I am a seasoned and certified Business Analyst with a distinguished career spanning numerous industries and countries. I have successfully spearheaded complex technical projects and delivered full project lifecycles for diverse system implementations. My passion for enhancing user experiences and optimizing processes through rigorous product research and business analysis has driven my career. I possess a proven track record in digital transformation, requirements engineering, data management, and process improvement across various industries and countries, including the United Kingdom, Turkey, Nigeria, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates. My expertise extends to requirements engineering, business process improvement, SAAS, CRM, ERP systems, and driving organizational change within the retail, finance, education, e-commerce, healthcare, and information technology sectors.
As the Founder of the David Odepidan Business Analysis Community (DOBAC), a non-profit organization, I have fostered a global network of business analysis professionals. Our community comprises members from Canada, Ireland, Malawi, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, South Africa, the United States, and other countries.
In addition to my community leadership, I have served as a peer reviewer for the IIBA Head Office.
He is a full member of the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), a Member of the British Computer Society (MBCS) The Chartered Institute for IT, and He is based in Manchester, United Kingdom.

I am a seasoned and certified Business Analyst with a distinguished career spanning numerous industries and countries. I have successfully spearheaded complex technical projects and delivered full project lifecycles for diverse system implementations... Show more

Derek M. Scheller Jr. – Cybersecurity Leader | Veteran | Advocate for Empowerment Through Security

Derek M. Scheller Jr. is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 13 years of experience spanning offensive security, cyber defense, and strategic consulting. A U.S. Army and Air National Guard veteran, Derek now serves as the Practice Manager of Security Engineering at Stratascale, where he leads high-performing teams in delivering cutting-edge cloud and hybrid security solutions.

His career journey—from tactical military operations to corporate cybersecurity leadership—has shaped his mission-driven approach to technology, leadership, and resilience. Derek holds top industry certifications, including CISSP, OSCP, and multiple SANS designations (GREM, GPYC, GCIH, GCED, GSEC), and specializes in vulnerability management, red/purple teaming, SIEM optimization, and security program development.

Beyond his technical expertise, Derek is a passionate educator and mentor. He hosts two widely respected podcasts—"Security Happy Hour" and "Walk With Me"—aimed at guiding newcomers into cybersecurity and inspiring personal growth. He also collaborates with schools to bring cybersecurity education to the next generation.

A compelling and relatable speaker, Derek brings authenticity, practical insight, and a deep sense of purpose to every engagement. Whether he's discussing threat detection, burnout in security teams, or the human side of cyber leadership, Derek connects with audiences through his real-world experience and passion for making security a force for good.

Derek M. Scheller Jr. – Cybersecurity Leader | Veteran | Advocate for Empowerment Through Security Derek M. Scheller Jr. is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 13 years of experience spanning offensive security, cyber defense, and stra... Show more

Rakhi Shastri is a dynamic Transformational Speaker, award-winning Toastmasters champion, life coach, and author of Loud Echo of Silent Perseverance. With over two decades of experience in leadership and personal development, she empowers individuals to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace resilience, and cultivate success-driven thinking.

Her journey—one of perseverance, loss, and profound transformation—led to a defining realization: True empowerment begins within. As a dedicated single mother and accomplished business owner, Rakhi spent years building her career, only to face an unexpected turning point in 2021 that challenged everything she knew. In losing her business, trust in others, and belief in herself, she uncovered the most powerful lesson of all—To take care of others, you must be able to take care of you first, and success is not about doing more, but about being yourself.

Determined to rebuild, Rakhi mastered mind-transforming techniques that restored her confidence and propelled her to achieve more success than ever before. Now, she shares these strategies, along with the most critical life lessons she learned over two decades, with individuals ready for meaningful growth, guiding them to release old patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and realign their mindset with their purpose.

As an empathetic leader and relationship strategist, Rakhi bridges the gap between personal fulfillment and career success, helping others step into their highest potential. Through her transformational approach, she teaches resilience, belief-building, and self-discovery—showing that when we elevate our inner world, life itself becomes effortless.

