Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC
President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America
Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect | Curriculum Developer | International Trainer

"I am a Boricua. A dad. A soldier. A professional social worker. An advocate. A teacher. A professor. A counselor. And a friend. And with every role, I lead with love and serve with purpose."

Biography
Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC, is a globally celebrated architect of fatherhood engagement, social policy reform, and transformative leadership development. For over four decades, he has shaped public health, child welfare, mental health, and professional education—building bridges across disciplines, communities, and continents. His career is defined by multidimensional leadership and a relentless pursuit of equity, healing, and opportunity for all. A proud father, soldier, social worker, and visionary educator, he has devoted his life to helping people rediscover hope, dignity, and purpose. His reach spans early childhood education, public health, leadership development, and fatherhood advocacy—fields that, in his hands, become pathways toward healing and intergenerational equity.

"Insights give way to dreams—developing vision—creating purpose that ends in your why."

Foundations: Service, Resilience, and Cultural Identity
Born into a low-income household and shaped by the adversity of the child welfare system, James began his journey at age 17 as a U.S. Army Combat Medic. By 22, he became one of the youngest Substance Abuse Counselors in the Department of Defense, retiring with honors and meritorious distinction in the reserves. Over more than two decades of military service, he developed expertise in trauma response, behavioral health, and law enforcement. This experience forged his devotion to discipline, compassion, and advocacy for the vulnerable.

James's service has been recognized at the highest levels: he is the recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Call to Service Award (President Barack Obama), Points of Light Award (President George H. W. Bush), Meritorious Service Medal (U.S. Department of Defense), and Congressional Certificates from Maxine Waters, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Barbara Lee, and Diane E. Watson. He is deeply honored by the Ceremonial Elder Proclamation from the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska, the National Social Worker Leadership Resolution (FFCA), and hundreds of additional accolades from national, state, tribal, and community organizations.

Architect of Systems Change: Building Movements, Securing Hope
As founder and CEO of the Fathers & Families Coalition of America (FFCA), Dr. Rodríguez transformed a grassroots Arizona network into an international force with offices in California and Puerto Rico, and active partnerships across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and Australia. He was instrumental in creating one of the nation's first TANF-funded fatherhood programs, a model that generated over $75 million in resources and has been replicated nationwide. Under his leadership, FFCA's International Families & Fathers Conference—now in its 27th year—has become a global destination for educators, policymakers, and innovators, advancing justice and family well-being.

A founding steering committee member of the Fatherhood Research & Practice Network (FRPN) at Temple University, James has shaped federal research and policy, serving as principal investigator and senior research consultant on projects for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, CDC, NIMH, and the Oregon Center for Applied Science. His work has driven advances in public health, trauma-informed care, and family resilience.

Signature Curriculum Development and Thought Leadership
James is a master architect of transformational curricula and professional development, including the Advanced Practitioner Credential™ Course (NASW Arizona-approved), OAR Leadership Institute™ (Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility), FFCA DiSC Model™, Ikigai & The Power of Kintsugi™, and SAMHSA-approved Fatherhood and Mental Health Curriculum. He also developed the Strengthening Families Through Nurturing Leadership model. His trainings are lauded for blending cognitive science, neuroplasticity, emotional intelligence, trauma-informed care, and actionable leadership strategies, and have reached over 30,000 professionals—social workers, educators, clinicians, nonprofit leaders, and public officials—across the U.S. and four continents. Over 85% of program graduates report improved outcomes, including higher client engagement and service completion.

Certified as an Executive Coach, Master Trainer for The John R. Wooden Course™, Certified DiSC® Trainer, Life Coach, Ikigai Coach, and Schema Therapy Practitioner, Dr. Rodríguez's leadership development institutes have set new standards for excellence in behavioral health and family services.

Academic Impact, Mentorship, and Global Teaching
Dr. Rodríguez's educational reach is extraordinary. He has served as faculty, lecturer, or keynote at:

University of Southern California
Arizona State University
Morehouse College
Howard University
Columbia University
Yale University
University of Houston
Clark Atlanta University
Mesa Community College
Central Arizona College
Cornell University
Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico
University of the West Indies (Jamaica)
University of Guelph (Canada)
Malcolm X College
Sobo Tribal Nation
Navajo Nation
Qutekcak Native Tribe (Alaska)
Numerous First Nations and international partners
He developed and directed over 30 undergraduate and graduate courses, established statewide programs, and has keynoted and taught from Ivy League classrooms to tribal communities. He serves on the editorial board of PHYLON: The Clark Atlanta University Review of Race and Culture, which he joined upon the appointment of Dr. Obie Clayton, Jr., and supports scholarship on race, family, and social change.

