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

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

Maria-Anastasia is a software engineer and a Microsoft IoT Most Valuable Professional (MVP). She currently works as a software engineer at BEWISE. She holds a Diploma in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras.

Furthermore, she is also a PhD candidate at the University of the Aegean, having completed a Master's Program in the Didactics of Mathematics, Science, and Information and Communication Technologies in Education: Interdisciplinary Approach. Her thesis focused on designing and implementing an interactive digital book for teaching mathematics through programming. Her research interests include teaching and learning for the development of Computational Thinking (CT), the pedagogy of Information Technology, and the integrated educational approach of IT and Mathematics for CT development.

Maria-Anastasia has received four awards in international robotics competitions with the Robotics Club UoP. She is a frequent speaker at national and international technology conferences, and is also a blogger and co-host on the IoTeaLive Livestream. With seven Microsoft Certifications, she is dedicated to continuous learning in technology. Additionally, she has volunteered in various labs, technology conferences, and environmental clubs, reflecting her commitment to environmental concerns.

Maria-Anastasia is a software engineer and a Microsoft IoT Most Valuable Professional (MVP). She currently works as a software engineer at BEWISE. She holds a Diploma in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras. Furthermo... 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

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the founder of Difela Hymns, she has digitized African hymns, enhancing accessibility and preserving cultural heritage for global audiences.
A passionate advocate for Women in STEM, Lebogang has been honoured with the Women in STEM Award and Inspiring50 South Africa Award. She is an active IEEE member and champions continuous learning, teamwork, and responsible AI adoption. Her work bridges cutting-edge technology with human impact, from mentoring developers to promoting innovation in education. Lebogang brings her expertise in AI tools like GitHub Copilot and insights on cognitive biases to inspire developers of all levels to code smarter and grow faster.

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the... 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

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

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

As the Lead IT Engineer at Georgia Institute of Technology's Office of International Education (OIE), Jimmy is at the forefront of technological innovation. He implements cutting-edge solutions to address complex challenges, from enhancing student experiences during the pandemic to identifying and mitigating cybersecurity threats. With a master’s degree in Cybersecurity from Georgia Tech, Jimmy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role.

As the Lead IT Engineer at Georgia Institute of Technology's Office of International Education (OIE), Jimmy is at the forefront of technological innovation. He implements cutting-edge solutions to address complex challenges, from enhancing student ex... Show more

Padre, agile coach, facilitador gráfico, amante de los juegos de mesa y en otra vida, desarrollador especializado en banca de inversión.

Los 2 primeros, definen el afán de evolución y aprendizaje, motor de una auto-motivación constante en cada reto que se me presenta.
Los 2 segundos, el alimento de mi curiosidad y ganas de pasármelo bien, haga lo que haga con la mirada en el proceso y no en el fin.
El último, el foco en el bien mayor, el gusto por el trabajo bien hecho y la cultura del trabajo duro para alcanzar un propósito común.

Tras 18 años de experiencia en consultoría, con clientes desde los extintos Banco Popular o Caja Madrid al Banco Santander o INSS, me siento profundamente ligado a la evolución de las personas, lo que me llevó a impartir talleres en diferentes ámbitos como en cliente final o en colegios, tanto con alumnos como con profesores, nutriéndome de diferentes maneras de enseñar y sobre todo, de aprender.

Padre, agile coach, facilitador gráfico, amante de los juegos de mesa y en otra vida, desarrollador especializado en banca de inversión. Los 2 primeros, definen el afán de evolución y aprendizaje, motor de una auto-motivación constante en cada ret... Show more

Dr. Misha Kouzeh is a TEDx speaker, distinguished university lecturer, social entrepreneur, consultant and podcast host and producer with expertise in digital marketing, social impact and sustainability across three continents. For the past decade, she has worked with organizations such as Coca-Cola, Unilever, the United Nations' World Health Organization as well as NASA, Stanford, University of Southern California (USC), University of California LA (UCLA), Cal State Universities and various nutrition technology and medical companies to leverage the power of marketing, social impact and education to drive positive change for purpose-driven brands. A recognized thought leader often referred to as "Digital Changemaker", Dr. Kouzeh has spoken on global stages for over 15 organizations, including Sustainable Brands, the premier global community of brand innovators who are shaping the future of sustainable commerce worldwide.