"If there’s one thing that can change everything around you, it’s to focus on YOU."

With her unique insights, storytelling, and unwavering commitment to growth, Rakhi inspires individuals to step into their power, embrace their purpose, and create lasting impact in every aspect of life.

Rakhi Shastri is a dynamic Transformational Speaker, award-winning Toastmasters champion, life coach, and author of Loud Echo of Silent Perseverance. With over two decades of experience in leadership and personal development, she empowers individuals... Show more

Valentina Vasilov is certified research integrity trainer, personcentered-integrative coach (DACB, GwG, RTC) as well as facilitator in areas of career development and communication. She has many years of professional experience in doctoral education as well as working experience in diversity management in the academic field. As a member of the GC Plus Team she offers counselling to early career researchers and designs programmes and trainings for the development of transferable skills.

Valentina Vasilov is certified research integrity trainer, personcentered-integrative coach (DACB, GwG, RTC) as well as facilitator in areas of career development and communication. She has many years of professional experience in doctoral education ... Show more

Dan Lewis is a Digital Transformation Leader with 20+ years of experience in IT operations and digital solutions. With over a decade of consulting experience and seven years leading digital transformation in local government, Dan has driven innovation and operational excellence for diverse organizations. At the City of Seattle, he modernized various services, enhancing collaboration and automating workflows for a workforce of over 10,000 employees.

Dan’s expertise lies in leading impactful teams, crafting transformative strategies, and delivering innovative technology solutions that align with business goals. He speaks on topics such as Digital Transformation Strategy, Leadership in Technology, Microsoft 365 and Copilot, Emerging Technology Adoption, IT Governance Best Practices, and AI Governance.

Passionate about helping customers solve real-world challenges through technology, Dan combines deep technical expertise with a focus on positive outcomes for people. When he’s not transforming organizations, Dan enjoys gaming, hosting digital transformation talks, and connecting with audiences on Twitch and LinkedIn.

Dan Lewis is a Digital Transformation Leader with 20+ years of experience in IT operations and digital solutions. With over a decade of consulting experience and seven years leading digital transformation in local government, Dan has driven innovatio... Show more

Aruna Gilbert serves as Chief Program and Policy Officer at the Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County, where she leads strategic program development and policy initiatives that impact early childhood education across the region. With her unique blend of economic analysis, communications expertise, and social work practice, Aruna brings a comprehensive perspective to addressing complex challenges in early learning systems.
Aruna holds a Master of Social Work from Barry University and a Bachelor’s degree with concentrations in Economics, Communications, and Journalism. This interdisciplinary background enables her to approach early childhood policy through multiple lenses—understanding both the economic implications of early learning investments and the communication strategies needed to build support for children and families.
In her role at the Early Learning Coalition, Aruna oversees program implementation, policy analysis, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the early learning infrastructure in Palm Beach County. Her work focuses on ensuring equitable access to quality early education programs and developing evidence-based approaches to support children’s developmental outcomes.
Aruna is passionate about translating research into actionable policy and sharing insights on how communities can build more effective early learning systems that serve all children and families.

Aruna Gilbert serves as Chief Program and Policy Officer at the Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County, where she leads strategic program development and policy initiatives that impact early childhood education across the region. With her uniq... Show more

goingforbrooke is the founder of Trafficking Free Tomorrow where she writes anti-human trafficking software In Rust. By day, she codes innovative solutions and by night she streams her coding adventures on Twitch.

goingforbrooke is the founder of Trafficking Free Tomorrow where she writes anti-human trafficking software In Rust. By day, she codes innovative solutions and by night she streams her coding adventures on Twitch. Show more

Apasionado de la agilidad, creyente del manifiesto ágil como guía para llevar a los equipos a entregar software funcionando, de valor, con calidad, en tiempos más cortos.
Inicie la comunidad Codeá Como Nunca.
Programador .Net durante 10 años y los últimos 6 años Scrum Master y Consultor Ágil.

