Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs, tech startups, and tech innovation. She is the lead organizer for STL TechWeek.

Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs... Show more

Sean Bugler leads innovation and experience efforts for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, reimagining how teams work, share, and get things done. With a background in collaboration tech and passion for untangling legacy constraints, he works with teams to move past the status quo and toward smarter, more human ways of working. An alum of Arizona State University’s Technological Entrepreneurship & Management program, he now helps shape its future as an industry advisor.

Sean Bugler leads innovation and experience efforts for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, reimagining how teams work, share, and get things done. With a background in collaboration tech and passion for untangling legacy constraints, he work... Show more

Ben Jones is the Co-Founder and CEO of Data Literacy, a training and education company that's on a mission to help people learn the language of data and AI.

Ben is the author of ten books on data and AI, including AI Literacy Fundamentals (Data Literacy Press, 2024), Avoiding Data Pitfalls (Wiley, 2019), Data Literacy Fundamentals (DLP, 2020) and Leading in the Age of Data (DLP, 2023).

Ben also teaches data visualization at the University of Washington Foster School of Business, and has presented to, trained or worked with companies, nonprofits, and government agencies around the world, including at the highest level of the US Intelligence Community.

While leading the popular Tableau Public Platform for several years, Ben recognized the large gap between people’s knowledge of data and what needed to know in order to do their job successfully. He started Data Literacy to help address this urgent need. You can read more about his founder’s story in his published journal, The Introspective Entrepreneur.

To balance out the digital side of life, Ben loves hiking and backpacking on the beautiful trails of the Pacific Northwest. He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from UCLA (2000) and an MBA from California Lutheran University (2011).

Ben Jones is the Co-Founder and CEO of Data Literacy, a training and education company that's on a mission to help people learn the language of data and AI. Ben is the author of ten books on data and AI, including AI Literacy Fundamentals (Data L... Show more

After an atypical career in law, the arts and video games, I chose to retrain in development. My desire to promote continuous improvement and communication led me to become a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Systemic Professional Coach and Responsible Digital Lead. As a professional facilitator for the Fresque du Climat et du Numérique, I am constantly learning about the ecological transition, responsible digital technologies and sociology. Involved in Time For The Planet and supporting women in the digital world. As a theater practitioner, I find it a way of creatively exploring and communicating. What drives me: helping companies and individuals to integrate climate and social issues into their practices.

After an atypical career in law, the arts and video games, I chose to retrain in development. My desire to promote continuous improvement and communication led me to become a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Systemic Professional Coach and Responsible Digi... Show more

Caleb Roose (MDiv) is the founder and coach of Good Enough Dads (goodenoughdads.com), where he provides holistic life, career, and parenting coaching for fathers. In addition to his coaching and speaking on fatherhood, he also manages research and training at the Fuller Youth Institute and coauthors resources. Caleb lives with his wife and three young children near Pasadena, CA.

Caleb Roose (MDiv) is the founder and coach of Good Enough Dads (goodenoughdads.com), where he provides holistic life, career, and parenting coaching for fathers. In addition to his coaching and speaking on fatherhood, he also manages research and tr... Show more

I am Doleh Usman Khan, and I have been working for over five years in the fields of gender research, youth empowerment, and community development. As a Silver Medalist in Gender Studies from the University of Sindh, I have served with organizations such as FAO, Research and Development Foundation (RDF), HANDS Pakistan, and Community World Service Asia, where my work has focused on vocational training, gender equality, monitoring and evaluation, and humanitarian response.

Through these roles, I have contributed to training more than 1,300 youth and 250 women across Sindh in tailoring, beautician trades, and other livelihood skills, enabling them to achieve decent work and economic independence. My research and advocacy extend to areas such as the Transgender Protection Act (2018), domestic violence case studies, and gender-responsive development policies.

Internationally, I have represented youth voices at the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (UNCC Bangkok) and the World Youth Forum, presenting evidence and success stories on gender-inclusive vocational training. I am passionate about data-driven problem solving, participatory research, and policy engagement to create sustainable opportunities for women and youth in the MENA and South Asia region.

