Government, Social Sector & Education

Valued individuals involved in shaping public policies, providing essential services, and promoting education, tirelessly looking to improve society and empower citizens

Álvaro Cornago Chivite

Álvaro Cornago Chivite

With more than a decade of experience in management and working with Agile methodologies, Álvaro has experienced the transformation of development teams and companies that started with Agile from the beginning, facilitating that "things happen" in the process towards transformation: accompanying to the management level in necessary decisions and changes, to teams for adapting their way of working towards new work models that incorporate different Frameworks, Methods and Agile Practices in their DNA.

At the beginning of 2017, he joined everis, at Barcelona's BeAgile team as an Agile Coach, to help transform the company from the inside, generating impact to teams, business units and executive level.

For many years, he has taught and participated in meetups, talks and conferences about Mindset Agile, Scrum, Kanban, SAFe, Metrics, Dynamics and techniques of facilitation, High Performance Teams and other Agile related topics. In addition, since 2019 he is an Accredited Kanban Trainer by the Kanban University.

He has a technological orientation, he studied Telecommunications and postgraduate degrees at the UPNA and UPV universities, but also a human side, which leads him to collaborate with various associations and NGOs, and an artistic vein that he develops with his other passion: music.

With more than a decade of experience in management and working with Agile methodologies, Álvaro has experienced the transformation of development teams and companies that started with Agile from the beginning, facilitating that "things happen" in th... Show more

Sara Reiss

Sara Reiss

Sara Danielle Reiss is a UX and CX strategist, researcher, and designer with over 20 years of experience shaping accessible, inclusive, and data-informed digital services across the public and private sectors. Her recent work centers on the ethical integration of AI-supported tools into internal processes, public-facing design systems, and service modernization efforts. Sara has led multidisciplinary teams in transforming government platforms through empathy-driven research and innovation. She is passionate about creating digital experiences that are not only efficient, but equitable and human-centered—meeting people where they are and ensuring no one is left behind.

Sara Danielle Reiss is a UX and CX strategist, researcher, and designer with over 20 years of experience shaping accessible, inclusive, and data-informed digital services across the public and private sectors. Her recent work centers on the ethical i... Show more

Francisca Márcia Gomes Sampaio

Francisca Márcia Gomes Sampaio

Apaixonada por pessoas, agilidade, gestão e conhecimento. Com mais de 20 anos de experiência em tecnologia e transformação organizacional, atuo no SERPRO — a maior empresa pública de TI do mundo — onde já contribuí em diversas frentes: transformação ágil, gestão ágil, experiência do usuário (UX), LGPD, técnicas de facilitação e, atualmente, como gestora do time Sinergia, apoiando o desenvolvimento de lideranças inspiradoras e a construção de times de alto desempenho.

Doutoranda em Engenharia de Software pela UFPE, sou também especialista em Gerência Estratégica da Informação (UNIFOR - 2004), mestre em Informática Aplicada (UNIFOR - 2008), MBA em Gerência de Projetos (FGV - 2012), pós-graduada em Psicologia Positiva, Ciência do Bem-Estar e Autorrealização (PUCRS - 2021), MBA em Liderança, Inovação e Gestão 4.0 (PUCRS - 2022) e pós-graduada em Psicologia Organizacional e Gestão de Pessoas (PUCRS - 2024).

Certificada PMP desde 2005 e Personal Coach pela SLAC, atuo também como professora em cursos de pós-graduação e palestrante em grandes eventos de agilidade, como Agile Trends, Agile Trends Gov, TDC, Agile Brazil, entre outros. Sou ainda partner do Coletivo Ação no Workshop Team Facilitator.

Movida por propósito, sigo em constante evolução pessoal e profissional, acreditando que ambientes de trabalho felizes, colaborativos e humanos geram, naturalmente, os melhores resultados.

Apaixonada por pessoas, agilidade, gestão e conhecimento. Com mais de 20 anos de experiência em tecnologia e transformação organizacional, atuo no SERPRO — a maior empresa pública de TI do mundo — onde já contribuí em diversas frentes: transformação ... Show more

Jaly Badiane

Jaly Badiane

Journaliste, je suis aussi activiste et défenseure des droits humains avec une quinzaine d’années de militantisme dans les mouvements citoyens au Sénégal et en Afrique de l’Ouest. Actuellement je suis la présidente de l’association Wa Mbedmi qui est une organisation de jeunes et de femmes orientée sur les questions de promotion de l’engagement citoyen, de défenses des droits humains notamment des droits numériques et sur le développement de projets/programmes à fort impact social le tout avec la technologie comme principal vecteur. Notre organisation est convaincue de la nécessité de tirer profit de tout ce que le numérique nous offre pour développer notre capitale humain.