Apasionado de la agilidad, creyente del manifiesto ágil como guía para llevar a los equipos a entregar software funcionando, de valor, con calidad, en tiempos más cortos. Inicie la comunidad Codeá Como Nunca. Programador .Net durante 10 años y lo... Show more

Dr. Poonam Yadav is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of York, UK, and a Visiting Researcher at the University of Cambridge’s Computer Laboratory, UK. Her research interests include the Internet of Things (IoT), computer networking, wireless and mobile networks (including 5G/6G), and machine learning for sensor systems. She is also the Chair and a founding member of the ACM Women UK Chapter.

Dr. Poonam Yadav is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of York, UK, and a Visiting Researcher at the University of Cambridge’s Computer Laboratory, UK. Her research interests include the Internet of Things ... Show more

Paul is an award-winning professional writer & speaker who’s been consulted on the topic of AI & Big Data by the popular TV show “60 Minutes”. Paul’s been named to dozens of global “Experts to Follow” & “Influencers” lists, including Analytics Insight’s “Top 100 Global AI & Big Data Influencers”. Paul’s written 20 books (including “The AI Ladder” and 3 ‘for Dummies’ titles) and over 360 articles during his accidental 26-year career as a data nerd. Currently, Paul is writing an O’Reilly book on Hybrid Cloud. At IBM, Paul leads from the front, owning accountability and strategic direction in a ‘tech years are like dog years’ world for the entire IBM Technology Unit’s (all IBM software & hardware) sales, tech sales, and partner ecosystem learning journeys and upskilling programs.

You’ll find Paul taking a very active role around Women in Technology (he’s a seated board member for Women 2.0, who he became involved with after his tweet was mentioned on the TV show, “The View”), general workplace inclusivity (completing an intensive D&I certificate at Cornell University), and Coding for Veterans. In addition, Paul sits on the world recognized Masters of Management Analytics & AI program boards at Canada’s prestigious Queen’s University.

Paul is an award-winning professional writer & speaker who’s been consulted on the topic of AI & Big Data by the popular TV show “60 Minutes”. Paul’s been named to dozens of global “Experts to Follow” & “Influencers” lists, including Analytics Insigh... Show more

Janet has been working within the Microsoft Dynamics ego system for over 24 years. Both within Microsoft , Partner networks & Consultancy. She is one of the leading change practitioners in Dynamics & Power Platform, she knows what works & the effort it requires to be successful.

Janet is one of the founding members of the power platform community & known for mentoring & supporting up & coming talent. Janet is passionate about ensuring a safe & equal opportunities for women within the IT industry.
She is known for being straight talking – you have be warned.

Janet has been working within the Microsoft Dynamics ego system for over 24 years. Both within Microsoft , Partner networks & Consultancy. She is one of the leading change practitioners in Dynamics & Power Platform, she knows what works & the effort... Show more

Mahdi Shariff is the Co-founder of Humble AI, a platform that empowers non-technical teams to build, manage, and launch their own AI-enabled tools — without code or complexity. At Humble, Mahdi is driven by a belief that AI should augment human collaboration, not replace it. His mission is to make technology more accessible, inclusive, and human-centred — ensuring the future of work is built not just for people, but by them.

Prior to founding Humble, Mahdi served as VP at a Soros-backed venture, helping global companies and startups scale through data, automation, and high-performing technical teams. He was formerly Chief Strategy Officer at Sunteng, a big data startup that became a leader in programmatic advertising in China, and previously worked in investment banking in London, specialising in AI, CRM, and ad tech M&A.

A Forbes Asia “30 Under 30” awardee, Mahdi is also an angel investor and advisor to Slush, and has spoken at leading global events including Slush, Innovfest, and the London Business School China Forum.

