Dr. Amanda Fernandez has built a dynamic career across traditional districts, County Offices of Education, charter networks, and higher education. With a deep commitment to student success and system-level impact, she has led departments and programs focused on improving learning outcomes, developing educators, and strengthening organizational capacity.

Dr. Fernandez has designed and implemented teacher mentoring programs, and she served on a cross-sector statewide task force to expand credentialing pipeline pathways in partnership with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). She brings a unique blend of instructional expertise and operational acumen to her current role as Chief Fiscal Officer, where she leads the business and financial strategy for three charter schools. Her responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, payroll, and aligning fiscal resources with academic priorities. She also oversees LCAP development, facilitates Parent Advisory Committees, and leads cross-functional planning to ensure resources are used equitably and strategically.

In addition to her operational leadership, Dr. Fernandez is a certified leadership and career coach. She actively coaches leaders and school-based teams to deepen self-awareness, build trust, navigate complex challenges, and lead with purpose. Her coaching approach blends evidence-based frameworks with real-world leadership experience—empowering others to grow, collaborate, and sustain impact in high-pressure educational environments.

Dr. Amanda Fernandez has built a dynamic career across traditional districts, County Offices of Education, charter networks, and higher education. With a deep commitment to student success and system-level impact, she has led departments and programs... Show more

Elliott Mattice is the founder of Exprima Digital Consulting, where he advises organizations on scalable cybersecurity, GRC strategies, and geopolitical threat integration. With over 20 years of cross-sector experience in IT operations and cybersecurity, he has led enterprise programs across both civilian and defense contracting environments. Elliott brings a strategic, systems-level approach to helping organizations anticipate risk, align with regulatory expectations, and build resilient, threat-informed security practices.

Elliott Mattice is the founder of Exprima Digital Consulting, where he advises organizations on scalable cybersecurity, GRC strategies, and geopolitical threat integration. With over 20 years of cross-sector experience in IT operations and cybersecur... Show more

Amber Vanderburg is a multi-award winning businessperson, keynote speaker, author, and founder of the international learning development company, The Pathwayz Group, which has led 800,000+ learners in more than 75 countries in action-focused learning journeys. Amber's history in talent development includes authoring top-reviewed online learning courses for platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Lecturio, and PluralSight, acting as Director of a national education leadership company, and coaching with professional sports team academies in Asia. In 2022, she published her first business adventure book "Uniquely Better" about building higher team performance.

Speaking engagements:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMNcx7Jwk9Sp6WxuvrfOOBqdP9440SKl0

Amber Vanderburg is a multi-award winning businessperson, keynote speaker, author, and founder of the international learning development company, The Pathwayz Group, which has led 800,000+ learners in more than 75 countries in action-focused learning... Show more

Garth Gilmour was a full time developer for 5 years and then an educator / mentor / advocate for 20. Currently he's a Learning Consultant at Liberty IT. He's taught well over 1000 courses and workshops - using everything from CORBA to Kotlin. Garth is a prolific speaker, writer and co-organiser of several conferences and meetups. When not at the whiteboard he coaches Krav Maga, lifts heavy weights and fights nerf wars with his kids.

Garth Gilmour was a full time developer for 5 years and then an educator / mentor / advocate for 20. Currently he's a Learning Consultant at Liberty IT. He's taught well over 1000 courses and workshops - using everything from CORBA to Kotlin. Garth i... Show more

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams.

She was born and raised, and continues to live, in Mexico City. Fátima is a graduate of the La Salle University, Mexico City Campus. She believes in sharing knowledge to make this world a better place to live in.

