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

Meredith Barges

Meredith Barges

I'm a bird conservationist specialized in bird-friendly building policy development, research, and advocacy. I help governments appreciate the complex lives of birds and how our decisions about buildings and nighttime lighting affect avian populations. In 2023, I co-led a statewide campaign to pass Public Act No. 23-143, Connecticut's “Lights Out bill,” which requires CT state agencies to turn off unnecessary lights by 11pm for birds. As a policy researcher at the Yale Bird-friendly Building Initiative, I co-authored 'Building Safer Cities for Birds: How Cities Are Leading the Way on Bird-Friendly Building Policy." I routinely testify and submit public comments on municipal and institutional lighting plans. I hold an MA in cultural history from the University of Chicago and an MDiv in religion & ecology from Yale University.

I'm a bird conservationist specialized in bird-friendly building policy development, research, and advocacy. I help governments appreciate the complex lives of birds and how our decisions about buildings and nighttime lighting affect avian population... Show more

Casper Okpara

Casper Okpara

I am a seasoned entrepreneur, mentor, and developer with over 9 years of experience in AI, business marketing, and real estate. I am the CEO and Lead Trainer at Casjoe Tech, a digital consulting company, and the founder of CORI AI Lab. My ventures focus on innovative AI-driven platforms and digital marketing strategies. CORI AI has generated over $50,000 in seed funding and $3,000 in revenue showcasing its impact and success in the market.

As a Google Skillshop Mentor with UpSkill Digital, I have empowered over 750 entrepreneurs in sub-Saharan Africa, helping them leverage Google digital tools and AI solutions to achieve a combined business growth of over $8 million. Additionally, I serve as a Business Mentor with UpSkill Universe (a Google partner in the United Kingdom) through the Google Hustle Academy for sub-Saharan Africa, mentoring entrepreneurs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

In 2019, I worked with Grow with Google, where I helped numerous individuals and businesses improve their digital skills and online presence. I have also earned a certificate in AI, further enhancing my expertise and ability to develop cutting-edge solutions.

Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I have equipped over 10,000 people with digital marketing skills and trained over 4,000 individuals in the cryptocurrency space. I am passionate about using entrepreneurship to alleviate poverty and create economic prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.

While I am proud of my entrepreneurial achievements, I am currently open to new speaking engagements where I can leverage my expertise in AI, digital marketing, and business development to drive growth and innovation. My mission is to use technology and entrepreneurship to foster economic prosperity and improve lives.

I am an award winning entrepreneur of the year 2024 in the south east nigeria.

I am a seasoned entrepreneur, mentor, and developer with over 9 years of experience in AI, business marketing, and real estate. I am the CEO and Lead Trainer at Casjoe Tech, a digital consulting company, and the founder of CORI AI Lab. My ventures fo... Show more

Lolu Olufemi

Lolu Olufemi

Lolu Olufemi a.k.a Lolu Lessons is a Change Management Speaker, Consultant and Coach, helping organisations and individuals unlock their potential to navigate change with purpose and clarity.

Raised in Scotland, born in Nigeria, and having lived in seven different cities, Lolu has experienced first-hand the complexities of personal and professional transitions. Her journey from finance to change management consulting has taught her one crucial lesson: change is about people.

With an MBA from Imperial College London and 18+ years of experience in the Big 4 leading teams and working with multi-national clients, Lolu brings hands-on expertise in people-centred change management. Her practical, jargon-free approach has helped organisations across finance, retail, government, and media navigate change successfully by putting people at the heart of change.

Known for her engaging #LoluLessons across social media, Lolu makes change management accessible, actionable, and human.

Lolu Olufemi a.k.a Lolu Lessons is a Change Management Speaker, Consultant and Coach, helping organisations and individuals unlock their potential to navigate change with purpose and clarity. Raised in Scotland, born in Nigeria, and having lived ... Show more

Valerija -

Valerija -

Valerija je inženjerka tekstilne tehnologije. Čita SF i fantasy oduvijek i jedan od hobija je obilazak konvencija po Hrvatskoj i svijetu.
Kreativne radionice održava s ciljem upoznavanje djece i odraslih sa novim materijalima i ostalim zanimljivostima iz područja hobija i likovnosti.