Basée au Sénégal, notre association est membre fondateur la coalition Tournons La Page – Section Sénégal et initiatrice du Centre d’Innovation sociale et environnementale de Mbour.
Militante féministe, je me suis formée en cybersécurité et promeut les actions de lutte contre les violences sur le genre en ligne.

En parallèle, je suis consultante, experte Genre Inclusion et formatrice en médias sociaux comme outils de plaidoyer.

Journaliste, je suis aussi activiste et défenseure des droits humains avec une quinzaine d’années de militantisme dans les mouvements citoyens au Sénégal et en Afrique de l’Ouest. Actuellement je suis la présidente de l’association Wa Mbedmi qui est ... Show more

Judson Kauffman

Judson Kauffman

Judson Kauffman is a creator, an adventurer, and innovator. He started his career as a Navy SEAL and later transitioned into business, co-founding three successful companies with a combined value of over $300 million. Throughout his career, he has disrupted multiple industries and earned a reputation for thinking and acting differently. In addition to being an award-winning entrepreneur, he is an investor, personal coach, and keynote speaker. He is an expert on innovation, human potential, and personal fulfillment.

Judson Kauffman is a creator, an adventurer, and innovator. He started his career as a Navy SEAL and later transitioned into business, co-founding three successful companies with a combined value of over $300 million. Throughout his career, he has di... Show more

Vinay Sati

Vinay Sati

I am a cybersecurity professional with a proven track record of identifying and securing vulnerabilities across several high-profile platforms, including Google, Facebook, NASA, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. My expertise in ethical hacking and cyber defense has earned me recognition at both national and international levels.

I have had the honor of being invited as a speaker by prestigious institutions and government bodies such as the National Informatics Centre (NIC), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Delhi University, IIT Delhi, and IIT Roorkee. In these engagements, I have shared my insights and expertise with senior scientists, government officials, and academic leaders.

My work in securing leading Indian banks—including Axis Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), and IndusInd Bank—demonstrates my commitment to enhancing cybersecurity in critical financial sectors. I have also collaborated closely with various government agencies to strengthen digital infrastructure and cyber resilience.

My contributions have been featured in prominent media outlets, including Dailyhunt News, and my recent session with NIC was broadcast live on DD News and is archived on the Government Webcast Portal.

I am a cybersecurity professional with a proven track record of identifying and securing vulnerabilities across several high-profile platforms, including Google, Facebook, NASA, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. My expertise in ethical ha... Show more

Natalie Crüe

Natalie Crüe

Natalie Crüe is a cultural producer, consultant, Global Hip-Hop connoisseur, and activist. Natalie sees arts and culture as a vehicle for social change - spearheading various cultural, brand, and social impact initiatives around the globe that aim to foster civic engagement, spark dialogue, and amplify communities.

She co-developed the Metaverse Music Festival aka MVMF, the first global music festival rooted in the metaverse; Co-produces Huellas Festival in Southern Spain; and contributes to a number of DAOs and creative communities in the Web3 ecosystem. Recently, she founded Web3 Uncut -- a dynamic tech lab building micro experiments to support creators on chain and a newsletter centering Web3 arts & culture.

You can find her on Twitter and Instagram @NatalieCrue.

Natalie Crüe is a cultural producer, consultant, Global Hip-Hop connoisseur, and activist. Natalie sees arts and culture as a vehicle for social change - spearheading various cultural, brand, and social impact initiatives around the globe that aim to... Show more

Neubio Ferreira

Neubio Ferreira

Neubio Ferreira é especialista em ágil escalado (desde a estratégia até a operação), com mais de 15 anos de experiência.

Durante estes anos trabalhou como Agile Coach, Agile Master, Coordenador de Projetos, Gerente de Projetos Ágeis e foi professor de Pós-graduação. Durante essa jornada, vêm apoiando diversas empresas a alcançarem a verdadeira agilidade nos negócios, fazendo com que elas sejam protagonistas nos mercados que atuam.

Hoje, está atuando como Agility Manager na Compass.uol e é instrutor SAFe/Sócio da empresa YesAgile. É apaixonado por capacitar equipes, realizando treinamentos, promovendo a colaboração e a melhoria contínua.

