The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both interaction with the audience and personal reflection time.

In her interactive workshops and keynote addresses, Caitlin quickly quells the, “I could never do improv!” fear and makes accessible, the principles professional actors use, to be better communicators, teammates, and leaders.
Disarming and energetic, Caitlin opens up the most skeptical attendees, allowing them to learn through applying the Improv Approach, and even crack a smile along the way.

Caitlin Drago’s mission is to create cultures of empathy, creativity, and trust, beginning with how people communicate and connect.

She is an LA-based actor turned upstate NY-based certified leadership coach, trainer, facilitator, and author of Approaching Improv – Communication and Connection in Business and Beyond. Acting taught her to be present, self-aware, empathetic and to prioritize connection with others. Improv taught her to listen, trust her gut and deal with the unexpected in a positive and creative way. She currently works with leaders and teams to help them to listen to one another, communicate and connect, using improvisation as a platform for interactive learning.

Caitlin spent ten years studying improv at places like the nationally accredited Upright Citizen’s Brigade and has spent the last nine years working with leaders and their teams across industries, including, but not limited to higher education, hospitality, tech, marketing, healthcare and real estate. She’s been featured in Medium’s Authority Magazine, Rochester’s Democrat and Chronicle, a variety of podcasts and has spoken at various conferences, including the Talent Development Think Tank, the International TWA Conference, CNY SHRM, and DisruptHR Rochester.

Past clients include:
Gartner
Rochester Regional Health System
Starbucks
Fee Brothers

Testimonials:

“Caitlin's energy, enthusiasm, and sprinkling of humor eased the tensions in our group and the entire experience was packed with valuable team collaboration insights. We found ourselves using this technique the very same day we learned it.”

S.M. Digitronik Labs

“We focused on communication in a completely different way. Not a seminar-feel, but a fun, engaging way to demonstrate the importance of being open and positive. I stepped
outside my comfort zone. As an introvert, the idea of improv was horrifying. But it was fun!”

J.G., VWR

"Caitlin did an excellent job facilitating a workshop for my team. From the time we first met to preparation and the actual workshop, she was helpful and engaging and was highly focused on ensuring my workshop went the way I had envisioned. My team had excellent feedback afterwards and I can say it had an immediate positive impact on how my team interacted and felt about communication."

I.G., Gartner

The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both intera... Show more

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinhas, joga bola com os filhos, colhe amoras, figos e Physalis e está cavando (bem aos poucos!) um pequeno lago para os futuros gansos da família. Jornalista e economista, sempre trabalhou em organizações com forte impacto social. Atualmente, é responsável por ajudar o Grupo Marista, uma instituição de mais de 7 mil colaboradores e com uma história bicentenária, em sua estratégia ESG, articulando iniciativas transversais e proprietárias das Frentes de Missão (unidades de negócio) PUCPR, Saúde, FTD Educação e Centro Marista de Defesa da Infância; e monitorando indicadores e avaliando a evolução da maturidade - sempre procurando nutrir uma mentalidade ágil, com foco nas pessoas, na entrega de valor e na melhoria contínua.

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinh... Show more

Ivonne Chaves, widely known as #shirivo, is a trailblazing software engineer, architect, and cloud technology expert based in Costa Rica. With over 16 years of experience in software, data, and cloud development, she has continuously pushed the envelope in tech innovation. Her open-source projects, showcased on her public GitHub profile, exemplify her passion—ranging from innovative cognitive services applications to cutting-edge cloud solution implementations. These projects not only highlight her technical prowess but also reinforce her commitment to using technology to solve real-world challenges and foster community collaboration.

Beyond her coding commitments, Ivonne plays an influential role as a Microsoft Technical Trainer and an international speaker. Drawing on her academic foundation from renowned institutions in Costa Rica, she bridges the gap between complex technical environments and accessible, transformative learning experiences. Her work demonstrates a seamless blend of rigorous theoretical insight and practical problem-solving skills, inspiring many to explore innovative approaches in technology and data solutions.