Valerija je inženjerka tekstilne tehnologije. Čita SF i fantasy oduvijek i jedan od hobija je obilazak konvencija po Hrvatskoj i svijetu. Kreativne radionice održava s ciljem upoznavanje djece i odraslih sa novim materijalima i ostalim zanimljivost... Show more

Luis Araujo

Luis Araujo

Tengo 27 años, nací en Venezuela. Busco inspirar a las personas a crear y liberar su imaginación. Deje todo en Venezuela para venir a Argentina a crear "Tienda Negocio", una plataforma que le permite a miles de emprendedores vivir de sus proyectos.

Tengo 27 años, nací en Venezuela. Busco inspirar a las personas a crear y liberar su imaginación. Deje todo en Venezuela para venir a Argentina a crear "Tienda Negocio", una plataforma que le permite a miles de emprendedores vivir de sus proyectos. Show more

Tonya Murphy

Tonya Murphy

Tonya Murphy brings over a decade of nonprofit leadership and community engagement expertise to audiences seeking to create meaningful social impact. As a Navy spouse of over 20 years and mother of three, she understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with building resilient communities and adaptable organizations.
Currently the Founder and Principal of Collective Strategy and Impact, Tonya has extensive experience connecting with diverse audiences through both virtual and in-person platforms. She has moderated webinars reaching over 1,000 participants across multiple platforms and led training sessions and speaking engagements for corporate and community-based organizations on topics including mental wellness, educational resources, and community support strategies.
Her professional background includes creating the first partnerships team at a $12 million nonprofit organization, where she developed strategic business plans focused on diversifying organizational partnerships and revenue streams. This hands-on experience in building collaborative relationships and sustainable growth strategies informs her engaging speaking style and practical approach to social impact work.
Tonya's leadership has been recognized through her selection as a member of the 2024 Mighty 25 class by Recurrent Ventures, which celebrates military connected individuals making significant contributions to their communities and careers. She was also honored as the 2023 Armed Forces Insurance Navy Spouse of the Year, recognizing her exceptional community service and leadership within the military community.
As a speaker, Tonya focuses on empowering leaders and organizations to build stronger partnerships, develop sustainable impact strategies, and create collaborative approaches that benefit entire communities. Her presentations combine strategic insights with real-world applications, leaving audiences with concrete tools and renewed confidence to advance their missions.

Tonya Murphy brings over a decade of nonprofit leadership and community engagement expertise to audiences seeking to create meaningful social impact. As a Navy spouse of over 20 years and mother of three, she understands firsthand the challenges and ... Show more

Samantha Di Lena

Samantha Di Lena

My vision is to be the catalyst for positive change, moving towards purposeful success, innovation, and lasting impact in an ever-evolving world. This happens through empowered individuals and organisations, that have a clear path to their full potential.

With a technical background in database administration, SQL reporting, business intelligence, business analytics and anything application centric - I've seen many technical teams focus solely on the technical skills. While obviously needed, the culture within a team and organisation are created from so much more.

I'm passionate about bringing the human skills back in to focus in technical roles. We all need to know how to work and grow together as people.

My vision is to be the catalyst for positive change, moving towards purposeful success, innovation, and lasting impact in an ever-evolving world. This happens through empowered individuals and organisations, that have a clear path to their full poten... Show more

Anita Cleare

Anita Cleare

Anita Cleare is an award-winning parenting speaker, writer and coach who supports working parents to balance successful careers with being a parent.

Anita speaks at events for working parents across the UK and internationally and delivers webinars for working parents at top global companies. Her books have been translated into twelve languages.

Her first book, 'The Work/Parent Switch' (known as 'The Working Parent’s Survival Guide' in USA) outlines how working parents can use the bits of time left over when work is done to parent smarter not harder and be the parent their child needs.

Her most recent book 'How To Get Your Teenager Out Of Their Bedroom' came out to five start reviews in September 2024.