Policy Leadership, Board Service, and Community Engagement
Dr. Rodríguez's policy influence extends to every level of government. He has developed legislation for Connecticut's Fatherhood Initiative, served on Arizona and California TANF/family-strengthening task forces, and advised the New York City Mayor's Fatherhood Advisory Council, DYCD, and ACS. He has shaped policy in partnership with SAMHSA, Region II Head Start, the State of Maryland, and the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health. He has provided expert testimony before the U.S. House Ways & Means Committee. He collaborates with Congressman Danny K. Davis and hosts national Fireside Policy Roundtables on equity, child support, and education reform.

His board service is cross-sectoral and visionary, including:

100 Black Men – Arizona Chapter
AGAPE Adoption Agency
Maricopa County Human Services
Fatherhood Corrections Network
Black Family Preservation Institute
And numerous national, state, and tribal boards
Public Health, Equity, and Systems Innovation
James has led multiple national initiatives addressing mental health equity, early childhood wellness, and culturally responsive care—serving Latino, African American, Somali, First Nations, and other underserved communities. His work with the Somali Association of Arizona, the Hispanic/Latino and African American Parent Depression Research Project, and tribal partners has been recognized for its transformative impact on systems and inclusion.

Author, Storyteller, and Purpose-Driven Advocate
As founder of Borinqueño Within Press and author of the forthcoming The Purpose Within—Rise Out of the Ashes Like the Phoenix, Dr. Rodríguez's story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of purpose. He weaves together memoir, leadership philosophy, and spiritual reflection, inspiring audiences to discover their own capacity to lead and transform.

Personal Values, Humanity, and Enduring Legacy
Above all, Dr. Rodríguez is a father, grandfather, and mentor. He draws daily inspiration from his children—Antonio (Cassandra), Amber Rodríguez-Young, LMSW (Daric), and Jazmín Rodríguez—and his grandchildren, Ariston and Adalena. His life and work are an expression of core values: love, empathy, humility, and a drive to uplift others. Whether leading a boardroom, inspiring a conference, or building coalitions for social change, James delivers wisdom, practical strategies, and hope—leaving every audience moved to action.

"Leadership is not about titles. It is about being water—shaping, flowing, and giving life wherever you go." — Bruce Lee.

If your organization seeks a keynote speaker, leadership institute facilitator, or strategic advisor who brings unparalleled experience, intellectual rigor, cultural fluency, and a proven record of impact, Dr. James C. Rodríguez is the transformative presence your audience deserves.

Contact:
james.rodriguez@fathersandfamiliescoalition.org
www.fathersandfamiliescoalition.org

"Never The End, Never Goodbye, Just I love You." – Your Friend, James

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect ... Show more

Miłosz is a mobile security specialist at Reversec, having previously spent entirely too much time working in academia. Outside of technical work, his primary interests are in education and the culture of education.

Miłosz is a mobile security specialist at Reversec, having previously spent entirely too much time working in academia. Outside of technical work, his primary interests are in education and the culture of education. Show more

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

Jessie is the Power Platform service owner at Hennepin County as a member of the Enterprise Strategic Solutions team for the past five years. She began her journey at the county as a developer and quickly found her passion in the Power Platform space. Starting her technology career as what is now known as a citizen developer, Jessie has grown into a leader who empowers others to build tools that make work better—for everyone. Her mission is simple: enable people to create meaningful solutions that improve how they work every day.

Jessie is the Power Platform service owner at Hennepin County as a member of the Enterprise Strategic Solutions team for the past five years. She began her journey at the county as a developer and quickly found her passion in the Power Platform space... Show more

Dr. Todd Walls, DM, MBA (Human Resource Management & Healthcare Management), MSW, is a Human Resource (HR), learning and development (L&D), privacy, governance, and workforce systems consultant. A former federal Privacy Officer, he holds the Certified Information Privacy Professional - U.S. Government (CIPP/G) and Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) and brings cross-functional experience spanning HR, L&D, organizational development, privacy, compliance training, employee engagement, accessibility, disability inclusion, workforce data, regulated environments, and prior Air Force information systems/security duties, including service as a Terminal Area Security Officer, Computer Workgroup Manager, and Client Server Administrator.