Ivonne's extensive experience isn't confined to Costa Rica; her career has taken her around the world, enriching her perspective and broadening her impact. Through international projects and speaking engagements across multiple continents, she has collaborated with diverse teams, adapted cutting-edge solutions to various cultural and business contexts, and shared her expertise on a global stage. This worldly experience has not only honed her technical skills but also deepened her understanding of global market dynamics, enabling her to mentor and empower professionals worldwide.

This combination of local commitment and global experience positions Ivonne as a uniquely versatile leader in the tech community—one who champions both innovation and inclusivity in the ever-evolving digital landscape. #shirivo #helloshirivo

Ivonne Chaves, widely known as #shirivo, is a trailblazing software engineer, architect, and cloud technology expert based in Costa Rica. With over 16 years of experience in software, data, and cloud development, she has continuously pushed the envel... Show more

Curtis Cox is a seasoned Career Brand Strategist and the founder of Curtis Careers, a leading career consulting platform dedicated to helping professionals and businesses elevate their brands, scale their careers, and unlock new opportunities. With deep expertise in career branding, professional development, and career scaling, Curtis has guided countless individuals in navigating career transitions, building powerful personal brands, and positioning themselves as leaders in their industries.

Through Curtis Careers, Curtis provides strategic career coaching, workforce development solutions, and executive branding services tailored for millennial professionals, corporate teams, and entrepreneurs. His mission is to equip individuals with the tools to thrive in competitive job markets and achieve long-term career success.

As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, Curtis shares valuable insights on career growth, professional branding, and networking. Whether hosting workshops, leading career-focused discussions, or delivering impactful keynote talks, he is dedicated to empowering professionals to turn ambition into achievement.

Curtis Cox is a seasoned Career Brand Strategist and the founder of Curtis Careers, a leading career consulting platform dedicated to helping professionals and businesses elevate their brands, scale their careers, and unlock new opportunities. With d... Show more

Mit über 20 Jahren Führungserfahrung in Top-Unternehmen kombiniere ich Business, Produktmanagement und IT-Expertise zu praxisnaher Beratung – immer auf Augenhöhe

Was mich auszeichnet
Verständnis für Führung: Ich spreche die Sprache von IT, Business und Strategie und kenne die Dynamiken von Startups, Mittelstand und Konzernen.
Strategischer Brückenbauer: Wo Zusammenarbeit stockt, setze ich an und schaffe verbindende Lösungen.
Schnelle Empathie & frischer Humor: Meine Kunden schätzen, wie rasch ich Empathie entwickle und mit überraschenden Perspektivwechseln Impulse gebe.

Mit über 20 Jahren Führungserfahrung in Top-Unternehmen kombiniere ich Business, Produktmanagement und IT-Expertise zu praxisnaher Beratung – immer auf Augenhöhe Was mich auszeichnet Verständnis für Führung: Ich spreche die Sprache von IT, Busine... Show more

Renee G. Carr, EdD is multilingual, including Spanish, French, and Greek. She is a trainer, and consultant with over 10 years of training experience, successful managing in hybrid, on-site, and virtual environments. She successfully trained adults on social-emotional learning curriculum across the country, presented at multiple conferences, and provided training of researchers at a government contractor. Her experience includes training interpreters, registration staff, law students, and other participants on federal programs.

The premise of her first book Accountability in the Classroom: Using Social-Emotional Learning to Guide School Improvement came from her dissertation topic, and it was published in 2021. The idea behind her second book Kids Before Content: An Educator's Guide on Social-Emotional Learning Competencies came from both her dissertation and her experiences with recommending a pilot social-emotional learning program.

Renee G. Carr, EdD is multilingual, including Spanish, French, and Greek. She is a trainer, and consultant with over 10 years of training experience, successful managing in hybrid, on-site, and virtual environments. She successfully trained adults on... Show more

Ananya R is a visionary leader in the realm of technology and community empowerment, currently serving as the Global Community Manager at She Loves Tech, the acceleration platform for women in technology. With a passion for building inclusive ecosystems, Ananya is committed to fostering greater visibility, creating funding opportunities, and nurturing a supportive community for women in technology worldwide.

