Government, Social Sector & Education

Valued individuals involved in shaping public policies, providing essential services, and promoting education, tirelessly looking to improve society and empower citizens

Adelegan Oluseyi Abiodun

Adelegan Oluseyi Abiodun

I am CTO of Dokilink, iVentMaster, and PHS Consult, and Senior IT Manager at ZODML. As a founding member of Drupal Nigeria, I’ve led Drupal projects across healthcare, education, and government, including Dokilink, ZODML library integrated with Koha LMS, LASAMBUS, HEFAMAA, and currently HotelPaddie, a Drupal 11 + React OTA. I am passionate about open-source innovation and expanding Drupal across Nigeria and Africa.

I am CTO of Dokilink, iVentMaster, and PHS Consult, and Senior IT Manager at ZODML. As a founding member of Drupal Nigeria, I’ve led Drupal projects across healthcare, education, and government, including Dokilink, ZODML library integrated with Koha ... Show more

Júnia Melo

Júnia Melo

Gestora no Instituto Legislativo Brasileiro (ILB), a Escola de Governo do Senado Federal, onde coordena a área de Capacitação, Treinamento e Ensino desde 2023. Jornalista com quase três décadas de trajetória na TV comercial e legislativa, Júnia Melo une a paixão por comunicação à gestão pública estratégica com foco em desenvolver as pessoas para servir com excelência aos desafios do Poder Legislativo.

Ex-diretora da TV Senado, apresentadora, host de talk shows e podcasts, Júnia hoje lidera pilares vitais da Casa: do plano de capacitação dos servidores à formação de gestores, facilitadores de aprendizagem com metodologias ativas. Sua gestão foca em mentorias para mulheres e na supervisão de um vasto portfólio de cursos regulares, que inclui ações presenciais, híbridas, eventos institucionais, workshops e a produção de cursos online para a plataforma Saberes, que atende todo o Brasil, além de supervisionar cursos sob demanda, treinamentos externos e novas modalidades de capacitação como o uso de licenças de uma plataforma global de ensino.

À frente do Programa de Integração, Júnia comanda o onboarding de servidores, estagiários e equipes dos gabinetes, consolidando uma cultura de pertencimento e engajamento. Sob sua atuação, o ILB alcançou a nota máxima (5) no MEC, um selo de qualidade, entrando para o seleto grupo das melhores escolas de governo do país.

Gestora no Instituto Legislativo Brasileiro (ILB), a Escola de Governo do Senado Federal, onde coordena a área de Capacitação, Treinamento e Ensino desde 2023. Jornalista com quase três décadas de trajetória na TV comercial e legislativa, Júnia Melo ... Show more

Charlie-Sam Newman

Charlie-Sam Newman

I’m driven by 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍.

My daily motivation is knowing I personally make a difference to the future development of each and every individual. Whether that’s building high-performing teams, coaching professionals to grow their careers or supporting wellbeing and life balance.

With over a decade of experience spanning multiple industries, I’ve led large-scale teams in the gaming industry, driven sales performance in fitness and managed people and operations in hospitality. Beyond that, I’ve coached and trained apprentices, helping individuals step into careers while closing work with major organisations in transportation and facilities management. In Technology Services, I’ve helped scale businesses, guided clients with their people development strategies and enabled internal teams to thrive.

I step on stage, sharing my story and lessons, helping people see possibility in themselves and act on it.
My own journey has shaped how I show up as a leader and speaker. Having faced challenges with homelessness, prison, domestic abuse and longterm mental health, I carry a perspective that fuels my advocacy for inclusion, diversity and second chances. I’m proud to support not for profit organisations and initiatives that give people the opportunity to rebuild and succeed.

People often describe me as authentic, enthusiastic and a good listener - someone who lifts others up. I believe in feedback as a gift, the power of connection and the importance of showing up - consistently, with integrity.

I’m driven by 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍. My daily motivation is knowing I personally make a difference to the future development of each and every individual. Wh... Show more

Cole Pirelli

Cole Pirelli

Cole Pirelli brings a cross-sector perspective to business continuity, emergency management, and workforce development, with experience in corporate retail operations, disaster response, and large-scale training initiatives.

Many organizations have plans in place but struggle to operationalize them during real-world disruptions. Cole focuses on closing that gap—helping teams move from theory to execution through practical, field-informed training and real-world scenarios.

His work emphasizes simplifying complex processes, strengthening team readiness, and building scalable systems that perform under pressure. Whether supporting frontline teams or leadership, his sessions are designed to be immediately actionable, ensuring participants leave with tools they can apply right away.