Anita has been listed in The Times as one of the top 5 parenting caches in the UK. Her advice blog ‘Thinking Parenting’ has been listed in The Sunday Times Magazine as a must-read for parents. She is regularly featured in the media, including the BBC, CNBC, The Telegraph, and The Times. Anita is currently appearing as a TV parenting expert in Series 2 of At Home With Katherine Ryan.

As an accredited Triple P® parenting facilitator, Anita has been working with parents for 20 years on all aspects of children’s behaviour and wellbeing. She has an academic background in developmental psychology, and a talent for helping parents step back and reflect on parent-child dynamics and implement small changes that make a big difference.

Anita Cleare is an award-winning parenting speaker, writer and coach who supports working parents to balance successful careers with being a parent. Anita speaks at events for working parents across the UK and internationally and delivers webinar... Show more

Justice Oyakhilome Anthony

Justice Oyakhilome Anthony

Justice is a Data, Programs and Operations expert interested in sustainability and cleantech. He currently works as the Community Growth and Data Lead at Young Collective.
He is a current Global Ambassador for UNLEASH, a trained Climate Reality Leader, and a Net Zero Emission Data Tracker with the Net Zero Tracker. Justice is Microsoft Certified in M365, Azure, and Power Platforms. Justice is a former Growth and Operations Manager at Trashcoin UG, a German/Nigerian cleantech startup focused on digitizing waste collection in Africa.

Justice is a Data, Programs and Operations expert interested in sustainability and cleantech. He currently works as the Community Growth and Data Lead at Young Collective. He is a current Global Ambassador for UNLEASH, a trained Climate Reality Lea... Show more

Ashleigh Pandora Steele

Ashleigh Pandora Steele

Ashleigh Pandora Steele is a force - unshakable, undeniable, and unforgettable. As a visionary strategist, dynamic speaker, and unapologetic trailblazer, she stands at the intersection of purpose and power, leading changemakers toward their next level of impact. Ashleigh is the Founder and CEO of The Opia Designs Company, a strategic growth agency that equips businesses, nonprofits, and personal brands with the clarity, confidence, and systems needed to scale beyond limits.

Ashleigh Pandora Steele is a force - unshakable, undeniable, and unforgettable. As a visionary strategist, dynamic speaker, and unapologetic trailblazer, she stands at the intersection of purpose and power, leading changemakers toward their next leve... Show more

Jay Dwayne

Jay Dwayne

Jay Dwayne is a highly sought-after tech specialist and dedicated public servant renowned for his exceptional skills in software and systems engineering. Following previous excellent work at the ICT Authority, under the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy in Kenya, Jay is currently driving digital transformation at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Jay brings a comprehensive technical toolkit spanning full-stack software and systems development, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, mobile development, and advanced DevOps practices. His reputation as an expert is well-deserved, with numerous accolades and awards recognizing his contributions to the technology sector. With a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set, Jay is a valuable asset to any project team. His adaptability and proficiency make him an indispensable resource in the fast-paced world of modern technology, where he continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of software development and technological innovation.

As a Tech speaker, Jay has spoken at International and local conferences such as the Dublin Tech Summit, Dublin, Ireland, in May 2025, CABSAT, SATExpo & Integrate ME 2025 conference in Dubai, UAE in May, 2025. TEMS ICT Africa conference in Nairobi, Kenya in April 2025, Moonshot by Techcabal in Lagos in 2024, 2023,2022, Connected Africa Summit in Nairobi, 2024, The freelancers summit in Harare, Zimbabwe, 2023, African Congress on Cyber Security in Nairobi, 2022, MWC Series in Kigali, Rwanda, 2023 among many others including webinars and hackathons and workshops

Current Roles
Software Systems Engineer at Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
Jay collaborates with a multidisciplinary team of engineers in leading digital transformation initiatives at Kenya's premier tax and customs revenue agency, contributing to system optimization, automation projects, and enhancing user experiences across KRA's digital platforms.