Ananya's journey in community building and advocacy traces back to her impactful role as the Community Manager at Google Developers India. Here, she took charge of over 500 Google Developer Student Clubs (GDSC) spanning across 180+ cities. In this capacity, Ananya orchestrated strategies to expand the GDSC network, meticulously nurturing relationships with student leads to their learning journeys and professional growth. Her strategic efforts led to a remarkable increase in diversity within GDSC, ensuring that women and underrepresented groups found their voices and avenues for advancement in the tech community.

Fuelled by her unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Ananya serves as an #IamRemarkable Gold Facilitator. Her dedication to uplifting women in technology is epitomized by her pivotal role as the driving force behind the Women in Tech wing at Tinkerhub foundation. Through this groundbreaking initiative, Ananya created a nurturing and inclusive platform, Tink-Her-Hack1.0, Kerala's largest women's hackathon. This transformative event not only bridged the gender gap in technology but also empowered thousands of women to showcase their skills, creativity, and potential. Under Ananya's leadership,

Ananya's impact extends beyond her professional accolades; she is a beacon of inspiration and change in the tech community. Her Tedx and other riveting talks and thought-provoking insights have graced various institutions and platforms, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams in technology.

In recognition of her unwavering dedication, Ananya has been honored with the Outstanding Women in Engineering Award 2018 in Kerala, a testament to her exemplary contributions to the field.Through her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, Ananya R is driving positive change and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech industry.

Ananya R is a visionary leader in the realm of technology and community empowerment, currently serving as the Global Community Manager at She Loves Tech, the acceleration platform for women in technology. With a passion for building inclusive ecosyst... Show more

Over the past 15 years, Keith Schumacher has become recognized as one of the leading voices in father engagement in the educational setting. Keith did not enter the educational arena as a teacher or principal, he came in as a dad. As the father of two adopted daughters and the husband of a teacher, he quickly recognized the absence of other dads participating in family engagement activities at the local school. He also noticed that there were few, if any male role models among school staff members.
After initially being turned away from the PTA, he learned about the Watch D.O.G.S. program and proposed it to the principal of his local school. He quickly became a leader in father engagement at the local, and then state and national level. He served for ten years as a National Family and Community Engagement Coordinator with the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) organization. This was done while simultaneously serving as a senior captain with the Atlanta Fire-Rescue Department. Upon his retirement from Atlanta Fire-Rescue in 2019, he began serving full-time with the All Pro Dad Chapters program and did so for four and a half years.
In these roles, Keith has spoken at hundreds of state and national conferences including the American Association of School Administrators, National PTA, American School Counselors Association and the National Association for Family, School and Community Engagement. Keith has literally worked with hundreds of local schools and school districts in overcoming the traditional stereotypes of fathers and perceived their lack of engagement in local schools.
In 2023, Keith launched The National Alliance for Father Friendly Schools. This nonprofit organization serves as a resource for training and information on father friendly practices and programs for local schools and school districts. NAFFS can direct school administrators in more actively engaging all family members but, especially being inclusive of fathers and father figures.
Keith is working to create a culture and environment in which schools provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where fathers regularly engage and participate in the daily activities of local schools. This includes supporting students who do not have an easily recognizable father figure in their life as well.
As a national leader, Keith’s goal is to give every child an opportunity to have strong positive role models leading them to the greatest success possible.

Over the past 15 years, Keith Schumacher has become recognized as one of the leading voices in father engagement in the educational setting. Keith did not enter the educational arena as a teacher or principal, he came in as a dad. As the father of tw... Show more

Ann Cammaro is the Founder and CEO of Antarexxa Space Global, a pioneering organization dedicated to bridging the gap between spacefaring nations and emerging space countries based in Bali, Indonesia. As a passionate space advocate, educator, and strategist, Ann has championed space advocacy since 2014, expanding her impact globally through Antarexxa since 2020. Under her leadership, the company has delivered space education programs virtually to participants across 76 countries and 67 cities in Indonesia, inspiring youth, educators, and professionals to cultivate interest in the New Space economy and pursue careers in the growing space industry; most importantly to leverage space technology to improve quality of life on Earth and address global challenges.

