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

Lebogang Madise

Lebogang Madise

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the founder of Difela Hymns, she has digitized African hymns, enhancing accessibility and preserving cultural heritage for global audiences.
A passionate advocate for Women in STEM, Lebogang has been honoured with the Women in STEM Award and Inspiring50 South Africa Award. She is an active IEEE member and champions continuous learning, teamwork, and responsible AI adoption. Her work bridges cutting-edge technology with human impact, from mentoring developers to promoting innovation in education. Lebogang brings her expertise in AI tools like GitHub Copilot and insights on cognitive biases to inspire developers of all levels to code smarter and grow faster.

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the... Show more

Avi Schwab

Avi Schwab

Avi has been involved in the Drupal Community since 2008. He has previously worked as the lead of MidCamp and the Drupal Event Organizer Working Group and is now on the board of Midwest Open Source Alliance. His work focuses on large-scale Drupal implementations for high-ed and non-profits.

Avi has been involved in the Drupal Community since 2008. He has previously worked as the lead of MidCamp and the Drupal Event Organizer Working Group and is now on the board of Midwest Open Source Alliance. His work focuses on large-scale Drupal imp... Show more

Peter Geelen

Peter Geelen

Full details at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgeelen/

Executive Director at CyberMinute, also managing consultant at Quest For Security, from Leuven, Belgium.

With +25y experience, I have built strong experience in enterprise security & architecture, identity & access management, information security, data protection & privacy, cyber & cloud security, corporate security policies, security best practices.

Committed to continuous learning, I hold renowned security certificates in Information Security, Cyber & Cloud security, Supply Chain security, Incident Mgmt, BCM & DRP, Data Protection & Privacy, Architecture, Software Security, Ethical Hacking, HR security... and still growing.

Accredited lead auditor & lead implementer ISO27001, ISO27701, ISO22301, ISO9001 & ISO17021 & other ISO standards.

Accredited and authorized trainer for PECB, ISC2, ISACA.
Microsoft Alumni MCT.

Since 2005, technical focus on Microsoft IAM solutions: MS Identity Manager and related platforms like AD, Azure, PKI, single sign-on & security solutions, identity management…
Plus hands-on experience in scripting (PowerShell), development basics (VB/C#), SQL and Exchange... and a small bit of SharePoint, to survive.

I strive to spend time on the Microsoft community both online as offline.

Find my personal blog at http://blog.identityunderground.be.

12x Microsoft MVP Security (Identity and Access), 2008 - 2025

Strong believer and active supporter of knowledge sharing, to build and grow the security & data protection communities.

Full details at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgeelen/ Executive Director at CyberMinute, also managing consultant at Quest For Security, from Leuven, Belgium. With +25y experience, I have built strong experience in enterprise security & archite... Show more

Anderson Costa

Anderson Costa

Anderson Costa coordenou a elaboração e a governança da Estratégia de Governo Digital do Brasil 2020-2023, iniciativa que levou o país ao reconhecimento como líder em maturidade digital nas Américas e o segundo no mundo. Sob sua coordenação, a estratégia foi construída com visão sistêmica, foco no cidadão e uso intensivo de dados e tecnologia, orientando as ações digitais do Poder Executivo Federal.

Com sólida atuação em transformação digital, inovação e implementação de novas tecnologias em educação, Anderson estruturou e coordenou programas de cooperação entre a Escola Nacional de Administração Pública (ENAP) e os governos estaduais e municipais, apoiando o enfrentamento dos desafios locais em inovação, gestão e digitalização dos serviços públicos.

Foi também responsável pela seleção, formação e desenvolvimento de equipes voltadas à transformação digital na administração pública federal, além de atuar diretamente na promoção da governança em TIC nos órgãos do governo.

Durante nove anos, foi Diretor de TI do Instituto Federal de Brasília (IFB), onde liderou a estruturação tecnológica de nove campi e apoiou a expansão da instituição. Atuou ainda como coordenador do Fórum de TI (FORTI) do CONIF, implantando uma metodologia de trabalho por projetos que potencializou os resultados do colegiado nacional.

Sua trajetória no setor público começou na Caixa Econômica Federal, como integrante da equipe de gestão de mudanças em TIC. Desde então, tem atuado como estrategista, facilitador e palestrante em temas ligados à liderança digital, cultura de inovação, agilidade na gestão pública e tecnologia com propósito.