I am Doleh Usman Khan, and I have been working for over five years in the fields of gender research, youth empowerment, and community development. As a Silver Medalist in Gender Studies from the University of Sindh, I have served with organizations s... Show more

Impulsando el cambio desde la acción, acumulo más de 35 años de experiencia liderando proyectos estratégicos en empresas del sector tecnológico, industrial, servicios y tercer sector. Ha acompañado a cientos de equipos y líderes en su evolución hacia modelos más ágiles, humanos y sostenibles.

Fundador de Agile DISruptivo (ADIS), evento internacional con +30 expertos y cientos de asistentes. En la primera Edición, sigue creciento con mas ediciones.

Mentor y catalizador de procesos de cambio en organizaciones complejas y ecosistemas digitales.

Ha dirigido iniciativas de transformación en empresas de telecomunicaciones, salud, e-commerce, servicios públicos, empresas y organizaciones sociales.

Especialidades
- Agile Coaching y Liderazgo Adaptativo
- Transformación cultural y gestión del cambio
- Innovación empresarial y metodologías disruptivas
- OKRs, Scrum, Kanban, Design Thinking, Agile HR
- Ciberseguridad, calidad y gestión IT (ISO 27001, ITIL, PRINCE2)

Formador y Embajador del Conocimiento
- CEO y Co-Fundador de Mobiliza Consulting & Academy
- Formador oficial certificado por Scrum Manager, CertiProf, PECB
- Cibercooperante INCIBE y Embajador CertiProf
- Máster en Formación del Profesorado y Licenciado en Informática (UPV)
- Colegiado COIICV e ISACA

Misión
Facilitar que organizaciones y profesionales prosperen en entornos inciertos, aplicando metodologías ágiles, inteligencia colectiva y liderazgo transformador. Cree firmemente que escuchar, co-crear y experimentar son los pilares de la evolución real.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨 𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐬:
Blog: Mobiliza Academy
YouTube: AgileValencia
Certificaciones: Scrum Manager, Certiprof, PECB

Impulsando el cambio desde la acción, acumulo más de 35 años de experiencia liderando proyectos estratégicos en empresas del sector tecnológico, industrial, servicios y tercer sector. Ha acompañado a cientos de equipos y líderes en su evolución hacia... Show more

James Paterek serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Millbrook Support Services, Inc., where he helps government agencies locate and hire qualified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other specialists. He also leads as the Chief Executive Officer of Paterak & Company, a respected organization offering staffing and consulting services to various businesses. With a practical leadership approach, he focuses on building reliable teams and creating opportunities that strengthen organizational performance and community well-being.

James founded COMFORCE Corporation, a company specializing in staffing, outsourcing, and financial services. Under his guidance, the business grew rapidly, expanding its workforce to more than 11,000 employees. The company experienced significant revenue growth, increasing from $12 million to nearly $500 million in two years, while maintaining strong profitability. His efforts in strategic planning, acquisitions, and organic development played a key role in establishing the company as a leader in its field.

Paterek has extensive experience in leading large-scale operations and managing complex business transactions. He demonstrated financial management and organizational leadership skills as the head of a company that successfully raised $300 million in capital and acquired other organizations, generating more than $500 million in revenue. His ability to secure over $600 million in funding for multiple ventures reflects a deep understanding of business development and sustainable growth.

James Paterek is known for his steady leadership and dedication to guiding teams toward shared success. He has emphasized the importance of collaboration, accountability, and clear communication throughout his career. His focus on long-term progress has helped the companies he leads achieve consistent performance while supporting professional growth within their teams. Through these efforts, he has earned respect for his practical approach and results-oriented mindset.

Paterek brings decades of experience acquiring, financing, and integrating service-based businesses. He has completed over twenty-eight acquisitions and raised over $600 million for related ventures. His understanding of capital markets and his experience with public company management highlight his ability to navigate complex business environments. With a balanced perspective and commitment to continuous improvement, he continues to contribute to the success of organizations and the people who power them.