With over a decade of experience in marketing and communication, strategic international business development, government relations, and multi-stakeholder project coordination, Ann brings a unique blend of expertise to the space sector. Her work spans industries such as infrastructure, education, cybersecurity, aerospace and defense, renewable energy, biotechnology, and environmental conservation, with a proven track record in intergovernmental and interagency collaboration.

Ann is deeply committed to fostering international collaboration, workforce development, and diversity in STEAM fields, with a focus on empowering local talent in Indonesia and beyond. Her initiatives include international study space tours, championing local teams for international competitions, and connecting Indonesian talents with global opportunities in space exploration and industry. Ann’s vision is to create a future where emerging nations play a pivotal role in shaping the space ecosystem, from Earth to the Moon and beyond.

Currently serving as a NASA Harvard-Smithsonian SciX Lead Ambassador for 2025-2027, her primary role is to promote scientific literacy and encourage academic contributions to space exploration. Ann is also the spokesperson for the recently established Indonesia Space Association, advocating for Indonesia's strategic development as a significant global space player in the near future.

Ann Cammaro is the Founder and CEO of Antarexxa Space Global, a pioneering organization dedicated to bridging the gap between spacefaring nations and emerging space countries based in Bali, Indonesia. As a passionate space advocate, educator, and str... Show more

Eshan Chattaraj has his 10+ years of experience in professional industry both in Govt and private leading MNCs comprising the area of Android Development and Python Data Analytics. Eshan is also a public Speaker in where he has been invited in many prestigious oganisations and institutions like AICTE, Niser, IISER, NIT and IITs, ISI and most of the Tier 1 Colleges. Eshan is also a Research Scholar in the field of Android, ML/AI. Institutions tagged with him are like IIT, Kharagpur and The Institution of Engineers (India). Some of the Prestigious Clients he made contributions are Google, Microsoft, Wipro Tech, Capgemini, Coca-Cola, United Health, Optum, Shaadi.com, MagicBricks, Fittr etc.
He done his graduation in Computer Science Engineering and Legal background at Corporate Laws. He has given talk in prestigious organisations like IIT/IIM, IISER, NISER, ATAL, AICTE divisional, Hackathon, ISI, Atomic Research, Law Societies and GDG etc
He has been awarded and recognized from Govt of India and CID, WB

Eshan Chattaraj has his 10+ years of experience in professional industry both in Govt and private leading MNCs comprising the area of Android Development and Python Data Analytics. Eshan is also a public Speaker in where he has been invited in many p... Show more

Eric Burden is an IT Sr Consultant with NTT DATA Services, currently serving as the Data Conversion and Reporting lead for the state of Arkansas' CCWIS project. In this role, Eric blends his Social Work experience and deep technical know-how to ensure timely delivery and development of an effective child welfare information system. Prior to this, Eric worked with the United Way of the Mid-South (Memphis) on their Driving the Dream Initiative, aimed at deploying a shared client referral and database platform to break down service silos in the Memphis social service sector. Prior to that, he served as the Director of Data Reporting for Mississippi’s Department of Child Protection Services. Eric combines his technical expertise with his education in social work (MSW from Jackson State University) to engage process improvement from people to systems. On a personal note, Eric and his wife have two children (a son and a daughter) and a very spoiled dog. They enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, hiking, kayaking, playing in creeks, finding bugs, and gardening.

Eric Burden is an IT Sr Consultant with NTT DATA Services, currently serving as the Data Conversion and Reporting lead for the state of Arkansas' CCWIS project. In this role, Eric blends his Social Work experience and deep technical know-how to ensur... Show more

Armagan is the founder of Coyotiv GmbH, and is currently on a mission to bring a scalable and nimble engineering culture to startups and enterprises.