Cole Pirelli brings a cross-sector perspective to business continuity, emergency management, and workforce development, with experience in corporate retail operations, disaster response, and large-scale training initiatives. Many organizations hav... Show more

Rosberg Bozzetto

Rosberg Bozzetto

Servidor público há mais de 10 anos no Governo de Mato Grosso, atuo na Secretaria de Estado de Planejamento e Gestão (SEPLAG) como especialista em Tecnologia da Informação e integrante do Laboratório Central de Inovação em Práticas Públicas (Sinova MT). Lidero o Núcleo de Iniciativas para Inovação, onde apoio servidores e equipes a transformarem ideias em soluções reais para a sociedade — desde a validação do problema até a prototipação, experimentação e teste — sempre com foco em impacto público.

Estou à frente do Acelera Gov.MT, programa de aceleração de startups públicas que fortalece a cultura de inovação e o intraempreendedorismo no Estado. No programa, adaptamos métodos como Lean Startup, Design Thinking e práticas ágeis para a realidade do setor público, além de estruturar estratégias de engajamento baseadas em gamificação para manter ritmo, motivação e colaboração entre as equipes.

Paralelamente, atuo como produtor e desenvolvedor de jogos digitais, criando experiências e ferramentas que apoiam processos de aprendizagem, comunicação e mudança organizacional. Sou formado em Ciência da Computação e possuo duas pós-graduações na área de tecnologia.

Servidor público há mais de 10 anos no Governo de Mato Grosso, atuo na Secretaria de Estado de Planejamento e Gestão (SEPLAG) como especialista em Tecnologia da Informação e integrante do Laboratório Central de Inovação em Práticas Públicas (Sinova M... Show more

Oluwatosin Iseniyi

Oluwatosin Iseniyi

Oluwatosin Iseniyi is a seasoned public policy, research, and data analyst with extensive experience in translating complex operational directives into practical, data-driven insights. His expertise lies in public finance reform, budget analysis, and strategic policy advisory. Over the years, he has played a key role in promoting transparency and accountability by facilitating town hall engagements with policymakers and stakeholders. Oluwatosin has authored and co-authored over 60 comprehensive studies on topics such as beneficial ownership, illicit financial flows, institutional performance, and public policy in Nigeria. He currently leads the AI and Data Unit at BudgIT, where he drives innovative approaches to data use in governance and development.

Oluwatosin Iseniyi is a seasoned public policy, research, and data analyst with extensive experience in translating complex operational directives into practical, data-driven insights. His expertise lies in public finance reform, budget analysis, and... Show more

Larissa Ibiapina

Larissa Ibiapina

Piauiense, gamer e trilheira nas horas livres, além de mãe de 7 gatos, possui quase 20 anos de experiência em TI, principalmente na área de elicitação de requisitos e análise de negócio, atua há 10 anos com tecnologia da informação no governo federal, tendo experiência com prospecção de novos clientes, elaboração de propostas de solução, Design Thinking, Fomento à Inovação, Gestão de Equipes e, mais recentemente, Inteligência Artificial.

Piauiense, gamer e trilheira nas horas livres, além de mãe de 7 gatos, possui quase 20 anos de experiência em TI, principalmente na área de elicitação de requisitos e análise de negócio, atua há 10 anos com tecnologia da informação no governo federal... Show more

Sushma Krishnamurthy

Sushma Krishnamurthy

Hi, I’m SK - CTO of InzpireU, Technology Innovator, and a lifelong believer in the power of mentorship to humanize learning.

With over two decades of experience at the intersection of engineering, AI, and digital transformation, my journey has always been guided by one core principle: Technology should amplify human potential, not replace it.

Why InzpireU?

InzpireU was born out of a bold vision - to make learning deeply personal, purposeful, and human again. In a world overwhelmed with content and chaos, we’re building a new kind of learning platform: AI-powered, but mentor-driven. One that champions accountability, guided growth, and impact.

Our mission?
To help people, especially those from underrepresented communities, not just learn more, but learn meaningfully - through mentorship, community, and personalized accountability.

My Tech Origin Story

Back in 2003, when AI was still a distant buzzword, I developed a neural network model for early cancer detection. It was personal. It was ahead of its time. And it gave me my first taste of how AI could change lives - not just systems. That experience became my blueprint for building tech with a soul.

From Engineer to Ecosystem Builder

Today, as a fractional technology leader, I help startups and purpose-driven organizations craft AI and data strategies that are scalable, ethical, and aligned with business impact. My sweet spot? Turning bold ideas into executables, and vision into value - all while staying rooted in the human experience.