Dr. Kouzeh obtained a Doctorate degree in Education at University of Southern California (USC) and holds two Master of Science degrees from RSM Erasmus University and Wageningen University in Marketing Management and Nutrition & Health and a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration from Erasmus University in the Netherlands. Located in Los Angeles, she obtained two UCLAx Certificates in Marketing and Sustainability and a Harvard certificate in Higher Education. She also serves as a member of advisory board for UCLA Extension, member of advisory council for Harvard Business Review, certified Climate Reality Leader, and several community organizations empowering individuals from youth to C-Suite executives to change the world.

Dr. Misha Kouzeh is a TEDx speaker, distinguished university lecturer, social entrepreneur, consultant and podcast host and producer with expertise in digital marketing, social impact and sustainability across three continents. For the past decade, s... Show more

Damien House is a platform architect and Drupal developer with 20+ years of experience delivering complex technical outcomes across public-sector programs, enterprise environments, and open-source communities. His federal platform work spans USDA, the International Trade Administration (trade.gov), and NTIA, where he led migrations, modernized infrastructure, and built governed content systems at enterprise scale. He now focuses on applied AI — building and evaluating agentic workflows, retrieval-backed systems, and permission-aware architectures with Drupal as the center of gravity. He is currently developing Drupal modules for Azure-backed RAG and AI context management, and is based in Washington, DC.

Damien House is a platform architect and Drupal developer with 20+ years of experience delivering complex technical outcomes across public-sector programs, enterprise environments, and open-source communities. His federal platform work spans USDA, th... Show more

Senior Microsoft cloud security engineer with over 25 years of experience in enterprise IT, cybersecurity, and U.S. government environments. A U.S. Air Force veteran and retired member of the Illinois Air National Guard, with a strong focus on mentoring career transitions into cybersecurity. Experienced instructor and writer focused on practical, real-world security guidance. This will be his fifth year attending DEF CON.

Senior Microsoft cloud security engineer with over 25 years of experience in enterprise IT, cybersecurity, and U.S. government environments. A U.S. Air Force veteran and retired member of the Illinois Air National Guard, with a strong focus on mentor... Show more

Gursimar, a Consultant and Google Developer Educator, is dedicated to empowering individuals through Education, Mentorship, and Open-Source. As an author for freeCodeCamp and Top Contributor, he shares his expertise globally. He's a sought-after speaker at international conferences and universities, fostering a culture of learning. His passion lies in mentoring others, evident in his roles as a Section Leader for Code in Place and Google Cloud Facilitator.

Gursimar, a Consultant and Google Developer Educator, is dedicated to empowering individuals through Education, Mentorship, and Open-Source. As an author for freeCodeCamp and Top Contributor, he shares his expertise globally. He's a sought-after spea... Show more

Prior to becoming the Senior Assessment Strategist at Riverside Insights, Dr. Lisa Micou championed students’ social-emotional needs as the Intervention & Training Specialist for Social Emotional Learning in a large division in VA, as a nationally certified school psychologist at both the elementary and high school levels in suburban Chicago and VA, and as an SEL4VA Leadership Team Member. She received her master’s and doctorate in psychology at Northern Illinois University and earned her post-master’s certificate in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from the University of Richmond where she now serves as an adjunct professor.

Prior to becoming the Senior Assessment Strategist at Riverside Insights, Dr. Lisa Micou championed students’ social-emotional needs as the Intervention & Training Specialist for Social Emotional Learning in a large division in VA, as a nationally ce... Show more

Dr. Seema Sidhu is a transformative district leader and the 2026 AUHSD ACSA Central Office Administrator of the Year. Currently serving as the Director of Learning and Development for the Anaheim Union High School District, Dr. Sidhu oversees the strategic "braiding" of millions in state and federal programs to move the needle on equity and justice. A former English teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal, her career is defined by a refusal to accept the status quo of top-down governance. Dr. Sidhu is recognized for bringing innovation to compliance, dismantling administrative silos to institutionalize authentic democratic school governance. Her leadership in operationalizing the "Voice to Action" Equity Transformation Cycle has resulted in historic academic gains for English Learners and at-promise youth. A recipient of the Woman of Distinction Award from the California State Senate, Dr. Sidhu is a sought-after speaker on AI implementation, strategic planning, and the power of shared leadership. She holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne and is dedicated to equipping leaders with the tools to transform school systems and level up through student voice and agency.