A software architect well versed in both the backend and frontend systems, he focuses on building resilient cloud systems. He loves open source and is the author of cote, a library for building microservices with Node.js, among many others. In his free time, he loves to hack stuff with JavaScript, ranging from musical gadgets to brain signals processing.

Armagan is a public speaker, a mentor and a lecturer. He also leads Lonca, a software craftspersonship school for women engineers, and teaches JavaScript at Coyotiv School of Software Engineering.

Armagan is the founder of Coyotiv GmbH, and is currently on a mission to bring a scalable and nimble engineering culture to startups and enterprises. A software architect well versed in both the backend and frontend systems, he focuses on building... Show more

Jen Kramer has been teaching & practicing web design for over 20 years. Most recently, she is a Lecturer at Harvard University Extension School in the Master's of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design program, where she teaches five courses per year on front-end web development. She's also a prolific video author, creating over 40 training courses for LinkedIn Learning/Lynda.com, Frontend Masters, O'Reilly Media, and others. She earned her MS in Internet Strategy Management from Marlboro College.

Jen Kramer has been teaching & practicing web design for over 20 years. Most recently, she is a Lecturer at Harvard University Extension School in the Master's of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design program, where she teaches five courses per year o... Show more

Phil leads Business Transformation and guides teams through delivery excellence for Logisolve (a V-Soft Consulting Company), a national consulting firm with a wide variety of practice areas, including Public Sector. He has broad and deep experience in Product, Program, Project, and IT Management and Delivery across Financial Services, Banking, Manufacturing, Public Sector, Agriculture, Retail, and Media for 40+ years. He also mentors business leaders and MBA and undergraduate students in their personal and professional growth.

Phil leads Business Transformation and guides teams through delivery excellence for Logisolve (a V-Soft Consulting Company), a national consulting firm with a wide variety of practice areas, including Public Sector. He has broad and deep experience i... Show more

I am an Associate Professor of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, with over thirty years of experience in medical education and academic leadership. I hold a Ph.D. in Anatomy from Manipal University, India, and specialize in clinical anatomy, reproductive biology, and molecular pathology. I teach across medical, dental, pharmacy, and allied health programs and serve as Course Chair, Unit Coordinator, and Lead Faculty within the integrated MBBS curriculum. I am a highly published researcher and a recipient of multiple awards for academic and teaching excellence.
In addition to my academic responsibilities, I provide leadership in community engagement and sustainability initiatives. I lead the LEAF (Linking Education and Farming) initiative at the University of Sharjah and spearhead multidisciplinary projects focused on food‑waste composting, plastic recycling, organic farming, and zero‑waste campus practices. Through these initiatives, I facilitate experiential learning and have trained many students in applied sustainability and environmental stewardship. Notably, I guide the first successful cultivation of black wheat in the UAE, contributing to national food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Through sustained collaborations with governmental organizations, non‑governmental agencies, and community outreach programs, I continue to advance sustainability education, social responsibility, and environmental awareness within the University of Sharjah and the wider community.

I am an Associate Professor of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, with over thirty years of experience in medical education and academic leadership. I hold a Ph.D. in Anatomy from Manipal University, India, an... Show more

Amy Barthelemy is the solo founder of GovParti (govparti.net), a free civic intelligence platform covering all 3,127 US counties. The platform stores data from almost50 federal sources locally, functioning as a living civic archive resilient to federal data removal. She is a published researcher (SSRN: 10928268), Latina first-generation American, military spouse, and mom.

Amy Barthelemy is the solo founder of GovParti (govparti.net), a free civic intelligence platform covering all 3,127 US counties. The platform stores data from almost50 federal sources locally, functioning as a living civic archive resilient to feder... Show more

Community architect, Open Source, and DI&B advocate

Community architect, Open Source, and DI&B advocate Show more

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+, Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), and CERT Incident Response Process Professional.