Anderson Costa coordenou a elaboração e a governança da Estratégia de Governo Digital do Brasil 2020-2023, iniciativa que levou o país ao reconhecimento como líder em maturidade digital nas Américas e o segundo no mundo. Sob sua coordenação, a estrat... Show more

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in GraphRAG, knowledge graphs, and AI-driven developer tooling where Nyah has built high-impact technical communities and led initiatives that advance a critical understanding of AI and its use cases. They are also the Founder & CTO of Afros in AI, a technical community dedicated to showcasing the multifaceted nature of artificial intelligence. Beyond Nyah's technical expertise, Nyah has a background in government leadership and technology policy, having served as Chief of Staff in the U.S. state government, where they helped shape tech-driven legislative initiatives and equity-driven legislation. When not immersed in their work, Nyah cares about empowering, teaching, and tutoring engineers, live-streaming technical deep dives, and building open-source tools that make software more accessible, explainable, and community-driven.

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in GraphRAG, knowledge graphs, and AI-dri... Show more

Udokaku Ugochukwu Cloud Solution Architect and Business Analyst

Udokaku Ugochukwu Cloud Solution Architect and Business Analyst

Udokaku Ugochukwu pronounced as uh-duo-kah-kuh , is a Cloud Solution Architect working with an amazing team at Microsoft that covers Generative AI & other ModernWork technologies. She is a conscientious lady with a career in business analytics and currently venturing into cybersecurity.

A public speaker, child health Advocate, who has served in various leadership roles.

She is a passionate about creating enriching and inclusive experiences that enables the growth and success of individuals and groups.

Udokaku Ugochukwu pronounced as uh-duo-kah-kuh , is a Cloud Solution Architect working with an amazing team at Microsoft that covers Generative AI & other ModernWork technologies. She is a conscientious lady with a career in business analytics and c... Show more

Valeria Burdi

Valeria Burdi

✨ Chi sono in poche righe (ma piene di senso)

Docente d’inglese in una vita precedente (ma siamo sicuri???), con la testa tra le nuvole e i piedi ben piantati nelle Roadmap, oggi sono una Scrum Master che ama sperimentare, innovare e prendersi cura delle persone nei momenti di cambiamento.

La mia bussola? L’agilità come mindset, la visione di prodotto al posto della logica di progetto, e una fiducia incrollabile nel potere della giocosità come leva di trasformazione.

Amo tutto ciò che è didattica innovativa, inclusione, collaborazione e quel meraviglioso caos creativo che si accende quando i team trovano il proprio ritmo.

Mi definiscono sognatrice, io dico che sono semplicemente un’eterna bambina con la passione per le retrospettive ben fatte, le user story ben scritte, e i momenti in cui si ride insieme tra un daily e una review.

Non porto soluzioni, porto domande che aprono strade.

✨ Chi sono in poche righe (ma piene di senso) Docente d’inglese in una vita precedente (ma siamo sicuri???), con la testa tra le nuvole e i piedi ben piantati nelle Roadmap, oggi sono una Scrum Master che ama sperimentare, innovare e prendersi cur... Show more

Jimmy Kriigel

Jimmy Kriigel

As the Lead IT Engineer at Georgia Institute of Technology's Office of International Education (OIE), Jimmy is at the forefront of technological innovation. He implements cutting-edge solutions to address complex challenges, from enhancing student experiences during the pandemic to identifying and mitigating cybersecurity threats. With a master’s degree in Cybersecurity from Georgia Tech, Jimmy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role.

As the Lead IT Engineer at Georgia Institute of Technology's Office of International Education (OIE), Jimmy is at the forefront of technological innovation. He implements cutting-edge solutions to address complex challenges, from enhancing student ex... Show more

Santiago Iricibar

Santiago Iricibar

Padre, agile coach, facilitador gráfico, amante de los juegos de mesa y en otra vida, desarrollador especializado en banca de inversión.

Los 2 primeros, definen el afán de evolución y aprendizaje, motor de una auto-motivación constante en cada reto que se me presenta.
Los 2 segundos, el alimento de mi curiosidad y ganas de pasármelo bien, haga lo que haga con la mirada en el proceso y no en el fin.
El último, el foco en el bien mayor, el gusto por el trabajo bien hecho y la cultura del trabajo duro para alcanzar un propósito común.