Neubio Ferreira é especialista em ágil escalado (desde a estratégia até a operação), com mais de 15 anos de experiência. Durante estes anos trabalhou como Agile Coach, Agile Master, Coordenador de Projetos, Gerente de Projetos Ágeis e foi professo... Show more

Dedren Snead

Dedren Snead

Dedren Snead (he/him/his) is a computer scientist, artist, and Ford Foundation Global Fellow in Gaming and Artificial Intelligence. As founder of SUBSUME Media and SUBSUME Studios, featured in CNN and Black Enterprise, he established the world's first Afrofuturism technology studio in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. His work focuses on creating inclusive technologies and storytelling experiences that bridge digital divides while celebrating diverse cultural narratives through gaming, artificial intelligence, and interactive media.

Through SUBSUME's pioneering initiatives, Dedren develops educational gaming platforms and AI-driven solutions that connect K-12 and early career learners to creative and technical professions. His innovative approach to combining technology with cultural storytelling has earned him positions as an Innovator in Residence at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Artist in Residence at Georgia State
University's Creative Media Industries Institute, where he contributes to Digital Media, Game Design, and Futurism studies.

Dedren Snead (he/him/his) is a computer scientist, artist, and Ford Foundation Global Fellow in Gaming and Artificial Intelligence. As founder of SUBSUME Media and SUBSUME Studios, featured in CNN and Black Enterprise, he established the world's firs... Show more

Samara Neiva

Samara Neiva

I am an international expert in Smart & Sustainable Cities, with over a decade of experience combining academic research, public policy advisory, and real-world project implementation in urban innovation.

I am an international expert in Smart & Sustainable Cities, with over a decade of experience combining academic research, public policy advisory, and real-world project implementation in urban innovation. Show more

Gary Raife

Gary Raife

Modern workplace advisory & lead solutions architect with a passion for using the Microsoft M365, Copilot, Power Platform and Azure technology frameworks to solve workforce challenges across Health & Public Sector.

I believe that by creating innovative digital solutions and using modern cloud based technology platforms to their fullest it enables organisations to do more with less. This approach is key to empowering a modern workforce with timely and relevant information enabling them to deliver operational success, especially when it comes to public sector and healthcare service delivery.

Modern workplace advisory & lead solutions architect with a passion for using the Microsoft M365, Copilot, Power Platform and Azure technology frameworks to solve workforce challenges across Health & Public Sector. I believe that by creating innov... Show more

Colleen Turner

Colleen Turner

Colleen is an Associate Vice President and Michael Baker’s Greater DC / Maryland Planning Practice Lead, with 25 years of experience in transportation and environmental planning and policy. She leads a team of professionals dedicated to accelerating the electrification of the transportation sector through the development of plans, programs, and policies for state and local governments.

Colleen returned to Michael Baker in February 2021 following her employment as the Assistant Director of the Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Office of Planning and Capital Programming (OPCP). During her tenure at MDOT, Colleen oversaw long-range environmental planning and the planning and deployment of innovative transportation technologies including zero emission vehicles (ZEV) and connected and automated vehicles (CAV). She managed MDOT’s air quality and climate change mitigation programs and participated in national discussions related to the electrification of the transportation sector, sharing her expertise with the White House, the National Governor’s Association (NGA), the Transportation Research Board (TRB), and the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO).

Colleen is a member of the TRB Standing Committee on Alternative Fuels and Technologies (AMS40). She is the former Chair of the AASHTO Air Quality Climate Change and Energy subcommittee of the Committee on Environment and Sustainability.

Colleen is an Associate Vice President and Michael Baker’s Greater DC / Maryland Planning Practice Lead, with 25 years of experience in transportation and environmental planning and policy. She leads a team of professionals dedicated to accelerating ... Show more

Jeremy Darling

Jeremy Darling

Jeremy Darling is renowned for leading diverse teams to deliver impactful technical solutions in an ever-evolving technology landscape. His career spans developing data-driven innovations, from COVID-19 analytics to transformative tools in higher education. Beyond his expertise in distributed computing, serverless architectures, and containerization, Jeremy is deeply passionate about fostering human connection in the workplace.

As a mental health advocate and management speaker, Jeremy empowers leaders to navigate sensitive challenges—such as suicide, team loss, and crises—through empathy, resilience, and thoughtful communication. He combines his technical acumen with a focus on emotional well-being to create environments where individuals and teams can thrive.