Tech Consultant, Special Projects at United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)

• Providing technical advisory on innovation ecosystem development across Africa
• Leading technical assessment and implementation of digital platforms to connect entrepreneurial universities continent-wide
• Developing strategic frameworks for university business incubation models
• Facilitating knowledge transfer between academic institutions and industry partners
• Designing monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress toward the one-billion-startup goal
• Collaborating with university leadership to create entrepreneurship curricula integration strategies

Jay's Core Expertise

Technical Specializations
-Full-Stack Development: Expert in modern JavaScript frameworks (React, Angular, Vue.js), Node.js, TypeScript, and comprehensive front-end technologies
- Backend Engineering: Proficient in multiple languages including C#/.NET, Java, Python, Golang, with expertise in enterprise frameworks and API development
- Mobile Development: Native iOS (Swift) and Android (Kotlin/Java) development, plus cross-platform solutions with Flutter
- Cloud & Infrastructure: AWS services (EC2, Lambda, S3), Docker, Kubernetes, and modern DevOps practices
- Database Technologies: Extensive experience with SQL Server, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, Oracle, and graph databases
- DevOps & DevSecOps: CI/CD pipelines, containerization, infrastructure as code, and security integration
- Visual Design: Adobe Creative Suite mastery (AI, AE, PS, ID, Pr), Sketch, and modern design tools

Leadership & Communication
- Public Speaking: Accomplished speaker with ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences
- Visual Design: Creative problem-solving through design thinking
- Project Management: End-to-end software lifecycle management
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Stakeholder alignment and team leadership

Speaking Topics

Primary Topics
- Full-Stack Development Excellence: Modern JavaScript frameworks, API design, and scalable architecture patterns
- Cloud-Native Applications: AWS ecosystem, containerization with Docker/Kubernetes, and serverless architectures
- Mobile Development Strategy: Cross-platform development, native vs hybrid approaches, and Flutter implementation
- DevOps Transformation: CI/CD pipeline design, infrastructure automation, and team collaboration practices
- Database Architecture & Design: From SQL to NoSQL, choosing the right database for your needs
- Digital Government Services: Modernizing public sector technology and citizen-facing applications
- Visual Design in Tech: Bridging design and development for better user experiences

Secondary Topics
- Enterprise Software Development: .NET ecosystem, Java enterprise patterns, and legacy system modernization
- API Design & Integration: RESTful services, GraphQL implementation, and microservices architecture
- Testing Strategies: Comprehensive testing approaches from unit to integration testing
- Performance Optimization: Front-end performance, database tuning, and scalability planning
- Technology Leadership: Building and managing technical teams in fast-paced environments

Session Formats
- Keynote Presentations (45-60 minutes)
- Technical Deep-Dives (30-45 minutes)
- Interactive Workshops (90-120 minutes)
- Panel Discussions (30-60 minutes)
- Lightning Talks (10-15 minutes)

Jay's Technical Stack

Frontend Technologies
JavaScript, TypeScript, React, Angular, Vue.js, HTML5, CSS3, SCSS/Sass, Bootstrap, Gatsby, Stencil.js, GraphQL, Firebase

Backend & Server Technologies
Node.js, Express.js, C#/.NET Core, ASP.NET, Java/Java EE, Python/Django, Golang, PHP/Laravel, Apache, NGINX

Mobile Development
Swift (iOS), Kotlin/Java (Android), Flutter, Firebase, Android Studio, Xcode

Databases
SQL Server, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, Neo4j, CockroachDB, SQLite

Cloud & DevOps
AWS (EC2, Lambda, S3, SQS), Docker, Kubernetes, GitLab, Git, Digital Ocean, Heroku, IBM Cloud

Design & Testing
Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Jest, Jasmine, jUnit, Cucumber, Protractor

Development Tools
Visual Studio, VS Code, Android Studio, Xcode, Maven, Gradle

Speaking Experience
Accomplished public speaker with a proven track record of making complex technical concepts accessible to diverse audiences, from technical teams to executive stakeholders. Recognized industry expert with numerous accolades and awards for contributions to the technology sector.

