Charlene “Char” Holmes is a TEDx speaker, psychology-informed leadership strategist, and professional development coach who helps individuals and organizations move beyond stress-driven performance into sustainable growth.

Drawing from trauma-informed principles, psychology research, and lived experience, Char teaches leaders how the brain’s survival systems influence decision-making, leadership style, workplace culture, and long-term performance.

Her work focuses on helping professionals recognize when they are operating from “survival mode” and equipping them with practical strategies to shift into what she calls SurThrival Mode — a leadership framework centered on awareness, resilience, emotional regulation, and sustainable impact.

Char’s work has resonated across leadership, wellness, and transformation spaces, where she speaks on topics including trauma-informed leadership, mindset transformation, resilience under pressure, and creating psychologically safe environments that allow people and organizations to thrive.

Through her speaking, coaching, and media platform, Char continues to lead transformative conversations that reshape leadership from the inside out.

Charlene “Char” Holmes is a TEDx speaker, psychology-informed leadership strategist, and professional development coach who helps individuals and organizations move beyond stress-driven performance into sustainable growth. Drawing from trauma-info... Show more

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu is the Founder & Executive Director of The Resilient Immigrant Foundation (TRIF) and a Resilience Keynote Speaker & Author. He works with leaders, educators, and organizations navigating pressure, uncertainty, and transition, helping them build mental strength and sustainable performance.
He is the author of Learn to Live Forward, a resilience-centered leadership book shaped by lived experience and practical application. His earlier book, Coming to Canada, reached #1 Hot New Release in Canada Travel Guides on Amazon.ca. Through TRIF and his speaking engagements, Chidi supports individuals and institutions seeking long-term growth through resilience and disciplined self-leadership.

Chidi C. Iwuchukwu is the Founder & Executive Director of The Resilient Immigrant Foundation (TRIF) and a Resilience Keynote Speaker & Author. He works with leaders, educators, and organizations navigating pressure, uncertainty, and transition, helpi... Show more

Sam Jenkins is a community strategist, facilitator, and inclusive event design expert with over a decade of experience leading large-scale public programs, workforce initiatives, and cultural events. She currently serves as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator in local government while also running Empowering Communities, a consulting practice focused on helping organizations move beyond performative efforts and into practical, people-centered action.

Sam’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, culture, and lived experience. She specializes in supporting front-line staff, building psychologically safe teams, and designing events and initiatives that actually reflect the communities they serve. Her background in parks and recreation, combined with her systems-level DEI work, gives her a rare perspective that resonates with both leadership and on-the-ground staff.

Known for her engaging, honest, and highly interactive style, Sam blends real-world scenarios, storytelling, and actionable tools participants can use immediately. She does not shy away from hard conversations, but she always grounds them in compassion, clarity, and practicality.

Sam has facilitated workshops, panels, and trainings for government agencies, nonprofits, and professional associations, and she consistently receives feedback for creating spaces that feel both challenging and supportive. Her sessions are especially impactful for audiences navigating burnout, change fatigue, and the pressure to “get it right” without enough guidance or support.

Sam Jenkins is a community strategist, facilitator, and inclusive event design expert with over a decade of experience leading large-scale public programs, workforce initiatives, and cultural events. She currently serves as a Diversity, Equity, and I... Show more

Guided by purpose, strategy and a love of tech, Cortina Jenelle Caldwell’s entrepreneurial journey has remained true to her north star – to leave her corner of the world a little better off than she found it, a lesson learned early under her grandmother’s wings. Nursing, then social work provided a foundation for understanding social health, community development and resource connection, and Cortina ultimately found her home in business as a way to build solutions for local communities from the ground up. Cortina earned her BS in Business, Social Science and Education, and a MA in Business Management & Leadership (MAML)from Liberty University. As a graduate student, Cortina conducted research on “Branding Authenticity”, and armed with new knowledge of the future of business, Cortina founded Visit & Ventureto address gaps between tourism economies and local economies, earning Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year and a place in 40 Under Forty by the age of 26. Cortina re-branded the original model several times, evolving with community need and responding to first-party data - Cortina Jenelle Branding Agency(2014-2024), and Brand Evangelist™emerged with the age of AI in 2024. Cortina is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society, the Lloyd International Honors College at UNC-Greensboro, and is a Full Stack Web Developer, an ICAgile Certified Pro (Savvy Coders), a Certified Creative Facilitator (PYE Global), and a member of Vantage Ventures & AscendWV, class of 2025. Cortina’s journey reflects a relentless commitment to transform vision into scalable impact through design, technology, and creative strategy, work carried out through the tech-forward approach of Brand Evangelist and its ecosystem. Cortina’s collective body of award-winning work spans decades and ripples throughout Southern Appalachia and abroad, with impact hubs in North Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, Austrailia and more soon from West Virginia where she calls home.