Todd is a frequent conference and workshop speaker whose experience includes regional HR conferences, national and regional disability inclusion programs, national privacy law compliance training, and invitations to speak internationally on privacy law compliance and information security. He has developed and delivered privacy, compliance, accessibility, reasonable accommodation, and organizational learning content for diverse adult audiences, including large federal training audiences.

He is a SHRM chapter President-Elect, national keynote presenter, former IAPP CIPP/G Certification Advisory Board member, and published thought leader in HR Executive, HR.com, Training Industry, and International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), including articles on employee data trust, employee voice, workforce systems, privacy law compliance, incident response, and NoSQL database vulnerabilities.

Dr. Todd Walls, DM, MBA (Human Resource Management & Healthcare Management), MSW, is a Human Resource (HR), learning and development (L&D), privacy, governance, and workforce systems consultant. A former federal Privacy Officer, he holds the Certifie... Show more

Lena is a Digital Analytics Specialist working at the intersection of analytics, governance, and AI readiness in the public sector. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Analytics from the University of South Florida and has played a key role in delivering analytics solutions for more than 20 mission-driven organizations across the DMV and nationwide, helping transform fragmented data into actionable insights that support large-scale impact.

Currently, she leads analytics strategy for a national nonprofit, focusing on building AI-ready analytics environments through improved data architecture, governance, and adoption of analytics solutions.

Lena is also passionate about mentorship and teaching. She has supported early-career professionals in securing internships and their first roles, and has served as a guest facilitator at the University of South Florida, leading discussions on marketing analytics, customer behavior, and machine learning applications.

Lena is a Digital Analytics Specialist working at the intersection of analytics, governance, and AI readiness in the public sector. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Analytics from the University of South Florida and has played a key role in d... Show more

I am an IT and Cyber Security professional with over five years of experience across cybersecurity, information security, data protection, digital transformation, IT systems management, online trust and safety, and Internet governance.

My work sits at the intersection of cyber risk, digital trust, policy, and technology-enabled transformation. I support organizations and communities to strengthen their security posture, manage digital risks, protect information assets, and build safer, more resilient digital ecosystems.

As The Digital Sentinel, my mission is simple: defending what matters in the digital space. This includes helping individuals, institutions, and communities stay safe, informed, resilient, and empowered online.

I bring a multidisciplinary background that combines technical expertise, governance thinking, policy engagement, and community leadership. My interests and work span cybersecurity awareness, IT risk and control assessment, data protection and privacy, AI security and governance, digital forensics, DNS security, online safety, Internet governance, e-governance, and digital inclusion.

Key Focus Areas:
🔒 Cybersecurity, IT Risk & Information Security
🛡️ Data Protection, Privacy & Digital Trust
🤖 AI Security, AI Governance & Responsible Technology
🧾 Digital Forensics & Cyber Resilience
🌐 DNS Security, Internet Governance & E-Governance
👥 Online Trust & Safety, Digital Literacy & Community Development
📡 Digital Policy, Transformation & Strategic Technology Adoption

Beyond professional practice, I am passionate about mentoring emerging digital leaders, supporting safer online communities, and contributing to initiatives that promote secure, inclusive, and responsible use of the Internet.

I am always open to meaningful collaboration, knowledge sharing, and opportunities that advance cybersecurity, digital trust, Internet resilience, and digital transformation.

I am an IT and Cyber Security professional with over five years of experience across cybersecurity, information security, data protection, digital transformation, IT systems management, online trust and safety, and Internet governance. My work sit... Show more

Marouaa Yakhlef is an AI and STEM Leader with over 17 years of experience in education, specializing in STEM education, robotics, educational technology, and innovative learning design. As a STEM Robotics Trainer of Trainers (TOT), she leads initiatives that integrate AI, emerging technologies, and project-based learning to create engaging and authentic learning experiences.

Throughout her career, Marouaa has supported educators and students in developing critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through technology-rich learning environments. She has led educational technology initiatives, innovation projects, and a podcast exploring emerging trends and best practices in education.

Her work also includes mentoring students and supporting participation in STEM, robotics, and innovation competitions, helping learners develop confidence, resilience, and a mindset of inquiry and innovation.

Marouaa is passionate about empowering students to move beyond knowledge acquisition and become creators, innovators, and solution designers. Her current focus is exploring how AI-supported inquiry and project-based learning can help students address authentic challenges and create meaningful impact within their communities.

