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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CEO | Palestrante | Head de Agilidade & Inovação | Professor | Conselheiro.

CEO | Palestrante | Head de Agilidade & Inovação | Professor | Conselheiro. Show more

Stella Ihenacho is a dynamic speaker and multifaceted professional who shares her expertise on global platforms, including TEDx, covering topics such as Agile, Project Management, Leadership, DEI Advocacy, and Career Development. Her goal in every engagement is to create transformation and lasting change in her diverse audiences.

Stella is the Co-Founder and Agile Faculty Lead at NSTAR Technologies, an ed-tech work force development institution in Atlanta, GA, where she has transforms the learning landscape for students/professionals through innovative training programs. Her work has enabled countless professionals to advance their careers, contributing to their communities and the local economy.

With over a decade of experience in Agile coaching, Stella leads enterprise agile transformations in the Data and AI organization at Red Hat, the world’s leading provider of open-source solutions. She spearheads initiatives that foster agility, innovation, and collaboration unlocking new possibilities for data-driven customer experiences. Her efforts enhance Red Hat’s products and services, contributing to the company’s ongoing business transformation

Beyond her professional roles, Stella is deeply committed to social and community impact. Passionate about immigrant advocacy, she plays a key role in the African Immigrant Collective, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating the ecosystem and infrastructures for African immigrants to thrive in the diaspora. Additionally, she is involved in diverse-empowered networks such as Women Doing It Afraid, Women of Project Management and Women in Software Engineering. These initiatives align with her mission to create inclusive spaces and advocating for underrepresented groups and championing change.

As a distinct voice in the workplace, she is dedicated to championing the causes where women, immigrants, and business leaders can achieve their fullest potential. Her vision is to uplift diverse voices in the tech industry and beyond and empower individuals to take ownership of their careers and lives.

Stella Ihenacho is a dynamic speaker and multifaceted professional who shares her expertise on global platforms, including TEDx, covering topics such as Agile, Project Management, Leadership, DEI Advocacy, and Career Development. Her goal in every en... Show more

I am a former elementary special education teacher and currently serve as an Early Childhood Assessment Coordinator. With a deep passion for early intervention, I am dedicated to screening children for potential learning difficulties and ensuring they receive the necessary support and resources. As a proud parent of two young children, I understand the importance of early education and advocacy, both personally and professionally.

I am a former elementary special education teacher and currently serve as an Early Childhood Assessment Coordinator. With a deep passion for early intervention, I am dedicated to screening children for potential learning difficulties and ensuring the... Show more

Benoît is a highly responsible and accomplished IT Project Lead Manager, with extensive experience as an Application Manager. For over a decade, he has played a pivotal role in the development and optimization of IT information systems at the CPAS of the City of Brussels (Public Social Welfare Institution).

Benoît has successfully spearheaded critical strategic projects, such as Decision making processes information system, Widespread implementation of business process description, Implementation of demand management systems, migration to new technologies of outdated systems.

Key Skills:
- Agile project management
- Processes improvements analysis & automation
- Functional and Technical analysis
- Trainer & Coach
- System administration

With a solid background in IT and Public Management processes, Benoît diligently ensures continuous technological watch to foresee and meet emerging needs, demonstrating his proactive approach and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Benoît is a highly responsible and accomplished IT Project Lead Manager, with extensive experience as an Application Manager. For over a decade, he has played a pivotal role in the development and optimization of IT information systems at the CPAS of... Show more

Sam Kabert is a successful serial entrepreneur turned spiritual seeker. He is known for his ability to put together teams to execute the vision. He is the Author of the #1 Bestselling book SOUL/Life Balance, Founder of SwagWorx & Clone Yourself University, and hosts the Soul Seekr Podcast. Despite all of Sam’s ventures and business success and being recognized as one of Silicon Valley’s “40 Under 40” at just age 31 years old and “Rising Star” in the promotional products industry, he soon recognized that something was missing. Sam realized that despite his success, he was unhappy. This understanding catapulted him on his most recent exploration of his life’s purpose.

He is on a mission to bridge the gap between the way we conduct ourselves in business, mindful practices, how we communicate with everyone, especially oneself, all through prioritizing psychological safety and mental health first.

Sam Kabert is a successful serial entrepreneur turned spiritual seeker. He is known for his ability to put together teams to execute the vision. He is the Author of the #1 Bestselling book SOUL/Life Balance, Founder of SwagWorx & Clone Yourself Unive... Show more

Lydia Sampson is the Assistant Director at the Morrill Memorial Library in Norwood, MA. She holds an MLS from Simmons University, and a Master of Science In Management. Outside of her professional life, Lydia is a foster cat mom, an avid adventure traveler, and a true crime enthusiast.