When he's not guiding teams or delivering talks, Jeremy embraces a holistic approach to life by practicing yoga and exploring the intersections of mental health and wellness.

Jeremy Darling is renowned for leading diverse teams to deliver impactful technical solutions in an ever-evolving technology landscape. His career spans developing data-driven innovations, from COVID-19 analytics to transformative tools in higher edu... Show more

Thea Soehren

Thea Soehren

Thea Soehren, CBAP, is a celebrated leader, problem solver, speaker and Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience, and 15 in the Information Technology arena.

Thea has worked in the Information Technology field for much of that time. Her experience spans a variety of industries including nuclear, medical diagnostics, insurance, US Tax, software development, marketing, professional services and management consulting. Previously, she worked as an enterprise change consultant for KPMG.

Currently, Thea works for Cincinnati Insurance Company and is a member of the Business Analysis Center of Excellence (BACoE) for IT Business Analysts.

She has extensive experience working in both Waterfall and Agile projects, simultaneously serving a variety of roles, such as Business Analyst, Scrum Master, Product Owner, Agile Coach, Program Manager, Project Manager, Problem Solver and Head Cheerleader.

A lifelong learner, Thea has been coaching and teaching for 15 years. Since 2013, she has been involved in leading IIBA® Chapters in Kansas City, Topeka, and Tampa Bay, Florida. She is currently the President of the Tampa Bay, Florida USA Chapter and frequently speaks and leads multi-week study groups for other IIBA Chapters and various organizations worldwide. Thea is very active on LinkedIn and strives to assist every person she can.

Thea was one of the authors of the A Guide to the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge® (BABOK® Guide) as well as the book Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries with the second in that series coming out in 2025.

Thea founded and leads the BA Force Multiplier Movement, a worldwide effort to engage individuals use stories to convey the value of Business Analysis, to realize their potential and provide encouragement.

She provides business consulting, personal coaching, speaks internationally and finds places to be a positive impact. When not working or teaching Business Analysis, Thea enjoys spending time with her husband, Lance, making their home a peaceful retreat, and finding new things to learn.

Thea Soehren, CBAP, is a celebrated leader, problem solver, speaker and Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience, and 15 in the Information Technology arena. Thea has worked in the Information Technology field for much of that time. Her e... Show more

Florian Lamert

Florian Lamert

Aktuell berufsbegleitend Studierender (M.Ed. Wirtschaftswissenschaft, Universität Freiburg) und Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter (Universität Duisburg-Essen).
Als langjähriges Mitglied des studentischen Akkreditierungspools konnte ich in den zurückliegenden vier Jahren zahlreiche Akkreditierungsverfahren begleiten und erhielt auf diese Weise umfassende Einblicke in die deutsche wie auch internationale Hochschullandschaft. Hierbei konnte ich von einer Vielzahl an best practices erfahren und habe hierbei schnell gemerkt, dass der Wissenstransfer zwischen den Hochschulen in diesem Bereich nur sehr eingeschränkt vonstatten geht. Als studentischer Gutachter hatte ich die Möglichkeit, einen Beitrag dazu zu leisten, dass sich dies ändert.

Aktuell berufsbegleitend Studierender (M.Ed. Wirtschaftswissenschaft, Universität Freiburg) und Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter (Universität Duisburg-Essen). Als langjähriges Mitglied des studentischen Akkreditierungspools konnte ich in den zurücklie... Show more

Laura Smith

Laura Smith

Designer and user researcher using human centred approaches to developing services, products and content. Also co-founder of a social enterprise, Unwaste.io, using data and technology to create circular economies for plastic waste. Experience in untangling complex problems in healthcare, public services and social innovation. Advocate of Women in Tech.

Designer and user researcher using human centred approaches to developing services, products and content. Also co-founder of a social enterprise, Unwaste.io, using data and technology to create circular economies for plastic waste. Experience in unta... Show more

Vishal Shah

Vishal Shah

Vishal Shah is a seasoned Data Analyst with over three years of experience in harnessing machine learning, data modeling, and big data technologies to drive transformative insights across diverse sectors. Currently, he serves as a Business Data Analyst at the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, where he designs predictive models and scalable data pipelines to enhance wildlife management and public safety. A Master’s graduate in Computer Science from New York University, Vishal has led innovative projects—from real-time stock market analytics to AI-driven public safety systems—demonstrating a unique ability to bridge advanced AI methodologies with practical, high-impact applications.

