I’ve always believed that real change starts from the ground up. The problems we see around us—children deprived of education, youth struggling for opportunities, voices going unheard—won’t fix themselves. If we don’t step up, who will?

I still remember the evening that changed something in me. I was in 6th grade, out for dinner with my family, when I saw a boy—probably even younger than me—cleaning tables, picking up leftover food from the ground, and later, washing dishes in the open in chilling winter, all by himself. I just...didn't really knew at that time that this is also something that happens in this world. We were both just kids, but our worlds couldn’t have been more different. I was sitting comfortably with my family, talking about school and dreams, while he was working late into the night, carrying a weight no child should have to bear.

That night, I couldn’t shake the thought—why is life so unfair for some? And more importantly, why do we just accept it as normal? I had always been drawn to debates and discussions about India’s future, but that was the moment I knew—I want to do something real. Not just talk, but act. So that kids like him get the education they deserve, the life they deserve. Because this? This is not the India our freedom fighters fought for.

Today, I’m on a journey to understand problems at their root and work towards real solutions. Whether it’s through policy making, leadership, or on-the-ground activism, I want to play my part in shaping an India where no child is left behind, and every young person has a chance to thrive.

I’m always open to discussions, opportunities, and collaborations that align with this vision. If you share the same fire for policy, governance, youth activism, or leadership, let’s connect and build something meaningful together.

I’ve always believed that real change starts from the ground up. The problems we see around us—children deprived of education, youth struggling for opportunities, voices going unheard—won’t fix themselves. If we don’t step up, who will? I still re... Show more

Audrey P. Willis is a US Obama Leader, technologist, inclusion advocate, and entrepreneur that has raised capital and scaled businesses, including CodeCrew, which is focused on creating diversity and inclusion in computing through education, workforce development, and advocacy in computer science. Audrey is not only a co-founder, but she serves as the Program Director for CodeCrew’s Code School. Audrey has a passion for talent development and serves on the boards of CodeCrew, and is the Executive Board President at LITE Memphis. The BBC has recognized her globally during their “100 Women” series, documenting her in “Young, geeky and Black in Memphis" and nationally by Prudential Insurance, "The State of Us," highlighting her entrepreneurial contributions to making Memphis one of the cities with the highest rate of female business ownership.

Audrey P. Willis is a US Obama Leader, technologist, inclusion advocate, and entrepreneur that has raised capital and scaled businesses, including CodeCrew, which is focused on creating diversity and inclusion in computing through education, workforc... Show more

Meet Daisy Mayorga, a passionate technologist and new co-founder of yüda, a company dedicated to Empowering Equity in Emerging Technologies. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from California State University, Monterey Bay, and experience as a Google Developer Group organizer and Women Techmakers Ambassador, Daisy has been a champion for inclusion and diversity in technology, working tirelessly to create a more equitable community. Daisy has also worked on award-winning technology projects, including the development of Spottr, a location scouting app for photographers. With a focus on creating a more equitable and just future through technology, Daisy is excited to join yüda to drive change and empower underrepresented communities.

Meet Daisy Mayorga, a passionate technologist and new co-founder of yüda, a company dedicated to Empowering Equity in Emerging Technologies. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from California State University, Monterey Bay, and exp... Show more

Biography for Sessionize Profile

🚀 Innovator | Entrepreneur | Product Leader | AI Enthusiast

With a proven track record of transforming bold ideas into successful products, I am a passionate entrepreneur and product manager with a unique blend of expertise in design, technology, and business management. Currently spearheading AI product development at ImmverseAI, I bring a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship, startup innovations, and building cutting-edge solutions.

🏆 Awards & Achievements:
I’ve earned 350+ awards and recognitions, including global accolades like the Ericsson Innovation Award and the Microsoft Imagine Cup, and represented India at prestigious global platforms such as the Dubai Expo 2020. My entrepreneurial journey has seen me win national and international competitions, including the KPMG Ideation Challenge and the TiE University Global Pitch Competition.

📚 Academic Excellence:
An Academic Gold Medalist, I’ve published three tech research papers and hold titles like the "Achievers Award" and "Scholarship Holder for PG Diploma".

🌐 Global Exposure & Impact:
From the Smart India Hackathon to ideation challenges by Microsoft, KPMG, and Ericsson, I’ve consistently showcased my ability to innovate, execute, and deliver impactful solutions.

🎓 Learning & Growth:
I’ve actively engaged in enriching learning cohorts, including the "DAAD Innovation Week", "IECT Summer School", and "iB Hubs Startup School", which have shaped my approach to innovation and entrepreneurship.