Recognitions & Milestones:

🏛 Recognized by the DC Capitol for pioneering a mentorship-based learning model
🧠 Patent pending for our AI-powered goal accountability framework
📰 Featured as an AI Champion by Daily News Network
🎙 Interviewed on multiple tech and innovation podcasts for my work on AI with purpose

Beyond the Title

At heart, I’m an engineer. But my true calling is impact. Whether it’s mentoring non-tech women entrepreneurs through LaunchWise, or building community-based learning models with InzpireU, I believe in building technology that cares - and shares.

Let’s build a world where growth is human-first, learning is goal-driven, and mentorship is a way of life.
#HelpingBeyondTech

Hi, I’m SK - CTO of InzpireU, Technology Innovator, and a lifelong believer in the power of mentorship to humanize learning. With over two decades of experience at the intersection of engineering, AI, and digital transformation, my journey has alw... Show more

Matt Johnson

Matt Johnson

Matt has been working with AWS technology since 2011, including 8.5 years at AWS itself; first as a Solutions Architect, and then in a Chief Technologist role for the UK public sector team.

During that time he has presented at 6 separate re:Invents and dozens of other AWS and 3rd party events, covering a range of topics including: networking, DNS, cost optimisation, and the Amazon Culture of Innovation.

Now as CEO of Rayo (an AWS Advanced Partner), Matt continues to help customers make use of cloud to deliver great outcomes for the public sector and beyond.

Matt has been working with AWS technology since 2011, including 8.5 years at AWS itself; first as a Solutions Architect, and then in a Chief Technologist role for the UK public sector team. During that time he has presented at 6 separate re:Invent... Show more

Ruth Bolo

Ruth Bolo

Ruth Anyango Bolo is a distinguished leader and governance expert who has dedicated nearly a decade to dismantling barriers for women and youth in the socio-political landscape of Africa. With over eight years of experience in governance, democracy, and leadership, Ruth has established herself as a formidable force in embedding feminist principles within political structures. Her work is defined by a commitment to creating a level playing field where marginalized groups can exercise their agency and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes.
Ruth’s work increasingly intersects with the digital frontier. In November 2024, she presented a paper for the Nordic Africa Institute focusing on Gendered Electoral Violence, specifically examining Emotional Violence and the role of Technology. This research highlights her understanding of how digital spaces can be weaponized against women in politics and the urgent need for inclusive digital rights frameworks to protect female participants in the democratic process.
As a seasoned moderator and public speaker, Ruth frequently leads high-level dialogues on femicide legislative frameworks, resilient democratic structures, and the restructuring of equity for young women in the political space. Her unique blend of policy expertise, grassroots experience, and focus on the digital dimensions of political participation makes her a vital voice in the conversation on Bridging the Enforcement Gap in TFGBV in Kenya.

Ruth Anyango Bolo is a distinguished leader and governance expert who has dedicated nearly a decade to dismantling barriers for women and youth in the socio-political landscape of Africa. With over eight years of experience in governance, democracy, ... Show more

Sonia Daniels, Ph.D.

Sonia Daniels, Ph.D.

Most organizations don’t fail because of poor leadership or lack of talent. They fail because their systems quietly work against their intentions.

I’m a Ph.D.-trained organizational systems expert and founder of a successful operating company. I work with senior leaders when strategy is clear, people are capable, and execution still isn’t happening.

My keynotes help organizations:
-Understand why execution breaks down even in high-performing cultures
-Replace blame and burnout with system-level clarity
-Build human-centered structures that actually support follow-through
-Leaders bring me in when initiatives stall, transformations lose momentum, or “alignment” hasn’t translated into results. I translate complexity into shared language teams can use immediately—without oversimplifying or shaming.
-Audiences include executive teams, leadership cohorts, government agencies, and professional associations navigating complex change.

Typical outcomes: Greater clarity around where work gets stuck, a shared framework for diagnosing execution problems, and practical next steps leaders can act on after the event—not just inspiration that fades by Monday.

Most organizations don’t fail because of poor leadership or lack of talent. They fail because their systems quietly work against their intentions. I’m a Ph.D.-trained organizational systems expert and founder of a successful operating company. I w... Show more

Patrick Dunn

Patrick Dunn

Patrick Dunn is a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and leadership development consultant with 30 years of experience leading high-stakes global teams in operational resilience — disaster recovery, business continuity, and crisis management.

He works with leaders who are performing at a high level and want to keep performing — without losing themselves in the process. His keynotes and workshops draw on three decades of real-world experience in rooms where the wrong call had real consequences, combined with a storytelling approach shaped by folklorist Sandy Ives and author Stephen King.