James Paterek serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Millbrook Support Services, Inc., where he helps government agencies locate and hire qualified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other specialists. He also leads as the ... Show more

Brown Ofonime is a senior software engineer and a Tech social activist, born and raised in Nigeria. In around a decade, she grew a diverse exposure to cutting-edge technology frameworks to create resilient products and share best practices of software methodologies and STEM Education. In 2020, Ofonime was awarded the 2023 She Code Africa TechElle award and The 2024 CMX industry award for the best non-profit community professional award, a global Ambassador Award to Women tech network for her extensive achievements in the tech industry, and the Womentech Makers award powered by Google and she is also a chapter lead of She code Africa, Abuja Chapter, Now a Founder of Faith Tech, Africa.

Brown Ofonime is a senior software engineer and a Tech social activist, born and raised in Nigeria. In around a decade, she grew a diverse exposure to cutting-edge technology frameworks to create resilient products and share best practices of softwar... Show more

Chinni Krishna Abburi is a Business Intelligence Engineer with 6+ years of experience delivering scalable data solutions. He has led BI modernization, cloud migration, and data automation projects at enterprise scale. His work bridges the gap between data engineering and business insight, and he's actively involved in STEM mentorship and speaking engagements.

Chinni Krishna Abburi is a Business Intelligence Engineer with 6+ years of experience delivering scalable data solutions. He has led BI modernization, cloud migration, and data automation projects at enterprise scale. His work bridges the gap between... Show more

Meet a seasoned professional known in the digital realm as @tekNorah. With over 15+ years of experience in software development and continuous process improvement, they are a strategic technical leader in the digital agency space. Hailing from Mokena, IL, @tekNorah brings a wealth of expertise primarily serving the education, government, and legal industries.

As a seasoned community leader, @tekNorah is deeply ingrained in the tech community, contributing to Drupal and Open Source Software, and serving on the leadership team for MidCamp. Their knack for organic collaboration and ideation has led to significant organizational performance improvements, making them a sought-after figure in the industry.

With a passion for innovation and a commitment to best practices, @tekNorah’s approach to systems design and change management is both meticulous and forward-thinking. Whether it's crafting tailor-designed solutions from concept to launch or coordinating intern and onboarding programs, their dedication to excellence shines through in every endeavor.

Connect with @tekNorah to tap into their expertise and collaborate on your next project. Driving innovation and efficiency gains, @tekNorah is your go-to partner for transformative solutions in the digital landscape.

Meet a seasoned professional known in the digital realm as @tekNorah. With over 15+ years of experience in software development and continuous process improvement, they are a strategic technical leader in the digital agency space. Hailing from Mokena... Show more

Co-founder and Head of Business Development at data4all. We are dedicated to the digitization of processes and implementation of data culture through Microsoft 365, Power Platform and Copilot.

Expert in Digital Transformation and People Analytics. Consultant and Trainer. Microsoft Certified PL300, Master in BI & Big Data. I have more than 10 years of experience in technology positions in large companies in sectors such as IT consulting and Oil & Gas.

I am co-founder of the Think Tank “People Analytics Spain”. I am motivated to implement the data culture in companies and thus help them grow by bringing out the full potential of the Microsoft ecosystem.

Co-founder and Head of Business Development at data4all. We are dedicated to the digitization of processes and implementation of data culture through Microsoft 365, Power Platform and Copilot. Expert in Digital Transformation and People Analytics.... Show more

Cla-Petra is a Senior Business Analyst and Agile Champion at Danske Bank who is passionate about driving efficiency and productivity through process automation.
With a background in construction, Cla-Petra pivoted to the tech industry five years ago. She expertly applies project management principles and data analysis to identify and implement automation opportunities. At Western Union, Cla-Petra utilized Power Platform low-code tools to develop automation solutions, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of FinCrime processes.
As a data expert, Cla-Petra has worked with NGOs, banks, marketing research companies, fintech, and the education sector. She holds a master’s degree in Project Management, a micro master's in data science, certification as a Senior Big Data Analyst (SBDA), and Alteryx automation tool certifications.
Outside of her professional work, Cla-Petra mentors data enthusiasts, providing guidance on code reviews, solving coding challenges, and improving dashboard reporting.
When she is not diagnosing automation possibilities in a process, Cla-Petra enjoys drawing, traveling, and playing Scrabble with friends.