Tras 18 años de experiencia en consultoría, con clientes desde los extintos Banco Popular o Caja Madrid al Banco Santander o INSS, me siento profundamente ligado a la evolución de las personas, lo que me llevó a impartir talleres en diferentes ámbitos como en cliente final o en colegios, tanto con alumnos como con profesores, nutriéndome de diferentes maneras de enseñar y sobre todo, de aprender.

Padre, agile coach, facilitador gráfico, amante de los juegos de mesa y en otra vida, desarrollador especializado en banca de inversión. Los 2 primeros, definen el afán de evolución y aprendizaje, motor de una auto-motivación constante en cada ret... Show more

Tobias Koprowski

Tobias Koprowski

Founder of Shadowland Consulting. In January 2015 decided to permanently leave Poland and discover new worlds. Actually settled in Hucknall (The Last home of The Byron Family). Community leader focused on SQL Server, SharePoint, security, collaboration and ITIL, DR, BCM, and SLA.

Love licensing stuff. Microsoft Certified Trainer, freelancer, and consultant. Subject Matter Expert at Microsoft. Member of Microsoft Terminology Community, Friends of RedGate PLUS, PASS, ISSA, ACM and several communities in the world. Since 1st July 2010 Data Platform MVP.

Former President of the Polish SQL Server User Group. Creator of SQL DAY Conference and Conference CEO 2009-2011. Co-Leader of PASS East Midlands Group. Speaker at group meetings and conferences. STEM Ambassador. After hours cyclist, traveller, and photographer. Coffee Addicted.

Founder of Shadowland Consulting. In January 2015 decided to permanently leave Poland and discover new worlds. Actually settled in Hucknall (The Last home of The Byron Family). Community leader focused on SQL Server, SharePoint, security, collaborati... Show more

Annabell Bils

Annabell Bils

seit 02/2022: Geschäftsführerin des Zentrums für Lernen und Innovation an der FernUniversität in Hagen.

07/2017-01/2021: Referentin für Hochschulstrategie und Digitalisierung an der Fernuniversität in Hagen.

05/2014-06/2017: Studiengangskoordinatorin an der FernUniversität in Hagen.

10/2011-04/2014: wissenschaftliche Angestellte (Postdoc) an der Universität Duisburg-Essen, Fakultät für Bildungswissenschaften am Lehrstuhl für Mediendidaktik und Wissensmanagement.

10/2010-09/2011: Lehrstuhlvertreterin des Lehrgebiets Bildungstechnologie der FernUniversität in Hagen.

09/2008-09/2010: PostDoc an der Universität Duisburg-Essen, Fachbereich Bildungswissenschaften, Lehrstuhl für Mediendidaktik und Wissensmanagement.

seit 02/2022: Geschäftsführerin des Zentrums für Lernen und Innovation an der FernUniversität in Hagen. 07/2017-01/2021: Referentin für Hochschulstrategie und Digitalisierung an der Fernuniversität in Hagen. 05/2014-06/2017: Studiengangskoordin... Show more

Audrey Long

Audrey Long

Audrey Long is a Gaming Cloud Security Architect at Microsoft apart of the Microsoft Gaming Security team. With a keen eye for creating secure coding solutions and performing comprehensive security risk assessments, Audrey excels in threat modeling and evaluating security in architecture. Her expertise extends to implementing robust security practices that safeguard digital landscapes.
Passionate about making security accessible, Audrey is dedicated to empowering software engineers and inspiring girls to pursue careers in STEM. She holds a DoD secret clearance and a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security from Johns Hopkins. Additionally, Audrey is a proud ambassador for Google's Women Techmakers program, championing diversity and inclusion in tech.
As an international speaker, Audrey has shared her insights and expertise at conferences and events around the world, inspiring audiences with her knowledge and passion for cybersecurity.

Audrey Long is a Gaming Cloud Security Architect at Microsoft apart of the Microsoft Gaming Security team. With a keen eye for creating secure coding solutions and performing comprehensive security risk assessments, Audrey excels in threat modeling a... Show more

Megan Potter

Megan Potter

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events fundraising.

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events... Show more

TC Clements

TC Clements

I have been a successful Deputy Chief of Police, State Representative, serial entrepreneur, COO, consultant, and am presently the CEO of a non-profit business. So basically, I've led everything but a conga line (though I not ruling it out).

I describe myself as the kind of leader who’s learned the hard way, laughed through the mess, and lived to tell the story—with a microphone in hand.

From the board room to the back alley, break room to the ballot box, my unique perspective and track record of success speak to my leadership style which is as practical as it is punchy.