Guided by purpose, strategy and a love of tech, Cortina Jenelle Caldwell’s entrepreneurial journey has remained true to her north star – to leave her corner of the world a little better off than she found it, a lesson learned early under her grandmot... Show more

Dr. Yi Zhang is a global learning strategist, TEDx speaker, SXSW London speaker (incoming), and founder who stands at the intersection of human development and technology shifts. With a 15-year career partnering with C-suite and senior leaders, Yi has spearheaded workforce capability initiatives that have positively impacted over 120,000 people at Fortune 100 giants, including Microsoft, Walmart, and United Airlines.

With a doctorate from Vanderbilt University, Yi helps people-centric organizations break through the AI overwhelm and rediscover their humanity and what they’re called to build. Whether addressing large conferences or leadership circles, Yi is known for making an emotional connection with the audience and bringing bold truths about AI and human behaviors that ignites change.

I offer two (2) signature talks:

1. Humanity & Well-Being: The AI Age Survival Guide

As AI reshapes the workplace, organizations face a hidden crisis of burnout and culture drift. This talk blends the nature of AI, human development, and change to help corporate leaders and teams navigate the overwhelm of AI acceleration without losing their humanity.

2. AI & the Human Debt: How HR & People Teams Win the AI Race

Is your HR/people team a passive observer or a strategic architect of the AI revolution? This talk unpacks the failed AI initiatives and provides proprietary guidance for CHROs and people leaders. It reclaims their seat at the table by bridging the gap between technological acceleration and human capability.

“Yi speaks from a place of extraordinary experience and genuine passion. What makes her remarkable on stage is her ability to take complex, forward-looking topics like AI, technology shifts, and workforce transformation and make them accessible, relatable, and deeply personal. That sets her apart as a speaker and as a thought leader.” — Berthine Crèvecoeur West, CEO, Westbridge Solutions"

Visit my speaker kit here for more information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EfIzdWtvkTL8h5FgjOeNQqdZFKgj99O4/view?usp=sharing

Dr. Yi Zhang is a global learning strategist, TEDx speaker, SXSW London speaker (incoming), and founder who stands at the intersection of human development and technology shifts. With a 15-year career partnering with C-suite and senior leaders, Yi ha... Show more

Sam Naji is CTO of UniqLearn, where he built VCOS — a 5-layer agentic development system that cut bug escape rates from 25% to under 5%. He's shipped production AI across four countries and now builds AI-powered personalized learning for K-12 from NYC.

Sam Naji is CTO of UniqLearn, where he built VCOS — a 5-layer agentic development system that cut bug escape rates from 25% to under 5%. He's shipped production AI across four countries and now builds AI-powered personalized learning for K-12 from NY... Show more

Dr. Mansur Hasib is passionate about bringing out the inner greatness that exists in everyone. In 2017 at a ceremony in Austin, TX, (ISC)2 named him a “Rock Star” of cybersecurity for leading the implementation of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program to serve almost 4,800 students globally. In 2018 the Global Cybersecurity Observatory based in Europe inducted Dr. Hasib into the Hall of Fame. In 2018 and 2019 SC Magazine awarded Dr. Hasib's program Best Cybersecurity Higher Education Program award. He also won the 2020 and 2017 Cybersecurity People’s Choice Award and the 2020 Cybersecurity Champion of the Year Award. In 2024 Dr. Hasib was a semifinalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking. He has 30 years of experience leading organizational transformations through digital leadership and cybersecurity strategy in healthcare, biotechnology, education, and energy. He served as Chief Information Officer for 12 years and has written the books Bring Inner Greatness Out: Personal Brand and Cybersecurity Leadership. His YouTube channel has 200+ videos and is free to Subscribe. Dr. Hasib enjoys bridge, table tennis, comedy, and travel and has been to all 50 states of the USA.