Vishal Shah is a seasoned Data Analyst with over three years of experience in harnessing machine learning, data modeling, and big data technologies to drive transformative insights across diverse sectors. Currently, he serves as a Business Data Analy... Show more

Stephanie Thoma

Stephanie Thoma

Stephanie is a Forbes-featured author of the best-selling networking book, Confident Introvert and host of the podcast/event series, redefining what it means to be successful with less hustle and more fun, meaning and wellness, Holistic Ambition. Stephanie has helped thousands of people celebrate their strengths, step into their authentic confidence, and make meaningful connections through building out community over 1k in-person events at organizations like YPOSF, speaking at places like Harvard University, years behind-the-scenes at TEDx, and 1:1 coaching.

Stephanie is a Forbes-featured author of the best-selling networking book, Confident Introvert and host of the podcast/event series, redefining what it means to be successful with less hustle and more fun, meaning and wellness, Holistic Ambition. Ste... Show more

Kolapo Imam

Kolapo Imam

Kolapo Imam is the Founder and Lead Facilitator at Prodcademy, an institute focused on raising the next generation of Product Leaders. He is a Product Manager with experience in building API products that power payments, virtual accounts, and funds transfer across Africa. His work focuses on developer experience, product strategy, and cross-functional delivery of scalable fintech infrastructure.

Prior to this, Kolapo served as a Product Marketing Manager at Nexford University, leading initiatives across product adoption, B2B positioning, and competitive intelligence. He has also worked in product and growth roles at PropertyPro Nigeria, Versus Africa, and through multiple consulting projects.

With a unique background spanning product marketing, technical product management, and tech sales, Kolapo brings a deep understanding of how to build and position business, enterprise and consumer products for growth. In 2022, he was nominated by HackerNoon for Product Management, Business Growth and Strategy.

Kolapo Imam is the Founder and Lead Facilitator at Prodcademy, an institute focused on raising the next generation of Product Leaders. He is a Product Manager with experience in building API products that power payments, virtual accounts, and funds t... Show more

Denette Dunn

Denette Dunn

Denette Dunn is a dedicated sustainability expert and public speaker with a wealth of experience in both public service and the private sector. She previously served as a vice mayor and currently represents the Pine District as a council member.

As a council member, Denette established the Pine Citizens Advisory Committee to address the specific concerns of her district. Since its inception, the committee has grown to include more than 100 members, demonstrating her ability to foster collaboration and strengthen community involvement in local governance.

Dunn’s professional experience spans both the private and public sectors. She worked as the Municipal Services Manager at Republic Services, overseeing municipal contracts valued at over $85 million across the southwest region. In addition to this role, she was a registered lobbyist, advocating for legislation promoting effective and sustainable partnerships between private companies and municipalities.

Her leadership extends to numerous boards and commissions, including the WESTMARC Board and the Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission. Denette also served as president and legislative liaison for the Arizona Recycling Coalition, where she contributed to advancing sustainable practices and policies throughout the state.

Before her work in public service, Denette held various marketing, sales, and management roles. From 2007 to 2011, she worked as the Director of Marketing and Community Relations at Hudson Baylor Corporation, overseeing material recovery operations and managing public relations efforts. She also worked closely with municipal and state officials to secure grants and sponsorships for various initiatives.

After her time at Hudson Baylor, Denette continued her career at Republic Services, managing contracts and contributing to legislative advocacy. Later, at Dickson Sweeping, she helped expand the company’s operations in Arizona and Nevada, working on projects such as compressed natural gas fuel stations.

Since 2019, Denette Dunn has served as a Peoria Council member, working to support the city’s growth and sustainability. She also supports charitable organizations, including Hart Pantry, West Valley Connect, and You Matter Too, an anti-bullying nonprofit.

Denette Dunn is a dedicated sustainability expert and public speaker with a wealth of experience in both public service and the private sector. She previously served as a vice mayor and currently represents the Pine District as a council member. A... Show more

Rona Lewis

Rona Lewis

Meet Rona! She's a whirlwind of vibrant energy and connection. With her engaging style, she brings a sense of joy to workplaces everywhere. As an expert in Purposeful and Attuned Play, Rona blends the core elements of leadership and engagement with the magic of play, transforming workplace dynamics and boosting personal satisfaction.

Rona's unique mix of corporate savvy and wellbeing wisdom, paired with her deep understanding of play and flow, allows her to translate complex ideas into relatable and enjoyable stories. Her sessions are dynamic, packed with practical tools to weave play into daily work life, fostering an environment where creativity and collaboration flourish.