After years of experience in the Brazilian corporate sector, he currently serves as a Police Agent at the Civil Police of the Federal District (PCDF). In this role, he leads the design and implementation of Offensive Security (Red Team) solutions and Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) operations.

As a key member of the CSIRT (Computer Security Incident Response Team), he acts as a senior analyst, responding to critical cyber events with high social impact. His current research focuses on the industrialization of cybercrime and the development of automated forensic pipelines for large-scale threat hunting.

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+,... Show more

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer and psychologist focused on the intersection between artificial intelligence, decision-making and human cognition. Her work explores how algorithmic systems reshape perception, judgment and responsibility.

She lectures at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and UTN FRBA, and is co-founder of the EIA LATAM Committee (Ethical Committee for Artificial Intelligence), an ongoing project aimed at developing ethical frameworks for the region.

Her approach moves beyond the idea of AI as a tool, framing it instead as part of a hybrid decision system where human and machine cognition interact.

She is the author of Agilidad y Talento. Egoísmo y Altruismo del Poder (A pesar de la MENTE CLICK) (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FNXD3GJQ
), and is currently developing MenteClick.ia (The Continuity of the Species) (ISBN: 978-631-01-1706-5). She also leads, together with co-authors, the ongoing work EIA LATAM Manifesto (ISBN: 978-631-01-4930-1).

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer and psychologist focused on the intersection between artificial intelligence, decision-making and human cognition. Her work explores how algorithmic systems reshape perception, judgment and responsibility. She lectures... 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

Amanda Brock is CEO of OpenUK and has built one of the most recognised and impactful organisations in open source. She is also the Executive Producer of State of Open Con 25 taking place 4 - 5 February 2025 in London having founded and produced the ‘23 and ‘24 events building to over 800 attendees, and over 200 speakers.

A lawyer with 25 years’ experience, 5 as GC of Canonical, she’s been instrumental in shaping open source’s legal frameworks, as she was in shaping internet law during the early 2000’s.
Regularly contributing to tech press, she edited “Open Source: Law, Policy and Practice”, (2022).

Amanda is a sought-after and contagious international keynote speaker, speaking at tech events and international events like COP29 on topics from open source software to AI. A regular contributor to the tech press across a wider range of areas, Amanda is the editor of Open Source Law, Policy and Practice (2nd edition) published by Oxford University Press in October ‘22, with open access thanks to the Vietsch Foundation https://amandabrock.com/books

Current Advisory: UK Cabinet Office Open Standards Board; UKRI Digital Research Infrastructure; UKRI Exascale; KDE; commercial boards – Mimoto, Scarf, FerretDB and Space Aye; and is Fellow Open Forum Academy; Distinguished Fellow Rust Foundation; European Representative, OIN.

Past Advisory includes: Chair, UN Technology and Innovation Labs Open Source and IP Advisory Group’; OASIS Open Projects Initiative; British Computer Society Inaugural Influence Board; UK Government Energy Sector Digitalisation Task Force; elected Board Member Open Source Initiative; and Commercial Advisory Boards at Beamery and Everseen.

Recognition: Computer Weekly’s 50 Most Influential Women in UK TechC(2023, 2024) listed as #20 in 2024; Computing IT Leaders 100 (2023, 2024); ‘ INvolve HERoes list “(2023, 2024); “Women Who Will”, Changemaker (2023); INvolve Heroes (2022, 2023); and Novi Awards Advocate for Change in Gender Equality Honouree (2024); Ambassador Open Charge Alliance. Amanda was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Women, Influence & Power in Law UK 2022.

