Pj Metz is a former high school English teacher and current Program Manager of Student Communities at GitHub. Pj spent 11 years in the classroom teaching High School English. Then, in May of 2020, he started learning to code and began to live stream his sessions learning C# and Node.js shortly after. His previous role at GitLab was all about bringing DevSecOps into the classroom by making GitLab available to educators around the world, followed by time spent as a community manager for ProjectDiscovery helping the bug bounty hunter community learn and grow. He has presented on a variety of topics at several events like Start.Dev.Change, Codeland, DevOpsDays Chicago, DevRelCon, and Orlando Code Camp.

Pj loves 80’s music, including modern music that sounds like it was made in the 80’s, 90’s internet culture, and poetry. He’s a published poet and a musician sometimes. He loves chatting and being on podcasts, shows, and live streams.

Pj Metz is a former high school English teacher and current Program Manager of Student Communities at GitHub. Pj spent 11 years in the classroom teaching High School English. Then, in May of 2020, he started learning to code and began to live stream... Show more

Karen’s mission is to create an environment where differences are expected rather than the exception. Her understanding of the neurochemistry of behaviour has allowed the participants of her sessions to make a plan and MoveON from whatever stressors they are experiencing. Karen has been an invited speaker and presenter at the Wyoming Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Canadian Organization of Rare Disorder’s National Conference as well as the Moracle Foundation in England. Karen is the author of the children’s book Different is Just… Different as well as Purple Stew (a parenting guide). She has facilitated workshops for international conferences and several universities and teacher conferences. She has also served as a sessional instructor at the University of Windsor in the Faculty of Education.

Karen’s mission is to create an environment where differences are expected rather than the exception. Her understanding of the neurochemistry of behaviour has allowed the participants of her sessions to make a plan and MoveON from whatever stressors ... Show more

Jhonathan David Shaikh is a remarkable professional making an impressive industry impact in banking & finance, healthcare, trade & exports and education. JD started his career in banking furthered his education by earning a Masters degree in Business Administration with a major in finance and global markets from the prestigious School of Business at Tulane University as well as becoming a Data Scientist from the New York School of Data Flatiron. Jhonathan completed a 15 year career track. In 2017, he became a Global Lead in Data Digital Transformation, and later an Executive Manager in Data Models & Database Reviews, at a global firm based New York City -He has research and published business applications of data sciences and AI in major media outlets. Today he is Chief Data Strategist for Xabios Data, a data analytics| business intelligence and data science firm optimizing businesses.

Notably, JD was featured on an international article for Grant Thornton International in Data Monetization. Hi research reached more than 15,000 followers - He has spoken at more than 13 conferences in the USA and LATAM- He founded a non-profit in LATAM that helps limited-resources entrepreneurs with micro-lending and educational resources. These recognitions, along with his Top 5 Awards in Leadership reflect his dedication and impact in industry and to people.

Jhon enjoyes being called to speak at the National and International Conferences to speak about real world experiences in the world of AI , Data Analytics & Data Science. Highlights include: the State of Mexico Business Association, in Mexico City, the Data Science Panels at the S&P 500 Building in Wall street for Data Science Salon, and at the The University of Houston College of Technology. Jhonathan makes complex topics, easy to understand to non-technical audiences, and makes technical audiences understand the world and language of business.

Experience for yourself as Jhonathan speaks to businesses leaders, management groups, professionals, scientist and students about real world applications of data sciences, from real life experiences. As he speaks the language of business and science, learned through his management of global teams in real-life projects, working with the leadership of top institutions, he shares his previous and ongoing client business experiences and what's happening in the world of data science.

His expertise topics include themes around : Data Science in a Business Context, Project Experiences, Data Modeling, and Financial Education.