In her role as coach and consultant, Rona has left a lasting mark on countless organizations. She's nurtured creative thinking, honed leadership skills, and deepened connections through enhanced communication. Her tailor-made programs are grounded in evidence-based practices, boosting team morale and connectivity while encouraging a fresh reimagining of workplace culture.

Rona has been featured in Shondaland, Nebraska Bride, Pierless Magazine, Town and Country, Corporate Wellness Magazine and seen and heard on TV and radio stations from San Diego and San Francisco to New York .

With the Playful Mind Project, Rona positions herself as a key partner for organizations ready to breathe new life into their corporate environments. Ready to make work fun again?

Meet Rona! She's a whirlwind of vibrant energy and connection. With her engaging style, she brings a sense of joy to workplaces everywhere. As an expert in Purposeful and Attuned Play, Rona blends the core elements of leadership and engagement with t... Show more

Sandi Johnson

Sandi Johnson

Sandi Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, transformational speaker, educator, and author dedicated to helping women heal, grow, and live life on purpose. With over a decade of experience as a professional school counselor and community therapist, Sandi blends clinical insight, faith, and real-world wisdom to empower others to rewrite their narratives and reclaim their peace.

Her passion for helping others is deeply rooted in her own journey of resilience. After facing seasons of personal loss, emotional struggle, and identity shifts, Sandi chose healing over hiding. She now uses her story as a testament that wholeness is possible—and that it’s never too late to begin again.

As a speaker, Sandi is known for her warmth, authenticity, and ability to create safe spaces for real conversations. She speaks on topics such as compassion fatigue, burnout, emotional resilience, solution-focused counseling, and the power of building authentic friendships in a disconnected world. Whether in a conference setting or an intimate retreat, she invites her audience into deeper connection—with themselves and with others.

Through her retreats, books, and speaking engagements, Sandi continues to inspire others to move from surviving to thriving with intention and purpose.

Sandi Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, transformational speaker, educator, and author dedicated to helping women heal, grow, and live life on purpose. With over a decade of experience as a professional school counselor and comm... Show more

Caitlin Drago

Caitlin Drago

The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both interaction with the audience and personal reflection time.

In her interactive workshops and keynote addresses, Caitlin quickly quells the, “I could never do improv!” fear and makes accessible, the principles professional actors use, to be better communicators, teammates, and leaders.
Disarming and energetic, Caitlin opens up the most skeptical attendees, allowing them to learn through applying the Improv Approach, and even crack a smile along the way.

Caitlin Drago’s mission is to create cultures of empathy, creativity, and trust, beginning with how people communicate and connect.

She is an LA-based actor turned upstate NY-based certified leadership coach, trainer, facilitator, and author of Approaching Improv – Communication and Connection in Business and Beyond. Acting taught her to be present, self-aware, empathetic and to prioritize connection with others. Improv taught her to listen, trust her gut and deal with the unexpected in a positive and creative way. She currently works with leaders and teams to help them to listen to one another, communicate and connect, using improvisation as a platform for interactive learning.

Caitlin spent ten years studying improv at places like the nationally accredited Upright Citizen’s Brigade and has spent the last nine years working with leaders and their teams across industries, including, but not limited to higher education, hospitality, tech, marketing, healthcare and real estate. She’s been featured in Medium’s Authority Magazine, Rochester’s Democrat and Chronicle, a variety of podcasts and has spoken at various conferences, including the Talent Development Think Tank, the International TWA Conference, CNY SHRM, and DisruptHR Rochester.

Past clients include:
Gartner
Rochester Regional Health System
Starbucks
Fee Brothers

Testimonials:

“Caitlin's energy, enthusiasm, and sprinkling of humor eased the tensions in our group and the entire experience was packed with valuable team collaboration insights. We found ourselves using this technique the very same day we learned it.”

S.M. Digitronik Labs

“We focused on communication in a completely different way. Not a seminar-feel, but a fun, engaging way to demonstrate the importance of being open and positive. I stepped
outside my comfort zone. As an introvert, the idea of improv was horrifying. But it was fun!”

J.G., VWR

"Caitlin did an excellent job facilitating a workshop for my team. From the time we first met to preparation and the actual workshop, she was helpful and engaging and was highly focused on ensuring my workshop went the way I had envisioned. My team had excellent feedback afterwards and I can say it had an immediate positive impact on how my team interacted and felt about communication."