Patrick is the author of Lead with Soul: How to Lead When Running on Empty and the creator of the Lead with Soul framework — built on four pillars: Presence, Purpose, Renewal, and Service. His keynote Your Resilience Is Killing You speaks directly to the hidden cost of sustained high-stakes leadership, while Strong Enough to Break reframes what it means to lead with endurance and depth.

He is a three-time NCAA Division I All-American and nationally ranked mascot at the University of Maine, a former Fortune 200 resilience leader, and an active member of the Association of Continuity Professionals and Disaster Recovery Journal communities.
Patrick has delivered keynotes and leadership sessions across association, corporate, healthcare, and government audiences. He is based in Reno, Nevada and speaks throughout the United States.

Website: https://www.patrickdunnintl.com
Speaker Reel: https://youtu.be/SmgmQcj0Hxg

Patrick Dunn is a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and leadership development consultant with 30 years of experience leading high-stakes global teams in operational resilience — disaster recovery, business continuity, and crisis management. ... Show more

Dr. Walter Copeland II

Dr. Walter Copeland II

Dr. Walter E. Copeland II is an AI strategist, professor, and public health leader who holds a Doctor of Medical Science and specializes in AI applications in business and health sciences. He helps organizations translate emerging technologies into practical strategies that improve decision-making, performance, and real-world outcomes.

With a multidisciplinary perspective spanning AI, leadership, healthcare, and business, he is known for connecting innovation to execution. As founder of Health is Wealth Coaching Group, he speaks on AI, leadership, and innovation, helping organizations turn emerging ideas into practical action.

Dr. Walter E. Copeland II is an AI strategist, professor, and public health leader who holds a Doctor of Medical Science and specializes in AI applications in business and health sciences. He helps organizations translate emerging technologies into p... Show more

Florencia Gabriele

Florencia Gabriele

Florencia Gabriele, PhD, is an economics professor, instructional designer, and speaker specializing in artificial intelligence in education, inclusive teaching, authentic assessment, and faculty development. She teaches economics and personal finance and works with educators across disciplines to design more engaging, accessible, and student-centered learning experiences.

Her work focuses on helping faculty and institutions use AI in practical, thoughtful ways to improve teaching, support diverse learners, and strengthen course design. She is especially interested in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility, and the role of AI in creating more flexible and equitable educational environments.

Florencia has presented on topics including AI-powered teaching, assessment in the age of AI, economics and personal finance education, and AI-supported inclusive course design. She works with educators, schools, and organizations in both English- and Spanish-speaking contexts, bringing an international and interdisciplinary perspective to her sessions.

Her presentations are known for being practical, engaging, and immediately useful, with strategies participants can apply right away in their own classrooms and programs.

Florencia Gabriele, PhD, is an economics professor, instructional designer, and speaker specializing in artificial intelligence in education, inclusive teaching, authentic assessment, and faculty development. She teaches economics and personal financ... Show more

Sonya Andrew

Sonya Andrew

Dr. Sonya Andrew is a public administration scholar, researcher, and speaker whose work sits at a critical and largely unexplored intersection: how media shapes and distorts the delivery of public policy, particularly for Black and marginalized communities.

Drawing on her doctoral dissertation at the University of Southern California, Dr. Andrew makes the case that public policy has a media problem — and the field has been slow to recognize it. Her research traces how media narratives have historically undermined equitable policy implementation, from Jim Crow-era rhetoric to present-day communications failures in government institutions.

Her presentations challenge practitioners, academics, and policymakers to confront two urgent realities: the field needs rigorous research into how media influence public policy outcomes, and public agencies must build their own independent, well-resourced media arms if they want their work to reach and serve the people who need it most.

Dr. Andrew has delivered paid presentations for institutions, including California State University, Long Beach. She brings a rare combination of scholarly rigor, lived perspective, and actionable insight, making her a compelling voice for conferences, academic programs, government agencies, and policy organizations.

Dr. Sonya Andrew is a public administration scholar, researcher, and speaker whose work sits at a critical and largely unexplored intersection: how media shapes and distorts the delivery of public policy, particularly for Black and marginalized commu... Show more

Cara Holt

Cara Holt

Cara Holt is a leadership and enablement speaker with a lifelong passion for helping people find their voice and perform at their best. She began public speaking at the age of eight, consistently winning speech competitions through high school and college, long before she realized it would become a defining part of her career.

In her third year as an educator, Cara transitioned from the classroom to training adults, quickly becoming a sought-after professional learning facilitator. She has presented at both state and national conferences and served as a national speaker for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s ECET2 initiative, supporting educators across the country in building confidence, instructional expertise, and sustainable systems for learning.