Thinking of booking Jay?
Jay brings an exceptional combination of breadth and depth across the entire technology stack. His hands-on experience spans from frontend frameworks to cloud infrastructure, mobile development to enterprise systems. This comprehensive expertise, combined with his government sector experience and proven communication skills, makes him uniquely qualified to speak at conferences focused on:

- Full-Stack Development
- Cloud Computing & DevOps
- Mobile Application Development
- Enterprise Software Architecture
- Digital Transformation
- Government Technology
- Database Design & Architecture
- Modern JavaScript Frameworks
- Cross-Platform Development

Portfolio & Contact
Website: www.jaydwayne.com
Available for speaking engagements at technology conferences, corporate events, and educational institutions. Experienced in both in-person and virtual presentation formats.

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Bridging the gap between complex technical concepts and practical business solutions through innovative software engineering and clear communication.
Let's make it happen!

Jay is a trophy of God's grace, a conduit of rhema, saved by grace through faith.

Jay Dwayne is a highly sought-after tech specialist and dedicated public servant renowned for his exceptional skills in software and systems engineering. Following previous excellent work at the ICT Authority, under the Ministry of Information, Commu... Show more

Dr. Liz L. Lance

Dr. Liz L. Lance

Liz is an experienced leader with a passion for combining strategy and execution to drive change. With a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from USC and an MBA from the University of Portland, her education backs up her 15 years of leading teams in education, consulting, and tech. Liz is not just about ideas; she’s also about making things happen. Her numerous project management certifications highlight her commitment to excellence and continuous learning. Whether it's guiding teams or spearheading projects, Liz thrives on turning challenges into successes.

Liz is an experienced leader with a passion for combining strategy and execution to drive change. With a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from USC and an MBA from the University of Portland, her education backs up her 15 years of lea... 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

Geovani de León

Geovani de León

Docente Universitario, Ingeniero de Software en con 13+ años de experiencia en el área de análisis, desarrollo y arquitectura de software, en proyectos con entidades privadas y gubernamentales en Guatemala. Utilizando plataformas y tecnologías como ASP .NET, Entity Framework, Java, Spring Framework, Angular, Ionic Framework, Azure, Linux, PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server, AWS y GCP. En la actualidad evangelizador de .NET Core.

Líder de la comunidad Tech Community (Guatemala)

Apasionado por las nuevas tecnologías, autodidacta y músico ocasional.

Docente Universitario, Ingeniero de Software en con 13+ años de experiencia en el área de análisis, desarrollo y arquitectura de software, en proyectos con entidades privadas y gubernamentales en Guatemala. Utilizando plataformas y tecnologías como A... Show more

Vaneeta Aggarwal

Vaneeta Aggarwal

Vaneeta Aggarwal, founder of Bizemag Advisors is an award winning Woman Entrepreneur, author & speaker. With experience of 30 years, she is widely lauded as a thought leader in higher education and has pushed many changes in school and university education. Advocate of workplace diversity & inclusion and globalizing education, she is invited at several events to speak about women entrepreneurship, skill education, and women empowerment through educating and skilling.

Vaneeta Aggarwal, founder of Bizemag Advisors is an award winning Woman Entrepreneur, author & speaker. With experience of 30 years, she is widely lauded as a thought leader in higher education and has pushed many changes in school and university ed... Show more

Nicolas Ploquin

Nicolas Ploquin

Nicolas, Lean addict, coauteur de "Culture Kaizen", ex Scrum Master, ex Chef de projet, ex développeur.
J'oppose l'agilité aux méthodes agiles.
Ma vision de l'agilité, c'est le Lean.