Mahdi speaks on topics at the intersection of AI, education, and entrepreneurship — with a focus on practical implementation, inclusive access, and real-world impact. His recent talks cover areas such as:
• AI in Education – empowering both students and teachers through accessible, human-centric AI tools
• AI in Business – from automation to augmentation, how AI is reshaping workflows and decision-making
• Creating Custom AI Assistants – building tailored tools that support real teams, without code
• Data Security & Ethics in AI – navigating implementation with responsibility and transparency
• Practical AI Frameworks – step-by-step approaches for deploying AI tools in real-world environments
• AI for SMBs – unlocking the power of AI for small teams with limited technical capacity
• Careers in the AI Era – how AI is creating new paths for builders, creatives, and knowledge workers
• No-Code AI Systems – enabling innovation without needing to write a single line of code

Mahdi Shariff is the Co-founder of Humble AI, a platform that empowers non-technical teams to build, manage, and launch their own AI-enabled tools — without code or complexity. At Humble, Mahdi is driven by a belief that AI should augment human colla... Show more

This is not a fictional thriller — it’s a real-life journey from covert operative to global truth-teller. In this raw and revelatory session, Bradley “Hawk” Steyn unpacks his transformation from apartheid-era intelligence operative to a whistleblower who exposed criminality and extremism within powerful state systems.
Using real-world case studies, never-before-shared stories, and visual documentation from his covert years, Bradley offers a deep-dive into the psychological, moral, and systemic toll of standing up against corruption from the inside.
He’ll walk the audience through key turning points: how intelligence was manipulated to target innocent civilians, the moment he chose truth over complicity, and the personal cost of betrayal, surveillance, and exile.
This is a high-impact, high-integrity talk for organizations navigating crisis, ethical leadership, and institutional reform.
Why it matters: In a world where disinformation and institutional mistrust are skyrocketing, this session delivers a rare inside-out perspective on how integrity — even in the darkest corridors of power — can be a catalyst for reform.

This is not a fictional thriller — it’s a real-life journey from covert operative to global truth-teller. In this raw and revelatory session, Bradley “Hawk” Steyn unpacks his transformation from apartheid-era intelligence operative to a whistleblower... Show more

Licenciado en Economía Social | Docente Universitario | Mentor en IA aplicada a la Educación y Emprendimientos

Con más de 20 años en la Economía Social y Solidaria, se ha dedicado a la educación, el desarrollo comunitario y la incorporación de tecnologías para la inclusión social. Cuenta con una Licenciatura, Maestría y Tecnicatura en Economía Social, un Diplomado en IA para Docentes y formación como Formador de Formadores.

Es Director y creador de la Licenciatura en Economía Social en la UNLZ, donde también enseña la materia Trabajo y Sociedad. Diseña y dirige cursos, talleres y mentorías sobre IA para estudiantes, docentes, investigadores y emprendedores, adaptados a realidades organizacionales.

Desde la RED THIA impulsa la integración ética y accesible de la IA en América Latina, apoyando a pymes, cooperativas y organizaciones sociales. Su enfoque humanista promueve una IA al servicio de la justicia social, la inclusión digital y el cuidado de la vida y el planeta.

Licenciado en Economía Social | Docente Universitario | Mentor en IA aplicada a la Educación y Emprendimientos Con más de 20 años en la Economía Social y Solidaria, se ha dedicado a la educación, el desarrollo comunitario y la incorporación de tec... Show more

A Learning Experience Designer by profession and Tech Ethicist by passion. Savneet actively promotes the development of Human centered AI. As a recognized thought leader in the Responsible AI space, she regularly shares her insights through articles, podcasts, and speaking engagements.

A Learning Experience Designer by profession and Tech Ethicist by passion. Savneet actively promotes the development of Human centered AI. As a recognized thought leader in the Responsible AI space, she regularly shares her insights through articles,... Show more

With over a decade of experience in meaningful community engagement, particularly with underserved and historically marginalized populations, Cresielda has dedicated her career to bridging systemic gaps and empowering communities to drive holistic, sustainable change. Drawing on her deep roots in community organizing and advocacy, she serves as a trusted advisor, helping to design inclusive, community-led policies while equipping people with the tools and inspiration to lead. Grounded in the belief that healing is essential to meaningful transformation, Cresielda addresses the toll of systemic oppression—acknowledging how trauma, burnout, and emotional exhaustion can erode resilience and obstruct progress. Her whole-person and systems approach fosters stronger, healthier communities built on mutual support, collective growth, and lasting impact.