I challenge audiences with thought provoking, engaging, and energetic presentations that leave attendees feeling empowered and enlightened reminding them that "Excellence lives in the area where most people fear to tread." Session titles like, "Tech Creep and the Chaos of Convenience" and "You can't Google what you don't know...you don't know," create interest and audiences are traditionally more engaged and enthusiastic.

If you are looking for a dynamic, insightful, thought-provoking speaker, I would like to be your choice.

Thank you for your time reviewing my fit for your event and if you need additional information you can find it at TCClements.net.

I have been a successful Deputy Chief of Police, State Representative, serial entrepreneur, COO, consultant, and am presently the CEO of a non-profit business. So basically, I've led everything but a conga line (though I not ruling it out). I des... Show more

Samia Durrani

Samia Durrani

Samia leads the pre sales and delivery of large scale and complex security projects across a diverse portfolio of financial services clients. Samia is passionate about encouraging people from diverse backgrounds into technology careers. She does this by providing mentoring sessions, guest lectures to university courses and helping to lead D&I initiatives.

Samia leads the pre sales and delivery of large scale and complex security projects across a diverse portfolio of financial services clients. Samia is passionate about encouraging people from diverse backgrounds into technology careers. She does this... Show more

Aisha Nancoo

Aisha Nancoo

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps people rethink the way they work with technology—bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. Whether it’s AI, automation, or collaboration platforms, I focus on shifting mindsets, not just tools-so teams can adopt tech without burnout and lead change without losing themselves in the process.

I’ve led digital transformation and AI initiatives across sectors like government, healthcare, education, and enterprise- always with a people-first, story-forward lens. I specialize in making tech relatable, untangling complexity, and helping organizations unlock real value from their investments, even in the messiest environments.

In my talks, I blend systems strategy, identity insight, and storytelling to guide audiences toward smarter adoption, cross-silo communication, and more intentional transformation. Because the real challenge with technology isn't the tech- it's how we think, build, and belong within the systems around it.

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps people rethink the way they work with technology—bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. Whether it’s AI, automation, or collaboration platform... Show more

Tutaleni Ilonga

Tutaleni Ilonga

Tutaleni, is the driving force behind the growth of Game Development in Namibia and in Africa as a whole, as well as the bridge between South America and Africa when it comes to the Game Development space. After successfully completing the Enter Africa game development program Mr, Ilonga created his own game studio/company called TL Entertainment whereby he created games and was successfully able to import Global Game Jam and Game Jam +, whereby together with the partnership between TL Entertainment and Game Jam+ there was a bridge built between Namibia and Brazil.

With the games that where created not proving to be profitable, Mr Ilonga would take part in a CEP program whereby he would like up with Vaughan, Veronica and Ndamono and together they would form Edu-Game Namibia to create an innovation hub around gaming to ensure that the market because sustainable around gaming and ensure future Namibian generations will be able to profit from it.

With 7 Years’ experience in Gaming Mr Ilonga has won a few awards and also became the flag career for Gaming especially at the Forbes where he and Vaughan would help Edu-Game Namibia make it to the top 3 pitch battle final. Currently Mr Ilonga together with Edu-Game are working on a curriculum to gamify the education system.

List of Achievements
Forbes 30 Under 30 Top 3 Pitch Battle Finalist 2024
Boost Up Pitch Winner 2023
Xbox Games Camp Alumni 2023
Sanlam Bridge Beneficiary 2023
CEP WINNER 2022
Game Industry Africa Awards Winner 2022
Class of 2022 Game Developers Conference SCHOLARS:

Events/Interviews I have Spoken At
Xbox Games Camp - Topic - Why Africa Is The Best Place To Invest When It Comes To Gaming
Africa Partnership For Growth Symposium - Topic - Why Investing In Gaming is Profitable
PathfindinGS -Topic - Gamifying the Namibian Education System
Africa Comicade Topic -Getting Local Businesses to Invest in Game Development
Game Jam Plus Topic -Importance of Game Jam In The Local Ecosystem
African Creative Meeting Topic -E-Sports In Africa
ESQUENTA Topic - Importance of GJ + For the Local Ecosystem
BBC World Service TV Topic - CES 2020: What’s in it for Africa?