Lydia Sampson is the Assistant Director at the Morrill Memorial Library in Norwood, MA. She holds an MLS from Simmons University, and a Master of Science In Management. Outside of her professional life, Lydia is a foster cat mom, an avid adventure tr... Show more

Olakunle Soji-Oke is a dynamic program, operations, and partnerships manager with over five years of experience in driving impactful initiatives across sectors like FMCG, EdTech, and social impact. Currently a key leader at The Afara Initiative, he designs and executes programs aimed at equipping underserved Nigerian graduates with the skills, networks, and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s workforce. His work empowers young professionals through career development, leadership training, and strategic corporate collaborations.

Olakunle's background includes building transformative partnerships with global organizations such as HP and Microsoft, creating pathways that connect young talent to meaningful opportunities. At Afara, he has led career accelerator programs, mentorship initiatives, and projects focused on workforce transformation across Africa. His work at AIESEC further highlights his expertise in organizational development, managing education cycles, recruitment campaigns, and fostering partnerships that drove significant revenue growth. During his time as Human Resource and Organizational Development Manager at AIESEC in Nigeria, Olakunle revitalized B2B partnerships, increasing revenue from zero to over $10,000 in 24 months while spearheading recruitment plans and team performance management.

In addition, he has led strategic projects at DevCareer, including the DevCareer Tech Program and West Africa's first-ever Web5 Hackathon, where he engaged over 2,000 participants and helped launch initiatives for the next generation of tech talent.

Olakunle’s comprehensive experience across project management, partnerships, and leadership development underscores his commitment to empowering young people, transforming the workforce, and driving social impact. Passionate about youth empowerment, workforce development, and the future of work, he frequently speaks on topics related to career development, leadership, and corporate social responsibility.

Olakunle Soji-Oke is a dynamic program, operations, and partnerships manager with over five years of experience in driving impactful initiatives across sectors like FMCG, EdTech, and social impact. Currently a key leader at The Afara Initiative, he d... Show more

Imani Barton is the Head of Strategic Partnerships for the Chief Innovation Office for Northrop Grumman, a leader in aerospace & defense technology. She leads the strategy and execution of emerging technology partnerships as well as validating innovative solutions enterprise wide.

Imani has held a number of positions since joining the company in 2017. As the Strategic Partnerships PM she is responsible for identifying emerging technology companies that serve the needs of Northrop Grumman world wide. She’s holds pride in developing the technical scouting process that advances the Innovation Ecosystem of the enterprise and positions NG as a cutting edge technology company.
Before her role in the CIO, Imani served as the Global Supply Chain Process Excellence Manager for the Strategic Space Systems Division; the largest space business in the world at that time. She was responsible for integrating compliance, process improvement, and digital transformation training efforts to establish a more efficient, end-to-end experience for Global Supply Chain Operations.
Prior to this, she served as an Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead for the Australia region for the Mission Systems Sector. Her efforts of advising strategically for business development led Northrop Grumman to improve their global ranking to ‘The Top 5 Most Successful Companies' in a global contract.
Imani’s initial introduction to Northrop Grumman was through the Mission Systems Pathways Program where she rotated in various supply chain roles and ultimately exited to an international program as a Supply Chain Planning lead in the then Aerospace Sector.
Imani has also served as the Chairman of the African American Task Group in South Bay where she oversaw the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) strategy, workforce development, and leadership development to build a culture of belonging at Northrop. Her work assisted Northrop Grumman in earning ‘Top 50 Company for Diversity” throughout aerospace and defense.
Imani is a proud HBCU graduate, she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and leadership from Oakwood University. She has also completed a program in Entrepreneurial Studies at Cornell University and a host of leadership-development programs. She holds certifications as a Scaled Agile Consultant and Practitioner.
Imani is a passionate Thought Leader looking to drive innovation, cultivate partnerships, and champion diversity one strategic move at a time.