Marouaa Yakhlef is an AI and STEM Leader with over 17 years of experience in education, specializing in STEM education, robotics, educational technology, and innovative learning design. As a STEM Robotics Trainer of Trainers (TOT), she leads initiati... Show more

Jeremy Darling is a Principal Consultant at Centroid, where he partners with organizations to design and deliver resilient, secure, and scalable technology platforms in complex and regulated environments. With decades of experience across distributed systems, cloud and edge architectures, and Kubernetes-based platforms, Jeremy specializes in translating ambitious technical goals into operational reality.

His work spans data-driven systems in healthcare, public sector, and higher education, including large-scale analytics initiatives and mission-critical platforms operating under strict security and compliance constraints. Known for navigating high-stakes technical challenges, Jeremy brings a pragmatic, systems-thinking approach to architecture, delivery, and long-term sustainability.

Beyond the technology, Jeremy is deeply committed to the human side of engineering. As a leadership speaker and mental health advocate, he focuses on empathy, resilience, and communication during moments of stress, loss, and organizational change. He believes strong systems are built by healthy teams—and that leadership matters most when things don’t go as planned.

Outside of client work and speaking engagements, Jeremy practices yoga and continues exploring the intersection of mental health, leadership, and sustainable engineering culture.

Jeremy Darling is a Principal Consultant at Centroid, where he partners with organizations to design and deliver resilient, secure, and scalable technology platforms in complex and regulated environments. With decades of experience across distributed... Show more

Louise Humpington brings nearly three decades of experience across commercial law (Financial Services Litigation), international development, human rights, and AI ethics and governance. She has worked in some of the world's most demanding governance environments, including as Country Director for Oxfam in Papua New Guinea and as a Non-Executive Director of Amnesty International UK. Her work focuses on applying those legal, regulatory and human impact lenses to the design, development, and deployment of AI and in interrogating the principles of fairness and accountability to that live within their datasets. She argues that governance must be viewed as a mycelium network and that ethical considerations are no longer a cultural nicety. They are foundational to mitigate risk, avoid legal and bottom line liability, and ensuring that real world harms are caught before damage is done. Governance must be preventative, not a mop up exercise.

Louise Humpington brings nearly three decades of experience across commercial law (Financial Services Litigation), international development, human rights, and AI ethics and governance. She has worked in some of the world's most demanding governance ... Show more

Yigakpoa is an open-source advocate and technologist working at the intersection of open data, accessibility, digital equity, and sustainability. Her work focuses on building systems that make technology more inclusive, measurable, and impactful for communities often left out of digital transformation.

She has contributed to global open-source ecosystems through leadership and governance roles, including serving as Co-Chair of the Project Management team and a Maintainer within the Accessibility team at the CHAOSS Project, where she supported the development of frameworks for measuring the health, inclusivity, and sustainability of open-source communities.

As Chief Operating Officer at CLENT Africa, she works at the intersection of climate and technology, leveraging open data platforms and energy access tools to drive community-centered resilience and environmental justice across African contexts.

At OpenGov Africa, she leads strategy, designing and scaling systems that use open data to strengthen government transparency, civic participation, and accountability. Her work integrates digital infrastructure with grassroots governance, enabling citizens to actively engage with and shape public systems.

Beyond her organizational roles, Yiga is a global speaker and mentor, supporting marginalized individuals as they navigate pathways into technology and open-source ecosystems.

Yigakpoa is an open-source advocate and technologist working at the intersection of open data, accessibility, digital equity, and sustainability. Her work focuses on building systems that make technology more inclusive, measurable, and impactful for ... Show more

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps organizations rethink how they build and live with technology, bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. My work focuses less on tools and more on how people and organizations think, especially as AI reshapes how work gets done.

I’ve led digital transformation and AI initiatives across government, healthcare, education, and enterprise environments, often in moments of ambiguity, constraint, and rapid change. I specialize in untangling complexity, surfacing hidden assumptions, and helping organizations design systems that can adapt, rather than break, the moment priorities shift.

In my talks, I blend systems strategy, organizational insight, and storytelling to challenge how we define “future-ready” technology. Because the real challenge with AI isn’t capability, it’s whether the systems we build can move with change, and whether humans are still allowed room for judgment, context, and evolution inside them.