Tutaleni, is the driving force behind the growth of Game Development in Namibia and in Africa as a whole, as well as the bridge between South America and Africa when it comes to the Game Development space. After successfully completing the Enter Afri... Show more

Omoniyi Lawson

Omoniyi Lawson

Omoniyi Lawson is a Digital Development and Communications for Development practitioner with over six years of experience leveraging technology, education, and policy to drive social and behavioural change. He is the Managing Partner at the Centre for Digital Development and Innovation Research, where he leads research and advocacy on digital inclusion, sustainability, and governance.

A member of the Internet Society and a Fellow of the Nigerian School on Internet Governance, Omoniyi actively contributes to discussions on AI, data governance, and digital sustainability. His research on Technology-Led Greenhouse Gas Emissions (THGE) in Nigeria explores the environmental impact of digital transformation and the role of AI and data governance in fostering sustainable digital infrastructure.

He is also the Founder of DigiShield, an initiative protecting young people from online harm, and a member of the HundrED Academy, where he evaluates global education innovations. Recognized as a top 10 finalist in the USAID Youth Well-being Prize (Digital Harm category), Omoniyi has worked with organizations like UNESCO and IGF, shaping digital strategies that promote resilience, inclusion, and sustainability.

Omoniyi Lawson is a Digital Development and Communications for Development practitioner with over six years of experience leveraging technology, education, and policy to drive social and behavioural change. He is the Managing Partner at the Centre fo... Show more

Victoria Ofuasia

Victoria Ofuasia

Victoria Ofuasia entered tech through web development, fell in love with backend engineering, and soon discovered the people side of technology. Since then, she hasn’t looked back on exploring the wonder of designing technology for and with people.

She is passionate about human-centered technologies, including open source and AI for social good. Victoria advances these passions through Open Source Nest, the initiative she co-founded to help everyday people learn, use, and contribute to open source in relatable ways. She further promotes human-centered tech through research and community-building initiatives. Victoria also serves as a Mozilla Common Voice community facilitator, supporting the creation of indigenous language datasets.

She has held several leadership roles, including Assistant Developer Community Lead at BlockchainUNN, Coordinator of APWEN UNN (Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, UNN Chapter), and Co-founder and Lead of NSK.AI, an AI community focused on learning and collaboration.

Her work reflects a deep belief in the people factor in technology and its power for lasting social impact. She loves to sing.

Victoria Ofuasia entered tech through web development, fell in love with backend engineering, and soon discovered the people side of technology. Since then, she hasn’t looked back on exploring the wonder of designing technology for and with people. ... Show more

Sheena Yap Chan

Sheena Yap Chan

Sheena Yap Chan is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. She is the founder and host of the acclaimed podcast, The Tao of Self-Confidence, where she interviews women about their journeys to self-confidence. With over one million downloads, her podcast ranks among the top 0.5% most popular shows globally and features over 800 interviews, including conversations with celebrities and eight-figure CEOs. Sheena's influence extends beyond podcasting. Her debut book, The Tao of Self-Confidence: A Guide to Moving Beyond Trauma and Awakening the Leader Within, published by Wiley, is a Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestseller. It is also recognized as one of the top 20 best self-confidence books of all time by Book Authority, the world's leading site for book recommendations. Her work has been featured on prominent platforms such as MindValley, FOX, NBC News, and the Manila Times. Sheena is dedicated to closing the gender confidence gap through her training and programs, aiming to elevate women into leadership roles across all industries. She has delivered impactful speeches for organizations like Live Nation, NASA, and UKG, sharing her insights on self-confidence and leadership.

Sheena Yap Chan is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. She is the founder and host of the acclaimed p... Show more

Pavithra Addanki

Pavithra Addanki

Pavithra Addanki is an entrepreneur, mentor, and student leader passionate about bridging the gap between academia and industry. Founder & CEO of MXC Ignite LLP, she has collaborated with leading institutions and innovation hubs to create outcome-based learning opportunities. She is Co-Founder for Sri Raagni Organics. A Startup World Cup Mentor and advocate for personal branding, she also works in data analytics and has a LinkedIn community of over 11K followers with 9,05,400 + annual impressions.

Pavithra Addanki is an entrepreneur, mentor, and student leader passionate about bridging the gap between academia and industry. Founder & CEO of MXC Ignite LLP, she has collaborated with leading institutions and innovation hubs to create outcome-bas... Show more

Andrew Crotty

Andrew Crotty

Andy Crotty is a TS/SCI-cleared cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience in cyber threat detection, incident response, and security engineering across federal, financial, and enterprise environments. He currently serves as a Cyber Network Defense Analyst 3 with Leidos, supporting the Department of Homeland Security in a 24x7x365 NOSC environment. In this role, Andy leads high-impact investigations, develops and optimizes detection logic aligned to MITRE ATT&CK, and mentors junior analysts to strengthen operational readiness and cyber defense capabilities.