Jhonathan David Shaikh is a remarkable professional making an impressive industry impact in banking & finance, healthcare, trade & exports and education. JD started his career in banking furthered his education by earning a Masters degree in Busines... Show more

Enterprise Agile Coach

Toby Rao is an Agile leader, speaker, coach, and community builder based in the Washington DC Metro area. He specializes in Strategic Agile Transformation, Change Management, Program Management, Leadership Development, AI-driven Agile, and Organizational Development. With over 15 years of experience, Toby helps organizations address today’s VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous) challenges by guiding leaders and teams to understand, apply, and evangelize Lean and Agile practices.

Toby is an ICF-Credentialed Coach, an IC-Agile Accredited Trainer, a Certified Executive Coach and holds several top Agile certifications from Scrum Alliance and ICAgile. He also has certifications in AI, including AI for Product Management (IBM/Pendo.io), Generative AI Fundamentals (Academy Accreditation from Databricks), and AI & Agility (Scrum Alliance).

He is passionate about developing people’s capabilities through coaching, consulting, training, and mentoring. A dedicated advocate for the Agile community, Toby co-founded the A20 Agile Conference in 2020 and leads the Loudoun Agile Network (LAN), a vibrant community of over 2,000 members in the Washington DC Metro area. He frequently speaks at Agile conferences and industry events worldwide.

As an early adopter of AI, Toby uses AI tools extensively as an Enterprise Coach, enhancing productivity and streamlining workflows. He has hosted six AI-related presentations at LAN, and is invested in continuously expanding his AI knowledge.

LinkedIn: Toby Rao

Enterprise Agile Coach Toby Rao is an Agile leader, speaker, coach, and community builder based in the Washington DC Metro area. He specializes in Strategic Agile Transformation, Change Management, Program Management, Leadership Development, AI-dr... Show more

Dr. Darya Yegorina is a globally recognized thought leader, futurist, and transformational business strategist who empowers organizations and individuals to thrive in the era of digital disruption. With a career spanning 20+ years at the intersection of leadership, technology, and business innovation, Darya is a driving force in digital transformation, AI, and future workforce development.

As a C-level executive, entrepreneur, and mentor, Darya has shaped the success of enterprises, startups, and global initiatives by integrating emerging technologies with strategic growth frameworks. She is a sought-after keynote speaker on leadership, innovation, and the future of work, addressing audiences at major global conferences, corporate summits, and executive retreats.

A passionate advocate for future-ready leadership, Darya believes that true innovation begins with a bold vision and the courage to challenge the status quo. She inspires business leaders to embrace AI, digital transformation, and agile leadership strategies to navigate uncertainty, unlock new opportunities, and foster a culture of continuous learning.

Global Impact & Achievements:
✅ Executive & Board Leadership: C-Level strategist with expertise in business transformation, revenue operations (RevOps), and strategic growth across global markets. Advisor to enterprises, government bodies, and tech innovators.
✅ Digital Transformation & AI Thought Leader: Recognized as a Top Thought Leader in AR/VR, AI, and Digital Transformation by Thinkers 360, shaping the dialogue on the future of business and technology.
✅ Award-Winning Entrepreneur & Speaker: Winner of the Global Female Leader Award in Entrepreneurship, Young European Leader (#EYL40), Women in IT, and featured in Forbes, Inc.com, Business & Finance, and Irish Times.
✅ Future Workforce & EdTech Visionary: Led transformative EdTech initiatives, including EU-backed projects on AI and AR in education, impacting thousands of students across Europe.
✅ Women in Leadership & DEI Advocate: A strong voice in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), mentoring female founders, startup leaders, and executives to break barriers in tech and business.