Nicolas, Lean addict, coauteur de "Culture Kaizen", ex Scrum Master, ex Chef de projet, ex développeur. J'oppose l'agilité aux méthodes agiles. Ma vision de l'agilité, c'est le Lean. Show more

Laura Patricia Sánchez Gutiérrez

Laura Patricia Sánchez Gutiérrez

Master en Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia por la UNAM, académica en la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, docente en Colegio Nacional de Educación Profesional Técnica, Coordinadora académica del diplomado "Administración y marketing para clínicas y hospitales veterinarios" en la FMVZ-UNAM, con múltiples diplomados y certificaciones en el área Educación, Veterinaria y tecnologías para la educación.
Ganadora del 2do. Lugar a nivel nacional en el Hackathon AI, 2021, CONALEP en “Automatiza tu clase con Power Platform y MS TEAMS”. Ganadora del primer lugar como asesora en proyectos de sustentabilidad en la primera competencia de generación de Nudges de América Latina. Autora de artículos sobre temas de emprendimiento y sustentabilidad.
Ganadora Techfluencer por los Globant Award Women that Build
Conferencista internacional en congresos y seminarios veterinarios.
Conferencista internacional en congresos y seminarios para docentes.
Creadora de contenidos educativos en la plataforma You Tube (Edutuber).
Canvassador
Canva Educator Creator
Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert
MVP Microsoft 2021-2024

Master en Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia por la UNAM, académica en la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, docente en Colegio Nacional de Educación Profesional Técnica, Coordinadora académica del diplomado "Administración y marketing para ... Show more

Esmeralda Tijhoff

Esmeralda Tijhoff

Esmeralda Tijhoff is a seasoned IT professional with extensive experience in open-source technologies and government digital services. She currently serves as a Product Manager and Open Source Officer at DICTU, a service provider within the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. In this role, Esmeralda leads the development of innovative digital solutions, emphasizing the integration of open-source methodologies to enhance collaboration and efficiency across government platforms.

An active member of the Drupal open-source community, Esmeralda was honored with the Women in Drupal award in 2024, recognizing her significant contributions and leadership. Her involvement in the community underscores her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the tech industry. Esmeralda is board member of the Dutch Drupal Association and started the Network of European Drupal Associations.

Esmeralda’s professional journey reflects a dedication to leveraging open-source principles not only in software development but also in organizational practices. She advocates for transparent communication, collaborative decision-making, and empowering teams by harnessing individual talents. Her work exemplifies how adopting an open-source mindset can drive innovation and create more inclusive work environments.

Through her work at DICTU and active participation in the Drupal community, Esmeralda continues to influence the adoption of open-source strategies within the public sector, promoting sustainable and inclusive technological advancements.

Esmeralda delivers talks and workshops, and can act as panel leader.

Esmeralda Tijhoff is a seasoned IT professional with extensive experience in open-source technologies and government digital services. She currently serves as a Product Manager and Open Source Officer at DICTU, a service provider within the Dutch Min... Show more

Pj Metz

Pj Metz

Pj Metz is a former high school English teacher and current Program Manager of Student Communities at GitHub. Pj spent 11 years in the classroom teaching High School English. Then, in May of 2020, he started learning to code and began to live stream his sessions learning C# and Node.js shortly after. His previous role at GitLab was all about bringing DevSecOps into the classroom by making GitLab available to educators around the world, followed by time spent as a community manager for ProjectDiscovery helping the bug bounty hunter community learn and grow. He has presented on a variety of topics at several events like Start.Dev.Change, Codeland, DevOpsDays Chicago, DevRelCon, and Orlando Code Camp.

Pj loves 80’s music, including modern music that sounds like it was made in the 80’s, 90’s internet culture, and poetry. He’s a published poet and a musician sometimes. He loves chatting and being on podcasts, shows, and live streams.

Pj Metz is a former high school English teacher and current Program Manager of Student Communities at GitHub. Pj spent 11 years in the classroom teaching High School English. Then, in May of 2020, he started learning to code and began to live stream... Show more

Douglas Hubbard

Douglas Hubbard

With over 30 years of IT experience in both private and public sector, Douglas joined Transport Canada (TC) in 2014. He has been involved in several major transformation projects as Manager at TC, with a focus on modernizing of technology in support of inspections and regulatory enforcement, breaking IT silos, and beginning with the Navigable Waters Act Renewal Project (NWAR) in 2017, pioneering Agile development and leveraging Power Platform at the department.