💡 Core Interests & Expertise:
My heart lies at the intersection of entrepreneurship, startup innovations, design thinking, business strategy, and artificial intelligence. I’m dedicated to empowering the next generation of innovators through engaging sessions, hands-on insights, and actionable strategies.

🔗 Why Choose Me as a Speaker?
I bring energy, insights, and real-world stories from my journey of winning global competitions, launching tech startups, and leading AI-driven innovations. Whether it’s about navigating the startup ecosystem, designing impactful products, or unlocking the potential of AI, my sessions are tailored to inspire, inform, and ignite creativity in audiences.

Let’s innovate, inspire, and impact—together!

Biography for Sessionize Profile 🚀 Innovator | Entrepreneur | Product Leader | AI Enthusiast With a proven track record of transforming bold ideas into successful products, I am a passionate entrepreneur and product manager with a unique ble... Show more

Ricky Tucker is a Senior UX/UI designer for Louisiana's Office of Technology Services. In addition to contributing to the state's Design System, Pelican, he works daily with state agencies to develop digital products with the goal of improving the lives of Louisiana residents. Ricky holds certifications from Meta and Google, as was well as the W3Cx Introduction to Web Accessibility certificate.

Ricky Tucker is a Senior UX/UI designer for Louisiana's Office of Technology Services. In addition to contributing to the state's Design System, Pelican, he works daily with state agencies to develop digital products with the goal of improving the li... Show more

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

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

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, 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

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 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

Ghassan Benchiheb is a digital strategist, AI enthusiast, and social entrepreneur with over a decade of experience at the intersection of technology, public policy, and social impact. He is the Founder and Managing Director of Social Plus, a digital consultancy that helps brands and organizations across Morocco and beyond harness the power of social media and AI to grow, engage, and drive real-world results.

Ghassan is also the founder of Tahaqaq, Morocco’s first fact-checking platform. His leadership in this space earned him national recognition and the Dominique Benbrahim Alumni Impact Award, presented by the U.S. Embassy and the Moroccan Web Awards.

In addition to his work in digital innovation, Ghassan has served in high-level public policy roles, including as Advisor to the Minister of Environment, Advisor to the Minister of Labor, and as part of the team of the former Head of Government in Morocco. These experiences deepened his understanding of how policy, technology, and communication can work together to shape better futures.

Ghassan is also the president of the DIAA Foundation, an initiative that empowers youth and communities through digital literacy, civic engagement, and sustainable development. As an alumnus of the U.S. Department of State's International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), he has exchanged insights with global tech leaders at Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft, and more.

Recognized as one of Morocco’s most influential digital voices, Ghassan speaks regularly about AI, digital communication/Marketing, Fact-Checking and the future of media in the Age of AI—bringing a unique perspective that blends strategy, storytelling, and civic responsibility.

Ghassan Benchiheb is a digital strategist, AI enthusiast, and social entrepreneur with over a decade of experience at the intersection of technology, public policy, and social impact. He is the Founder and Managing Director of Social Plus, a digital ... Show more

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

Ingeniero de Sistemas con más de 12 años de experiencia en banca, especializado en innovación tecnológica, automatización y liderazgo en transformación digital. Actualmente es Gerente Adjunto de Estrategia Tecnológica e Innovación en el BCP y fundador de Techspira, una comunidad que inspira a profesionales a integrar la tecnología con propósito, educación y ética. También enseña y comparte conocimientos sobre IA, habilidades del futuro y liderazgo digital.

Ingeniero de Sistemas con más de 12 años de experiencia en banca, especializado en innovación tecnológica, automatización y liderazgo en transformación digital. Actualmente es Gerente Adjunto de Estrategia Tecnológica e Innovación en el BCP y fundado... Show more

Amanda Kollmorgan is the Deputy State IT Director for the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs. Amanda is passionate about developing people-first teams, mentoring future leaders, and fostering innovation through collaborative leadership. With nearly 20 years of military and civilian experience, she brings a well-rounded expertise in cybersecurity and IT strategy.

Amanda Kollmorgan is the Deputy State IT Director for the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs. Amanda is passionate about developing people-first teams, mentoring future leaders, and fostering innovation through collaborative leadership. With ne... Show more

Sergej Gil is currently an Expert for LXD Facilitation and Research-Related Teaching and Learning at the University of Cologne. There, he is part of the Innovation Platform for Future-Relevant Competencies. Prior to that, he was E-Learning Manager at the Kolping University of Applied Sciences for Health and Social Affairs.