Imani Barton is the Head of Strategic Partnerships for the Chief Innovation Office for Northrop Grumman, a leader in aerospace & defense technology. She leads the strategy and execution of emerging technology partnerships as well as validating innova... Show more

Before joining Pop, Hop & Rock™ in 2021, Kelsey was a classroom teacher for 10 years. She gained most of her experience in a preschool setting, then enhanced that base working with children with special needs. As Maverick of Knowledge, Kelsey acts as a resource for all things kids. Her experience in special needs, classroom chaos, and innate love of small people makes her an ideal researcher, out of the box thinker, and prophet of play. She also has a passion for health and fitness. She believes in teaching young children about the importance of a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle and intentional movement as a necessary building block in their development. As well, Kelsey completed both the Richmond Half and Full Marathon's! (2018 & 2021) As Chief People Partner and Ambassador of Buzz, Kelsey manages customer relationships, social media and almost all things outreach. If you have questions about the curriculum, feel free to reach out to her at kelsey.schmidt@pivottoplay.com.

Before joining Pop, Hop & Rock™ in 2021, Kelsey was a classroom teacher for 10 years. She gained most of her experience in a preschool setting, then enhanced that base working with children with special needs. As Maverick of Knowledge, Kelsey acts as... Show more

Ken Smith is the Director of Offensive Security Learning & Development for Praetorian. Over the last fifteen years, Ken has served in various consulting and industry offensive security leadership roles. He has also been teaching information security at the University of Mount Union for ten years. Ken is a Cleveland native and former US Army Signals Intelligence Operator with 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

Ken Smith is the Director of Offensive Security Learning & Development for Praetorian. Over the last fifteen years, Ken has served in various consulting and industry offensive security leadership roles. He has also been teaching information security ... Show more

Sachin Sinha is a Data Engineering leader who has been passionate about designing systems that help his customers make decisions based on data. He has helped startups in healthcare get off the ground by building a business on data and mature from seed to series funding. He has also helped organizations in the Public Sector achieve their mission by enabling them to make decisions based on data. Now at Microsoft, as Technology Strategy Director, he helps customers on their cloud journey with Microsoft Cloud offerings. His areas of expertise include Digital Transformation, Solution Architecture and Design, Data Platforms, Data Warehousing, Business Intelligence & Analytics and Artificial Intelligence focusing on the Healthcare and Public Sector domains.

Sachin Sinha is a Data Engineering leader who has been passionate about designing systems that help his customers make decisions based on data. He has helped startups in healthcare get off the ground by building a business on data and mature from see... Show more

Deanna Medina is a cybersecurity engineer, enthusiast and professor based in Phoenix, AZ. With a Master's in Management Information Systems and a knack for all things security, she's been on a mission to fortify digital landscapes and empower the next-gen tech talent. From reducing vulnerabilities to mentoring future geeks, she's all about making tech safer and accessible.

Deanna Medina is a cybersecurity engineer, enthusiast and professor based in Phoenix, AZ. With a Master's in Management Information Systems and a knack for all things security, she's been on a mission to fortify digital landscapes and empower the nex... Show more

Gül Akcaova is the lead futurist at SURF - the cooperative for ICT in (higher) education and research in the Netherlands, and the National Education & Research Network. With a keen fascination for IT innovation in education and research, she explores in her role the potential impact of new technologies and emerging concepts on education and research. Her background in management studies provides her with the ability to approach developments from various angles.

Gül Akcaova is the lead futurist at SURF - the cooperative for ICT in (higher) education and research in the Netherlands, and the National Education & Research Network. With a keen fascination for IT innovation in education and research, she explores... Show more

Ximena is a Public Relations professional with over 10 years of experience collaborating with startups and scaleups across a wide range of areas. She has supported communities and is an organizer of mad_in_api, a Google Cloud community in collaboration with Google Spain. She has also worked on the organization, management, and execution of acceleration programs for startups such as "Google for Startups" in Latin America.

As a WTM ambassador, her goal is to be a supportive voice for the neurodiverse population in the IT industry, particularly for women. She draws on her personal experience of having a circle of neurodiverse family members working in the IT industry.

Ximena is a Public Relations professional with over 10 years of experience collaborating with startups and scaleups across a wide range of areas. She has supported communities and is an organizer of mad_in_api, a Google Cloud community in collaborati... Show more

Wiebke Sophie Ost konzipiert und erprobt innovative Lehr- und Lernformate sowie flexible Studienmodelle an der Hochschule Koblenz. Zu ihren Forschungsschwerpunkten zählen immersives Lehren und Lernen im Bildungsbereich (insbesondere durch den Einsatz von VR und AR), Künstliche Intelligenz, Mehrsprachigkeit, Internationalisierung und interkulturelle Kommunikation.