Cla-Petra is a Senior Business Analyst and Agile Champion at Danske Bank who is passionate about driving efficiency and productivity through process automation. With a background in construction, Cla-Petra pivoted to the tech industry five years ago... Show more

Anish S. Nair is a dynamic and accomplished Corporate Trainer with a rich background in an extensive array of programming languages and cutting-edge technologies. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, he played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of Logix Space Technologies Pvt. Ltd, contributing to its establishment as a prominent startup specializing in technical and corporate training.

As a founding member, Anish spearheaded the development of Logix Space Technologies, focusing on technical and corporate training. His leadership played a crucial role in the creation of SAFE KIDS, an innovative application that garnered attention from the Kerala State Government and is now implemented in schools across the state.

Anish possesses extensive expertise in a wide range of technologies, including Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Blockchain, MEAN Stack / FullStack Technologies, Big Data, Internet Of Things, iOS, Android, Java, PHP, Python, MongoDB, Cloud Computing, Vue.js, React, Angular, React Native, DART, Google Flutter, and more. He specializes in Mobile and Web app development.

Anish holds the prestigious title of a certified REDHAT Engineer with dual certifications of RHCE & RHCSA, showcasing his proficiency in Linux system administration. Leading the training department at Logix Space Technologies Pvt. Ltd and Link Ur Codes, Anish has been a beacon of knowledge, specializing in full-stack and mobile app development. His training sessions have impacted renowned companies such as Samsung , Harman Kardon, iPrimed (Bengaluru), Reflections, Nest Digital, Prodapt Technologies (Bengaluru), SigniFy (Bengaluru) and many more.

Anish is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of tech enthusiasts, working with students of all ages and backgrounds. His programs, "Women Who Code" and "Coding for Kids," are designed to empower women in coding and introduce young minds to the exciting world of programming and development.

He served as a jury panel member for two events in the Reboot Kerala Hackathon 2020, organized by ASAP Kerala, showcasing his commitment to fostering innovation and creativity in the tech community. Additionally, he is a Board of Studies member at the autonomous college SBCE, Kerala, contributing to curriculum development and academic advancements in emerging technologies.

Anish has a proven track record of delivering engaging, informative, and interactive training sessions. With excellent communication skills, he can explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner, making them accessible and easy to retain. His adaptive training style suits the diverse needs of different audiences, reflecting his passion for sharing knowledge and helping others develop their skills in technology

Anish S. Nair is a dynamic and accomplished Corporate Trainer with a rich background in an extensive array of programming languages and cutting-edge technologies. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, he played a pivotal role as one of ... Show more

Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges through embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooHR & Engagedly as one of the Top 100 HR Influencers and has been featured in the NY Times, Mashable, Upworthy, Shondaland, & Wired. Jeff has worked with Google, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines, Adobe, the NFL, Amazon, and Facebook, helping their staff to infuse more play into the day-to-day.

Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges through embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooH... Show more

Shivaram K R is an innovator, researcher, and serial entrepreneur. He focuses on the impact of emerging technologies on humanity through his key strengths: initiative, innovation and implementation. He has 20 years of hands-on experience in Artificial Intelligence. He is a domain expert in multiple emerging technologies and has built 11 tech startups to solve the world’s problems. He is currently the Co-founder and CEO of Hue Learn.

Alumni of IIT Delhi, he has 10 years of experience in algorithmic trading and quantitative research. He has built High Frequency Trading strategies and Cross Asset Investment Strategies during his tenure in Bank of America, Edelweiss and Societe Generale. He created a robotics lab to do research on AI, robotics, 3D printing, IoT and other emerging technologies. He started his entrepreneurial journey in 2014 from his lab. He uses the first principles approach to build his startups. He has built products that use AI to solve problems in the domain of commodity trading, genomics, education, drone delivery, high-frequency trading and healthcare. He has advised government bodies and the World Economic Forum on the impact of emerging technologies. He is a TEDx speaker and has spoken at various global forums such as Green Accelerator at Davos during the World Economic Forum Annual Event, COP28 on use of AI in Education.