A U.S. Army Warrant Officer with over 15 years of military service, Andy has led teams in advanced persistent threat (APT) analysis, cyber threat hunting, and defensive operations for the Department of Defense. His civilian career includes senior roles in security operations for Wells Fargo and the State of Arizona Department of Homeland Security, where he enhanced detection strategies, streamlined incident response workflows, and strengthened enterprise security postures.

Beyond his operational work, Andy is passionate about cybersecurity community engagement and mentorship. At DEFCON 33, he served as a staff member for Noob Village, where he coordinated community-focused activities including volunteer outreach, CTF raffle setup, and securing sponsors to provide prizes. Through his YouTube channel GingerHacker and mentorship initiatives, Andy continues to guide aspiring cybersecurity professionals, sharing practical insights on breaking into the field, building technical skills, and navigating a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Andy Crotty is a TS/SCI-cleared cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience in cyber threat detection, incident response, and security engineering across federal, financial, and enterprise environments. He currently serves as a Cyber ... Show more

Nicholas Lavery

Nicholas Lavery

Nick Lavery (pronounced Nick Lay-Very) is an active-duty Green Beret in the United States Army Special Forces and the founder & CEO of Precision Components LLC.  After a life-altering injury sustained in combat, he transformed his challenges into a series of curriculums on leadership, resilience, and goal achievement. As one of the most sought-after speakers and mentors in the country, Nick and his team of assets share valuable insights on discipline, work ethic, and teamwork, in turn empowering others to unlock capacity and increase capability. 

Nick has a long and distinguished list of military awards, but to name a few, he has been awarded the Silver Star, three Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star with Valor, three Bronze Stars for service, the Bruce Price Leadership award, and the Special Operations Command Excalibur award. 

Nick is the best selling author of Objective Secure- the battle-tested guide to goal achievement, and most significantly, he is a proud husband and father of two boys. 

Nick Lavery (pronounced Nick Lay-Very) is an active-duty Green Beret in the United States Army Special Forces and the founder & CEO of Precision Components LLC.  After a life-altering injury sustained in combat, he transformed his challenges into a s... Show more

Elle Younker

Elle Younker

Marine Corps Veteran, Storyteller, and Hackivist disrupting power-based violence through online access to education and community care with over eighteen years experience in the technical and operational program management of space and military intelligence federal contracts in the United States.

I made a promise to support and defend the United States Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. I take that VERY seriously, and will fight for your right to hate me. I will not, however, tolerate acts of violence directed at individuals for simply taking up space, acts of coercion through threats of violence, or any attempt at using violence as a way to maintain power. I will speak out and take the defense for any victim of violence (in all of its forms) and all individuals impacted by the use of power-based violence.

I believe in the power of storytelling energy as a renewable resource capable of magic, the kindness of strangers, and ability to overcome hardship through communal care. I use the arts of satire, drag, and boudoir performance to make light of extremely controversial and traumatic but historical events that surround United States Post World War II Military History.

Marine Corps Veteran, Storyteller, and Hackivist disrupting power-based violence through online access to education and community care with over eighteen years experience in the technical and operational program management of space and military intel... Show more

Elsa Iguedjtal

Elsa Iguedjtal

Convinced Agilist, motivated by small daily victories, amazed by life, and inhabited by the values ​​of the Agile Manifesto centered on people, respect, kindness and continuous improvement. I put my skills and experience at the service of those who share my daily life, but above all I try to make them reveal their own potential, sometimes nuggets that they are unaware of themselves...

Mother of 3 children, neuroatypical, feminist and climate fresco artist.

Convinced Agilist, motivated by small daily victories, amazed by life, and inhabited by the values ​​of the Agile Manifesto centered on people, respect, kindness and continuous improvement. I put my skills and experience at the service of those who s... Show more

Ildar Akhmetov

Ildar Akhmetov

Educator, systems thinker, and lifelong learner. I lead the Computing Programs at Northeastern University’s Vancouver campus, where I work at the intersection of teaching, leadership, and software development. I care deeply about building systems that scale — whether that’s a capstone project, a degree program, or a set of habits that help students grow.