With over a decade of experience in meaningful community engagement, particularly with underserved and historically marginalized populations, Cresielda has dedicated her career to bridging systemic gaps and empowering communities to drive holistic, s... Show more

Graduate in political sciences and business administration. Joined the Key Skills Center at Kiel University in 2007, teaching entrepreneurship as a key competence. 2015 Takeover of the management and leadership of ZfS key competences. 2022 Founder and Spokesperson of the Future Skills expert committee in the German Society for Key Competencies. Since 2021 Advisory board member of the SAGSAGA (Serious Games Association). Since 2023 leader of the task 2.3 in the european university alliance SEA-EU on microcredentials (for Future Skills and Sustainability). Member of the advisory board of the Future Skills Journey of the Stifterverband in 2024. Co-leader of the Task Force Future Skills Framework 2030 at the Stifterverband in 2025.

Graduate in political sciences and business administration. Joined the Key Skills Center at Kiel University in 2007, teaching entrepreneurship as a key competence. 2015 Takeover of the management and leadership of ZfS key competences. 2022 Founder an... Show more

Chelsea Tate, a distinguished Women TechMakers ambassador and former Googler, has been honored as a 40 Under 40 recipient and holds multiple Google Career Certificates. She is dedicated to empowering women in technology, aiding them in building confidence and strengthening their mental resilience to help them succeed in their professional endeavors.

Chelsea Tate, a distinguished Women TechMakers ambassador and former Googler, has been honored as a 40 Under 40 recipient and holds multiple Google Career Certificates. She is dedicated to empowering women in technology, aiding them in building confi... Show more

Rabbi Ranon Teller is a devoted and dynamic spiritual leader who combines his passion for Jewish music, education, and community with creative approaches to worship and congregational life. His television writing and music background has given him a unique ability to lead through innovative worship services and educational programming. As the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom in Houston, he has revolutionized prayer services, fostering strong membership engagement and forming deep connections within local and broader Jewish communities.

Raised in a suburban Detroit home, Rabbi Ranon grew up immersed in the practices and values of Orthodox Judaism as the second of three children. His early education occurred at Orthodox Day School, followed by Skokie Yeshiva High School outside Chicago. After completing high school, he moved to Israel, where he studied at an Orthodox yeshiva and dove into advanced Talmudic study, Jewish philosophy, theology, and sacred text. However, as he progressed in his studies, he began questioning the Orthodox practices he had grown up with, leading him to seek a deeper understanding of Judaism that would better align with his evolving spiritual identity.

1996, Rabbi Teller returned to Israel to explore alternative Jewish spirituality and practice. He became particularly drawn to contemporary Chasidic music and the teachings of Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, which helped him connect with Jewish traditions in new and meaningful ways. During this time, he audited classes at a Conservative rabbinical school in Jerusalem and participated in an intensive Jewish education program. These experiences led him to a profound realization that his calling was to pursue Jewish leadership, prompting him to return to the United States in 1998 to further his studies and become a rabbi.

Upon returning to the United States, Rabbi Ranon enrolled at the University of Judaism (now the American Jewish University) in Los Angeles, where he focused on Jewish education and rabbinic ordination. His dedication to his studies and growing love for Jewish learning were evident as he excelled in his coursework, culminating in an Honorary Doctorate from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in 2022. Exceptional achievements, including the Fingerhut School of Education Award for Outstanding Achievement and the Ziegler School Award for Excellence in Talmudic Studies, marked his academic journey.

In 2002, Ranon Teller was ordained as a rabbi and began his rabbinic career as the associate rabbi at Congregation B'nai Amoona in St. Louis, where he served until 2005. During his time there, the congregation faced a period of senior leadership turnover, and he was called upon to provide vision and stability. He successfully engaged young families and introduced innovative, interactive prayer services, further solidifying his role as a dynamic and compassionate leader. This experience helped shape his approach to leadership, which would prove invaluable in the future.

In 2005, Rabbi Teller moved to Houston to become the senior rabbi at Congregation Brith Shalom. His soulful, personable, and diplomatic approach to leadership quickly led to congregational growth and revitalization. During his two decades at Brith Shalom, he introduced innovative musical prayer services that united congregants and community members, making services more engaging and spiritually enriching. He also played a key role in securing a $1.5 million endowment for the synagogue and a $5 million contribution toward a building renovation campaign, helping ensure the synagogue's long-term stability and success.