Shivaram K R is an innovator, researcher, and serial entrepreneur. He focuses on the impact of emerging technologies on humanity through his key strengths: initiative, innovation and implementation. He has 20 years of hands-on experience in Artificia... Show more

As a dynamic Product Designer and Product Owner, I’ve led the end-to-end design and strategy of transformative digital products across Africa, US and in the UK. I previously served as a Product Designer at Torus Mara, where I crafted inclusive fintech and crypto payment experiences that power economic freedom. I also lead product at Lovebox Africa, a tech for good platform reimagining community giving. From scaling early concepts into polished, user-centered platforms to overseeing agile product teams, my work reflects a deep commitment to intentional design, cultural relevance, and high-performance product systems. I’m passionate about creating scalable solutions that solve real-world problems while enabling underserved users to thrive.

I’m also an open-source contributor with Women Coding Community, where I volunteer and collaborate on inclusive tech solutions, and a design mentor at Veet, empowering aspiring designers and product owners across the globe. My prior speaking engagements span product strategy, design systems, tech-for-good, and community-led innovation. I bring fresh, global insight into building cross-cultural, impact-driven digital products, and I’m driven to share this knowledge to inspire the next generation of product leaders. Whether on stage or in workshops, I deliver talks that prompt, equip, and empower audiences to build boldly and build products that solve real life problems.

As a dynamic Product Designer and Product Owner, I’ve led the end-to-end design and strategy of transformative digital products across Africa, US and in the UK. I previously served as a Product Designer at Torus Mara, where I crafted inclusive fintec... Show more

Sebastian Brandt is a Senior Cloud Engineer and Lead Online Platform at Tchibo, responsible for the technical backbone of the company's e-commerce platform. Passionate about operational excellence, he leads his team in operating a scalable and secure cloud infrastructure that enables product teams to deliver software quickly and safely. Outside of work, Sebastian serves his community as a volunteer lifeguard and instructor for the DLRG. Speaker sample (2nd): https://youtu.be/hiATPZ067Pc

Sebastian Brandt is a Senior Cloud Engineer and Lead Online Platform at Tchibo, responsible for the technical backbone of the company's e-commerce platform. Passionate about operational excellence, he leads his team in operating a scalable and secure... Show more

Léonce Pidy est chercheuse en informatique à l’Université de Douala, spécialisée dans les réseaux ad hoc véhiculaires (VANETs) et l’application de l’intelligence artificielle à la mobilité urbaine durable dans les pays en développement. Ses recherches portent sur la conception de protocoles de routage intelligents, l’optimisation du contrôle des feux de circulation et l’intégration de l’IA pour améliorer la fluidité, la sécurité et la durabilité des systèmes de transport.

Engagée dans la transmission du savoir, Léonce est également enseignante d'informatique. Elle s’investit activement dans la formation et l’accompagnement des étudiants au sein de l'université de douala et de JFN(hightech university institute), tout en menant ses travaux de recherche au sein du laboratoire ISDM.

En dehors du milieu académique, Léonce est présidente fondatrice de Dare to be Women Tech, une association qui œuvre pour l’autonomisation des femmes et des jeunes à travers les STEM, en lien avec les Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD). Elle est aussi ambassadrice Zindi, Co-organisatrice indabax-Cameroun et directrice des communautés de Kmer-AI, où elle contribue à promouvoir l’IA responsable et inclusive au Cameroun.

Animée par la conviction que l’IA peut transformer la mobilité et l’inclusion sociale en Afrique, Léonce aspire à bâtir des solutions technologiques adaptées aux réalités locales, en conciliant rigueur scientifique, innovation et impact social.