Wiebke Sophie Ost konzipiert und erprobt innovative Lehr- und Lernformate sowie flexible Studienmodelle an der Hochschule Koblenz. Zu ihren Forschungsschwerpunkten zählen immersives Lehren und Lernen im Bildungsbereich (insbesondere durch den Einsatz... Show more

Secondary school teacher (mathematics & physics), Ph.D. in mathematics (with specialization in the teaching of mathematics at the university level)

Research Interests: instructional design of mathematics courses, mathematical sophistication & enculturation, mathematical beliefs, fostering giftedness, future skills, AI & data literacy

Secondary school teacher (mathematics & physics), Ph.D. in mathematics (with specialization in the teaching of mathematics at the university level) Research Interests: instructional design of mathematics courses, mathematical sophistication & encu... Show more

Ashley Bodnar is an experienced educator from Vancouver, BC, Canada, and is passionate about innovative teaching and learning practices. With over ten years of experience in the field of education, Ashley holds a Masters in Administration and Leadership. She was recently awarded the 2023 Prime Minister's Teaching Excellence Award: Certificate of Achievement for her work in implementing inquiry-based learning, collaborative learning, mindfulness, and core competency practices in her classroom.

Ashley Bodnar is an experienced educator from Vancouver, BC, Canada, and is passionate about innovative teaching and learning practices. With over ten years of experience in the field of education, Ashley holds a Masters in Administration and Leaders... Show more

⭐️ Ingeniera de Sistemas con Maestría en Gestión de Tecnologías de la Información y especialización en Transformación Digital, certificada como Coach de Negocios Conscientes. Desde hace 20 años trabajo en proyectos de transformación organizacional.

☛ Asesoro a las organizaciones para llevar con éxito sus procesos de transformación a través de un trabajo humano, sistémico y sostenible en el tiempo.

⭐️ Ingeniera de Sistemas con Maestría en Gestión de Tecnologías de la Información y especialización en Transformación Digital, certificada como Coach de Negocios Conscientes. Desde hace 20 años trabajo en proyectos de transformación organizacional. ... Show more

Ellie McGowan is an experienced Scrum Master with a passion for empowering neurodivergent individuals in the tech industry. A late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD professional, Ellie brings a unique perspective to agile practices, combining her deep understanding of neurodiversity with years of coaching expertise. She is a strong advocate for creating inclusive, supportive environments where neurodivergent teams can thrive. With a personal journey shaped by the challenges of burnout, misdiagnosis, and resilience, Ellie's talks offer actionable insights for leaders and organisations aiming to foster innovation through diversity.

Ellie McGowan is an experienced Scrum Master with a passion for empowering neurodivergent individuals in the tech industry. A late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD professional, Ellie brings a unique perspective to agile practices, combining her deep unde... Show more

Andrei Moskalev is the CEO of Integrated Technology Laboratory LLC and the founder of several innovative ventures & continues to channel his passion for technology into creating cutting-edge solutions across diverse industries, including Healthcare, Cybersecurity, Finance & Human Resource. Andrei is a strong advocate for youth engagement in technology & organized global "Kids in Technology" bootcamp series, inspiring children to explore the possibilities of technology through hands-on learning.

Andrei Moskalev is the CEO of Integrated Technology Laboratory LLC and the founder of several innovative ventures & continues to channel his passion for technology into creating cutting-edge solutions across diverse industries, including Healthcare, ... Show more

Inspector General Sean Fay brings 29 years of law enforcement experience, starting in North Carolina before joining the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) through roles at the Myrtle Beach Police Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). His diverse career includes work in Patrol, Street Crimes, Crime Prevention, Special Operations, and Traffic. At SLED, he served as the Statewide Automated License Plate Recognition Program Coordinator and Local Agency Security Officer within the Criminal Justice Information Services division, overseeing IT security and federal compliance. In his final role at SLED, he led external engagements for the South Carolina Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity (SC-CIC) Program, coordinating efforts to secure critical infrastructure, responding to cyber threats, and managing a state and federal cyber taskforce. Additionally, he was a SWAT team member and hostage negotiator.

At SCDSS, IG Fay oversees four key units within the Office of Inspector General:

• Investigations Unit: Conducts criminal investigations into fraud, waste, or abuse involving SCDSS programs.
• Backgrounds Investigations Unit: Protects children through Central Registry checks as well as national, fingerprint-based background checks for foster, adoption, childcare, and group home applicants.
• Emergency Management and Disaster Services Unit: Coordinates disaster response, including sheltering and mass care, with state and federal partners.
• Information Security Division: Safeguards the agency's critical assets by mitigating cyber threats and ensuring uninterrupted delivery of essential services.