Dr. Mansur Hasib is passionate about bringing out the inner greatness that exists in everyone. In 2017 at a ceremony in Austin, TX, (ISC)2 named him a “Rock Star” of cybersecurity for leading the implementation of the Master of Science in Cybersecuri... Show more

Hela Chhayder, Founder of STEP INSIGHT and Director of AI Strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, is an AI & data strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in AI, data science, and analytics. She has led large-scale data initiatives for public and private sector organizations across the MENA region, specializing in AI-driven transformation, data strategy frameworks, and advanced analytics.

As the founder of STEP INSIGHT, she has advised multinational clients on AI Strategy, Governance, and upskilling activation. As the director of AI strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, Hela runs multiple training sessions and projects for governmental entities across the UAE and Qatar on govtech, digital transformation, Data strategy, and the importance of Data in the governmental sector.

Hela holds an Executive MBA from Hult International Business School and an engineering degree in statistics and data analysis from Carthage University.

Hela Chhayder, Founder of STEP INSIGHT and Director of AI Strategy and Govtech at GOV CAMPUS, is an AI & data strategy expert with over 15 years of experience in AI, data science, and analytics. She has led large-scale data initiatives for public and... Show more

Adina Cristocea, M.A., Trainer for Diversity and Inclusion and Participation Peer Counselor at EUTB® (Complementary independent participation counselling), combines her background in psychology of excellence, coaching and instructional design to discuss strategies for building inclusive digital products. Her personal and professional experience in participation policies and programs informs her approach to creating accessible and engaging digital experiences for neurodiverse users.

Adina Cristocea, M.A., Trainer for Diversity and Inclusion and Participation Peer Counselor at EUTB® (Complementary independent participation counselling), combines her background in psychology of excellence, coaching and instructional design to disc... Show more

Community Evangelist en torc. Ingeniera en Mecatrónica por el TECNM Campus Veracruz.
Se desempeña como Community Builder creando, desarrollando estrategias de crecimiento y creación de programas en comunidades de tecnología. Por lo que colabora y es co-creadora en Technolatinas, es embajadora de Women Tech Makers, y facilitadora Golden de #IAmRemarkable.
Activista social para reducir la brecha de género y digital mediante actividades voluntarias con comunidades y programas enfocados a STEM. Entusiasta en tecnologías Cloud Computing, diseño de servicios y de experiencia de usuarios.
Practicante de artes marciales y gusto por el café.

Community Evangelist en torc. Ingeniera en Mecatrónica por el TECNM Campus Veracruz. Se desempeña como Community Builder creando, desarrollando estrategias de crecimiento y creación de programas en comunidades de tecnología. Por lo que colabora y es... Show more

Kimetha Dunn is a trailblazer in artificial intelligence (AI) and a dedicated advocate for inclusivity in tech. With a background in Speech and Communications, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and a UX/UI Design certificate from General Assembly, Kimetha leads generative AI research at Microsoft, driving product development and mentoring emerging UX professionals. Kimetha is the founder of The Fedeila Group where they empower organizations by providing innovative AI research and ethical AI and EI (emotional intelligence) training. The Fedeila Group's mission is to ensure AI technologies are taught and implemented responsibly and effectively, fostering trust, integrity, and long-term success for all involved. Kimetha has shared her expertise at high-profile events, including Microsoft Ignite 2024, ScaleAI discussions on diversity, Blacks in Technology (BITCON) 2024 on mitigating bias in AI, and most recently as a Speaker with the National Alliance for the Advancement of Haitian Professionals (NAAHP) discussing ways to bring resources using technology to our beloved Haitian communities. Kimetha is passionate about uplifting Black women and people in AI and regularly mentors non-traditional students to break into the UX/UI field. She is involved in organizations like Black Women in AI (BWIAI), Blacks in Technology (BIT) Atlanta Chapter and is an active community leader for Interaction Design Foundation Chicago chapter (IxDF) and ADPList Atlanta Chapter. Kimetha lives by the motto. "Speak what you want until you see what you've said."