Over the course of her career, Cara has trained teachers and leaders nationwide and now applies that same learning science and human-centered approach to enablement, where she trains and coaches sales professionals daily. In 2025, she spoke at the Sales Enablement Collective, where a spontaneous conversation with an attendee’s leadership team led to a virtual speaking invitation and a defining moment: when asked how long she had been motivational speaking, her honest answer was “since 12 p.m. today.” That moment clarified what had been true all along—speaking is not new for her; claiming it publicly was.

As a busy mom of four, Cara brings a grounded, real-world perspective to the stage. She speaks on leadership, enablement, spirituality, gentle parenting, and raising self-aware, resilient kids, meeting audiences where they are and helping them grow with intention. Her talks blend credibility, authenticity, and actionable insight, leaving people both inspired and equipped.

Cara Holt is a leadership and enablement speaker with a lifelong passion for helping people find their voice and perform at their best. She began public speaking at the age of eight, consistently winning speech competitions through high school and co... Show more

Ceri Newton-Sargunar

Ceri Newton-Sargunar

Ceri is an interactions specialist, chaologist and trainee neuroscientist, adept at helping people at all levels work together more effectively. With a background in teaching, she's poised to make evidence-based research accessible and useful to leaders who care about a more effective approach.

As a qualified coach, and a team dynamics & systemic interventions consultant with more than a decade of hands-on experience working with senior leadership teams in government, large multinational private and public organisations and fledgling start-ups, Ceri is at her best when she's helping you and your people find some calm in the chaos.

Tea in hand, Ceri works globally and is continually delighted to speak with audiences worldwide, mostly about the beautiful intermingling of behavioural science and hopeful future-focused transformation.

She also loves researching and talking about brains - because once a nerd, always a nerd...

Ceri is an interactions specialist, chaologist and trainee neuroscientist, adept at helping people at all levels work together more effectively. With a background in teaching, she's poised to make evidence-based research accessible and useful to lead... Show more

John Mead

John Mead

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

Bishop Elias Lorenzo

Bishop Elias Lorenzo

Bishop Elias Lorenzo was born in Brooklyn in October 1960 and raised in Sunset Park, where he attended a parish elementary school that helped shape his early understanding of faith, learning, and community life. Growing up in this environment taught him the value of steady routines, careful study, and a sense of responsibility toward others. These early influences encouraged him to develop habits that supported personal growth and service. Over time, the lessons he gained in childhood guided him toward a vocation centered on humility, dedication, and a willingness to learn at every stage.

Bishop Elias continued his education at a Catholic college, where he completed a degree in philosophy before entering a Benedictine monastery to begin religious life. When he professed vows in the mid-1980s, he embraced the rhythm of prayer, work, and community that shapes monastic living. He was later ordained a priest, taking on responsibilities that required thoughtful attention to both spiritual and practical needs. Through these early years, he grew in his understanding of how patient listening and steady guidance foster trust and support within a faith community.

Lorenzo began his ministry as a teacher at a secondary school connected to his monastery. He taught religion, helped organize retreats, and supported students through service programs that encouraged them to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. His work placed him in direct contact with young people, helping him understand their hopes and challenges. As his responsibilities expanded, he also collaborated with administrators and the school’s board. Despite these added tasks, he continued teaching because he believed meaningful leadership begins with personal engagement.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo deepened his ministry through advanced academic studies. He completed graduate work in liturgical theology, gaining insight into how worship nurtures community life and shapes shared experiences of faith. He later pursued studies in counseling, learning practical ways to support individuals facing emotional and personal difficulties. He then completed formal studies in canon law, preparing him to help religious communities navigate governance and pastoral care matters. These combined disciplines strengthened his ability to serve consistently, clearly, and with understanding.

Bishop Elias accepted leadership roles within monastic communities in the United States and abroad. He first served as prior at his home abbey before assuming the same position at an international Benedictine community in Rome. There, he worked with members from many nations, gaining experience in cross-cultural cooperation across diverse environments. He later represented monastic communities in matters requiring communication with the Vatican. These responsibilities broadened his awareness of global religious life and strengthened his appreciation for the varied needs of communities worldwide.

Lorenzo contributed to international Benedictine education by supporting programs that enhanced academic formation and spiritual development in schools across several continents. His background as a teacher helped him connect easily with educators, students, and administrators. In addition to his educational involvement, he participated in humanitarian medical missions in several countries, supporting teams and providing assistance as needed. These experiences reinforced his belief that service thrives when approached with openness, humility, and respect for different cultures.