Rabbi Ranon's impact extends far beyond the walls of his synagogue. He is deeply involved in the Houston Jewish community, actively collaborating with and volunteering for organizations such as the Houston Food Bank, SEARCH Homeless Services, and the Food and Faith Collaborative. In addition, he works closely with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Alexander Jewish Family Service to support those in need, further reflecting his commitment to tikkun olam, the Jewish principle of repairing the world.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Rabbi Ranon Teller enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests that further enrich his life. He continues to play blues and folk guitar and remains passionate about song-leading, bringing joy and spirituality through music. Reading non-fiction, particularly biographies and books on human nature, is another of his favorite activities. He also enjoys juggling, magic, and backpacking, often finding spiritual fulfillment in the natural world. He has written for Kolot magazine, the Jewish Herald-Voice, and the Jewish Journal. He co-authored the book, Peaceful Bones, sharing his insights and experiences with a broader audience.

Rabbi Ranon Teller is a devoted and dynamic spiritual leader who combines his passion for Jewish music, education, and community with creative approaches to worship and congregational life. His television writing and music background has given him a ... Show more

Lorraine Williams is a credentialed coach, facilitator, and resilience speaker for Vidl Work, a culture transformation firm dedicated to optimizing organizational performance. Lorraine is committed to guiding others to connect with themselves, find purpose and to stand in their worth. With her powerful presence she motivates audiences to embrace change. She has received many accolades including the honor of standing on the TEDx stage to share how to implement personal power and achieve high-impact solutions. She is certified through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the College of Executive Coaching and The Institute of Neuroleadership.

With an extensive career in IT and leadership, Lorraine’s career spans government and corporate America. During her previous role as Executive Director of Information Technology for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office in the state of Florida, Lorraine established a Leadership Coaching program within her agency that was endorsed and promoted by the Sheriff. This program is based on leadership values, principles and emotional intelligence. Noteworthy professional endeavors in the United States more broadly include serving in guidance roles for the Department of Defense and Lockheed Martin. Globally, Lorraine has worked with employer groups in the UK and Germany, offering coaching, mentoring and facilitation services. As a proven team builder, Lorraine’s technique focuses on process, performance optimization, and most importantly, leadership development. She feels strongly that leadership is the cornerstone to success, regardless of one’s station in life.

Lorraine Williams is a credentialed coach, facilitator, and resilience speaker for Vidl Work, a culture transformation firm dedicated to optimizing organizational performance. Lorraine is committed to guiding others to connect with themselves, find p... Show more

seit 2023: Vertretung der Professur für Quantitative Forschungsmethoden im Kontext Sozialer Arbeit an der Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
seit 2017: Leitung des Methodenzentrums Sozialwissenschaften an der Goethe Universität Frankfurt
2014 – 2016: Referentin für Qualitätssicherung in Studium und Lehre an der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt
2013: Abschluss des Promotionsverfahrens (magna cum laude)
2012 – 2014: Hochschulreferentin für Evaluation an der Pädagogischen Hochschule Heidelberg
2010 – 2012: Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin an der Universität Hamburg
2010: Gastdozentur an der Universität Nowgorod (RU)
2008 – 2011: Lehrkraft für besondere Aufgaben an der Universität Hildesheim
2007 – 2008: Mitarbeiterin beim Caritasverband Mannheim
2003 – 2007: Studium der Erziehungswissenschaft und Soziologie an der Universität Mannheim (Abschluss Magistra Artium)

seit 2023: Vertretung der Professur für Quantitative Forschungsmethoden im Kontext Sozialer Arbeit an der Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences seit 2017: Leitung des Methodenzentrums Sozialwissenschaften an der Goethe Universität Frankfurt 2014... Show more

I’m Mariama Adekomaya, the Founder and CEO of Pembroke Admissions, where our mission is to democratize access to college admissions consulting. As a proud Brown University alumna, I started my career as an Admissions Officer at Brown, specializing in dual degree medical programs. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with students across the globe—from East Asia and the UAE to the USA and Canada.