Dr. Seema Sidhu is a transformative district leader and the 2026 AUHSD ACSA Central Office Administrator of the Year. Currently serving as the Director of Learning and Development for the Anaheim Union High School District, Dr. Sidhu oversees the str... Show more

Experienced manager, coordinating advisor, and architect with a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. Besides, I PhD in Enterprise Architecture (EA) and digital transformation from the Open University, Faculty Management, Science & Technology (MST).
Skilled in Team Management and Coordination, Enterprise Architecture (EA), EA Management, IT Governance, and Digital Strategy. A strong business development professional with a Master's degree in Business Process Management & IT from Open University.

Experienced manager, coordinating advisor, and architect with a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. Besides, I PhD in Enterprise Architecture (EA) and digital transformation from the Open University, Faculty Man... Show more

Edward Bezerra is the CEO and Founder of CertiVend, where he helps organizations strengthen cybersecurity, vendor risk management, AI governance, and third-party assurance through practical, business-focused security strategies.

With more than 30 years of experience in information technology and cybersecurity, Edward has held executive leadership positions for Fortune 500 organizations, including serving in infrastructure, cybersecurity, IT risk, and executive leadership roles with organizations such as AIG, Herbalife, K. Hovnanian, and Party City. Throughout his career, he has led global teams, managed multimillion-dollar technology and cybersecurity budgets, and developed enterprise security, governance, and risk management programs supporting complex business environments.

Edward is also the Founder of CertiVend Academy, where he works to bridge the gap between certification training and real-world cybersecurity experience by developing hands-on learning programs focused on practical skills that employers expect.

A frequent speaker, educator, and industry mentor, Edward enjoys sharing practical insights on cybersecurity leadership, governance, vendor risk management, AI governance, cloud security, data governance, career development, and building effective security programs. His presentations emphasize actionable guidance, real-world lessons learned, and strategies that security professionals can immediately apply within their own organizations.

Edward holds numerous industry certifications, including CCISO, ITIL Foundation, Microsoft, Citrix, and other technical certifications, and is currently completing his Doctor of Computer Science (Cybersecurity), with research focused on optimizing cybersecurity resource allocation within enterprise data centers.

Edward Bezerra is the CEO and Founder of CertiVend, where he helps organizations strengthen cybersecurity, vendor risk management, AI governance, and third-party assurance through practical, business-focused security strategies. With more than 30 ... Show more

Dr. Tareq Genedy is a leadership, governance and organizational excellence expert with more than 25 years of professional experience across executive education, consulting and university teaching. He has delivered leadership, performance, governance, customer experience and artificial intelligence programmes for public- and private-sector organizations across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

He has taught MBA and undergraduate learners at several universities in the UAE and combines academic insight with practical organizational experience. His work focuses on building institutional readiness, responsible autonomy, accountability and sustainable performance.

Dr. Tareq is the author of *How Excellence Builds Autonomy*, which explores how governance, trust, capability and organizational maturity enable responsible empowerment. He is also the Founder and CEO of iSkills Consultancy FZE LLC in Dubai.

Dr. Tareq Genedy is a leadership, governance and organizational excellence expert with more than 25 years of professional experience across executive education, consulting and university teaching. He has delivered leadership, performance, governance,... Show more

Lubna Jabeen Ahmed is an international educational leader and Careers & University Guidance specialist with over 17 years of experience in the UAE. She specializes in student progression, curriculum design, and university guidance. Passionate about preparing young adults for the future workforce, Lubna focuses on building independent thinking, adaptive agility, and the human-centric skills students need to step confidently onto the global stage.

Lubna Jabeen Ahmed is an international educational leader and Careers & University Guidance specialist with over 17 years of experience in the UAE. She specializes in student progression, curriculum design, and university guidance. Passionate about p... Show more

Alicia Kidd, MPA, is an AI strategist and founder of CoCo Noir Labs, an Oakland-based consulting firm focused on AI strategy, governance, and security. Over nearly 20 years, she has led enterprise system implementations and organization-wide training programs across healthcare, biopharmaceutical, higher-education, and public-sector organizations. In every one, data integrity, compliance, and user adoption were non-negotiable. She specializes in the change-management side of technical programs: turning policies and tools into habits that hold. She holds an M.P.A. from California State University, East Bay, and an AI Consultant Certification.

Alicia Kidd, MPA, is an AI strategist and founder of CoCo Noir Labs, an Oakland-based consulting firm focused on AI strategy, governance, and security. Over nearly 20 years, she has led enterprise system implementations and organization-wide training... Show more