She loves to speak about Technology and Education. She has participated as a Guest Speaker at several conferences. She also created the Office 365 Academia Community.
Join her at LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
LinkedIn: fatimablancas
Facebook: /fatimablancasv
Twitter: JaydithBV

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams. She was born and raised, and ... Show more

Shubhangi has 8 years of experience working in data and AI from companies like Tata Consultancy Services to agile start-ups. She has a background in computer science engineering with an MSc in Business Analytics from the University of Bath, UK. She works as a Senior Analyst at a leading FTSE100 company in financial services and insurance in the UK. Previously, she led the data function of ICS AI Ltd, which is a Microsoft UK inner circle partner, focusing on artificial intelligence at the forefront of technology for the public sector in the UK. She has worked in data analytics, data science, data strategy, and AI, leveraging algorithms to extract insights, identify patterns, and understand human language in large datasets. She leads the London Chapter for Women In Data which is a platform for tech enthusiasts of all backgrounds to connect, grow and learn together. She is a verified expert and mentor at TopMate. She has also been the judge of Datathon 2024 and has delivered sessions on several platforms in the UK, Ireland, Germany, and India. She has also been nominated for TechWomen100 UK.

Shubhangi has 8 years of experience working in data and AI from companies like Tata Consultancy Services to agile start-ups. She has a background in computer science engineering with an MSc in Business Analytics from the University of Bath, UK. She w... 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

Born in 1974. I started my current job in March 2024. Prior to that, I worked in web development for 13 years. I started activities as a civic tech contributor in 2018.

Born in 1974. I started my current job in March 2024. Prior to that, I worked in web development for 13 years. I started activities as a civic tech contributor in 2018. Show more

Jennifer Gorospe Tull is an Executive Consultant with the Equity, Disproportionality, and Design team at the South County SELPA. She has provided support in comprehensive settings as a school psychologist, program specialist and special education coordinator in districts (PreK-12) across Southern California and Washington D.C. Jennifer was a lecturer for the Department of Counseling and School Psychology at San Diego State University. Her experiences make her a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Jennifer Gorospe Tull is an Executive Consultant with the Equity, Disproportionality, and Design team at the South County SELPA. She has provided support in comprehensive settings as a school psychologist, program specialist and special education coo... Show more

Anita Ludermann is a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of expertise. At Modell Aachen GmbH, she works extensively with the Elixir programming language, test-driven development, pair programming and domain driven design. Together with her collagues, she modernizes the legacy codebase into a modern, maintainable solution.

In addition to her technical work, Anita is committed to fostering community and supporting others in tech. As the co-founder of Ladybugs Aachen, she creates opportunities for women in software development to connect, share knowledge, and grow their skills.

Drawing from her experience in legacy system transformation and her passion for collaboration, Anita offers practical insights into leveraging Elixir for building modern software solutions.

Anita Ludermann is a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of expertise. At Modell Aachen GmbH, she works extensively with the Elixir programming language, test-driven development, pair programming and domain driven design. Together with her ... Show more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Latifa DEKHICI is a full professor in computer sciences and vice dean of external relations in mathematics and computer science faculty in the university of sciences and technology of Oran; and a researcher in LDREI, Smart Grid Developement laboratory in the Higher School of Electrical and Energetic engineering of Oran. Her research interests include power dispatch, power system design, healthcare scheduling and green optimization as well as optimization methods especially metaheuristics. DEKHICI has been a member of Inside Project (Inclusion of Students With impairements in Distance Education) in 2023, of DIGITAQ Project about Quality Assurance Digitalization in Higher Education and a responsable of Digitalisation Strategy Office in her university. She partipated as a trainer in many sustainability; digitalization; accessibilty, cyber responsability and inclusivity activities.

Latifa DEKHICI is a full professor in computer sciences and vice dean of external relations in mathematics and computer science faculty in the university of sciences and technology of Oran; and a researcher in LDREI, Smart Grid Developement laborator... 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

Betta Lyon Delsordo began her cyber journey at the age of 13 when she started teaching herself to code. This grew into freelance web development work for small businesses in Montana, where she soon realized she needed to know more about application security to keep her clients safe. She began learning more about secure coding and interned with a hacking firm, and realized she was pretty good at it. After completing a Master's in Cybersecurity at Georgia Tech, obtaining certifications such as the GPEN, and working her way up through pentesting, Betta is now working as a Lead Application Penetration Tester at OnDefend. Her areas of expertise include application security, secure code review, cloud security, and AI hacking. She has also built several AI tools for her employers to improve process such as secure code review and threat intelligence insights. Betta is very involved in the cybersecurity community and with organizations that support women in technology. She has been a mentor for 9 years with Technovation (an international girls coding program), and is an organizer and speaker for organizations promoting diversity in technology including RTC, WiCyS, WISP, and WSC. Betta is a frequent conference speaker on topics ranging from AI hacking to secure coding, and has spoken for the World Bank and conferences like DEF CON 33, ESET World 2025, and WiCyS 2025.

