and founder of a fast growing chocolate manufacturing company. After surviving a catastrophic explosion that left him in a coma with severe burns, Michael returned home to twin boys who did not r... Show more

Blair advanced through multiple roles at MCA, showcasing expertise in Dynamics AX/365 implementations and architecting simple solutions for complex problems. With a strong foundation in multi-site manufacturing and configure to order, I've been instrumental in spreading the "Why D365" movement and making customers happy. Passionate about driving value and aligning business strategy with process efficiency, technology and desired outcomes. Big fan of manufacturing/distribution and uncovering the 'why' behind the 'what' before we just 'do' it.

Blair advanced through multiple roles at MCA, showcasing expertise in Dynamics AX/365 implementations and architecting simple solutions for complex problems. With a strong foundation in multi-site manufacturing and configure to order, I've been instr... Show more

Adam is a tinkerer by nature and an educator at heart. He started out his career creating curriculum on various tools in web development tech and delivering them to universities, high schools, and libraries through a platform he built called Braincubator. For Adam, Developer Relations is the sweet spot for professional skillsets and personal passion where he gets to explore building new technologies with broader communities. He's owned and operated in engineering and developer relations at big companies and early stage start ups too.

Adam is a tinkerer by nature and an educator at heart. He started out his career creating curriculum on various tools in web development tech and delivering them to universities, high schools, and libraries through a platform he built called Braincub... Show more

Harshil Siyani builds production AI systems that non-technical teams depend on daily. He currently works at News Corp Australia's Editorial Innovation team, where he built a multi-agent document processing pipeline from scratch, handling hundreds of large documents monthly. Over 11 architecture iterations the pipeline's completion rate went from 53% to 85%. His work spans the full AI model landscape including Gemini, GPT-4, and Claude, with a focus on making multi-agent orchestration reliable enough for real-world use in domains where accuracy has consequences.

Harshil has presented at multiple Google Developer Group events including GDG Melbourne DevFest and GDG Canberra DevFest, and has been a panelist at ACS Canberra on AI capability and rapid prototyping. He won the People's Choice Award at a company-wide hackathon for an AI-powered cybersecurity code scanner. With 5+ years of experience across Python, TypeScript, and React, he specialises in taking AI systems from prototype to production, particularly in environments where the end users aren't engineers and the stakes are real.

Harshil Siyani builds production AI systems that non-technical teams depend on daily. He currently works at News Corp Australia's Editorial Innovation team, where he built a multi-agent document processing pipeline from scratch, handling hundreds of ... Show more

Hela Chhayder, Founder of STEP INSIGHT and Director of AI Strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, is an AI & data strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in AI, data science, and analytics. She has led large-scale data initiatives for public and private sector organizations across the MENA region, specializing in AI-driven transformation, data strategy frameworks, and advanced analytics.

As the founder of STEP INSIGHT, she has advised multinational clients on AI Strategy, Governance, and upskilling activation. As the director of AI strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, Hela runs multiple training sessions and projects for governmental entities across the UAE and Qatar on govtech, digital transformation, Data strategy, and the importance of Data in the governmental sector.

Hela holds an Executive MBA from Hult International Business School and an engineering degree in statistics and data analysis from Carthage University.

Hela Chhayder, Founder of STEP INSIGHT and Director of AI Strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, is an AI & data strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in AI, data science, and analytics. She has led large-scale data initiatives for public and... Show more

Faical Yannick P. Congo holds a PhD in Cloud Computing and Data Systems and developed a strong research background in collaboration with NIST and Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), focusing on cloud architectures, data platforms, and standardization-driven approaches.

He has led and contributed to large-scale cloud, data, and AI initiatives within major international organizations including OCP Nutricrops, Sodexo, and Alain Afflelou, working in regulated, multi-region, and business-critical environments.

In parallel, Faical has built entrepreneurial ventures in the United States, France, and Africa, delivering AI and digital solutions across multiple industries, from agriculture and services to retail and industrial sectors. His work consistently emphasizes vendor-agnostic architectures, open technologies, and long-term platform autonomy.

His current focus lies at the intersection of Private AI, cloud-native platforms, Kubernetes, and DevSecOps standards, with a particular emphasis on compute-driven AI standardization (CPU/GPU), agent-based architectures, and sovereign AI operating models.

Faical Yannick P. Congo holds a PhD in Cloud Computing and Data Systems and developed a strong research background in collaboration with NIST and Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), focusing on cloud architectures, data platforms, and standardization... Show more

Kishi is a community builder, strategist, and ecosystem operator focused on helping people and organizations build communities that are intentional, sustainable, and commercially viable.

She is the Founder of The CM Guide, a community and resource hub created to support community managers across different career stages with tools, education, and real-world frameworks for building and managing communities effectively.

