Elit Cenk Alp is a Software Architect and technology professional with 15+ years of experience in enterprise software, financial technology, public-sector platforms, distributed systems, and infrastructure automation.

His experience spans software architecture, hands-on engineering, and technical leadership across complex enterprise projects. His current focus is enterprise AI, particularly conversational systems combining intent and entity recognition, multi-model orchestration, security controls, API integration, and dynamic user interfaces.

He is passionate about transforming conversational AI from response-generating chatbots into systems that securely execute real-world services and transactions.

Cenk also has an academic background in machine learning and computer vision, with published research on human activity recognition using HMM and LSTM models. He mentors early-career software developers through collaborative engineering programs.

Elit Cenk Alp is a Software Architect and technology professional with 15+ years of experience in enterprise software, financial technology, public-sector platforms, distributed systems, and infrastructure automation. His experience spans software... Show more

I started my career as a school counselor in New Jersey and spent 16 years in schools before moving into program management. A lot of what I learned there still applies, especially when a project’s real problem turns out to be about people rather than process.
At Capital Technology Group (CTG), I manage a federal technology modernization project for Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, replacing the legacy user systems for two of its research facilities with a single cloud-based platform. The work includes data migration, role-based access control, and knowledge transfer so the lab’s own developers can maintain the system after handoff. I also provide PMO support on a DHS USCIS DevSecOps contract, where I lead Agile Scrum ceremonies and sprint planning. Across both, I handle stakeholder management, risk tracking, and client reporting with government clients, internal teams, and subcontractors.
Inside CTG, I co-chair the Agile Center of Excellence, building templates, onboarding toolkits, and training for program managers, scrum masters, and business analysts. I also designed and piloted a Transitional Manager program for new hires, interview technical candidates, and support staff through the security clearance process.
Before CTG, I worked on USAID institutional support contracts. As Senior Program Manager on a $41.6M contract with a 36-person team, I handled financial forecasting, staffing, and performance management, earned strong CPARS ratings, and led a full contract closeout within 30 days of a stop work order. Earlier, as an Operations Manager on a $95M contract, I oversaw recruitment, compliance, and HR operations, and helped manage a vendor network of more than 100 small businesses, universities, and consultants.
At the National Center for Women & IT (NCWIT), I directed a national program, managed partnerships with Microsoft, Google, Apple, and Salesforce, and secured grant funding and sponsorships. I also served as project manager for the Microsoft Guide to Inclusive Computer Science Education.
I’ve written 12 books, mostly for kids and school counselors. I was New Jersey School Counselor of the Year in 2017, and William Paterson University named me one of its “50 Alumni Under 50.” I mentor WPU students through the Pesce Family Mentoring Institute.
I hold PMP and CSPO certifications. When I’m not working, I’m usually riding rail trails on my bicycle.

I started my career as a school counselor in New Jersey and spent 16 years in schools before moving into program management. A lot of what I learned there still applies, especially when a project’s real problem turns out to be about people rather tha... Show more

Patrick Henley has served as the Director of Human Resources and Risk Management with the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority for more than seven years. He has worked in various HR and Risk Management leadership roles for more than 20 years. Additionally, he teaches courses in HR, Management, & Technology at the college level. Patrick earned his bachelor’s in psychology from Kennesaw State University, a master’s in business administration from Troy University, and recently earned a doctorate in business administration at the Florida Institute of Technology. He holds both the SPHR & SHRM-SCP certifications.

Patrick Henley has served as the Director of Human Resources and Risk Management with the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority for more than seven years. He has worked in various HR and Risk Management leadership roles for more than 20 years. Additio... Show more

Dr. Terza Lima-Neves is a scholar, author, and community advocate. She is professor of political science at Johnson C. Smith University. Her research interests focus on African diasporas, gender and community building. Lima-Neves has published 2 edited volumes focused on Cabo Verde, gender, and diaspora relations. Terza is also the cofounder and executive director of Poderoza International Conference on Cabo Verdean women. She lives in Charlotte, NC.

Dr. Terza Lima-Neves is a scholar, author, and community advocate. She is professor of political science at Johnson C. Smith University. Her research interests focus on African diasporas, gender and community building. Lima-Neves has published 2 edit... Show more

Chris Hidalgo is an Information Security professional with 10 years of academic service experience and 6 years working with information systems. Having completed degrees in Economics and Information Science, Chris' career trajectory has focused on understanding how people decide, evaluate, and trust solutions in their business
operations. In his free time, Chris enjoys gaming, wrangling cats, and doting with his
wife over their son.

Chris has presented talks for the 2022 Tandem KEYS conference, the 2024 BSides
Austin conference, and two talks for the StudyGRC Youtube channel. He also
volunteers as co-lead for the Public Speaking Masters group in the Simply Cyber
Community.

Chris Hidalgo is an Information Security professional with 10 years of academic service experience and 6 years working with information systems. Having completed degrees in Economics and Information Science, Chris' career trajectory has focused on un... Show more

I’m an educator, speaker and psychology-informed consultant with a background in psychology, educology, marketing and business. I was born in Lithuania and have lived in Malta, Greece and Portugal, which means I don’t assume there is one universal experience of being a woman.