As a direct result of NWAR’s success – including winning the 2020 departmental National Creativity and Transformation Award, Douglas was offered the opportunity to found the Power Apps Centre of Excellence (PACE). Since being formed in summer 2020, PACE has become a leader in the Government of Canada when it comes to Power Apps. The PACE team has built numerous critical systems in response to COVID-19 and other department priorities, supported other Professional Developers across government to succeed utilizing the platform, and sponsored the initial blossoming of Citizen Development at TC. PACE was recognized for these efforts in 2021 by receiving the Government of Canada’s “Excellence in Innovation” Digital Government Community Award.

With over 30 years of IT experience in both private and public sector, Douglas joined Transport Canada (TC) in 2014. He has been involved in several major transformation projects as Manager at TC, with a focus on modernizing of technology in support ... Show more

Jhonathan David , MBA, Data Scientist|Data Analytics

Jhonathan David , MBA, Data Scientist|Data Analytics

Jhonathan David Shaikh is a remarkable professional making an impressive industry impact in banking & finance, healthcare, trade & exports and education. JD started his career in banking furthered his education by earning a Masters degree in Business Administration with a major in finance and global markets from the prestigious School of Business at Tulane University as well as becoming a Data Scientist from the New York School of Data Flatiron. Jhonathan completed a 15 year career track. In 2017, he became a Global Lead in Data Digital Transformation, and later an Executive Manager in Data Models & Database Reviews, at a global firm based New York City -He has research and published business applications of data sciences and AI in major media outlets. Today he is Chief Data Strategist for Xabios Data, a data analytics| business intelligence and data science firm optimizing businesses.

Notably, JD was featured on an international article for Grant Thornton International in Data Monetization. Hi research reached more than 15,000 followers - He has spoken at more than 13 conferences in the USA and LATAM- He founded a non-profit in LATAM that helps limited-resources entrepreneurs with micro-lending and educational resources. These recognitions, along with his Top 5 Awards in Leadership reflect his dedication and impact in industry and to people.

Jhon enjoyes being called to speak at the National and International Conferences to speak about real world experiences in the world of AI , Data Analytics & Data Science. Highlights include: the State of Mexico Business Association, in Mexico City, the Data Science Panels at the S&P 500 Building in Wall street for Data Science Salon, and at the The University of Houston College of Technology. Jhonathan makes complex topics, easy to understand to non-technical audiences, and makes technical audiences understand the world and language of business.

Experience for yourself as Jhonathan speaks to businesses leaders, management groups, professionals, scientist and students about real world applications of data sciences, from real life experiences. As he speaks the language of business and science, learned through his management of global teams in real-life projects, working with the leadership of top institutions, he shares his previous and ongoing client business experiences and what's happening in the world of data science.

His expertise topics include themes around : Data Science in a Business Context, Project Experiences, Data Modeling, and Financial Education.

Jhonathan David Shaikh is a remarkable professional making an impressive industry impact in banking & finance, healthcare, trade & exports and education. JD started his career in banking furthered his education by earning a Masters degree in Busines... Show more

Dr. Inna Armstrong

Dr. Inna Armstrong

Dr. Inna Armstrong, professional speaker, global thought leader & influencer in the field of Augmented Reality (AR) in K12 Education, and a Co-Founder of CleverBooks. She investigates how AR can be used for learning and creating an engaging and immersive environment for students in the classroom and beyond that they can develop 21st-centry skills. Inna's current focus is on influencing the change in the education system through a strategic application of most innovative EdTech. Inna is nominated as Evergreen Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on AR/VR 2022, Top 10/25/50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on AR/VR in Education 2021/2022/2023 (Thinkers360), Top 25/50 Thought leaders in EdTech 2020/2023 (Thinkers360), and 144 Women CEOs and Founders leading Global EdTech Startups (HolonIQ). Under Inna's leadership, in 2020 CleverBooks was awarded in Reimagine Education as a Bronze Winner 2020 in the AR/VR category and a Regional Award Gold Winner 2021, EdTech Breakthrough award winner 2020, GESAward 2020 winner and the winner of the Digital Innovation Challenge 2020 organized by the European Commission. The company is on the list of Top Tech Startups in Europe in 2023 and enrolled in one of the biggest EU funded HORIZON 2020 research project that aims to build a Europe-wide competitive ecosystem that supports the dissemination of augmented reality and virtual reality in education.