With hands-on experience across community operations, programming, engagement strategy, and career development, Kishi has worked closely with early-career professionals, founders, and community teams navigating growth, structure, and long-term sustainability. Her work includes helping communities move from ad-hoc engagement to systems-driven strategy aligned with business and ecosystem goals.

Kishi is particularly passionate about career development for early graduates and career switchers, especially those building from non-traditional backgrounds. Through her newsletter, speaking engagements, and community programs, she provides practical guidance on entering the community profession, building transferable skills, and positioning for global opportunities.
Her influence extends beyond digital spaces into in-person community experiences, workshops, and events, where she facilitates conversations around leadership, resilience, and the realities of managing communities while building a career and personal life. She is recognized for her grounded perspective on community work—balancing empathy, structure, and measurable impact.
Kishi continues to contribute to the global community ecosystem through thought leadership, mentorship, and participation in professional community initiatives, while actively building platforms that support the next generation of community leaders.
Speaker Topics / Areas of Expertise
Topics I Speak On
Community & Ecosystem Building
Building and scaling communities from zero to impact

Community strategy beyond engagement: structure, systems, and sustainability

Community-led growth for non-product and service-based organizations

Designing inclusive and high-trust communities

Community operations, governance, and metrics that actually matter
Career Development & Early-Career Growth
Starting and growing a career in community management

Career strategy for early graduates and career switchers

Navigating tech careers without traditional access or privilege

Positioning yourself for global opportunities (programs, fellowships, roles)

Turning skills, projects, and communities into career leverage
Personal Development & Leadership
Building confidence, clarity, and professional identity early in your career

Leadership without titles: influence, ownership, and initiative

Managing burnout, boundaries, and growth in community-facing roles
Project & Program Management
Running large-scale community programs and initiatives

Project management fundamentals for community and non-technical roles

Cross-functional collaboration between community, product, and engineering

Planning, execution, and stakeholder management for community programs

Currently serving as the Chapter Director for CMX Ogun, Nigeria, Kishi is dedicated to advancing the community management profession by creating opportunities for growth and collaboration among professionals.

Kishi is a community builder, strategist, and ecosystem operator focused on helping people and organizations build communities that are intentional, sustainable, and commercially viable. She is the Founder of The CM Guide, a community and resourc... Show more

Kimetha Dunn is a trailblazer in artificial intelligence (AI) and a dedicated advocate for inclusivity in tech. With a background in Speech and Communications, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and a UX/UI Design certificate from General Assembly, Kimetha leads generative AI research at Microsoft, driving product development and mentoring emerging UX professionals. Kimetha is the founder of The Fedeila Group where they empower organizations by providing innovative AI research and ethical AI and EI (emotional intelligence) training. The Fedeila Group's mission is to ensure AI technologies are taught and implemented responsibly and effectively, fostering trust, integrity, and long-term success for all involved. Kimetha has shared her expertise at high-profile events, including Microsoft Ignite 2024, ScaleAI discussions on diversity, Blacks in Technology (BITCON) 2024 on mitigating bias in AI, and most recently as a Speaker with the National Alliance for the Advancement of Haitian Professionals (NAAHP) discussing ways to bring resources using technology to our beloved Haitian communities. Kimetha is passionate about uplifting Black women and people in AI and regularly mentors non-traditional students to break into the UX/UI field. She is involved in organizations like Black Women in AI (BWIAI), Blacks in Technology (BIT) Atlanta Chapter and is an active community leader for Interaction Design Foundation Chicago chapter (IxDF) and ADPList Atlanta Chapter. Kimetha lives by the motto. "Speak what you want until you see what you've said."

Kimetha Dunn is a trailblazer in artificial intelligence (AI) and a dedicated advocate for inclusivity in tech. With a background in Speech and Communications, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and a UX/UI Design certificate from G... Show more

Hi, I’m Jesimiel Williams. I’m an innovative Creative with experience in Design, UX and Content Development and Marketing. In 7 years, and through possibly hundreds of visuals, interfaces and written content, I’ve learned to craft interactions toward consumer-centric values, and as such have developed an understanding of consumer trends and how to optimize experiences and stories to drive adoption and growth for tech products. I’ve worked and consulted for brands in AI, Telecoms, Mobility, Edtech and many other spheres in Africa, Europe and the US including Lara.ng, Stutern, Chess in Slums Africa and many others, whilst also building a product for accessible Mental Health for Africa called Uncloudy.

Hi, I’m Jesimiel Williams. I’m an innovative Creative with experience in Design, UX and Content Development and Marketing. In 7 years, and through possibly hundreds of visuals, interfaces and written content, I’ve learned to craft interactions toward... Show more