Kimetha Dunn is a trailblazer in artificial intelligence (AI) and a dedicated advocate for inclusivity in tech. With a background in Speech and Communications, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and a UX/UI Design certificate from G... Show more

Chris Chiancone is a 3x ORBIE CIO of the Year Finalist and technology executive with over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation across government and the private sector. He currently serves as Chief Information Officer for the City of Carrollton, Texas (pop. 140,000), where he oversees all technology strategy, cybersecurity, and AI initiatives for a full-service municipality.

With more than 16 years of hands-on experience in AI and machine learning, Chris has delivered over $150M in technology projects, managed $25M+ annual budgets, and led teams of 100+ professionals. He is a CISSP-certified security practitioner and published author on AI adoption for non-technical leaders.

As a Fractional CIO and AI Strategy Consultant, Chris helps mid-market companies and government agencies modernize their technology operations, build practical AI strategies, and achieve enterprise-grade IT leadership — without the cost of a full-time executive.

Chris speaks on AI strategy, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and technology leadership with a focus on real-world results over hype. He brings specific numbers, honest lessons learned, and actionable frameworks that audiences can implement immediately.

Chris Chiancone is a 3x ORBIE CIO of the Year Finalist and technology executive with over 25 years of experience leading digital transformation across government and the private sector. He currently serves as Chief Information Officer for the City of... Show more

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

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

I am Dr. Raven C. Major, Founder and owner of The Folding Chair Collective, LLC. Paying home to Shirley Chisholm’s call, “to bring a folding chair”, The Folding Chair Collective partners with organizations to create environments where belonging is intentional and every individual is seen as human first and an asset next, not just labor.

We are dedicated to transforming workplaces, campuses, and communities through leadership development, strategic equity auditing, and people-centered culture building to ensure that everyone has a seat at the table and a folding chair of their own.

Through the use of practical strategies such as;
* Leadership Development
* Professional & Organizational Development
* Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Strategy
* Panel Facilitation, Conferences, & Speaking Engagements, and more

We hope to provide you and your organizations with personalized solutions to address your pain points.

Let’s connect: drravencmajor@thefoldingchairco.com

www.thefoldingchairco.com
The Folding Chair Collective, LLC

I am Dr. Raven C. Major, Founder and owner of The Folding Chair Collective, LLC. Paying home to Shirley Chisholm’s call, “to bring a folding chair”, The Folding Chair Collective partners with organizations to create environments where belonging is in... Show more

Francisco Júnior é mestrando em Transformação Digital, graduado em Ciência da Computação e possui um MBA em Governança de TI. Com mais de 20 anos de experiência, é especialista em gestão de pessoas, transformação digital e inovação.

Detém certificações como ITIL Expert, ISO 20k Consultant Manager, Agile People Coach e Agile People Business Agility. Desde 2014, atua como Gerente de Atendimento na Rede Nacional de Ensino e Pesquisa (RNP).

Foi reconhecido como Melhor Gerente de PMO de 2024 pelo PMI, Profissional do Ano em 2023, e liderou a equipe premiada como a melhor em atendimento do Brasil em 2022, além de ser responsável pela equipe que desenvolveu o ChatBot em 2023, ambos reconhecidos pelo HDI.

Francisco Júnior é mestrando em Transformação Digital, graduado em Ciência da Computação e possui um MBA em Governança de TI. Com mais de 20 anos de experiência, é especialista em gestão de pessoas, transformação digital e inovação. Detém certific... Show more

Hands-on and executive cybersecurity practitioner. I’ve performed virtually every technical cybersecurity function and domain, managed teams, and supported business growth. While I continue to practice, I also focus on instructional design, development, and delivery. I am currently an adjunct professor teaching coding and special topics in cybersecurity and curate a knowledge library for a prominent regional public cybersecurity range.
My goal is to help strong technical practitioners develop governance capabilities, reflecting both sound science and evolving needs driven by regulation and AI governance. I enjoy teaching, public speaking, writing, and participating in cybersecurity events.
I’ve had the opportunity to deliver cybersecurity services globally across North America, the EU, Asia Pacific, and Australia. I studied at the University of Michigan, earned my MBA from Virginia Tech, and completed a brief residency at Cambridge University in the UK.