Judging: IDG Foundry CIO 100 2023, 2024); and Senior Judge, First Enable Role Model List by Dow (2024) having been a Judge in the We are Tech Women Rising Star Awards in (2021, 2022).

linkedin.com/in/amandabrocktech
@amandabrockUK
@openuk_uk
https://openuk.uk
https://amandabrock.com/

Amanda Brock is CEO of OpenUK and has built one of the most recognised and impactful organisations in open source. She is also the Executive Producer of State of Open Con 25 taking place 4 - 5 February 2025 in London having founded and produced the ‘... Show more

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Possui 18 anos de experiência no setor privado de telecomunicações, atuando em funções técnicas e de gestão antes de ingressar no serviço público.
É servidor de carreira da Anatel desde 2007, onde ocupou diversos cargos estratégicos: Gerente Operacional de Redes na área de Gestão da Informação, Gerente da Unidade Operacional no Maranhão , Assessor na Secretaria do Conselho Diretor, Assessor e Gerente substituto na Gerência de Canais de Relacionamento com os Consumidores, e atualmente, ocupa o cargo de Gerente de Planejamento, Desenvolvimento e Segurança de Sistemas na Superintendência de Gestão Interna da Informação.

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Poss... Show more

My work is shaped by professional experience and lived reality.

A career in law enforcement and public service has included leading programs focused on community safety, supporting missing persons investigations, and working in close partnership with Tribal communities across Washington State. That work has revealed gaps that often exist between systems and the communities served—and the critical role of trust built through consistency, respect, and accountability.

Connection to this work is also deeply personal.

Previously a foster parent, having an extended kinship network, and a descendant of a federal Indian boarding school survivor, bringing a perspective shaped by lived experience and a deep understanding of loss, resilience, and the lasting impacts of historical and intergenerational trauma. These experiences inform relationship-building, listening, and engagement—with a strong commitment to culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices.

Work alongside Tribal leaders, advocates, and partner agencies has supported efforts addressing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP), with a focus on strengthening collaboration and improving system responses.

At the core of my work is a belief that meaningful change happens at the intersection of relationships, accountability, and action. Focus remains on building trust and creating solutions informed by the voices and experiences of those most impacted.

My work is shaped by professional experience and lived reality. A career in law enforcement and public service has included leading programs focused on community safety, supporting missing persons investigations, and working in close partnership w... Show more

Katerina Brandes hat einen Bildungshintergrund in Ressourcenmanagement und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit und verfügt über Forschungserfahrung zu globalen Nachhaltigkeitsthemen, unter anderem in Tansania und Indien. Ihre freiberufliche Arbeitserfahrung in der Erwachsenenbildung führten sie an das Zentrum für Lehrentwicklung der TH Köln. Dort arbeitet sie in einem Karriereentwicklungsprogramm für Wissenschaftler*innen früher Karrierestufen mit dem Schwerpunkt transformative Wissenschaft. Ihr besonderes Interesse liegt in der Gestaltung kreativer, interaktiver Workshopformate mit körperorientierten und theaterpädagogischen Methoden.

Katerina Brandes hat einen Bildungshintergrund in Ressourcenmanagement und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit und verfügt über Forschungserfahrung zu globalen Nachhaltigkeitsthemen, unter anderem in Tansania und Indien. Ihre freiberufliche Arbeitserfahrung i... Show more

Aline holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Würzburg and a Master’s degree from RWTH Aachen University. Since 2021, Aline is a Scientific Associate at the Center for Learning and Teaching Services, where she coordinated various Projects, including the "#Digitalkompetenz.nrw" project to enhance digital skills.

Aline holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Würzburg and a Master’s degree from RWTH Aachen University. Since 2021, Aline is a Scientific Associate at the Center for Learning and Teaching Services, where she coordinated various ... Show more

Christopher I. Mathews Jr., LCSW, MPH, is the Capacity Building and Technical Assistance Manager at the Emory COMPASS Coordinating Center within Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a current Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at Tulane University. He has extensive experience supporting community-based nonprofit organizations through capacity-building, program development, and evaluation, with a focus on strengthening organizational infrastructure and sustainability. His background in public health and social work includes facilitating trainings, providing technical assistance, and engaging organizational leaders through qualitative approaches. As a licensed clinical social worker, he is trained in conducting sensitive conversations and engaging participants in an ethical and respectful manner.