Sergej Gil is currently an Expert for LXD Facilitation and Research-Related Teaching and Learning at the University of Cologne. There, he is part of the Innovation Platform for Future-Relevant Competencies. Prior to that, he was E-Learning Manager at... Show more

Presenter Biography:
Matt is a certified project management and change management professional with over 20 years of experience managing people, projects, and teams in various industry sectors that include higher education, major retail, technology, and manufacturing. In his current role as Senior Manager of Business Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University, Matt manages a team of professional business consultants responsible for leading enterprise change efforts. He oversees the Business Innovation Office practices, operational processes, and reporting. Additionally, Matt is responsible for Carnegie Mellon University’s major IT projects program. You may recognize Matt, he was on the closing panel at the 2023 conference and facilitated sessions in 2024 and 2025.

Presenter Biography: Matt is a certified project management and change management professional with over 20 years of experience managing people, projects, and teams in various industry sectors that include higher education, major retail, technology,... Show more

Alin ZAMFIROIU finished his PhD in Economic Informatics in 2014 at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania. He is currently an Associate Professor at Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics in Bucharest University of Economic Studies and a Senior Researcher at “National Institute for Research & Development in Informatics, Bucharest”. In 2025 he served as a Visiting Professor in Cybersecurity at Utah Tech University.

Alin ZAMFIROIU finished his PhD in Economic Informatics in 2014 at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania. He is currently an Associate Professor at Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics in Bucharest University of Economi... Show more

Cybersecurity Researcher | Co-Founder @ ZenAegis | Gold Startup Scout @ Microsoft for Startups | Gold Microsoft Student Ambassador | EHNS UG @ Coventry, UK | President MLSC NIBM | Secretary of IEEE-NIBM (24-25)

Cybersecurity Researcher | Co-Founder @ ZenAegis | Gold Startup Scout @ Microsoft for Startups | Gold Microsoft Student Ambassador | EHNS UG @ Coventry, UK | President MLSC NIBM | Secretary of IEEE-NIBM (24-25) Show more

Komes is a highly experienced leader in Data and AI in Thailand with over 15 years of expertise. He is also recently recognized a Microsoft MVP in Responsible AI. Komes has played key roles as Principal AI Evangelist at KBTG, part of Kasikorn Bank, one of the top banks in Southeast Asia, focusing on data transformation and AI strategy. He also committed to raising the country's understanding of responsible AI usage and development. By teaching at reputable business schools and speaking at public events, he shares vital knowledge to improve AI literacy and promote the responsible use of AI. Since returning to Bangkok, he's been leveraging data and AI not only to enhance business profitability but also educate thousands of Thai people to boosting productivity with AI.

Komes is a highly experienced leader in Data and AI in Thailand with over 15 years of expertise. He is also recently recognized a Microsoft MVP in Responsible AI. Komes has played key roles as Principal AI Evangelist at KBTG, part of Kasikorn Bank, ... Show more

Angie is a multidisciplinary educator, director, and wellness innovator whose work brings together neuroscience, awareness, and the performing arts through Learning HOW to Age™. This curriculum-based program integrates research on brain health with experiential practices from acting, voice, and movement, offering engaging, skill-based approaches to lifelong vitality and presence.

She serves as administrator for the Expressive Avenues Wellness YouTube channel, where she shares lessons designed to support active, independent aging. Angie holds an MFA from the University of Louisville and brings decades of experience in education, performing, directing, and media production. Angie leads experiential breakout sessions at aging conferences like the National Council on Aging, sharing results from a two-year implementation of Learning HOW to Age™ with independent living adults averaging 81 years old. She will present “Learning HOW to Age™: An Experiential, Intergenerational Program—Skills for Every Generation” for the first time at the Mid-Atlantic Intergenerational Conference, expanding the curriculum into an actionable intergenerational model across the lifespan.

A survivor of a catastrophic car accident, Angie chronicles her journey through coma and back into consciousness in her memoir Emerging: From Coma to Presence. With honesty, humor, and candor, she reflects on what she encountered in that liminal space and later with a numinous bearded iris—offering a deeply human perspective on resilience, awareness, and what it means to truly be present.