IG Fay holds an associate degree from Methodist University and a bachelor's degree in business from Baker College (Summa Cum Laude). He is a Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Network Defense Architect, and Certified Inspector General. A dedicated leader, he formally served as a regional vice president for SC InfraGard and Chair of the State and Local Cyber Grant working group with ATRAC, and as a member of the SC Cybersecurity Ecosystem Coordination Initiative. He is also a Major in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Inspector General Sean Fay brings 29 years of law enforcement experience, starting in North Carolina before joining the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) through roles at the Myrtle Beach Police Department and the South Carolina La... Show more

I am a passionate advocate for education, dedicated to empowering girls and youth through STEAM and digital skills training. With a background in International Relations and Guidance & Counseling, I have led impactful initiatives that bridge the digital divide and create opportunities for underserved communities.

Through my expertise in Project Management, Community Outreach, and Mentorship, I design and implement educational programs that go beyond technical skills—fostering leadership, creativity, advocacy, and critical thinking. I have spearheaded initiatives that have inspired hundreds of young women to explore careers in technology and science.

With a proven track record in developing and executing community-driven projects, I excel at proposal writing, resource management, and strategic implementation, ensuring sustainable impact. I am committed to leveraging education as a tool for social change, equipping the next generation with the skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

I am a passionate advocate for education, dedicated to empowering girls and youth through STEAM and digital skills training. With a background in International Relations and Guidance & Counseling, I have led impactful initiatives that bridge the digi... Show more

Lotte Geunis is a parliamentary advisor who has worked at the United Nations Development Programme, the World Bank and the Open Government Partnership. Since 2019 she works with INTER PARES, the European Union’s global programme for parliamentary strengthening. Lotte has extensive experience across Europe and the developing world, with a decided soft spot for the latter.

Alongside her work in governance, Lotte is pursuing a PhD on youth participation in education policy. She is a part-time researcher at the KU Leuven, where she supports inclusive education through a number of ERASMUS+ projects.

Lotte Geunis is a parliamentary advisor who has worked at the United Nations Development Programme, the World Bank and the Open Government Partnership. Since 2019 she works with INTER PARES, the European Union’s global programme for parliamentary str... Show more

As the Transportation Theme Lead of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure, Derald works to maximize the utility of public geospatial transportation information by making it easier to create, publish, discover, access, integrate, exchange, and analyze.

Derald has been a geographer with the Federal Government since 1996. He holds a Geography degree from Towson University, a Computer Science degree from Hood College, and is currently a PhD student in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Derald’s geography career started at the GIS lab at Virginia Tech in 1992 where he digitized stream orders and soil types for the state of Virginia.

Starting in 1996 he worked as a cartographer at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Chart Division where he managed source data used in the construction of Nautical Charts.

Derald started at the USDOT in 2001; His early work focused on developing geospatial-transportation data, cartographic automation, and application development. He currently Leads the Transportation Theme of NSDI and chairs the Geospatial Transportation Subcommittee. The subcommittee is authorized by the Federal Geographic Data Committee and sponsored by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

As theme lead he helps maximize the benefit geospatial-transportation resources for the nation. Specifically, he coordinates the efforts of federal partners and facilitates their compliance with legislative and executive directives directed at improving geospatial data management.

As the Geospatial Transportation Subcommittee Chair, he facilitates cooperation and fosters awareness among federal, state, local, tribal, and private organizations to ease geospatial data discovery, collection, construction, publication, integration, analysis, and archival.

As the Transportation Theme Lead of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure, Derald works to maximize the utility of public geospatial transportation information by making it easier to create, publish, discover, access, integrate, exchange, and anal... Show more

Oluwaferanmi is a Microsoft Certified Azure AI Engineer Associate with a deep interest in the intersection of machine learning, data science, and social impact. Oluwaferanmi's technical skills are grounded in full-stack web development and honed through research experience at the Smart Systems Reasearch Laboratory, where Oluwaferanmi contributes to cutting-edge Data Science and AI projects.

Beyond technical expertise, Oluwaferanmi is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment. His ole as Youth Advisor to the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS allows Oluwaferanmi to directly influence youth participation in EU external action. Furthermore, Oluwaferanmi's involvement in the Oyo State Youth Parliament as the Youngest Honourable Member demonstrates his commitment to leadership and policy influence.