Bishop Elias R Lorenzo remained committed to promoting safe environments and responsible structures within religious and educational settings. He worked with organizations focused on protecting vulnerable individuals and establishing procedures that encourage transparency and accountability. He also served in diocesan roles requiring thoughtful communication with clergy, religious communities, and laypeople. Through this work, he became known for his steady approach to addressing concerns and his dedication to building trust within institutions.

Bishop Lorenzo was appointed an auxiliary bishop in 2020 and later received episcopal consecration in the cathedral of his archdiocese. In this role, he serves a large county, supporting parishes, pastoral programs, administrative needs, and canonical matters. His daily responsibilities require careful judgment, clear communication, and a willingness to understand the situations of diverse communities. He continues to approach these duties with humility, seeking to guide and support others through steady and thoughtful service.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo offers an example of leadership formed through gradual growth, quiet dedication, and consistent commitment. His life reflects how meaningful influence develops not through sudden recognition but through the accumulation of small, faithful actions. Those who know his journey often observe his attentive manner and his readiness to serve wherever needed. His path encourages others to see that lasting contributions arise from patience, integrity, and a sincere desire to support others' well-being.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo was born in Brooklyn in October 1960 and raised in Sunset Park, where he attended a parish elementary school that helped shape his early understanding of faith, learning, and community life. Growing up in this environment taught ... Show more

Linda Bartholme

Linda Bartholme

Linda Bartholme is a Certified Heroic Performance Coach, Mental Fitness Trainer with Positive Intelligence®, and former French Immersion middle years teacher who understands firsthand what educators face. With Master's degrees in Kinesiology and French Language & Literature, she blends research-based tools with compassion, humour, and lived experience as a teacher, mother, immigrant, and coach.
Through her coaching and consulting practice, Linda delivers interactive workshops helping teams and educators build resilient mindsets and sustainable routines. She has facilitated sessions for SD71, CSF, Athena Collective, the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, CFB Comox, Réseau-Femmes C.-B., and the SDE. She is known for making mindset tools practical and immediately usable.
Curious what others are saying? Her Google Business Profile (https://share.google/4H6zat05iLfPfcdqD) includes reviews and stories from those she has supported.
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/bethrivingmomstoday

Linda Bartholme is a Certified Heroic Performance Coach, Mental Fitness Trainer with Positive Intelligence®, and former French Immersion middle years teacher who understands firsthand what educators face. With Master's degrees in Kinesiology and Fren... Show more

Rajesh Pandit

Rajesh Pandit

Rajesh Pandit is a law enforcement Officer and Harvard Kennedy School graduate with expertise in public policy, investigations, Disaster Management and human rights–centered policing. As a Police Officer, he has led complex investigations while advancing institutional accountability, community engagement, and the protection of vulnerable populations. His work bridges frontline policing with policy reform, focusing on building secure, just, and equitable public institutions.

Rajesh Pandit is a law enforcement Officer and Harvard Kennedy School graduate with expertise in public policy, investigations, Disaster Management and human rights–centered policing. As a Police Officer, he has led complex investigations while adva... Show more

Alberto Castillo

Alberto Castillo

Alberto Castillo Aroca has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in the global AI landscape, particularly in the niche of Humanitarian AI. As an Economist with a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, he sits at the unique intersection of complex data science, social impact, and technology policy.

​Currently, he serves as the Product Manager for ANTICIPA at the French NGO 3iS. Under his leadership, the platform was recently selected by Google.org as one of only 20 initiatives globally—out of over 3,000 proposals—to win the Generative AI Impact Challenge.

​Unlike many AI experts who focus solely on commercial software, Alberto leads engineering projects that are actively saving lives in Colombia, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the Amazon. His work utilizes advanced architectures involving Gemini, Mastra AI, and GraphRAG to help vulnerable communities manage environmental risks and disasters through accessible interfaces like WhatsApp.

​He is a recognized expert in bridging the gap between advanced Enterprise AI architectures and real-world deployment in low-connectivity environments. Beyond his technical work, Alberto is deeply involved in tech governance, having recently presented formal AI regulation proposals to the Senate of the Dominican Republic. He is currently one of the strongest voices advocating for the use of Agentic Systems to solve complex, systemic crises in the Global South.

Alberto Castillo Aroca has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in the global AI landscape, particularly in the niche of Humanitarian AI. As an Economist with a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, he sits at the unique inters... Show more

Charlene Holmes

Charlene Holmes

Charlene “Char” Holmes is a TEDx speaker, psychology-informed leadership strategist, and professional development coach who helps individuals and organizations move beyond stress-driven performance into sustainable growth.