Christopher I. Mathews Jr., LCSW, MPH, is the Capacity Building and Technical Assistance Manager at the Emory COMPASS Coordinating Center within Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a current Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at T... Show more

Dr. Jennifer Warren is an educational leader with over 20 years of experience spanning classroom, district, and higher education leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Lamar University, and she currently serves as the Executive Director of Special Programs at Bryan ISD. She prioritizes innovative staffing, program redesign, and university partnerships that improve outcomes for all learners.

Dr. Jennifer Warren is an educational leader with over 20 years of experience spanning classroom, district, and higher education leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Lamar University, and she currently serves as ... Show more

Dr. White is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry, with secondary appointments in Psychology, Public Health Sciences, and Community Health and Prevention at the University of Rochester (UR). In her university faculty roles, she leads change initiatives to deepen community engagement and public health approaches to health promotion as well as child development via service, education and research. From 2004-19, she also directed the Office of Mental Health Promotion (OMHP), prior to leading a nonprofit for five years beginning in 2019. OMHP oversaw community, consumer and diversity affairs for Psychiatry faculty and staff. Dr. White directs collaborative and participatory research. She promotes mental health supporting behaviors, services utilization, injury prevention as well as child and family development strategies within community-based settings. Her research applies system and data science methods in community engaged research, mental health promotion, and injury prevention systems. Her years of research and administrative experiences in developmental psychology emphasize the role of community settings such as childcare, arts centers and after-school programs in child development.

Upon completion of her doctorate in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, she was an AAAS/SRCD fellow in the U.S. Senate and the National Institutes of Health. She was a visiting scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2017 to foster the implementation of systems science approaches to state suicide prevention.

Dr. White is currently an elected member and chair of UR’s Research Policy Committee, and currently co-chair of the Faculty Senate. She has been a member of Faculty Senate since 2019. Her interests include promoting community engagement in all mission areas and promoting a campus climate centered on inclusion, equity, well-being, and families.

Dr. White is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry, with secondary appointments in Psychology, Public Health Sciences, and Community Health and Prevention at the University of Rochester (UR). In her university faculty roles, she leads change initiati... Show more

Dr. Monifa McKnight is an accomplished executive leader, governance strategist, and former Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. With more than 25 years of experience leading complex institutions, she is known for guiding organizations through high-stakes transitions, strengthening governance, and building resilient, people-centered leadership cultures. As Founder of McKnight Lotus Leadership Group, she advises executives and boards on leadership strategy, crisis navigation, and sustainable performance. She also serves as a leadership coach for the University of Maryland’s Central Office Leadership Academy (COLA) and holds board roles with Bowie State University, Africa University, and the National Capital Area Council of Scouting America.

Dr. Monifa McKnight is an accomplished executive leader, governance strategist, and former Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. With more than 25 years of experience leading com... Show more

Dr. Ashley Y. Carpenter is a scholar and leader in the field of gifted education, currently serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Director of Professional Development and Publications at the Center for Gifted Education (CFGE) at William & Mary. Her work is defined by a commitment to equity and excellence, focusing on bridging the gap between academic research and classroom practice. Her leadership in the field was recently recognized with the prestigious 2024 Early Leader Award from the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), honoring her significant contributions to the growth and development of gifted and talented children.
Dr. Carpenter’s expertise lies at the intersection of underserved gifted populations, twice-exceptional (2e) learners, and the impact of socioeconomic status on talent development. At CFGE, she spearheads national and international professional development initiatives, training educators to implement research-based curricula and inclusive identification practices. She also serves as a key researcher for Project BUMP UP, a federally funded Javits grant focused on increasing math proficiency for high-potential students in high-poverty schools.
A former middle school teacher for 14 years, Dr. Carpenter brings a practical, practitioner-oriented lens to her work. She is a frequent speaker at local and national conferences, where she advocates for the "hidden" gifted student. Through her various roles, Dr. Carpenter continues to foster educational environments where diverse talents are not only recognized but meticulously nurtured.

Dr. Ashley Y. Carpenter is a scholar and leader in the field of gifted education, currently serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Director of Professional Development and Publications at the Center for Gifted Education (CFGE) at William &... Show more