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps organizations rethink how they build and live with technology, bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. My work focuses less on tools and more o... Show more

Ingo Kleiber studied English, political science, and economics at Heidelberg University, pursuing a teaching degree. After working at the Heidelberg School of Education, he is now a Senior Expert for Digital Education and Educational Technology at the Vice-Rectorate for Teaching and Studies of the University of Cologne.

Ingo Kleiber studied English, political science, and economics at Heidelberg University, pursuing a teaching degree. After working at the Heidelberg School of Education, he is now a Senior Expert for Digital Education and Educational Technology at th... Show more

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

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

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

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

Ian Knight is an independent consultant specializing in digital transformation for government and public institutions. His wins include moving a 500-person survey process from email to a single platform, using generative AI to evaluate an $8 million federal program, and replacing an NGO's Rolodex and spreadsheet system with a centralized CRM. Raised in Montana, Ian has worked with Montana nonprofits and the federal government at the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Mongolia. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations Young Professional Briefing Series, a 2025 World Bank Youth Summit Delegate, and a recipient of the U.S. Department of State's Citizen Diplomacy Award. Ian holds a Master of Public Administration and a B.A. in Political Science.

Ian Knight is an independent consultant specializing in digital transformation for government and public institutions. His wins include moving a 500-person survey process from email to a single platform, using generative AI to evaluate an $8 million ... Show more

An expert with 20 years of experience as a leading specialist in national cybersecurity strategy and policy, has made significant contributions to the development of the Korean and international cybersecurity ecosystem. He is a pioneer and leader in software supply chain security and SBOM (Software Bill of Materials) policy and standardization. With extensive experience as the chief executive of 20 e-government security projects, he possesses a deep understanding of national infrastructure security. He played a pivotal role in cultivating top-tier white-hat hacker talent at the national level, successfully launching the 'Best of the Best (BoB)' program. As a pioneer in OT/ICS (Operational Technology/Industrial Control Systems) convergence security, he spearheaded the establishment of graduate programs and delivers influential lectures, contributing to the future development of industrial security.

- Member of Presidential Council on National AI Strategy Korea (Special Committee on Security)
- WG Leader, Korean Government-wide ‘SW Supply Chain Security TF’
- WG Chair, Korean MSIT's ‘SW Supply Chain Security Forum’ (Policy)
- Korean Financial Security Advisory Committee Member
- US CISA's SBOM Community Working Group Member
- Linux Foundation's OpenSSF Global Ambassador (1st Cohort)

An expert with 20 years of experience as a leading specialist in national cybersecurity strategy and policy, has made significant contributions to the development of the Korean and international cybersecurity ecosystem. He is a pioneer and leader in ... Show more

Rebson Mendes é Tecnólogo em Processos Gerenciais e mestrando em Administração pela UFRN. Atualmente, ocupa o cargo de Gerente Técnico na Empresa Gestora de Ativos do Rio Grande do Norte (EMGERN), onde lidera projetos focados em eficiência administrativa e governança pública. Sua formação académica inclui pós-graduações em Gestão Pública, Auditoria e Perícia Contábil. Com mais de 20 anos de experiência na área de tecnologia, é autor dos livros "Excel do Básico ao Dashboard" e "Governança na Prática: Como Estruturas Públicas Enxutas Podem Alcançar Alta Eficiência". Como educador e criador de conteúdo, acumula mais de 160 mil visualizações em seu canal no YouTube, onde promove a interseção entre tecnologia, gestão e agilidade.

Rebson Mendes é Tecnólogo em Processos Gerenciais e mestrando em Administração pela UFRN. Atualmente, ocupa o cargo de Gerente Técnico na Empresa Gestora de Ativos do Rio Grande do Norte (EMGERN), onde lidera projetos focados em eficiência administra... Show more

Manuel Dolderer is an economist, edupreneur, and advocate for transformative learning. He co-founded CODE University of Applied Sciences in Berlin in 2017 and served as its founding president until 2023, building an innovative learning environment based on curiosity-driven, project-based education.
Manuel studied economics, philosophy, and cultural studies at Witten/Herdecke University, and has now returned to his Alma Mater as project lead transformation.
As a keynote speaker, advisor and entrepreneur he is dedicated to redesigning learning for human agency in the age of AI.