Hands-on and executive cybersecurity practitioner. I’ve performed virtually every technical cybersecurity function and domain, managed teams, and supported business growth. While I continue to practice, I also focus on instructional design, developme... Show more

Paola Gabriela Zaragoza Cardenales is a New York-barred attorney and academic specializing in intellectual property and corporate law. She holds an SJD from Indiana University, an LLM from UC Berkeley, and a JD-BBA from the University of Puerto Rico. She founded Zaragoza Cardenales LLC, offering legal services to entrepreneurs, and teaches at the University of Puerto Rico. 

Paola Gabriela Zaragoza Cardenales is a New York-barred attorney and academic specializing in intellectual property and corporate law. She holds an SJD from Indiana University, an LLM from UC Berkeley, and a JD-BBA from the University of Puerto Rico.... Show more

Sidd Ahmed is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of VDart Group, a global technology and talent solutions company built on the philosophy of people, purpose, and planet. With no traditional corporate background, Sidd founded VDart and scaled it into a USD 240+ million enterprise, employing 4,000+ professionals across 12 countries and serving industries including automotive, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and financial services.

As Group CEO, Sidd also leads multiple ventures, VDart Digital, VDart BPM, Vouch, BeRecognized, Hidden Curve, and Verified ID ,driving expansion across key global markets such as Japan, Australia, Malaysia, and the UAE.

Under his leadership, VDart has earned consistent global recognition, including eight consecutive appearances on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies in the U.S. list, NMSDC National Supplier of the Year (2023), Toyota Diverse Supplier of the Year, Great Place to Work® Certification, and the Atlanta Business Chronicle Pacesetter Award.

Sidd’s individual honors include "Trailblazer of the Year – GMSDC (2025), Most Admired CEO – Atlanta Business Chronicle (2025), Leader of Change – Times of India, and the Global Entrepreneur Award – CII-Yi.

Beyond business, Sidd is the founder of Project Sidd, through which he has inspired 150,000+ students in person and built a global digital community of over 3 million followers. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Georgia Education Foundation, contributing to education and workforce development initiatives.

A purpose-driven leader and compelling speaker, Sidd Ahmed is widely recognized for transforming business success into meaningful, scalable impact.
Note : He requires an honorarium for conference speaking engagements , negotiable based on scope and travel.

Sidd Ahmed is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of VDart Group, a global technology and talent solutions company built on the philosophy of people, purpose, and planet. With no traditional corporate background, Sidd founded VDart and scaled it in... Show more

Diplom-Soziologin und Betriebsinformatikerin
2002 - 2014: Consultant für die Bereitstellung von Websites und die Einführung von Intranets und IT-Trainerin
Seit April 2014 bei WBS GRUPPE als Digital Experience Managerin
- Projektteam Einführung eines Social Intranets
- Interne Kommunikation
- Projektleitung Einführung Microsoft 365 im Unternehmen
- Microsoft 365 Cloud Navigator
- SO SharePoint, Teams, Viva Engage u.a. M365-Tools

Diplom-Soziologin und Betriebsinformatikerin 2002 - 2014: Consultant für die Bereitstellung von Websites und die Einführung von Intranets und IT-Trainerin Seit April 2014 bei WBS GRUPPE als Digital Experience Managerin - Projektteam Einführung ein... Show more

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

Mohannad Tazi is an AI/ML Engineer specializing in LLMs, RAG systems, and autonomous AI agents. He builds practical AI solutions for education and productivity, contributes to open-source model evaluations, and regularly speaks at national and international tech events. He has trained and coached 500+ students in AI and Data Science, and focuses on making complex AI concepts accessible to Moroccan developers in Darija.

Mohannad Tazi is an AI/ML Engineer specializing in LLMs, RAG systems, and autonomous AI agents. He builds practical AI solutions for education and productivity, contributes to open-source model evaluations, and regularly speaks at national and intern... Show more

Necer Ashraf is an accomplished technology trainer, consultant, and facilitator with more than 14 years of experience spanning training, IT consulting, and business enablement. Renowned for his engaging style and ability to simplify complex concepts, he has successfully guided professionals, students, and organizations across India and the Middle East.