Léonce Pidy est chercheuse en informatique à l’Université de Douala, spécialisée dans les réseaux ad hoc véhiculaires (VANETs) et l’application de l’intelligence artificielle à la mobilité urbaine durable dans les pays en développement. Ses recherche... Show more

Renzo Wouters is enterprise architect bij het Ministerie van Justitie en Veiligheid in Nederland. Met meer dan 15 jaar ervaring in enterprise architectuur, richt hij zich op het verbeteren van samenwerking binnen het publieke domein — met name binnen de Strafrechtketen. Renzo werkt aan de ontwikkeling van een waardegedreven en interoperabel digitaal ecosysteem dat publieke dienstverlening versterkt en maatschappelijke meerwaarde centraal stelt. Hij combineert conceptuele modellering (zoals DEMO) met visie op publieke waarde en ecosystemisch denken.

Renzo Wouters is enterprise architect bij het Ministerie van Justitie en Veiligheid in Nederland. Met meer dan 15 jaar ervaring in enterprise architectuur, richt hij zich op het verbeteren van samenwerking binnen het publieke domein — met name binnen... Show more

Michelle Elliott is a passionate advocate for authentic leadership, with over 28 years of experience in education. Known for her empowering presence, and deep belief in the power of vulnerability, she helps women embrace leadership without compromising their values or voice.

Currently serving as the hiring manager at San José Unified School District, her work focuses on creating welcoming spaces where women and other staff can show up fully—and lead with both strength and humanity.

Michelle brings a refreshing perspective on what it means to lead as a woman today: not by hiding vulnerability, but by using it to connect, inspire, and drive meaningful change.

Michelle Elliott is a passionate advocate for authentic leadership, with over 28 years of experience in education. Known for her empowering presence, and deep belief in the power of vulnerability, she helps women embrace leadership without compromis... Show more

Jorge O. Ramirez has over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, working across a wide range of programs including Pacific Oaks Children’s School, Head Start, state preschool, Preschool Collaborative Classrooms (special education), district center programs, faith-based programs, laboratory schools, and private schools. His work with diverse populations and families has shaped his commitment to equity, advocacy, and community-centered practices in early childhood education.
Jorge began his academic journey at East Los Angeles College, earning an A.A. in Liberal Studies, followed by a B.A. in Child Development and a Multiple Subject Preliminary Credential from California State University, Los Angeles. He later earned an M.A. in Education from the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education, where his work emphasized advocacy and research-based practice in Early Childhood Education. Jorge is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Early Childhood Education at Pacific Oaks College, with research focused on developing tools and strategies that promote social-emotional development and emotional competence in young children.
He currently serves as Professor at Pacific Oaks College, where he prepares students for leadership roles in child development and education. In addition, he teaches Child Development courses at California State University, Los Angeles and at East Los Angeles College, where he supports students pursuing the Early Childhood Education field.
As a mentor with the California Early Childhood Mentor Program, Jorge guides students from ELAC, CSULA, USC, Rio Hondo College, and CSU Fullerton, offering professional mentorship and strategies for success in the field. His teaching and research are centered on advocacy, equity, and supporting the holistic development of all children.
Jorge believes that by equipping educators with knowledge, compassion, and practical strategies for social change and empower communities for all children.

Jorge O. Ramirez has over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, working across a wide range of programs including Pacific Oaks Children’s School, Head Start, state preschool, Preschool Collaborative Classrooms (special education), dist... Show more

Dr. Roland Nolte is an international leadership expert and keynote speaker with over 13 years of experience leading global teams of hundreds and even thousands. His focus: restoring humanity as the true driver of motivation, collaboration, and sustainable success in organizations. As the founder of re:HUMAN, he combines practical leadership insights with the latest findings from psychology, sociology, and organizational research.

Beyond the stage, Roland lives what he teaches: as a father of four, a farm owner, and someone who understands stress not from theory but from real life. His keynotes inspire leaders and organizations to build trust, foster resilience, and achieve clarity in times of uncertainty. With his mix of academic depth and personal authenticity, he empowers audiences to navigate the future of work with confidence and humanity.

Dr. Roland Nolte is an international leadership expert and keynote speaker with over 13 years of experience leading global teams of hundreds and even thousands. His focus: restoring humanity as the true driver of motivation, collaboration, and sustai... Show more

Recognised as one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Crypto 2023, Lianna is architecting the future at the convergence of art, technology, and social impact. Her thought leadership has graced global stages including the World Economic Forum at Davos 2024, COP28, and TEDx Youth, where she champions a humanity-first approach to Web3 innovation.