Betta Lyon Delsordo began her cyber journey at the age of 13 when she started teaching herself to code. This grew into freelance web development work for small businesses in Montana, where she soon realized she needed to know more about application s... 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

Joy Marie Curtis started her career as a Kindergarten teacher. Today, she is a senior project manager implementing AI solutions for governments, hospitals, insurance companies, and beyond. If you think it was a jump from Kindergarten to Senior Project manager, think again because good project management should be as simple as the ABCs. Joy thinks too many AI companies overcomplicate implementation. She wants to simplify the landscape by guiding organizations through metacognitive strategies—thinking about our thinking on AI—to get down to the basics of what AI is. She is not afraid to highlight her project successes and failures because the goal is to move AI from the imaginary into impact.

Joy Marie Curtis started her career as a Kindergarten teacher. Today, she is a senior project manager implementing AI solutions for governments, hospitals, insurance companies, and beyond. If you think it was a jump from Kindergarten to Senior Projec... Show more

Anuradha Tibile is a powerhouse of creativity and passion, with a voice that can captivate any audience. She has not just mastered the art of storytelling with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communication, but has also been an amazing keynote speaker at various GDG events.

She's a skilled orator who has held audiences spellbound with her speeches, and her knack for crafting visually compelling communication materials shines through in everything she does.

Anuradha is a true changemaker, driven by a desire to use her skills to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it's through her oratory, her leadership, or her creative communication skills, she's constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring others.

Sparked by a passion for technology, she embarked on her professional journey by joining Google Women Techmakers on April 24, 2023. Since then, she has blossomed within the industry, actively contributing to the prestigious Tensor Flow group & Google Developer Groups.

Anuradha Tibile is a powerhouse of creativity and passion, with a voice that can captivate any audience. She has not just mastered the art of storytelling with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communication, but has also been an amazing keynote speaker ... Show more

Roman is a cybersecurity expert, engineer, and leader with over 17 years of hands-on experience securing complex systems and products at scale. Currently Principal Architect at Red Hat, he leads open-source security strategy, upstream collaboration, and cross-industry initiatives focused on building trusted software ecosystems. He has built and scaled programs across security architecture, threat modeling, secure development, vulnerability management, incident response, and security education - for both engineers and senior leadership. His work spans trusted AI, privacy, compliance, and secure software supply chains. Previously, Roman led Product Security & Privacy for Data Center and AI software at Intel. He is a Security Champion for several open-source projects and an active contributor to working groups under the OpenSSF, Eclipse Foundation, and other global initiatives. Roman is also a university lecturer, startup advisor, and mentor - advocating for a practical, collaborative, and responsible approach to open-source and cybersecurity. He is an official member of CEN/CLC and ETSI standardization working groups, contributing directly to the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

Roman is a cybersecurity expert, engineer, and leader with over 17 years of hands-on experience securing complex systems and products at scale. Currently Principal Architect at Red Hat, he leads open-source security strategy, upstream collaboration, ... Show more

Coach professionnel, j’accompagne depuis plus de 15 ans managers, équipes et organisations à franchir des caps, en gardant l’humain et le vivant au cœur de l’action.

Mon approche s’appuie sur l’agilité, le coaching intégral et une inspiration tirée de la culture chinoise : écouter les cycles, cultiver l’équilibre, avancer avec justesse. J’aide les collectifs à retrouver du sens, à renforcer leur cohésion et à évoluer dans un environnement en mouvement.

J’installe des espaces de confiance, où chacun peut questionner ses repères et s’aligner avec ses aspirations.

J’allie écoute, transmission d’outils concrets et attention à ce qui fait vivre l’équipe, pour révéler le potentiel collectif.

J’accompagne les leaders à incarner une posture authentique, ancrée dans la réalité et attentive à l’équilibre humain.