He began his career as an MCSE trainer and rose to become Domain Lead at the ICT Academy of Kerala, a role he will serve until January 2025. Alongside his leadership responsibilities, he continues to work as a trainer and consultant, specializing in Generative AI, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity, and Soft Skills.

Necer holds an MTech in Electronics and Communications and has earned numerous professional certifications, including:

Security System Engineer, Dubai Police Academy
Certified Blockchain Associate, Kerala Blockchain Academy
Diploma in Cyber Law & Internet Crime Investigation, Asian School of Cyber Law
Diploma in Life Skills, National Institute for Training and Educational Research

A strong believer in lifelong learning, Necer has also pursued advanced certifications in Full Stack Development, Ethereum Development, Cloud Computing, International Law on E-Commerce, Digital Forensics, Data Science, Analytics, and Gen AI Tools.

With a proven ability to merge technical expertise with life skills, Necer equips learners with practical, future-ready knowledge while inspiring them to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Necer Ashraf is an accomplished technology trainer, consultant, and facilitator with more than 14 years of experience spanning training, IT consulting, and business enablement. Renowned for his engaging style and ability to simplify complex concepts,... Show more

Tom Graham is an IT professional with over 30 years of experience, offering a broad blend of technical expertise and versatility. His career spans roles such as Developer, Architect, Scrum Master, Business Systems Analyst, Accounting Controller, and Human Resources Manager, reflecting adaptability across industries including healthcare, food, automotive, and oil.

An entrepreneurial spirit, Tom builds and manages multiple ventures alongside consulting. His portfolio includes software platforms for nonprofits, education, and event management, along with hands-on projects in IoT, AI, and disaster readiness.

Outside of technology, Tom is a storm chaser and community volunteer. He contributes to disaster relief efforts, teaches STEM outreach, and speaks at conferences, colleges, schools, and museums. His passions extend to vintage technology, restoring antique cars and radios, and advancing communication tools through amateur radio.

Tom is an active member of the Amateur Radio Relay League, Spotter Network, and Amateur Radio Emergency Services. Through speaking and consulting, he shares hard-earned lessons in resilience, innovation, and building solutions that matter.

Tom Graham is an IT professional with over 30 years of experience, offering a broad blend of technical expertise and versatility. His career spans roles such as Developer, Architect, Scrum Master, Business Systems Analyst, Accounting Controller, and ... Show more

Rashonda Harris is an executive advisor, speaker, and founder of Purple Sheep Consulting, with more than 25 years of experience in research administration, compliance, and institutional leadership.

She has served in senior and interim leadership roles across higher education and healthcare research environments, guiding organizations through audit readiness, operational redesign, workforce development, and complex change initiatives.

Rashonda’s work centers on strengthening systems that are often overlooked—departmental research administration, post-award operations, and leadership pipelines—while helping institutions reduce risk and build sustainable practices.

Known for her clear, practical, and human-centered approach, she speaks on leadership, compliance, mentorship, and the unseen dynamics that shape professional advancement. Rashonda brings both strategic rigor and lived experience to every room she enters.

Rashonda Harris is an executive advisor, speaker, and founder of Purple Sheep Consulting, with more than 25 years of experience in research administration, compliance, and institutional leadership. She has served in senior and interim leadership r... Show more

I am Aisha Rashid, a purpose-driven technologist blending code, creativity, and community impact. As the Founder and General Director of Tech Mtaani, I lead a grassroots tech movement committed to equipping underserved communities, especially girls and youth, with digital skills to power their futures. From building websites for CBOs to leading digital safety conversations, I sit at the intersection of innovation and inclusion.

With a strong focus on human-centered design, I help social impact organizations transform their presence and systems through intuitive tech solutions. I bring deep experience in web development, UI/UX design, and the strategic use of technology to amplify voices, drive equity, and foster resilience.

Let’s build tech that serves humanity — intentionally, ethically, and boldly.

I am Aisha Rashid, a purpose-driven technologist blending code, creativity, and community impact. As the Founder and General Director of Tech Mtaani, I lead a grassroots tech movement committed to equipping underserved communities, especially girls a... Show more

Prateek is a nationally recognized Cyber Defence Strategist and Cyber Forensics Expert with over 16 years of hands-on experience protecting digital ecosystems at scale. Currently serving as the Head of Operations for the Control and Command Centre & Cyber Forensics and Centre of Excellence at Maharashtra Cyber, he operates at the intersection of technology, governance, and national security, driving mission-critical cybersecurity initiatives for one of India’s largest states.