As a dynamic podcast host for Wirex and sought-after speaker, Lianna illuminates critical conversations around arts, technology, mental health, and ethical innovation. Her expertise has earned her the prestigious "Social Impact & Ethics" recognition in the OC100 by ForbesWeb3, Animoca Brands, and Open Campus 2024 initiative.

Deeply committed to inclusive innovation, Lianna advises ARTXV, amplifying neurodivergent artists' voices in the digital realm. Her track record of leveraging blockchain technology for humanitarian causes showcases the transformative power of Web3 for social good. As former VP and Curation Lead at The Dream Conduit, she pioneered pathways for creatives into the Web3 ecosystem.

Beyond technology, Lianna's dedication to community wellness manifests through her Weekly Mental Health Check-Ins and meditation sessions, while serving as NED to Mental Health Spaces Collective. A member of the Top Tier Impact Network, she exemplifies leadership that drives meaningful change.

Through Impactful Artistry, Lianna continues to forge new frontiers where technology meets humanity, creating ripples of positive transformation across the digital landscape.

Recognised as one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Crypto 2023, Lianna is architecting the future at the convergence of art, technology, and social impact. Her thought leadership has graced global stages including the World Economic Forum at Davos 2024,... Show more

Yigakpoa is an open-source advocate and technologist working at the intersection of open data, accessibility, digital equity, and sustainability. At CHAOSS Project Yiga serves as a co-chair of the project management team and a maintainer in the Accessibility team - helping improve metrics for assessing the health and sustainability of open-source communities. As COO at CLENT Africa, she collaborates using open-source climate data platforms and energy access tools for community-driven resilience and environmental justice. She also works on civic tech initiatives that enhance government transparency using open data. Asides from contributing to and leading at various open source projects, Yiga is a global speaker and mentors marginalized persons trying to find their way in tech.

Yigakpoa is an open-source advocate and technologist working at the intersection of open data, accessibility, digital equity, and sustainability. At CHAOSS Project Yiga serves as a co-chair of the project management team and a maintainer in the Acces... Show more

As an Engineering Manager at The Times, I oversee and manage all engineering teams in Times Media, across three different domains: web, mobile, and platform. With over 18 years of experience in the tech industry, I have developed and implemented career development plans, revamped the interview process, and provided regular feedback and coaching to engineers, helping them grow their skills and careers.
I am also passionate about the community aspect in tech and actively involved in several initiatives that aim to empower and inspire diverse and inclusive audiences. I am the Lead Organizer of GDG Cloud London, where we host events, workshops, and talks on cloud technologies and best practices. I am also the Founder and Mentor of GDG Academy, a mentorship program that pairs university students from prestigious institutions with experienced mentors in the tech industry, and offers them internship opportunities. Additionally, I am the Founder of ChatGDG, a weekly podcast where we talk about tech and community along with doing full coverage of tech events and conferences.

As an Engineering Manager at The Times, I oversee and manage all engineering teams in Times Media, across three different domains: web, mobile, and platform. With over 18 years of experience in the tech industry, I have developed and implemented care... Show more

Andrew is equal parts tech enthusiast, educator, and the kind of person who can’t resist pressing buttons just to see what happens (sometimes even twice). A former classroom teacher with nearly a decade of experience crafting learning experiences for techies of all ages, he traded chalkboards for the keyboards of the tech industry in 2020 and hasn’t looked back. Since then, he’s worn many hats—Community Manager, Developer Advocate, and now Developer Educator at Twilio—where he helps developers connect the dots between imagination and implementation. When he’s not building (or breaking :sweat_smile:) things with tech, you’ll find Andrew soaking up the west coast vibes on Vancouver Island, Canada—where he tries (and often fails) to look outdoorsy.