Dr. Inna Armstrong, professional speaker, global thought leader & influencer in the field of Augmented Reality (AR) in K12 Education, and a Co-Founder of CleverBooks. She investigates how AR can be used for learning and creating an engaging and immer... Show more

Emily Hemingway

Emily Hemingway

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

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

Melissa Balcom

Melissa Balcom

Kingwood Middle School Data & Assessment Facilitator, Gifted and Talented Liaison

Kingwood Middle School Data & Assessment Facilitator, Gifted and Talented Liaison Show more

Wanda Möller

Wanda Möller

Wanda Möller

Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität

Wanda Möller Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität Show more

Stéphane Clavier

Stéphane Clavier

J'ai toujours cultivé une certaine polyvalence dont les différentes facettes s'enrichissent mutuellement.
Coach professionnel et agiliste, j'écoute et je questionne individus et organisations pour les aider à clarifier leurs problématiques et à construire leurs propres solutions.

J'ai toujours cultivé une certaine polyvalence dont les différentes facettes s'enrichissent mutuellement. Coach professionnel et agiliste, j'écoute et je questionne individus et organisations pour les aider à clarifier leurs problématiques et à cons... Show more

Amanda Brock

Amanda Brock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blake Haygood

Blake Haygood

Blake Haygood started teaching high school math in 2007 and later moved into gifted education. As GT Coordinator for Austin ISD, he focuses on: advocacy for gifted learners, curriculum, family/community outreach, and program development and accountability. Blake volunteers extensively with both the Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented and the Profoundly Gifted Retreat—presenting at conferences, supporting committees, and serving on their respective boards. Blake was a 2018 ELP and Advocate for the Gifted in 2022.

Blake Haygood started teaching high school math in 2007 and later moved into gifted education. As GT Coordinator for Austin ISD, he focuses on: advocacy for gifted learners, curriculum, family/community outreach, and program development and accountab... Show more

Isra Chahrazed Goumiri

Isra Chahrazed Goumiri

Hello everyone, I'm Isra Chahrazed, a passionate software engineer with a love for making complex technology accessible and engaging for all.

Beyond my technical work, I am deeply committed to STEM education. I've had the privilege of mentoring young learners through various virtual and in-person programs, including creating tech courses and overseeing teams of mentors. To further support educators, I established the Young Teachers Community to foster empowerment and collaboration.

My advocacy for accessible learning technologies has led me to speak at platforms, where I share insights into the tech industry and inspire others to pursue careers in STEM. I truly believe in the transformative power of education and love helping young learners discover their passions.

Sessions : Devoxx Morocco, Devoxx Belgium, Devfest Bari, Devfest Cairo, PyConFr…

Hello everyone, I'm Isra Chahrazed, a passionate software engineer with a love for making complex technology accessible and engaging for all. Beyond my technical work, I am deeply committed to STEM education. I've had the privilege of mentoring yo... Show more

Sheena O'Connell

Sheena O'Connell

My early career saw me working as a software engineer and technical leader across multiple startups. But it was my passion for education that led me to devote the last 5+ years to reimagining how we teach people to code professionally.

Over the last half decade I have had the opportunity to work in the NGO space and build alternative education systems from the ground up. Along the way I have learned a lot about how to teach well, how to build systems that teach well, and how traditional education systems fall short.

Now, my primary aim is to spread skills to educators. To empower those who empower others.

I lead the Guild of Educators, a community I founded to empower tech educators through shared resources, support, and evidence-based teaching practices. Additionally, I run Prelude, where I provide rigorous technical training, as well as consultation, and coaching for technical educators, and organisations with education functions (for example grad programs and similar).

My early career saw me working as a software engineer and technical leader across multiple startups. But it was my passion for education that led me to devote the last 5+ years to reimagining how we teach people to code professionally. Over the l... Show more

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