Drawing from trauma-informed principles, psychology research, and lived experience, Char teaches leaders how the brain’s survival systems influence decision-making, leadership style, workplace culture, and long-term performance.

Her work focuses on helping professionals recognize when they are operating from “survival mode” and equipping them with practical strategies to shift into what she calls SurThrival Mode — a leadership framework centered on awareness, resilience, emotional regulation, and sustainable impact.

Char’s work has resonated across leadership, wellness, and transformation spaces, where she speaks on topics including trauma-informed leadership, mindset transformation, resilience under pressure, and creating psychologically safe environments that allow people and organizations to thrive.

Through her speaking, coaching, and media platform, Char continues to lead transformative conversations that reshape leadership from the inside out.

Charlene “Char” Holmes is a TEDx speaker, psychology-informed leadership strategist, and professional development coach who helps individuals and organizations move beyond stress-driven performance into sustainable growth. Drawing from trauma-info... Show more

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu is the Founder & Executive Director of The Resilient Immigrant Foundation (TRIF) and a Resilience Keynote Speaker & Author. He works with leaders, educators, and organizations navigating pressure, uncertainty, and transition, helping them build mental strength and sustainable performance.
He is the author of Learn to Live Forward, a resilience-centered leadership book shaped by lived experience and practical application. His earlier book, Coming to Canada, reached #1 Hot New Release in Canada Travel Guides on Amazon.ca. Through TRIF and his speaking engagements, Chidi supports individuals and institutions seeking long-term growth through resilience and disciplined self-leadership.

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu is the Founder & Executive Director of The Resilient Immigrant Foundation (TRIF) and a Resilience Keynote Speaker & Author. He works with leaders, educators, and organizations navigating pressure, uncertainty, and transition, helpi... Show more

Sam Jenkins

Sam Jenkins

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

Cortina Caldwell

Cortina Caldwell

Guided by purpose, strategy and a love of tech, Cortina Jenelle Caldwell’s entrepreneurial journey has remained true to her north star – to leave her corner of the world a little better off than she found it, a lesson learned early under her grandmother’s wings. Nursing, then social work provided a foundation for understanding social health, community development and resource connection, and Cortina ultimately found her home in business as a way to build solutions for local communities from the ground up. Cortina earned her BS in Business, Social Science and Education, and a MA in Business Management & Leadership (MAML)from Liberty University. As a graduate student, Cortina conducted research on “Branding Authenticity”, and armed with new knowledge of the future of business, Cortina founded Visit & Ventureto address gaps between tourism economies and local economies, earning Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year and a place in 40 Under Forty by the age of 26. Cortina re-branded the original model several times, evolving with community need and responding to first-party data - Cortina Jenelle Branding Agency(2014-2024), and Brand Evangelist™emerged with the age of AI in 2024. Cortina is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society, the Lloyd International Honors College at UNC-Greensboro, and is a Full Stack Web Developer, an ICAgile Certified Pro (Savvy Coders), a Certified Creative Facilitator (PYE Global), and a member of Vantage Ventures & AscendWV, class of 2025. Cortina’s journey reflects a relentless commitment to transform vision into scalable impact through design, technology, and creative strategy, work carried out through the tech-forward approach of Brand Evangelist and its ecosystem. Cortina’s collective body of award-winning work spans decades and ripples throughout Southern Appalachia and abroad, with impact hubs in North Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, Austrailia and more soon from West Virginia where she calls home.

Guided by purpose, strategy and a love of tech, Cortina Jenelle Caldwell’s entrepreneurial journey has remained true to her north star – to leave her corner of the world a little better off than she found it, a lesson learned early under her grandmot... Show more

Yi Zhang, Ed.D.

Yi Zhang, Ed.D.

Dr. Yi Zhang is a global learning strategist, TEDx speaker, SXSW London speaker (incoming), and founder who stands at the intersection of human development and technology shifts. With a 15-year career partnering with C-suite and senior leaders, Yi has spearheaded workforce capability initiatives that have positively impacted over 120,000 people at Fortune 100 giants, including Microsoft, Walmart, and United Airlines.

With a doctorate from Vanderbilt University, Yi helps people-centric organizations break through the AI overwhelm and rediscover their humanity and what they’re called to build. Whether addressing large conferences or leadership circles, Yi is known for making an emotional connection with the audience and bringing bold truths about AI and human behaviors that ignites change.

I offer two (2) signature talks:

1. Humanity & Well-Being: The AI Age Survival Guide

As AI reshapes the workplace, organizations face a hidden crisis of burnout and culture drift. This talk blends the nature of AI, human development, and change to help corporate leaders and teams navigate the overwhelm of AI acceleration without losing their humanity.