Osez avancer autrement : mon accompagnement est une invitation à expérimenter, à progresser et à faire grandir le collectif, en lien avec le vivant.

Coach professionnel, j’accompagne depuis plus de 15 ans managers, équipes et organisations à franchir des caps, en gardant l’humain et le vivant au cœur de l’action. Mon approche s’appuie sur l’agilité, le coaching intégral et une inspiration tiré... Show more

Started professional as a security software (SW) developer. Managed more than 20 e-government security projects, including the National Tax Service, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of Interior and Security. Then, recognizing the importance of a national cybersecurity workforce, successfully launched the "Best of the Best" white hacker training program in a government agency called KITRI.
“The BoB program combined survival and apprenticeship training systems and involved 100 security professionals (in mentoring roles). Students won numerous competitions, including the DefCon CTF, and went on to work for government agencies, research institutes, and corporations.”
As an industry-academia cooperative research professor at Korea University, also involved in establishing a graduate program for OT/ICS security professionals and lectures on improving security awareness, especially in areas where security-has-not-been-considered.
Recent research focuses on open-source SW and the use of SBOMs to improve supply chain security and opened the first SW Supply Chain Security course in Korea. Also chairing the government's Supply Chain Security Policy & Risk Management Working Group, and wrote as the 1st author of the SW Supply Chain Security Guidelines v1.0.

Started professional as a security software (SW) developer. Managed more than 20 e-government security projects, including the National Tax Service, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of Interior and Security. Then, recognizing the importance of a n... Show more

Abdulrafiu Izuafa is an AI/ML engineer, edtech entrepreneur, and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). As the co-founder of Notes, he is committed to bridging educational gaps across Africa and the Caribbean through AI-powered learning tools. He currently serves as a Senior AI/ML Consultant at Onyx Data, specializing in Microsoft AI and cloud technologies to drive business innovation.

Passionate about technology and education, Abdulrafiu actively shares insights with the global tech community. His expertise spans AI research, cloud computing, and developer tools, making him a sought-after speaker and mentor. Recognized for his contributions to AI accessibility and inclusive learning, he continues to push boundaries in the intersection of AI, education, and social impact.

Abdulrafiu Izuafa is an AI/ML engineer, edtech entrepreneur, and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). As the co-founder of Notes, he is committed to bridging educational gaps across Africa and the Caribbean through AI-powered learning tools. H... Show more

A Security researcher acknowledged by Nepal's Government and Also by Tech giants like Microsoft. A Saviour of 3 Crore+ Citizen's data from nation's database breach. Worked with many Organizations including renowned ITU.

A Security researcher acknowledged by Nepal's Government and Also by Tech giants like Microsoft. A Saviour of 3 Crore+ Citizen's data from nation's database breach. Worked with many Organizations including renowned ITU. Show more

PAST CLIENTS INCLUDE: Airbnb, Coca-Cola, ThermoFisher, Medable, PSL Group, & more!

"Alec is a fantastic speaker. I’ve worked with him since 2019, when he led LinkedIn’s Mindfulness & Compassion workshops in Europe. Alec consistently receives rave reviews from audiences in the US and Europe for his events." - Scott Shute, Award-Winning Author & Speaker & Former LinkedIn Global VP

"Alec is a fantastic facilitator and joy to work with! He gracefully translates personal experience into engaging and meaningful workshops." - Jennifer Leslie, SVP @ PSL Group

"Alec has a gift as a healer and coach. I am profoundly grateful for his help." - George Hoffmann, Kona Ironman Triathlete & Marketing Director @Medable

ABOUT ME: At age 18, I was a semi-pro cyclist diagnosed with a ruptured spinal disc.

Over two years, severe back pain ended my cycling career, pulled me out of college, left me partially bedridden, on strong painkillers, depressed, and with suicidal thoughts.

I tried every treatment I could find, but still endured constant pain - my recovery was uncertain.

Thankfully, I've been pain-free and unrestricted for over a decade.

Yet here's the thing: That ruptured spinal disc is still visible on my MRI.

The pain wasn’t 'all in my head.' It was real, severe, and in my body.