Manuel Dolderer is an economist, edupreneur, and advocate for transformative learning. He co-founded CODE University of Applied Sciences in Berlin in 2017 and served as its founding president until 2023, building an innovative learning environment ba... Show more

Gül Akcaova is the lead futurist at SURF - the cooperative for ICT in (higher) education and research in the Netherlands, and the National Education & Research Network. With a keen fascination for IT innovation in education and research, she explores in her role the potential impact of new technologies and emerging concepts on education and research. Her background in management studies provides her with the ability to approach developments from various angles.

Gül Akcaova is the lead futurist at SURF - the cooperative for ICT in (higher) education and research in the Netherlands, and the National Education & Research Network. With a keen fascination for IT innovation in education and research, she explores... Show more

I am an AI Product Manager / Team Lead at Natural Resources Canada working at the intersection of AI and GeoScience. I have a Master’s in Machine Learning from Mila and the University of Montréal, Canada.

In the past year, I have won the following awards:

* Winner of the Next Generation Leader of the Year award by The Women in IT Summit & Awards Series
* Rising Star awardee by Womxn in Data Science
* One of the awardees for WeaveSphere Developer 30 Under 30 of Canada
* Runner-up in the ‘Outstanding in AI - Young AI Role Model of the Year' - North America by Women in AI

During my time at Amazon Web Services (AWS) - Textract, I worked on Model-based Noisy Annotation Detection and Correction. Previously, I was a Machine Learning Engineer at a fast-paced startup, Shipmnts. There, in the span of 2.5 years, I built an AI-Powered Document Understanding Platform to automate paperwork involved in global supply chains. Prior to that, I was a Research Trainee at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) where I worked in the Smart-cities Mission of India. I hold a Bachelor’s in Information and Communication Technology from Ahmedabad University, India.

I am passionate about tech & community, and my journey has led me to become an international speaker, one of the youngest Google Developers Experts in AI and GCP around the globe. To date, I have spoken at 30+ conferences and have trained 40k+ professionals and students in ML, DL, TensorFlow, and GCP. I have always been curious about the human brain’s functionality and want to tweak its neural circuits! 🧠 👩‍💻

Talk to me about Technology, Finance, Art, Travel, and Entrepreneurship! 💖

Learn. Apply. Share. Repeat.

I am an AI Product Manager / Team Lead at Natural Resources Canada working at the intersection of AI and GeoScience. I have a Master’s in Machine Learning from Mila and the University of Montréal, Canada. In the past year, I have won the following... Show more

Tabbi Kinion transforms overwhelmed, newly minted managers into confident leaders through interactive leadership development training and coaching. Drawing from over two decades of hands-on leadership experience, she delivers practical experiences that unlock potential through powerful conversations and exercises rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Tabbi serves as faculty for the Arkansas Public Administration Consortium's Certified Public Manager program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and is a National Faculty Member for the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Management Assistance Team, helping leaders across sectors create cohesive, high-impact teams without burning out.

Before launching her training and coaching practice in 2024, Tabbi served as Education Division Chief for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission from 2018-2023, leading 80+ staff across multiple facilities and programs, following 13 years as Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Statewide Education Coordinator. Her approach combines real-world leadership expertise with academic excellence, including her Certified Public Manager certification, a Master's of Arts in Biology from Miami University, and a Bachelor's in Natural Resources Management from Colorado State University.

Tabbi Kinion transforms overwhelmed, newly minted managers into confident leaders through interactive leadership development training and coaching. Drawing from over two decades of hands-on leadership experience, she delivers practical experiences th... Show more

Blair Lee is International Education Partnerships Manager at Team Monolith, a Korea-based EdTech company developing Codle, an AI-powered classroom learning platform. Her role focuses on helping international schools explore how AI can be introduced into teaching and learning in a practical and curriculum-aligned way.

Before working on global education projects, Blair built her foundation in education through Korean language teaching and classroom support. Her experience in developing learning materials and giving student feedback shaped her understanding of what teachers need to make learning work in real classrooms.

At Team Monolith, she supports international school partnerships and AI education implementation across global education markets, including the Middle East. She also works on teacher training initiatives that help schools move beyond standalone AI tools and build structured learning workflows.

At GESS Dubai 2026, she will share a strategic framework for helping international schools turn AI investment into measurable learning impact through curriculum integration, teacher-led implementation, and verifiable learning evidence.

Blair Lee is International Education Partnerships Manager at Team Monolith, a Korea-based EdTech company developing Codle, an AI-powered classroom learning platform. Her role focuses on helping international schools explore how AI can be introduced i... Show more

Máté Benyovszky is the Head of IT Development and AI at the Hungarian Integrity Authority, supporting the agency's work through the implementation of state-of-the-art technologies. He has over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, with a background that includes roles as a project manager, business analyst, and presales specialist in the development field.