My background blends academia, entrepreneurship, and international experience. Before joining Northeastern, I ran a publishing business in Russia for over a decade — leading a team, streamlining operations, and building internal tools long before low-code platforms became popular. These days, I bring that same bias toward clarity, efficiency, and real-world results into how I teach and lead.

As a computer science educator, I’ve mentored hundreds of students through project-based learning, often partnering with industry and nonprofit clients. I’ve designed and taught 60+ capstone projects, developed AI-focused pathways, and created structures to help students turn their academic work into something meaningful — sometimes even startup-worthy.

I’ve been lecturing, facilitating workshops, and giving talks for over two decades — in universities, industry settings, and more recently, on stage as a Toastmaster. What makes that meaningful to me is the personal journey: I used to stutter as a kid and avoided speaking up whenever I could. These days, I find joy in clarity — not just in what I say, but in helping others articulate ideas that matter. Whether I’m teaching a technical concept or sharing a story from the classroom, I aim for engagement over perfection.

I speak and write about computer science education in the age of AI, teaching across cultures, building entrepreneurial mindsets, and how to preserve cognitive rigor without burning people out. My talks are grounded in classroom experience but often go beyond pedagogy — into leadership, mindset, and systems design.

Outside of work, I’m into distance running, slow travel, strange programming languages, and learning Spanish (with a thick Argentinian accent, apparently). I’m also raising a curious and sporty teenager, which is probably the most humbling teaching gig of all.

Educator, systems thinker, and lifelong learner. I lead the Computing Programs at Northeastern University’s Vancouver campus, where I work at the intersection of teaching, leadership, and software development. I care deeply about building systems tha... Show more

Tim Huff

Tim Huff

Tim Huff is a decorated combat veteran, certified executive coach, and award-winning CEO recognized for servant leadership and character. A graduate of the U.S. Army’s Ranger School, Tim served 14 years as an Infantry Officer, culminating in a year-long deployment to Afghanistan with the US Army National Guard as Chief of Operations for a brigade responsible for training and sustaining the Afghan National Army. For his leadership in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.

After active military service, Tim made what he calls his ‘most extreme transition’… from command of over a dozen tanks and leading 100 troops, and a few months later, to a cubicle at The Walt Disney Company, managing spreadsheets. That moment reinforced in him that genuine leadership isn’t tied to uniforms, titles, or settings. It’s about character: the one constant that endures when pressure mounts. He later advanced in technology leadership roles with Macy’s, CRH Americas, and Owens & Minor, but his life took another defining turn in 2017 when he became the client of an executive coach. The experience gave him a profound sense of leadership freedom and clarity and set him on a new mission: to help leaders everywhere discover the same success based in character.

Today, Tim is the President & CEO of Turknett Leadership Group, a 38-year-old Atlanta-based firm trusted by Fortune 500 companies and global organizations. He is a Titan 100 honoree and recipient of the Servant Leader of the Year Award, recognized for his commitment to building leaders who live and lead with integrity, respect, and responsibility. In 2024, he extended that commitment in the most personal way, by donating a kidney to help save the life of a colleague.

Tim’s message is clear: skills can be taught, strategies can shift, but character is the bedrock of leadership. Whether on the battlefield, in the boardroom, or at the side of someone in need, it’s character that inspires trust, courage, and authentic leadership.

He lives in Cumming, Georgia with his wife, Kristin, and enjoys hiking in the North Georgia mountains where he finds both rest and renewal for his life of service!

Tim Huff is a decorated combat veteran, certified executive coach, and award-winning CEO recognized for servant leadership and character. A graduate of the U.S. Army’s Ranger School, Tim served 14 years as an Infantry Officer, culminating in a year-l... Show more

Lea Hildermeier

Lea Hildermeier

Lea Hildermeier studiert Anglistik und Erziehungswissenschaften an der Universität Bielefeld. Seit 2024 ist sie studentische Mitarbeiterin im CHE-Team des Hochschulforums Digitalisierung.
Als Gründungsmitglied und Vorstand der Hochschulgruppe LiLiGoesMental setzt sie sich seit 2018 für die Entstigmatisierung psychischer Gesundheit ein und organisiert Workshops sowie Austauschformate.
Als DigitalChangeMaker der Kohorte 2024 engagierte sich Lea in den Bereichen studentische Partizipation, Student Wellbeing und dem Einsatz von Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Hochschulbildung, unter anderem durch ihre Mitarbeit am KI-Sprint. Derzeit begleitet sie als Mentorin die neue DigitalChangeMaker-Kohorte.
Seit September 2024 engagiert sich Lea im Common Grounds Forum, damit junge Menschen ihre Stimme in bildungs- und digitalpolitischen Anliegen einbringen können.