I.G., Gartner

The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both intera... Show more

Rafael Riva Finatti

Rafael Riva Finatti

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinhas, joga bola com os filhos, colhe amoras, figos e Physalis e está cavando (bem aos poucos!) um pequeno lago para os futuros gansos da família. Jornalista e economista, sempre trabalhou em organizações com forte impacto social. Atualmente, é responsável por ajudar o Grupo Marista, uma instituição de mais de 7 mil colaboradores e com uma história bicentenária, em sua estratégia ESG, articulando iniciativas transversais e proprietárias das Frentes de Missão (unidades de negócio) PUCPR, Saúde, FTD Educação e Centro Marista de Defesa da Infância; e monitorando indicadores e avaliando a evolução da maturidade - sempre procurando nutrir uma mentalidade ágil, com foco nas pessoas, na entrega de valor e na melhoria contínua.

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinh... Show more

William Shackelford

William Shackelford

Corporate Career
I had an amazing 30-year career as a corporate trainer and speaker. Through my company, IEC Enterprises, I trained over 10,000 public and private sector employees on topics including communication skills, conflict management, team building, problem-solving, and leadership.

Connecting The Dots
One day, it dawned on me that I was applying many of the tips and tools from my training to raising my children—and they worked extremely well. These techniques helped me develop a unique and successful parenting style. I realized that there were valuable lessons here that I wanted to share with others.

Adulting and Parenting Work
In 2019, I expanded my training focus to the adulting and parenting arena with the publication of my book, “Growing Into Your Parenting Role” (Mountain Arbor Press). Since then, I’ve blogged extensively on these topics, been featured as a guest on various adulting and parenting podcasts, conducted engaging webinars, and developed skills-based training programs based on the concepts, tips, and tools in my book.

In 2021, I founded the Adulting and Parenting Academy (AP Academy) with a mission to help young adults build strong, fulfilling relationships that last. The Academy now houses all my adulting, parenting, and personal growth consulting.

Corporate Career I had an amazing 30-year career as a corporate trainer and speaker. Through my company, IEC Enterprises, I trained over 10,000 public and private sector employees on topics including communication skills, conflict management, team b... Show more

Tyrone Grandison

Tyrone Grandison

Dr. Tyrone W. A. Grandison is a technologist, entrepreneur, and social advocate with many years of experience . As a Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft and Founder of The Data-Driven Institute, he drives innovation and empowers communities through data. A White House Presidential Innovation Fellow and co-creator of groundbreaking initiatives.

Dr. Tyrone W. A. Grandison is a technologist, entrepreneur, and social advocate with many years of experience . As a Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft and Founder of The Data-Driven Institute, he drives innovation and empowers communities through... Show more

Dr. Laura Borland

Dr. Laura Borland

Dr. Laura Borland, DSW, is a fatherhood advocate and founder of Dad-Ease, an ecosystem of solutions designed to promote parental parity. With a deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by dads, she strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all parents. In a society where fathers are often unseen or undervalued in the parenting equation, Dr. Borland aims to spark a conversation about the importance of recognizing and supporting fathers in their parenting roles. Host of Gladverse TV, she is also a published author and writer, where she has been featured on television, radio, podcasts, and print.

Dr. Laura Borland, DSW, is a fatherhood advocate and founder of Dad-Ease, an ecosystem of solutions designed to promote parental parity. With a deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by dads, she strives to create a more inclusive and sup... Show more

Sunny Johnson

Sunny Johnson

Sunny Johnson | Agile Coach & Professional Growth Consultant
Founder, SMJ Speaks Consulting, LLC | Unleashing Agile Excellence

Sunny Johnson is an Agile Coach, Professional Growth Consultant, and founder of SMJ Speaks Consulting, LLC, where she specializes in empowering Agile professionals to navigate career transitions, accelerate leadership growth, and future-proof their success. With over a decade of experience in Agile transformation, coaching, and leadership, Sunny has helped organizations and individuals leverage Agile methodologies to optimize performance, streamline workflows, and enhance stakeholder engagement.