But the problem wasn't my disc. And the solution wasn't to fix it.

I’m not alone, either. More people are learning that some of the best athletes in the world with nagging injuries and structural abnormalities like bulging discs, torn meniscuses, and torn rotator cuffs have become pain-free without fixing their bodies.

I'm an Injury Comeback Coach, and I demystify how to do this for my clients and my audiences, empowering them to break through pain and injury, perform with a competitive advantage, and feel like themselves again.

I've trained with renowned chronic pain specialists, sports medicine physicians, and psychologists from Cedars Sinai, Michigan State, and Wayne State.

I've helped Kona triathletes, state champion cyclists, marathon runners, actors, American Ninja Warriors, and those who just want to enjoy movement again get back to their favorite activities in the face of scary injuries and persistent pain.

I've travelled around the world to present for the better part of a decade - from San Francisco, to Dublin, and Paris to Hong Kong. I've shared my story with organizations all over the world such as Airbnb, Coca-Cola, Medable, PSL Group, Esusu and LinkedIn, been featured on over a dozen podcasts, written for publications like RealGM, and co-authored the 2024 Best-Selling Book Leading with Self-Awareness.

Seeing so many people who thought they’d never recover make amazing comebacks has revealed an unshakable truth: Your biggest setback can become your greatest comeback.

PAST CLIENTS INCLUDE: Airbnb, Coca-Cola, ThermoFisher, Medable, PSL Group, & more! "Alec is a fantastic speaker. I’ve worked with him since 2019, when he led LinkedIn’s Mindfulness & Compassion workshops in Europe. Alec consistently receives rave ... Show more

Richard Lewington is an award-winning communications consultant, University of Cambridge English Examiner, and international keynote speaker with over 20 years’ experience spanning education, disruptive technologies (AI, AR/MR), international relations, and political affairs.

Currently a Senior Consultant at Globizant and AI Language Consultant for Preply, Richard has advised governments, corporations, and NGOs on digital strategy, public affairs, and cross-cultural engagement. His career includes roles as Global Corporatel Communications & PR Manager at Ria Money Transfer, Political Advisor to the Comunidad de Madrid, and Global Strategic Communications Manager at Blockchain International Training.

A Certified Microsoft Innovative Educator and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Richard is a recognised advocate for educational technology, specialising in augmented/mixed reality, AI adoption, and blockchain/fintech innovation.

Richard has been featured in The Times, BBC, El País, El Correo, El Debate, ABS-CBN, Espejo Público and has bylines in El País, National Geographic, NASDAQ, The Sun.

He has delivered keynote sessions at high-profile events including:

Codemotion – Rome, Italy
VRX Europe – Amsterdam, Netherlands
DevConf Poland – Krakow, Poland
Google GDG DevFest LA – Los Angeles, USA
Stretch Leadership Conference – Budapest, Hungary
B.I.T. Blockchain – Berlin, Germany
IRCEELT – Tbilisi, Georgia
The Holography Conference – Minsk, Belarus
Global AI/MR Bootcamp – Madrid, Spain
Secure ID – Riga, Latvia

…plus engagements in Greece, Japan, Portugal, and Ukraine.

Richard’s work blends strategic communication expertise with a deep understanding of how emerging technologies can transform learning, governance, and international collaboration.

Richard Lewington is an award-winning communications consultant, University of Cambridge English Examiner, and international keynote speaker with over 20 years’ experience spanning education, disruptive technologies (AI, AR/MR), international relatio... Show more

A Full-Stack engineering leader and a Certified Associate Cloud Architect with 9 years of experience in software engineering, leading cross-functional teams across finance, e-commerce, logistics, digital marketing, and healthcare. Delivered enterprise-grade web applications for clients in Nigeria, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and the United Kingdom. Expertise in React, Node.js, Python Flask, and cloud platforms. Proven ability to analyze customer needs, build high-quality software, and empower businesses. Active community advocate, passionate about tech education.

A Full-Stack engineering leader and a Certified Associate Cloud Architect with 9 years of experience in software engineering, leading cross-functional teams across finance, e-commerce, logistics, digital marketing, and healthcare. Delivered enterpris... Show more