Speaking & Expertise:
🔹 Leadership in the Age of AI & Digital Disruption
🔹 The Future of Work: Skills, Adaptability & Innovation
🔹 Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Building Legacies
🔹 Strategic Growth & Business Transformation
🔹 Inspiring Change: Leading with Purpose & Resilience

Darya’s leadership journey, from entrepreneurial success to executive impact, serves as an inspiration for leaders seeking to drive meaningful change in their organizations and industries. She brings a unique blend of business acumen, technological foresight, and human-centric leadership, making her a powerful voice in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

🚀 Inspire. Lead. Transform. 🚀

Dr. Darya Yegorina is a globally recognized thought leader, futurist, and transformational business strategist who empowers organizations and individuals to thrive in the era of digital disruption. With a career spanning 20+ years at the intersection... Show more

東京都葛飾区出身。2002年中央大学大学院総合政策研究科博士前期課程修了。2002年より国際大学GLOCOM研究員。同准教授・主幹研究員を経て2019年より現職。武蔵学園データサイエンス研究所副所長、東京大学空間情報科学研究センター客員教授、国際大学GLOCOM主幹研究員も務める。
社会的な活動として、デジタル庁オープンデータ伝道師、総務省「地方自治体のデジタルトランスフォーメーション推進に係る検討会」座長、総務省「自治体システム等標準化検討会（住民記録システム・税務システム・選挙人名簿管理システム）」座長、三重県デジタル推進フェロー、一般社団法人オープン・ナレッジ・ファウンデーション・ジャパン代表理事なども務めている。

東京都葛飾区出身。2002年中央大学大学院総合政策研究科博士前期課程修了。2002年より国際大学GLOCOM研究員。同准教授・主幹研究員を経て2019年より現職。武蔵学園データサイエンス研究所副所長、東京大学空間情報科学研究センター客員教授、国際大学GLOCOM主幹研究員も務める。 社会的な活動として、デジタル庁オープンデータ伝道師、総務省「地方自治体のデジタルトランスフォーメーション推進に係る検討会」座長、総務省「自治体システム等標準化検討会（住民記録システム・税務システム・選挙人名簿管理シ... Show more

Elizabeth A. Ruiz, PhD, is a Leadership Psychology Scholar-Practitioner. She is a dynamic force in strategic communication and leadership development. With over 35 years of experience, she has honed a unique expertise in leadership psychology, human capital, and organizational growth. As a Leadership Psychology Architect and Transformation Facilitator, Elizabeth empowers individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential through tailored business solutions, cutting-edge training, and strategic insights. Elizabeth’s passion for helping others grow is the driving force behind her career. She specializes in developing leaders who can navigate the complexities of today's business landscape with confidence and resilience. Through learning assessments, leadership training, or strategic business solutions, Elizabeth’s work empowers others with the skills they need to succeed. Elizabeth is not just a scholar-practitioner—she is a catalyst for transformation, inspiring leaders to reach new heights and organizations to achieve sustainable growth.

Elizabeth A. Ruiz, PhD, is a Leadership Psychology Scholar-Practitioner. She is a dynamic force in strategic communication and leadership development. With over 35 years of experience, she has honed a unique expertise in leadership psychology, human ... Show more

As an ethical AI advocate, she focuses on proactively driving organizational change in small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) to ensure ethical AI is at the forefront of AI development and deployment. Her current collaborations intersect technology, governance, and social impact to build robust ethical AI governance that takes a human-first approach. Currently, her focus is on merging customer success and AI governance in the federal space.

In her spare time, she serves as the Non-Technical Lead for the DC Chapter of Black Girls CODE and the Technology Committee Co-chair and Webmistress for the Portsmouth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. When she isn’t doing those things, she is a mentor to women at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). Her mission is to inspire, empower, & impact underrepresented individuals and protect the data associated with them. For a full bio, please find it here: www.eveal.ai.

As an ethical AI advocate, she focuses on proactively driving organizational change in small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) to ensure ethical AI is at the forefront of AI development and deployment. Her current collaborations intersect technology... 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

Roni Habib is a speaker, author, and expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, more connected to their purpose, and more playful. The founder of EQ Schools, he speaks and leads workshops in organizations nationally and abroad. His dynamic keynotes leave audiences laughing, insightful, elevated, and inspired to take action.

Early in his career, Roni struggled with the high stresses and demands of teaching, even losing touch with why he wanted to be a teacher in the first place. It was so painful that he finally discovered the power of integrating improv, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and positive psychology in his own life as well as at work and felt called to share this new approach with the world.