Máté is also the founder and co-President of the Hungarian Robotics Association.

He has a passion for finding innovative solutions, whether for future strategies, efficient processes, or new applications. His professional approach is centered on solving problems and supporting people. He is also a dedicated tech enthusiast with a love for future and green technologies, always looking for opportunities to evolve and improve.

He earned his MSc in IT Engineering from Pázmány Péter Catholic University, followed by postgraduate specializations in E-commerce and Bionic Computing. He also pursued PhD studies in Cognitive Science at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME).

A PMP-certified project manager and an expert in several Microsoft technologies, Máté actively follows the latest trends and developments. In his presentations and publications, he showcases the practical applications of AI and robotics, particularly for business process optimization and enhancing efficiency. His work contributes to ensuring that artificial intelligence is used more widely to create tangible value.

Máté Benyovszky is the Head of IT Development and AI at the Hungarian Integrity Authority, supporting the agency's work through the implementation of state-of-the-art technologies. He has over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, with a backgroun... Show more

Safiyatou “Abena” Camara

Executive Director & President, WONTANARA Inc
Co-Founder • Cultural Arts Master • Business Consultant • Youth Development Specialist

Abena Camara is a business consultant, cultural arts leader, and third-generation cultural bearer with nearly a decade of experience helping creatives and community-driven organizations build sustainable, funded work. She serves as Executive Director and President of WONTANARA Inc, where she leads arts education, community programming, and organizational strategy rooted in West African cultural traditions.

Immersed in cultural arts since age three, Abena brings over 20 years of professional artistry, 15 years of intensive West African cultural training, and deep lineage-based knowledge passed down through master teachers, historians, griots, and elders. Her grandfather founded the first performing company in Guinea, West Africa, and helped introduce West African master artists to the United States—a legacy Abena continues through WONTANARA’s programs and global partnerships. Her multidisciplinary training spans West African dance, ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and music composition and production, allowing her to bridge tradition and innovation with integrity.

Alongside her artistic leadership, Abena brings strong business and funding expertise. While pursuing a degree in Business Administration at Georgia State University, she served as an executive intern for a popular men’s grooming company, helping generate $1.1 million in revenue within its first year. That experience launched her career as a consultant, where she has spent nearly nine years advising organizations on operations, funding strategy, and growth.

Through WONTANARA Inc and her consulting work, Abena has secured over $200,000 in grants and sponsorships, including support for WONTANARA Percussions, the world’s first Black-owned instrument factory based in Africa. She has also led the development of WONTANARA Festival, securing city-wide sponsorship and building a thriving cultural platform. Her consulting practice maintains a 92% client retention rate, and she has helped more than 10 clients secure government funding within their first year of business.

Abena’s work sits at the intersection of creativity, community, and capital. She is passionate about demystifying funding systems and empowering creatives and community leaders to move from passion projects to sustainable, paid impact—without compromising their values.

Safiyatou “Abena” Camara Executive Director & President, WONTANARA Inc Co-Founder • Cultural Arts Master • Business Consultant • Youth Development Specialist Abena Camara is a business consultant, cultural arts leader, and third-generation cul... Show more

Becky Pike Pluth is the CEO of The Bob Pike Group, where she has spent more than 20 years immersed in Creative Training Techniques, the participant-centered methodology built on how the brain actually learns. She has helped organizations including Target, Bose, Coca-Cola, FedEx, and Wells Fargo achieve real cost savings and training efficiencies, and she moves easily between classroom, virtual, and blended e-learning.
Named to Training Magazine's Top 40 Under 40, Becky is also one of fewer than 600 speakers worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation. She is the author of numerous professional development books and training resources, including Creative Training: A Train-the-Trainer Field Guide and Webinars with WOW Factor.cc

Becky Pike Pluth is the CEO of The Bob Pike Group, where she has spent more than 20 years immersed in Creative Training Techniques, the participant-centered methodology built on how the brain actually learns. She has helped organizations including Ta... Show more

Changing the world, one solution at a time!

Passionate about automation and building a business to support clients on their digitisation/optimisation journeys while working with the youth in preparation for their entry into industry.