Originally from The Gambia, I moved to the USA at the age of five. My own educational journey, coupled with the incredible mentorship I received, deeply influenced my decision to launch Pembroke Admissions. I understand how transformative guidance and support can be, which is why I’m passionate about breaking down financial barriers for students.

My work is driven by a belief that no student should be held back by financial
constraints, and I’m dedicated to leveling
the playing field in the college admissions
process

I’m Mariama Adekomaya, the Founder and CEO of Pembroke Admissions, where our mission is to democratize access to college admissions consulting. As a proud Brown University alumna, I started my career as an Admissions Officer at Brown, specializing in... Show more

Professur für Informatik

Senior-Fellowship der DATEV-Stiftung Zukunft

Professur für Informatik Senior-Fellowship der DATEV-Stiftung Zukunft Show more

Stefanie Adams is a facilitator, keynote speaker, university instructor, former elected official, wife, and mother; for those who know her best, she is "Cheerleader Stef", which personifies her personality and leadership style. She has over 20 years experience leading and training in corporate, non-profit, and educational settings. She earned an M.Ed. in Multicultural Education in 2008.

In early 2020, Stefanie launched WNY People Development. In her role as Chief Empowerment Officer, she provides leadership training, coaching, and keynote presentations to grow the next generation of leaders. Her main areas of expertise are building high impact teams, first time/front line manager development, and engaging multigenerational workforces with a focus on millennial and Gen Z employees. Her facilitation style is interactive, full of movement, laughter, learning, and occasionally includes pom poms.

Stefanie has worked as an organizational consultant for Johns Hopkins University School of Education (Baltimore, MD), and served as the Director of Customized Training for Cape Fear Community College (Wilmington, NC). Before starting her own company, she led the corporate training function at CastleBranch (Wilmington, NC).

Through WNY People Development, Stefanie has developed and facilitated leadership solutions for clients in varied industries including construction, healthcare, higher education, hospitality, human resources, manufacturing, municipalities, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and non-profit management. Her clients include Association Executives of NC, City of Wilmington (NC), Embassy Suites, HC Beauty, New Hanover County Schools, NC Realtors Association, NC SHRM, Port City Java, Resilience, UNCW, and Waffle House.

Her professional affiliations include SHRM, the Lower Cape Fear Human Resource Association, the Wilmington (NC) Chamber of Commerce, and Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern NC and she was nominated as a YWCA Woman of Achievement in 2022 for her service as School Board Chair during the covid pandemic.

In her personal life, Stefanie's days are fueled by coffee, chocolate, yoga, new challenges, and building relationships; her passions are developing others, serving the community, the beach, Philly sports, travel, managing the chaos that comes with life, and kitchen dancing.

Stefanie Adams is a facilitator, keynote speaker, university instructor, former elected official, wife, and mother; for those who know her best, she is "Cheerleader Stef", which personifies her personality and leadership style. She has over 20 year... Show more

Carrie Randolph is a CISSP-certified cybersecurity leader and international speaker with fourteen years of experience. Prior to joining the private sector, Carrie was the CIO for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, with over a decade of public service.

Carrie has her Bachelors of Technology from Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Information Assurance and Digital Forensics, and she is a co-founder of BSides Oklahoma and a founding member of Techlahoma.

Carrie Randolph is a CISSP-certified cybersecurity leader and international speaker with fourteen years of experience. Prior to joining the private sector, Carrie was the CIO for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, with over a decade of publi... Show more

Colette Grail is a Big Data advocate and author of The Fallacy of Laying Flat - the Fuzzy, Hairy Truth about Data Decision Making. She authors work on emerging technology, data concepts, leadership, and inspiration. Her 25+ years in the US Navy include five major commands working policy, strategy and program management. She currently works for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) leading strategy development for the Emergency Communications Division. Her mission is reporting on the opportunities and challenges of the Big Data world and how Big Data is solving Big Problems.