Angie is a multidisciplinary educator, director, and wellness innovator whose work brings together neuroscience, awareness, and the performing arts through Learning HOW to Age™. This curriculum-based program integrates research on brain health with e... Show more

Kari Adams is a recognized leader in inclusive education, systems change, and equity-focused leadership. As the Inclusive Leadership Center Director at Chapman University’s Thompson Policy Institute, Kari leads the Coalition of Inclusive School Leaders, partnering with school administrators to develop inclusive systems that center students with disabilities, particularly those most marginalized. With nearly two decades of experience, Kari’s work has focused on dismantling barriers, building educator capacity, and improving outcomes for diverse learners. Her previous role as a special education coordinator at Newport-Mesa Unified School District involved district-wide initiatives in inclusion, literacy, and leadership development. Kari’s expertise lies in aligning systems for meaningful change, fostering safe and supportive school environments, and amplifying the voices of students often pushed to the margins. She currently serves as President of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 17, continuing her mission to advance equitable opportunities for all students.

Kari Adams is a recognized leader in inclusive education, systems change, and equity-focused leadership. As the Inclusive Leadership Center Director at Chapman University’s Thompson Policy Institute, Kari leads the Coalition of Inclusive School Leade... Show more

In 2024, I co-founded Get A Financial Life NYC, the first money curriculum specifically designed for the 700,000 students in the NYC public school system. We're now working with 50 city schools to deliver lessons on topics from budgeting to work to investing. And through creative collaboration with individual schools, districts, and key leaders in the NYC Department of Education, we've delivered stipends to students, teachers, and community members.

Along the way, I've learned and observed a ton about how kids interact with money. The fact that they don't see physical cash, and what this means for awareness of their spending; the fact that gambling is often equated with investing; the fact that convenience reigns supreme, even when it runs counter to best financial practices. As one high school junior put it: "When it comes to money, all I have is Cash App and my pocket.” I love discussing topics such as:
- Are young girls or young boys better with money, and is social media to blame?
- What is the actual cost of convenience, and is it worth it?
- What's really behind the rise of youth gambling, prediction markets, the creator economy, and crypto?

At the same time, I've become aware of the growing need for AI/digital literacy. I explore questions in my writing related to tech and society, such as:
- What does it means when your "escape" starts taking up more time than the thing—i.e., real life—that you're escaping from?
- What are the impacts of how technology enables and even fuels rampant misinformation, from white lies (like men lying about their height on dating apps) to the Big Lie?
- What role should AI play in the classroom, if any?

In 2024, I co-founded Get A Financial Life NYC, the first money curriculum specifically designed for the 700,000 students in the NYC public school system. We're now working with 50 city schools to deliver lessons on topics from budgeting to work to i... Show more

Funcionario de Orden y Seguridad Pública con 17 años de servicio en Carabineros de Chile, desempeñándose durante 9 años como Encargado de Ciberseguridad en la Dirección TIC.
Integrante de diversas mesas interinstitucionales vinculadas a la gestión de la seguridad pública, proyectos de vigilancia y control, y políticas de Estado.
Ingeniero en Informática y Ciberseguridad, Licenciado en Educación, Diplomado en Seguridad de la Información, DevSecOps y Ciberseguridad en el Sector Público.
Certificado como Hacker Ético y Arquitecto Cloud AWS.
Magíster en Tecnologías de Información en la Universidad de Chile. (Candidato a Magister)
Estudiante de Doctorado en Ingeniería y Ciencias con la Industria en la Pontificia Universidad Católica.
Ha liderado proyectos de integración de inteligencia artificial en entornos críticos, orientados a la prevención del delito y la protección de infraestructura pública.

Funcionario de Orden y Seguridad Pública con 17 años de servicio en Carabineros de Chile, desempeñándose durante 9 años como Encargado de Ciberseguridad en la Dirección TIC. Integrante de diversas mesas interinstitucionales vinculadas a la gestión d... Show more

Anja Lorenz ist Instructional Designerin am Institut für Interaktive Systeme an der Technischen Hochschule Lübeck. Nach ihrem Studium der Medieninformatik an der Technischen Universität Dresden setzte sie ihre wissenschaftlichen Schwerpunkte in den Bereichen E-Learning, Social Media und Open Education. Seit 2013 entwickelt und erforscht sie MOOCs in unterschiedlichen Formaten und engagiert sich für OER und Open Access. Sie hofft, dass die Internetkompetenz im Wissenschaftsbetrieb bald dafür sorgt, dass sie keine Vitas mehr schreiben muss.