In the last decade with EQ Schools, Roni has taught and inspired thousands of Teachers, Principals, Superintendents, Administrators, Business Leaders, and Parents.

Prior to earning his Masters of Education and teaching credential at Harvard University, he lived in Israel and Belgium. Most importantly though, Roni has a huge heart and loves helping people.

Roni Habib is a speaker, author, and expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, more connected to their purpose, and more playful. The founder of EQ Schools, he speaks and leads workshops in organizations nation... Show more

I build teams that thrive. I’m an impact-driven leader, blending innovation, creativity and agile leadership to create inclusive cultures centred on learning and delivering - and having fun doing it.

I build teams that thrive. I’m an impact-driven leader, blending innovation, creativity and agile leadership to create inclusive cultures centred on learning and delivering - and having fun doing it. Show more

Beth Griffith, BAP, GIP, HIC, LEED, is the founder of Renewable Renegades and ANEC Ventures, where she helps mission-driven organizations responsibly adopt AI, automation, and clean energy strategies that strengthen people, systems, and communities.

Working at the intersection of responsible AI, workforce development, renewable energy, and inclusive business growth, Beth brings a practical, human-centered lens to emerging technology. Her work focuses on helping governments, nonprofits, NGOs, public sector teams, and small businesses build AI capacity without losing sight of trust, accountability, and human dignity.

Beth brings a people-first perspective on agentic AI: how organizations can design AI agents with the right guardrails, increase human capital through AI capital, and build systems that elevate workers, leaders, and the communities they serve.

Beth Griffith, BAP, GIP, HIC, LEED, is the founder of Renewable Renegades and ANEC Ventures, where she helps mission-driven organizations responsibly adopt AI, automation, and clean energy strategies that strengthen people, systems, and communities. ... Show more

Sonia Thomas is a federal compliance expert, resilience strategist, and advocate for intentional living. With a distinguished career spanning leaderships roles at FEMA, and DHS/ICE., Sonia brings a rare combination of technical regulatory rigor and deep human insight to the stage. She specializes in guiding organizations through the complexities of 2 CFR 200, subrecipient monitoring, and high stakes conflict resolution. Beyond the boardroom, Sonia is a passionate speaker on the power of perseverance, drawing on her own journey of transformation to teach audiences how to cultivate resilience, mindfulness, and the restorative philosophy of Hygge in high pressure environments. Whether demystifying federal grants or coaching leaders on creating sanctuary amid chaos, Sonia empowers her audience to navigate professional challenges with humor, clarity, grit and purpose.

Sonia Thomas is a federal compliance expert, resilience strategist, and advocate for intentional living. With a distinguished career spanning leaderships roles at FEMA, and DHS/ICE., Sonia brings a rare combination of technical regulatory rigor and d... Show more

Mr. Cruz is an associate who provides planning and strategic services to colleges and universities. Mr. Cruz brings a diverse range of experiences from across the entire education sector, with expertise in business operations and information technology management. A strong collaborator and relationship developer, Mr. Cruz is driven toward identifying solutions that create a bridge between institutional knowledge, strategic partnership, and operational success.

Mr. Cruz is an associate who provides planning and strategic services to colleges and universities. Mr. Cruz brings a diverse range of experiences from across the entire education sector, with expertise in business operations and information technolo... Show more

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

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

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

J'ai toujours cultivé une certaine polyvalence dont les différentes facettes s'enrichissent mutuellement.
Coach professionnel et agiliste, j'écoute et je questionne individus et organisations pour les aider à clarifier leurs problématiques et à construire leurs propres solutions.

J'ai toujours cultivé une certaine polyvalence dont les différentes facettes s'enrichissent mutuellement. Coach professionnel et agiliste, j'écoute et je questionne individus et organisations pour les aider à clarifier leurs problématiques et à cons... Show more

Dr Mamet Amfo-Brobbey, EdD, is an educator, researcher, speaker, and founder of First Pick Education. With more than 20 years of experience in international education, she specialises in teaching and learning, learner agency, assessment, and educational leadership.