Enjoys dabbling in software development, automation, IOT, advanced analytics, data engineering and business intelligence while currently working towards completing a PhD that focuses on automation. Currently focusing on learning how businesses are formed and how the longevity of business functions are maintained.

Competencies include a high level of computer literacy, programming in various languages with newly acquired sales and business acumen.

Changing the world, one solution at a time! Passionate about automation and building a business to support clients on their digitisation/optimisation journeys while working with the youth in preparation for their entry into industry. Enjoys da... Show more

Mi nombre es Brian y fundé WeCode (wecode.edu.uy) en 2020. Reinventamos la educación haciéndola divertida, actual y enfocada en las habilidades del futuro. Enseñamos programación, robótica y ahora también: IA. Dirijo un equipo de 45 personas, con las que cada año impactamos 2500 niños y niñas, en nuestras sucursales, en 20 colegios aliados y junto a Ceibal.

Mi nombre es Brian y fundé WeCode (wecode.edu.uy) en 2020. Reinventamos la educación haciéndola divertida, actual y enfocada en las habilidades del futuro. Enseñamos programación, robótica y ahora también: IA. Dirijo un equipo de 45 personas, con las... Show more

Giselle Sandy-Phillips is a Leadership and Workforce Communication Strategist, education doctoral scholar, award-winning author, and speaker who helps leaders navigate what technology alone cannot solve: the human side of change.

Her perspective was shaped long before the boardroom. From military leadership to managing complex government initiatives involving competing priorities and diverse stakeholders, Giselle learned that even the best strategies fail when people don't understand one another. Over the last two decades, she has helped leaders turn complexity into clarity by building trust, strengthening communication, and bringing people with them through transformation.

As the founder of World of Consulting LLC, Giselle equips leaders with practical tools to lead across generational differences, evolving technologies, and shifting workplace realities. Her work is rooted in a question that has never been more relevant to education: How do we prepare people, not just systems, for an AI-enabled future?

As a doctoral scholar in educational leadership and the award-winning author of Thriving in the Modern Workplace: A Gen Z Guide to Success, Giselle bridges research and real-world practice to help audiences move from uncertainty to action. Known for her engaging storytelling, interactive approach, and immediately applicable strategies, she challenges leaders to rethink communication not as a soft skill, but as the leadership practice that determines whether trust is built, change takes hold, and innovation succeeds.

Giselle believes the future of education will not be determined by the technology we adopt. It will be determined by our ability to help people adapt, connect, and move forward together.

Giselle Sandy-Phillips is a Leadership and Workforce Communication Strategist, education doctoral scholar, award-winning author, and speaker who helps leaders navigate what technology alone cannot solve: the human side of change. Her perspective w... Show more

Dr. Calynn Lawrence is a Chicago-based CEO, Founder, Social Scientist, and Trauma Specialist who advances equitable change by integrating trauma-informed, holistic wellness principles with corporate and civic leadership strategy. Across organizations and community systems, she helps leaders move from reactive culture to proactive, human-centered practices that support resilience, belonging, and long-term wellbeing.

In her work, Dr. Lawrence translates social science insight into actionable, values-driven leadership frameworks that strengthen decision-making, collaboration, and organizational effectiveness. She partners with executives, public sector leaders, and mission-driven teams to design programs and policies that reduce harm, improve relational trust, and create measurable pathways toward a more progressive, equitable world.

Dr. Calynn Lawrence is a Chicago-based CEO, Founder, Social Scientist, and Trauma Specialist who advances equitable change by integrating trauma-informed, holistic wellness principles with corporate and civic leadership strategy. Across organizations... Show more

Maya Moussly is a marketing and brand strategist and part-time university lecturer working at the intersection of industry and academia. She began her career in advertising, contributing to the development of many of Dubai's established brands as well as regional and international clients across MENA. For the past 18 years she has lectured across undergraduate and Executive MBA programmes at universities across MENA, reaching more than 3,200 students. Her pedagogical philosophy is straightforward: the educator is a guide on the side of the learner's journey. In a world where knowledge is increasingly free, the learning happens in the application. From flipped learning to problem-solving challenges to using technology to elevate higher order thinking, every session is interactive, engaging, and designed to make students think harder, not less.
How you use what you know is where learning is truly tested. That is where her sessions always go.
Think differently. Act clearly.

Maya Moussly is a marketing and brand strategist and part-time university lecturer working at the intersection of industry and academia. She began her career in advertising, contributing to the development of many of Dubai's established brands as wel... Show more