Oluwaferanmi is a Microsoft Certified Azure AI Engineer Associate with a deep interest in the intersection of machine learning, data science, and social impact. Oluwaferanmi's technical skills are grounded in full-stack web development and honed thro... Show more

I am a researcher at the Internet Infra System Research Center in Seoul, South Korea, focusing on Edge Computing and 5G. Recently, I have been actively participating, discussing and testing Nephio and Project-Flotta. My current emphasis is on the IoT sector, and I am eager to participate in other Open-Source community projects. With a strong background in Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), my interests lie in edge computing, 5G, and Kubernetes.

I am a researcher at the Internet Infra System Research Center in Seoul, South Korea, focusing on Edge Computing and 5G. Recently, I have been actively participating, discussing and testing Nephio and Project-Flotta. My current emphasis is on the IoT... Show more

Richard Cheng is the founder of Agility Prime Solutions. Agility Prime Solutions provides transformative training programs in Agile methods such as Scrum and Kanban. A graduate of Virginia Tech and renowned Agile expert, Richard has presented keynote talks at conferences and events around the globe, authored publications on Agile and product management, and is a member of Mensa. Richard has extensive experience working with the federal government, large companies, small startups, non-profits organizations, and associations. In addition to being one of the few Certified Scrum Trainers (CST) accredited by the Scrum Alliance, Richard is also an Accredited Kanban Trainer (AKT), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), Certified Scrum Professional (CSP), Kanban Management Professional (KMP), Certified LeSS Practitioner, Project Management Professional (PMP), and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP).

Richard Cheng is the founder of Agility Prime Solutions. Agility Prime Solutions provides transformative training programs in Agile methods such as Scrum and Kanban. A graduate of Virginia Tech and renowned Agile expert, Richard has presented keynote... Show more

Jack Polifka earned his Ph.D. in Human Computer Interaction at Iowa State University studying how technology can be used to better understand how students use pictures and representations in college science classrooms. Jack also holds a Bachelor of Science in Web and Digital Media Development from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point and his M.S. in Human Computer Interaction from Iowa State University. In addition, he has 10+ years of experience as a software developer. He teaches classes related to web development, the Internet of Things, and job readiness.

Jack Polifka earned his Ph.D. in Human Computer Interaction at Iowa State University studying how technology can be used to better understand how students use pictures and representations in college science classrooms. Jack also holds a Bachelor of S... Show more

Dr. Stephanie Morgan-Harris approaches her role as Staff Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator for Kankakee School District #111 with equal parts strategic vision and dry humor—because education, after all, could use a little more of both. Tasked with addressing the ever-growing challenge of recruiting and retaining quality educators amid widespread teacher shortages, Dr. Morgan-Harris thrives in the high-pressure environment of human capital management. Her approach is pragmatic and driven, balancing the urgent need for staffing solutions with a deeper commitment to creating equitable and inclusive workplaces. Or, as she often quips, she’s just trying to make sure there are enough teachers to keep the classrooms running.

Dr. Morgan-Harris’s career trajectory is a testament to her passion for leadership and equity. Armed with a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix, she has built a reputation for bridging theory and practice in meaningful ways. Currently a Research Fellow at the Center for Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Research, she actively contributes to advancing conversations on equity, diversity, and inclusion in education. Her efforts extend beyond research; she’s a proud advocate for environments where students and educators feel valued and empowered to succeed. These principles underpin her leadership philosophy and drive her contributions to the Kankakee School District.

Her professional influence doesn’t stop there. Dr. Morgan-Harris serves as Regional Director-Elect for the Illinois Principal Association’s Three Rivers Region and as Legislative Liaison for the Illinois Alliance of Black School Educators, roles that position her as a key advocate for transformative educational policies. She has also been a voice for inclusive leadership as a presenter at prestigious conferences like the Columbia University Hip Hop Ed Conference, where she explored the cultural relevance of hip-hop in student engagement, and the ASCD Annual Conference, where she discussed AI-driven differentiated instruction. These presentations highlight her innovative approach to education and her knack for addressing modern challenges with creative solutions.

While her professional accomplishments are many, Dr. Morgan-Harris is equally proud of her personal life. She’s the mother of four—two adult sons and two teen daughters—who keep her grounded and inspired. Whether leading family sing-alongs to Disney classics or strategizing for systemic change in education, she approaches every facet of her life with unwavering passion and humor. In a field often fraught with challenges, Dr. Morgan-Harris exemplifies the resilience, empathy, and forward-thinking leadership necessary to make a lasting impact on schools, educators, and the students they serve.

Dr. Stephanie Morgan-Harris approaches her role as Staff Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator for Kankakee School District #111 with equal parts strategic vision and dry humor—because education, after all, could use a little more of both. Tasked wi... Show more