At the helm of ₹8.5 billion statewide cybersecurity transformation, Prateek directly oversees 75% of operational execution and resources, ensuring that strategy translates into real-world impact. His leadership spans the complete lifecycle of complex programs—from architecture design and risk analysis to multi-stakeholder coordination and compliance-driven delivery.

Renowned for his deep operational expertise, Prateek has led statewide cyber defence, safety, and forensic operations, assessed emerging advanced cyber threats, and various conducted search, seizure and arrest exercises to strengthen proactive security postures. His work consistently bridges the gap between cutting-edge cyber technology and ground-level enforcement, enabling faster, smarter, and more resilient responses to cybercrime. A defining milestone in his career is the conceptualization and execution of India’s first citizen-facing, fully automated cybercrime response system, powered by AI/ML and blockchain technologies—a pioneering initiative inaugurated and appreciated by the Hon’ble Chief
Minister of Maharashtra. This platform has redefined how citizens, law enforcement, and technology converge to combat cybercrime at scale.

For nearly two decades, Prateek has worked shoulder-to-shoulder with some of India’s most critical institutions, including the Maharashtra State Cyber Department, Indian Army Intelligence, UP Police Special Task Force, Special Investigation Teams, Income Tax
Department, and multiple Cyber Crime Police Stations. His influence extends beyond operations into mentorship and academia, where he actively shapes the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

A trusted media voice, Prateek is frequently invited as an expert commentator and panellist on leading national platforms such as NDTV, ET Now, News18, Zee News, Times Now, Times of India, India Today etc., offering clarity on complex cyber incidents, national security concerns, and emerging digital threats.

With a strong and long academic foundation spanning Engineering, Law, Data Protection and Social Work, Prateek brings a uniquely holistic perspective to the Cyber World - one that balances Technology, Law, Policy Making and most importantly Humanity.

As a speaker, Prateek is known for delivering insight-rich, real-world narratives drawn directly from frontline experience. His sessions challenge conventional thinking, inspire action, and equip audiences with practical frameworks to navigate today’s rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape.

Signature Speaking Topics
➢ Transforming cybersecurity at a national and state scale
➢ AI/ML-driven cybercrime detection and response
➢ Digital forensics in the age of sophisticated threat actors
➢ Building effective public–private cybersecurity partnerships
➢ Threat intelligence, red teaming, and proactive defence
➢ Cyber law, regulation, and governance in a digital-first world
➢ Entrepreneurship
➢ Digital Transformation

Prateek is a nationally recognized Cyber Defence Strategist and Cyber Forensics Expert with over 16 years of hands-on experience protecting digital ecosystems at scale. Currently serving as the Head of Operations for the Control and Command Centre & ... Show more

Jennifer Hyppolite is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, educator, and speaker specializing in culturally responsive and ethically grounded care for immigrant and second-generation communities. She works in private practice, where she supports individuals navigating identity development, attachment wounds, intergenerational trauma, and the psychological impact of migration and cultural transition. Her clinical work is informed by a deep understanding of how culture, power, and systemic inequities shape mental health experiences and access to care.

Jennifer Hyppolite is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, educator, and speaker specializing in culturally responsive and ethically grounded care for immigrant and second-generation communities. She works in private practice, where she supports indiv... Show more

Samuel Tolbert is a mindset strategist, leadership development expert, and founder of Elevated Thoughts Academy, where belief reconstruction meets real-world leadership transformation.

With a background spanning college athletics, military service in the U.S. Navy, organizational leadership, and executive coaching, Samuel brings a rare depth of lived experience to every stage he steps on. His journey—from losing a basketball scholarship, to global military service, to navigating homelessness and identity loss—became the catalyst for his life’s work: helping individuals and organizations close the gap between who they are and who they’re called to become.

Samuel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, with advanced training in leadership coaching, mentoring, and organizational change. He is also the author of Potential to Purpose: The Power of Intentional Thinking, a transformational work that explores how belief systems, identity, and internal alignment shape performance, culture, and outcomes.