Anja Lorenz ist Instructional Designerin am Institut für Interaktive Systeme an der Technischen Hochschule Lübeck. Nach ihrem Studium der Medieninformatik an der Technischen Universität Dresden setzte sie ihre wissenschaftlichen Schwerpunkte in den B... Show more

Aleja es una profesional multidisciplinaria con formación en desarrollo web y emprendimiento en startups. En sus 5 años de experiencia, ha demostrado su capacidad para adaptarse a nuevos desafíos y liderar equipos de alto rendimiento desde Growth Marketing hasta Inteligencia Artificial. Como mentora y conferencista, comparte su conocimiento para empoderar a emprendedores tecnológicos y acelerar la adopción de la IA. Es una activa líder y embajadora de comunidades como GOYN Bogotá, AWS Women Colombia, Women TechMakers y Notion Colombia; también disfruta de viajar, crear contenido y conectar con su comunidad.

Aleja es una profesional multidisciplinaria con formación en desarrollo web y emprendimiento en startups. En sus 5 años de experiencia, ha demostrado su capacidad para adaptarse a nuevos desafíos y liderar equipos de alto rendimiento desde Growth Mar... Show more

She studied artificial intelligence and subsequently worked as a pre-service/in-service teacher trainer and as an expert on pedagogical innovations in computer science education for Národný projekt IT Akadémia - vzdelávanie pre 21. storočie. She is currently a computer science teacher and school ICT coordinator at the School of Applied Arts in Košice, where she heads the Laboratory of Intelligent and Interactive Technologies in Art. She is the author of several methodological publications, teaches courses for computer science teachers, and also works as a teacher at the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice.

She studied artificial intelligence and subsequently worked as a pre-service/in-service teacher trainer and as an expert on pedagogical innovations in computer science education for Národný projekt IT Akadémia - vzdelávanie pre 21. storočie. She is c... Show more

Ben Linders is an Independent Consultant in Agile, Lean, Quality, and Continuous Improvement, based in The Netherlands. Author of Getting Value out of Agile Retrospectives, Waardevolle Agile Retrospectives, What Drives Quality and Continuous Improvement. Creator of the Agile Self-assessment Game.

As an adviser, coach and trainer he helps organizations with deploying effective software development and management practices. He focuses on continuous improvement, collaboration and communication, and professional development, to deliver business value to customers.

Ben is an active member of networks on Agile, Lean, and Quality, and a well-known speaker and author. He shares his experiences in a bilingual blog (Dutch and English), as an editor for Culture and Methods at InfoQ, and as an expert in communities like Computable, Quora, DZone, and TechTarget. Follow him on twitter: @BenLinders.

For an overview of the presentation and mini-workshops that I have given, visit https://www.benlinders.com/presentations/

Ben Linders is an Independent Consultant in Agile, Lean, Quality, and Continuous Improvement, based in The Netherlands. Author of Getting Value out of Agile Retrospectives, Waardevolle Agile Retrospectives, What Drives Quality and Continuous Improvem... Show more

Named the 2025 ACSA Special Education Administrator of the Year, Dr. Julie Hong is an award-winning educational leader, author, and systems designer with over 21 years of experience across general, special, and alternative education. She currently serves as Director of Instructional Support, Innovation, and Competitive Advantage at the Riverside County Office of Education, where she leads systems that unify Alternative Education, Special Education, and career pathways through student-centered, future-ready design. She is the author of Toward Pedagogy-First AI Integration: A Conceptual Framework Grounded in Relevance to Rigor Flow and Pedagogy in the Loop. Her work advances a human-centered approach to AI integration that aligns with UNESCO’s emphasis on ethical, inclusive, and human-centered AI in education. She has led transformative change across three school districts and two county offices, building instructional coherence in diverse settings. Her work centers on AI Integrated Learning, Project-Based Learning, Universal Design for Learning, and Design Thinking. Dr. Hong also serves as Vice President of Membership for ACSA Region XIX, Past President-Elect of the SWAA Charter, board member for Mosaic Legacy, and CAAPLE mentor to aspiring administrators. She is known for Sparking Joy in Education and reimagining schools through purpose, people, and possibility.

Named the 2025 ACSA Special Education Administrator of the Year, Dr. Julie Hong is an award-winning educational leader, author, and systems designer with over 21 years of experience across general, special, and alternative education. She currently se... Show more

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au fil du temps D’un naturel pragmatique et ayant besoin d’être dans l’action, j’accompagne mes enfants, tous deux ayant des troubles DYS, avec mes pratiques agile depuis maintenant 10 ans Eux me permettent également d’enrichir mes méthodes de mise en place de la méthode Agile en entreprise.

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au f... Show more