Her strategic, results-driven approach is built on deep expertise in:
✅ Agile Career Transformation – Guiding professionals in pivoting into Agile leadership roles and securing high-value opportunities.
✅ Enterprise Agile Coaching & Change Leadership – Driving Agile adoption across organizations, implementing Scrum, SAFe 6.0, and DevOps practices.
✅ Stakeholder & Executive Engagement – Bridging the gap between leadership and Agile teams to align business goals with Agile execution.
✅ Team Development & Performance Optimization – Coaching teams to embrace continuous improvement, collaboration, and high-performance mindsets.
✅ Retail, Banking & Sales Expertise – Bringing a customer-focused perspective to Agile delivery, leveraging industry experience in retail, financial services, and technology.

As a thought leader and sought-after speaker, Sunny delivers high-impact workshops, keynote talks, and leadership training on Agile career growth, resilience, and leadership development. Her signature programs and coaching frameworks empower professionals to confidently pivot, brand themselves effectively, and thrive in the evolving job market.

Sunny is also an accomplished author, with books including:
📘 Learn How I Made a Fortune While in College
📘 Come into the Light: Discovering Your Path to Purpose, Prosperity, and Powerful Relationships
📘 Sprints to Success: A New Scrum Master's Career Guide

Her work extends beyond Agile into mentorship and career coaching, where she is known as a “Super-Connector”—helping professionals expand their networks, refine their communication skills, and unlock new career and business opportunities.

Through SMJ Speaks Consulting and the Release the Brake Mastermind, Sunny champions professional women and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the strategies, confidence, and tools to accelerate their careers and business ventures.

She holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Winston-Salem State University. Sunny resides in Mooresville, NC, with her husband Bruce Johnson, and their two sons, Harrison and Corban, where she continues to inspire, lead, and empower others to achieve career clarity, leadership growth, and Agile excellence.

Sunny Johnson | Agile Coach & Professional Growth Consultant Founder, SMJ Speaks Consulting, LLC | Unleashing Agile Excellence Sunny Johnson is an Agile Coach, Professional Growth Consultant, and founder of SMJ Speaks Consulting, LLC, where she s... Show more

Dr. Junaid Qazi

Dr. Junaid Qazi

Dr. Qazi is a highly respected data scientist, thought leader, author, mentor, and speaker with a strong background in both academia and industry. He is passionate about bridging the talent gap in emerging technologies through education, up-skilling, and industry collaboration. He believes true success lies in strong communication, an entrepreneurial mindset, and continuous learning. Through his books and educational initiatives, he helps professionals build a strong foundation in data-driven fields. His work with leading organizations across the public and private sectors has earned him widespread respect, making him a trusted mentor and a voice in technology and education.

Dr. Qazi is a highly respected data scientist, thought leader, author, mentor, and speaker with a strong background in both academia and industry. He is passionate about bridging the talent gap in emerging technologies through education, up-skilling,... Show more

Ivonne (shirivo) Chaves Ríos

Ivonne (shirivo) Chaves Ríos

Ivonne Chaves, widely known as #shirivo, is a trailblazing software engineer, architect, and cloud technology expert based in Costa Rica. With over 16 years of experience in software, data, and cloud development, she has continuously pushed the envelope in tech innovation. Her open-source projects, showcased on her public GitHub profile, exemplify her passion—ranging from innovative cognitive services applications to cutting-edge cloud solution implementations. These projects not only highlight her technical prowess but also reinforce her commitment to using technology to solve real-world challenges and foster community collaboration.

Beyond her coding commitments, Ivonne plays an influential role as a Microsoft Technical Trainer and an international speaker. Drawing on her academic foundation from renowned institutions in Costa Rica, she bridges the gap between complex technical environments and accessible, transformative learning experiences. Her work demonstrates a seamless blend of rigorous theoretical insight and practical problem-solving skills, inspiring many to explore innovative approaches in technology and data solutions.

Ivonne's extensive experience isn't confined to Costa Rica; her career has taken her around the world, enriching her perspective and broadening her impact. Through international projects and speaking engagements across multiple continents, she has collaborated with diverse teams, adapted cutting-edge solutions to various cultural and business contexts, and shared her expertise on a global stage. This worldly experience has not only honed her technical skills but also deepened her understanding of global market dynamics, enabling her to mentor and empower professionals worldwide.

This combination of local commitment and global experience positions Ivonne as a uniquely versatile leader in the tech community—one who champions both innovation and inclusivity in the ever-evolving digital landscape. #shirivo #helloshirivo

Ivonne Chaves, widely known as #shirivo, is a trailblazing software engineer, architect, and cloud technology expert based in Costa Rica. With over 16 years of experience in software, data, and cloud development, she has continuously pushed the envel... Show more

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