Through proprietary frameworks such as the Thought Seeking Model (TSM) and the Move & SOAR (MV-SOAR) Model, Samuel equips leaders, students, and organizations to move beyond surface-level motivation into sustainable, identity-rooted growth. His work has been delivered across universities, schools, workforce programs, faith-based organizations, and corporate environments.

Samuel is known for a speaking style that is honest, structured, and disruptive—in the best way. He doesn’t inspire people to try harder; he helps them think differently so leadership, confidence, and clarity emerge naturally.

Samuel Tolbert is a mindset strategist, leadership development expert, and founder of Elevated Thoughts Academy, where belief reconstruction meets real-world leadership transformation. With a background spanning college athletics, military service... Show more

Nina Rodriguez is the founder, executive producer, and host of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a respected platform amplifying griever voices, expanding grief literacy, and offering meaningful pathways forward. Rooted in the belief that grief is not something to "fix", but something to tend, honor, and integrate, her work invites more honest conversations about loss and life after it.

The GRIEF AND LIGHT podcast has surpassed 100 episodes and has received multiple recognitions, including Ear Worthy’s Best Independent Podcasts of 2026 (“Best Life Lessons”), TalkDeath’s Best of 2025 (Readers’ Choice, Best Podcast), a Women Who Podcast Award (2025), and a Women Podcasters Award nomination (2026).

An experienced and sought-after speaker, Nina presents on grief, grief literacy, resilience, sibling loss, and post-traumatic growth. She has spoken at the University of Miami, the Latinas in Podcasting Virtual Summit (2025), and at events co-created with Reimagine, including a three-part series exploring sibling loss, grief and podcasting, and accessible pathways to grief support. Her talks are known for blending emotional depth with practical insight, cultural fluency, and an unwavering respect for lived experience.

Nina’s work is deeply personal. After the sudden and unexpected death of her only sibling, Yosef, in 2019, she launched GRIEF AND LIGHT in 2023 as an honest exploration of grief, meaning-making, and growth after loss. Today, she serves as a grief-informed guide and space-holder, committed to helping individuals and communities live more fully in the “and”, where grief and joy coexist.

She leads the Get Griefy Small Business Collective Podcasters Network, supporting independent creators in building sustainable, grief-informed platforms, and has hosted Reimagine’s Room for Grief gathering on multiple occasions. Nina is also a member of RedBoxMe, a collaborative platform with Cartier at the intersection of philanthropy, art, leadership, and culture, where she brings grief literacy as a lens for connection, empathy, and dialogue.

Nina is a regular contributor to Get Griefy Magazine, writes the Substack Resting Grief Face by Grief and Light, and is a co-author of Resilient A.F., Vol. 2: Stories of Resilience (2025). She is a graduate of Megan Devine’s Grief Care Professional Certificate Program.

In addition to her grief-focused work, Nina brings over a decade of experience in communications, strategy, and sales across fintech, real estate, and higher education, infusing professionalism, empathy, and clarity into every room she enters.

Based in Southeast Florida, Nina welcomes aligned speaking engagements, collaborations, and conversations, virtually and in person.

Learn more via griefandlight.com

Nina Rodriguez is the founder, executive producer, and host of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a respected platform amplifying griever voices, expanding grief literacy, and offering meaningful pathways forward. Rooted in the belief that grief is not something to "f... Show more

Nikki Porcher is a U.S. Air Force veteran, former public school teacher, and founder of Buy From A Black Woman, a national nonprofit that supports Black women business owners.

Through her work, Nikki has supported over 700 business owners, providing funding, training, and certification pathways that help them grow and hire within their communities. Her work has generated more than $6.2 million in documented economic impact and earned multiple Stevie Awards, including Woman of the Year Government or Nonprofit, Achievement in Diversity & Inclusion, Social Activist of the Year, and Event of the Year.

She is now running for Georgia Labor Commissioner to modernize the state's labor systems and ensure every worker in every county has access to opportunity, stability, and support.

Nikki Porcher is a U.S. Air Force veteran, former public school teacher, and founder of Buy From A Black Woman, a national nonprofit that supports Black women business owners. Through her work, Nikki has supported over 700 business owners, provid... Show more