Colette Grail is a Big Data advocate and author of The Fallacy of Laying Flat - the Fuzzy, Hairy Truth about Data Decision Making. She authors work on emerging technology, data concepts, leadership, and inspiration. Her 25+ years in the US Navy inc... Show more

Scientist and teacher by vocation
I arrived in the Power Platform world 4 years ago and I was captured by it. I believe in continuous improvement and learning.

"To excellence you have to go and knock on the door, it is an everyday job".

Scientist and teacher by vocation I arrived in the Power Platform world 4 years ago and I was captured by it. I believe in continuous improvement and learning. "To excellence you have to go and knock on the door, it is an everyday job". Show more

Engaging and funny, performance strategist and workplace satisfaction leader Elle O'Flaherty delivers game-changing messages that interweave real-world examples and cutting-edge research. Elle's presentations are full of insights, highly interactive, and fun. She helps clients tailor their professional life to their unique brains, allowing their talents and genius to shine. Following a 17+ year legal career and certifications in ICF-accredited executive, ADHD, and career coaching, Elle founded Interlace Solutions, a coaching firm that taps into clients' potential to accelerate their achievement. Her team coaches executives, executive teams, and professionals with a subspecialty in ADHD coaching.

Elle is a sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator who consistently draws large crowds. Her goal is for participants to walk away with meaty new learning for practical application. Elle has been published in national and international outlets and speaks on productivity, professional motivation, creating ADHD-friendly environments, and innovations to support mental health, among other topics. Elle is a subject matter expert on international agricultural trade, which doesn’t come up a lot. She lives in Washington, DC, with her dog Penny, the most beautiful dog in the world. And a great family, but the dog is hard to beat.

Engaging and funny, performance strategist and workplace satisfaction leader Elle O'Flaherty delivers game-changing messages that interweave real-world examples and cutting-edge research. Elle's presentations are full of insights, highly interactive,... Show more

Debra Cleaver is the Founder & CEO of VoteAmerica, a national nonpartisan nonprofit organization which conducts data-informed campaigns to register and turnout the 100+ million Americans traditionally excluded by partisan political outreach efforts. A serial founder whose previous organizations have included Vote.org (2016), ElectionDay.org (2018), Long Distance Voter (2008), and Swing the State (2004), she's been working at the intersection of technology and democracy since 2004, several years before “civic tech” and “online organization” entered the cultural lexicon. Her various organizations have collectively registered over 4 million people, conducted mass marketing campaigns reaching tens of millions, and pioneered tactics now considered industry standards. She is an alumna of Pomona College and Y Combinator, a former Draper Richards Kaplan Fellow for Social Entrepreneurship. She frequently speaks on issues impacting voter turnout and digital innovations to increase access to the polls, with appearances at events such as SXSW, Netroots Nation, Harvard Law, the Harvard School of Government, University of Michigan, SUMMIT Ideas Festival, Lesbians Who Tech, and Accelerate Good Global.

Debra Cleaver is the Founder & CEO of VoteAmerica, a national nonpartisan nonprofit organization which conducts data-informed campaigns to register and turnout the 100+ million Americans traditionally excluded by partisan political outreach efforts. ... Show more

Inspired by the celebration of Postdoc Appreciation Week in the USA and the UK, the PAW Germany Coordination Team, consisting of coordinators from Hanover and Munich, played a key role in launching PAW Germany in 2022, a nationwide initiative to celebrate the incredible work of postdocs. By bringing together researchers, research institutions, postdoc coordinators and research administrators from across Germany, the PAW Coordination Team helps to create a special program of events and a social media campaign each year to celebrate the contribution of postdocs to research and academic life, and to provide a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences. Postdoc Appreciation Week Germany aims to recognise and empower postdocs to excel in their careers, drive scientific progress, make meaningful contributions to their fields, and ultimately shape a better future for science and society.

Inspired by the celebration of Postdoc Appreciation Week in the USA and the UK, the PAW Germany Coordination Team, consisting of coordinators from Hanover and Munich, played a key role in launching PAW Germany in 2022, a nationwide initiative to cele... Show more