Her doctoral research explored the use of heutagogic instruction to foster learner agency and promote agentic engagement, examining how classroom design can empower learners to take greater ownership of their learning. A triple-science teacher, examiner, and staff trainer, she works with educators and school leaders to translate educational research into practical strategies that develop independent, self-directed learners.

Dr Amfo-Brobbey is also an award-winning public speaker and author, known for making complex educational ideas accessible, actionable, and impactful for teachers, leaders, and learners.

Dr Mamet Amfo-Brobbey, EdD, is an educator, researcher, speaker, and founder of First Pick Education. With more than 20 years of experience in international education, she specialises in teaching and learning, learner agency, assessment, and educatio... Show more

Passionate and experienced educator with over 15 years of experience within the education industry, specializing in faculty administration, organizational leadership, and curriculum development. Adept in overseeing the overall management of educational programs while remaining committed to the organization’s mission and vision. Dynamic communicator with a proven ability to build lasting relationships with teachers, students, and parents. A motivational leader who enjoys actively engaging with all educational partners. Strategic planner and program designer; developed strategic plans, implemented and monitored change initiatives. Sought out collaborator by top leadership within the organization to lead positive outcomes for the betterment of students and faculty.

Passionate and experienced educator with over 15 years of experience within the education industry, specializing in faculty administration, organizational leadership, and curriculum development. Adept in overseeing the overall management of education... Show more

I am a Alabama Native. Military Army Veteran. I am Natural Hair and Microlocs Specialist, licensed instructor and Salon Owner with over 15yrs in the Natural Hair Industry.
I have a huge 30,000+ social Media following with clients all over the US.

I am a Alabama Native. Military Army Veteran. I am Natural Hair and Microlocs Specialist, licensed instructor and Salon Owner with over 15yrs in the Natural Hair Industry. I have a huge 30,000+ social Media following with clients all over the US. Show more

Audrey Long is a Gaming Cloud Security Architect at Microsoft apart of the Microsoft Gaming Security team. With a keen eye for creating secure coding solutions and performing comprehensive security risk assessments, Audrey excels in threat modeling and evaluating security in architecture. Her expertise extends to implementing robust security practices that safeguard digital landscapes.
Passionate about making security accessible, Audrey is dedicated to empowering software engineers and inspiring girls to pursue careers in STEM. She holds a DoD secret clearance and a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security from Johns Hopkins. Additionally, Audrey is a proud ambassador for Google's Women Techmakers program, championing diversity and inclusion in tech.
As an international speaker, Audrey has shared her insights and expertise at conferences and events around the world, inspiring audiences with her knowledge and passion for cybersecurity.

Audrey Long is a Gaming Cloud Security Architect at Microsoft apart of the Microsoft Gaming Security team. With a keen eye for creating secure coding solutions and performing comprehensive security risk assessments, Audrey excels in threat modeling a... Show more

Aufgewachsen in einem mehrsprachigen Umfeld, interessiere ich mich besonders dafür, wie Sprachen erworben werden und wie sich das eigene Selbstbild in verschiedenen Sprachen verändert. Fachlich liegen meine Schwerpunkte auf Mehrsprachigkeit, kultursensibler Sprachbildung und kritischen Perspektiven auf Native-Speakerism.

Aufgewachsen in einem mehrsprachigen Umfeld, interessiere ich mich besonders dafür, wie Sprachen erworben werden und wie sich das eigene Selbstbild in verschiedenen Sprachen verändert. Fachlich liegen meine Schwerpunkte auf Mehrsprachigkeit, kulturse... Show more

Espen Holtebu started his career as a solar engineer before moving into data engineering. A strong foundation in SQL and analytical thinking made the transition natural and fun.