2. AI & the Human Debt: How HR & People Teams Win the AI Race

Is your HR/people team a passive observer or a strategic architect of the AI revolution? This talk unpacks the failed AI initiatives and provides proprietary guidance for CHROs and people leaders. It reclaims their seat at the table by bridging the gap between technological acceleration and human capability.

“Yi speaks from a place of extraordinary experience and genuine passion. What makes her remarkable on stage is her ability to take complex, forward-looking topics like AI, technology shifts, and workforce transformation and make them accessible, relatable, and deeply personal. That sets her apart as a speaker and as a thought leader.” — Berthine Crèvecoeur West, CEO, Westbridge Solutions"

Visit my speaker kit here for more information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EfIzdWtvkTL8h5FgjOeNQqdZFKgj99O4/view?usp=sharing

Dr. Yi Zhang is a global learning strategist, TEDx speaker, SXSW London speaker (incoming), and founder who stands at the intersection of human development and technology shifts. With a 15-year career partnering with C-suite and senior leaders, Yi ha... Show more

Muhammed Bello Buhari

Muhammed Bello Buhari

Muhammed Bello Buhari is a digital rights practitioner and programme specialist working at the intersection of law, technology, and civic space, with a specific focus on internet shutdowns, digital infrastructure, and digital democracy in conflict-affected and politically fragile contexts.

Currently, he serves as the Programmes Officer (Anglophone West Africa) at Paradigm Initiative (PIN), where he leads strategic advocacy, digital rights and inclusion programs, and policy interventions in the region. His experience spans programme coordination, donor-funded project management, and high-level partner engagement. He has a track record of managing EU- and foundation-funded initiatives across multi-country settings, ensuring strict compliance and impact. Prior to PIN, Muhammed Bello held roles at CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation (Digital Democracy Initiative), Digital Grassroots, and Call A Lawyer Nigeria, where he coordinated advocacy campaigns, led research, and managed sub-grant processes.

Muhammed Bello is particularly interested in how state power, insecurity, and digital infrastructure intersect to shape access to rights. His work has been supported through competitive fellowships and residencies, including the TechForward Policy Fellowship (African Centre for Digital Transformation), the International Republican Institute’s Fortifying Internet Freedom & Digital Security Fellowship, the Advocacy Assembly Internet Shutdown Advocacy Fellowship, the Innocent Chukwuma Social Impact Fellowship at Lagos Business School, and the Internet Society Youth Ambassador Programme.

Muhammed Bello Buhari is a digital rights practitioner and programme specialist working at the intersection of law, technology, and civic space, with a specific focus on internet shutdowns, digital infrastructure, and digital democracy in conflict-af... Show more

Sam Naji

Sam Naji

Sam Naji is CTO of UniqLearn, where he built VCOS — a 5-layer agentic development system that cut bug escape rates from 25% to under 5%. He's shipped production AI across four countries and now builds AI-powered personalized learning for K-12 from NYC.

Sam Naji is CTO of UniqLearn, where he built VCOS — a 5-layer agentic development system that cut bug escape rates from 25% to under 5%. He's shipped production AI across four countries and now builds AI-powered personalized learning for K-12 from NY... Show more

Dr. Mansur Hasib

Dr. Mansur Hasib

Dr. Mansur Hasib is passionate about bringing out the inner greatness that exists in everyone. In 2017 at a ceremony in Austin, TX, (ISC)2 named him a “Rock Star” of cybersecurity for leading the implementation of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program to serve almost 4,800 students globally. In 2018 the Global Cybersecurity Observatory based in Europe inducted Dr. Hasib into the Hall of Fame. In 2018 and 2019 SC Magazine awarded Dr. Hasib's program Best Cybersecurity Higher Education Program award. He also won the 2020 and 2017 Cybersecurity People’s Choice Award and the 2020 Cybersecurity Champion of the Year Award. In 2024 Dr. Hasib was a semifinalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking. He has 30 years of experience leading organizational transformations through digital leadership and cybersecurity strategy in healthcare, biotechnology, education, and energy. He served as Chief Information Officer for 12 years and has written the books Bring Inner Greatness Out: Personal Brand and Cybersecurity Leadership. His YouTube channel has 200+ videos and is free to Subscribe. Dr. Hasib enjoys bridge, table tennis, comedy, and travel and has been to all 50 states of the USA.

Dr. Mansur Hasib is passionate about bringing out the inner greatness that exists in everyone. In 2017 at a ceremony in Austin, TX, (ISC)2 named him a “Rock Star” of cybersecurity for leading the implementation of the Master of Science in Cybersecuri... Show more

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