Lea Hildermeier studiert Anglistik und Erziehungswissenschaften an der Universität Bielefeld. Seit 2024 ist sie studentische Mitarbeiterin im CHE-Team des Hochschulforums Digitalisierung. Als Gründungsmitglied und Vorstand der Hochschulgruppe LiLiGo... Show more

Bettina Pfaendner

Bettina Pfaendner

As educational visionary and digital strategist Bettina designs curricula in Higher Education in Australia. Engagements at Swinburne University of Technology, the University of Melbourne and Macquarie University in Sydney were steppingstones in Bettina's career over the last 10 years. Combing her Executive TV Producer knowledge with the experience as educator in the Higher Education landscape Bettina also founded the Digital Dolphins, teaching digital storytelling for emerging leaders online with the digitaldolphins.com.au .Her research area is how to overcome #Technophabia in Academia, supporting lifelong learning for academics.

As educational visionary and digital strategist Bettina designs curricula in Higher Education in Australia. Engagements at Swinburne University of Technology, the University of Melbourne and Macquarie University in Sydney were steppingstones in Bett... Show more

Stephanie Sylvestre

Stephanie Sylvestre

Are you searching for a conference speakers who can make artificial intelligence approachable, actionable, and deeply human? Meet Stephanie Sylvestre—a technologist, entrepreneur, and corporate leader who’s on a mission to empower professionals and organizations to thrive in the age of AI.

Stephanie’s unique blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, and passion for human development makes her the perfect presenter for conferences focused on leadership, innovation, technology, and the future of work. She doesn’t just talk about AI—she brings it to life with stories, strategies, and a contagious sense of possibility.

Signature Topics Stephanie Brings to Your Audience
1. Top 5 Quintessentially Human Skills for Success in the AI World
AI is transforming the way we work, but the most valuable skills remain deeply human. Stephanie reveals the five essential traits—resilience, creativity, resourcefulness, problem-solving, and critical thinking—that every professional needs to cultivate to stay ahead. She shares actionable strategies for adapting to technological change, devising innovative solutions, and navigating complex challenges, all while fostering collaboration and continuous learning. Perfect for leadership development and motivational speaking.

2. Understanding the AI Alphabet: LLM, SLM, and AI Agents
AI can feel like an alphabet soup of acronyms and jargon. Stephanie demystifies the digital landscape, breaking down the differences between Large Language Models (LLMs), Small Language Models (SLMs), and AI Agents. With practical examples and a step-by-step approach, she empowers listeners to understand how these components work together—and how anyone can leverage them to solve real-world problems. Ideal for audiences new to AI or seeking a clear, engaging introduction.

3. Responsible AI: Ensuring Human Oversight
Worried about rogue technology or AI “hallucinations”? Stephanie provides a roadmap for responsible AI implementation, sharing proven strategies for integrating human oversight, setting up effective guardrails, and ensuring outputs are verified and trustworthy. Listeners will walk away with a clear understanding of AI accountability, ethical standards, and how to build trust in technology. A must-hear for IT leaders, AI practitioners, and anyone interested in the future of ethical tech.

4. Beyond Software: Considering AI’s Social Impact
AI isn’t just about code—it’s about culture, values, and the way we live and work together. Stephanie invites audiences to reimagine AI implementation as a catalyst for positive social change. She explores the ethical, cultural, and human dimensions of AI, showing how anyone—not just technologists—can lead in our AI-transformed future. This session is perfect for social impact, nonprofit, and philanthropic audiences.

Why Invite Stephanie?

Relatable Storytelling: Stephanie translates complex AI concepts into engaging, real-world stories.
Actionable Insights: Every session with Stephanie leaves attendees with practical takeaways they can use immediately.
Inspiring Perspective: She champions the human side of technology, empowering audiences to embrace change with confidence.
Ready to bring a fresh, human-centric voice to your podcast?
Invite Stephanie Sylvestre and give your audience the tools—and the inspiration—to thrive in the AI era.

Are you searching for a conference speakers who can make artificial intelligence approachable, actionable, and deeply human? Meet Stephanie Sylvestre—a technologist, entrepreneur, and corporate leader who’s on a mission to empower professionals and o... Show more

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