Today Espen works with modern data platforms in the public sector, helping teams navigate the shift from legacy, GUI‑based tooling to code‑driven, transparent workflows. He focuses on practical enablement, organizational change, and building sustainable ways of working with data at scale.

Outside of work, Espen enjoys fishing and spending time in nature with his family.

Espen Holtebu started his career as a solar engineer before moving into data engineering. A strong foundation in SQL and analytical thinking made the transition natural and fun. Today Espen works with modern data platforms in the public sector, he... Show more

Charles Crosbie is a Senior Product Manager at the Terry Fox Research Institute, where he leads high-impact digital initiatives at the intersection of product strategy, advanced technology, and healthcare innovation. A seasoned speaker and thought leader, Charles excels at translating complex technical architectures, from AI frameworks to massive digital media and data infrastructure—into scalable, real-world solutions that drive meaningful organizational change.

With extensive experience addressing executive audiences and policy makers, Charles is a frequent voice at major industry events. His recent speaking engagements include executive roundtables and interviews at the Flower AI Summit in London, delivering keynotes on emerging technology trends, and serving as an expert panelist at a recent Innovation Summit on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Charles’s ability to bridge the gap between technical execution and high-level strategy has also made him a trusted presenter for government and diplomatic audiences, including past presentations for the Trade Commissioner Service Secretariat. He brings a pragmatic, forward-thinking perspective to every stage, empowering teams and stakeholders to successfully navigate the future of digital transformation.

Charles Crosbie is a Senior Product Manager at the Terry Fox Research Institute, where he leads high-impact digital initiatives at the intersection of product strategy, advanced technology, and healthcare innovation. A seasoned speaker and thought le... Show more

Sarah Wolters is a passionate educator, DEI advocate, and consultant dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive through inclusive practices and innovative solutions. With a background as a classroom teacher and youth development specialist, Sarah has been shaping communities and organizations through tailored Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training since 2020 as a Qualified Administrator for the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). Her leadership journey began as a founding board member of Cabins4Kids, where she has been fostering leadership skills and teaching DEI informally since the age of 15.

In her current role as the founder of Sarah Wolters Co, Sarah is dedicated to empowering organizations through tailored DEI training, leadership development, and agile project management strategies. By integrating innovative practices with a focus on inclusivity, she equips leaders and teams with tools to foster collaboration, prioritize effectively, and drive meaningful change. Her efforts extend to business and technology consulting, where she helps organizations identify solutions to work smarter, adapt to challenges, and achieve lasting impact. She continues to draw on her 11 years of experience in education, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a focus on Special Education from Butler University and a Master’s in Early Childhood Education with a Montessori certification from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Sarah also remains deeply connected to her roots in youth mentorship through her ongoing work with Cabins4Kids.

When she’s not working or exploring new ideas, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, discovering local businesses, cheering for her favorite sports teams, and soaking in the joy of live music with friends. Her mission is clear: to inspire growth, innovation, and meaningful connection at every level.

Sarah Wolters is a passionate educator, DEI advocate, and consultant dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive through inclusive practices and innovative solutions. With a background as a classroom teacher and youth development ... Show more

Amb. Aluba Lekwauwa is the Founder and Executive Director of Herora Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women, advancing girl-child education, and fostering sustainable community development. She is a passionate advocate, speaker, and social impact leader committed to creating opportunities for vulnerable women, girls, and young people.
With experience in community engagement, mentorship, leadership development, and advocacy, Aluba has championed initiatives that promote education, economic empowerment, and youth participation in social change. Her work focuses on equipping individuals and communities with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in an evolving world.

As a speaker, she inspires audiences to embrace inclusive leadership, leverage innovation for positive impact, and drive sustainable transformation. Through Herora Foundation and her public engagements, Aluba continues to champion a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to learn, lead, and succeed. Her mission is rooted in empowering people, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact across generations.

Amb. Aluba Lekwauwa is the Founder and Executive Director of Herora Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women, advancing girl-child education, and fostering sustainable community development. She is a passionate advocate, spe... Show more