Andrew is equal parts tech enthusiast, educator, and the kind of person who can’t resist pressing buttons just to see what happens (sometimes even twice). A former classroom teacher with nearly a decade of experience crafting learning experiences for... Show more

Emmanuel Hyacinth is a dedicated tech educator and the Tech Lead of Techstars Hub, a non-profit organization committed to empowering the younger generation with technological skills in Lagos State, Nigeria. Born on October 27, 1991, in Anambra State, Emmanuel is the first born in a family of six, who faced early adversity with the loss of three siblings and his mother. Despite these challenges, his passion for technology was ignited at a young age when he assisted his aunt, a teacher, with tasks involving PowerPoint and MS Word, laying the foundation for his future in tech.
Initially pursuing a career as a teacher, Emmanuel's curiosity and drive led him to learn coding seven years ago. Recognizing the exponential growth of the tech industry and the scarcity of skilled manpower in his region (Nigeria), he founded Techstars Hub. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in tech education in underserved communities, particularly where access to technology is limited. Under his leadership, Techstars Hub has grown from a small group of five students to a thriving community that now impacts numerous young minds.
By leveraging open source tools and resources, Emmanuel has overcome significant barriers—such as limited access to laptops, unreliable electricity, and the challenge of balancing tech classes with regular schoolwork—to provide high-quality education in areas like cybersecurity, graphics designing, frontend and backend development, and more. His work not only makes tech education accessible but also aligns with the principles of open source: collaboration, accessibility, and community building.
In his presentation, Emmanuel will share his journey and the transformative power of open source in education, joined by some of his students who will testify to how these initiatives have shaped their aspirations and careers in tech. A married father of two, Emmanuel continues to be a beacon of hope and innovation, proving that with passion and perseverance, one can turn adversity into opportunity.

Emmanuel Hyacinth is a dedicated tech educator and the Tech Lead of Techstars Hub, a non-profit organization committed to empowering the younger generation with technological skills in Lagos State, Nigeria. Born on October 27, 1991, in Anambra State,... Show more

Analista de TI do Prodest desde 2011 e atualmente atuo como Gerente de Sistemas, liderando quatro supervisões técnicas e dez times de desenvolvimento, totalizando cerca de 70 profissionais. Tenho ampla experiência em desenvolvimento de soluções Web com .Net e C#, gestão de produtos, liderança de projetos estratégicos e coordenação de equipes de sustentação e desenvolvimento de software voltados à gestão pública.

Ao longo de mais de 20 anos na área de TI, atuei tanto no setor público quanto na iniciativa privada, adquirindo experiência em diversas tecnologias, áreas de negócio e perfis de clientes. Também contribui para a formação de novos profissionais como professor presencial e tutor em cursos de Educação a Distância.

Sou graduado em Sistemas de Informação e especialista em Desenvolvimento Web, com pós-graduação na área.

Analista de TI do Prodest desde 2011 e atualmente atuo como Gerente de Sistemas, liderando quatro supervisões técnicas e dez times de desenvolvimento, totalizando cerca de 70 profissionais. Tenho ampla experiência em desenvolvimento de soluções Web c... Show more

Connar McCasland is an instructor at the University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity. Her career spans public and private sectors, particularly excelling in cybersecurity for county and city government entities. Before her teaching career, she held a leadership role in local government, where she spearheaded a county’s cybersecurity program. There, she led and organized significant cybersecurity projects and assisted smaller government offices with their cybersecurity programs. While in this role, employees often told her that cybersecurity was “only IT’s problem” and “too difficult to understand.” Since then, she has made it her mission to show people how critical cybersecurity is in the current digital age and make it accessible and easy to understand. Before working for the Center, she worked for Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), where she traveled across the U.S. and its territories, training IT departments, emergency management, first responders, and average citizens in cybersecurity and cyber preparedness. Beyond her professional achievements, Connar actively works to empower and promote other IT and cybersecurity professionals, participating in international organizations such as ISACA and Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS). She holds a B.A.S. in Cybersecurity from Pensacola State College and an M.S. in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity with a specialization in Network Defense from Capella University. She serves on the Board of Directors for the nonprofit IT Gulf Coast and is the Social Media Coordinator for the WiCyS Florida Affiliate.

Connar McCasland is an instructor at the University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity. Her career spans public and private sectors, particularly excelling in cybersecurity for county and city government entities. Before her teaching career, sh... Show more