My talks glue together psychology, research, cultural observation, real stories and humour, and challenge the norms we were taught to obey without questioning.
I’m not there to give women 10 steps to become a better version of themselves, optimise their morning routine or finally learn how to balance everything. ChatGPT can generate a pretty good list in seconds.
I’m much more interested in sharing a real-life experience they will be talking about after the conference is over.

I’m an educator, speaker and psychology-informed consultant with a background in psychology, educology, marketing and business. I was born in Lithuania and have lived in Malta, Greece and Portugal, which means I don’t assume there is one universal ex... Show more

公立千歳科学技術大学 情報システム工学科 准教授．博士（理工学）．
大学の技師として学習支援システムの企画・設計・開発・運用・保守を担当した後，2013年から研究職に移り，2024年より現職。千歳市バスロケーションシステム（〜2022）などの開発を経て，現在はシステム開発手法，プログラミング教育の研究に従事。
2015年からJavaユーザーグループ北海道を立ち上げ、スタッフとともに年4回のイベント開催に取り組む。

公立千歳科学技術大学 情報システム工学科 准教授．博士（理工学）． 大学の技師として学習支援システムの企画・設計・開発・運用・保守を担当した後，2013年から研究職に移り，2024年より現職。千歳市バスロケーションシステム（〜2022）などの開発を経て，現在はシステム開発手法，プログラミング教育の研究に従事。 2015年からJavaユーザーグループ北海道を立ち上げ、スタッフとともに年4回のイベント開催に取り組む。 Show more

Emerald Akhaumere, a 22-year-old Nigerian trailblazer, is rewriting the narrative in the world of technology. Her journey began at the age of 15, fueled by an unquenchable passion for tech and a fierce determination to make a difference.

Emerald's tech odyssey has been nothing short of remarkable. Her early involvement in SWENext kindled her love for the field, setting the stage for an incredible transformation. From these roots, she ascended to become a Collegiate Member and a Collegiate Club Lead, championing inclusivity in STEM.

Emerald's accomplishments in the SWE Recruitment Challenge, where she clinched top positions multiple times, speak volumes about her zeal for SWE's mission and the advancement of women in tech. She believes that innovation thrives in diversity, and she's a living testament to this ideology.

But her journey didn't stop there. Emerald's commitment transcends borders; she proudly serves as a SWE Global Ambassador, amplifying the organization's impact and values globally. She's passionate about fostering a global community that empowers women to thrive in the tech universe.

As the newly appointed GDSC Lead at BAZE University, Emerald is poised to make an indelible mark. Her leadership and dedication are set to empower a new generation of tech enthusiasts.

Emerald's story is a testament to the incredible potential that emerges when passion meets dedication. She's breaking barriers, paving the way for underrepresented voices in tech, and proving that age is no limit when it comes to making waves in the world of technology.

Emerald Akhaumere, a 22-year-old Nigerian trailblazer, is rewriting the narrative in the world of technology. Her journey began at the age of 15, fueled by an unquenchable passion for tech and a fierce determination to make a difference. Emerald's... Show more

Karen Kenyatta Russell, JD ☘ speaks on winning: voting, democracy, leadership and finding your people. Bill Russell taught her how to win. Now she teaches audiences how to win too.

The daughter of NBA icon Bill Russell and Black Panther Rose Swisher, Karen is a Harvard-trained attorney, resistance historian and tech & AI strategist, and Founder & CEO of Start Winning With Me. She has delivered keynotes, moderated panels and facilitated hard conversations, gave a TEDx talk on mentoring, and served as NBC KING 5's on-air legal analyst. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Seattle Times, Boston Globe and Huffington Post.

Karen Kenyatta Russell, JD ☘ speaks on winning: voting, democracy, leadership and finding your people. Bill Russell taught her how to win. Now she teaches audiences how to win too. The daughter of NBA icon Bill Russell and Black Panther Rose Swish... Show more

Mari Anne’s housing career began in 1999 as a resident advisor for a privately-owned residence hall on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. She joined University Housing in 2004 and has held a variety of roles with an eye toward student service during her 22 year tenure. As the director of Housing Information & Marketing, she leads residence hall occupancy management, marketing, communications, and assessment. In addition, Mari Anne champions strategic initiatives to support both students and staff who call University Housing home. Most recently she partnered with other housing executives to implement a culture & climate action plan focusing on staff support structures and developing the next level of strategic leaders in University Housing. Mari Anne received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication & Political Science and a Master of Education with an emphasis in Leadership: Training & Development from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Mari Anne has served as an external consultant on occupancy management and assignment operations, is a certified facilitator for Crucial Conversations and regularly collaborates to train others in providing excellent customer service within the campus community.

Mari Anne’s housing career began in 1999 as a resident advisor for a privately-owned residence hall on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. She joined University Housing in 2004 and has held a variety of roles with an eye toward studen... Show more

Haroon Rafique is the Manager of Development Operations at the Student Information Systems department in the Information Technology Services portfolio at University of Toronto. Haroon has 28+ years experience in information technology with 22 of them at institutes of higher learning. Haroon focuses on leadership and mentoring on the people side of things and on system design, development and management of emerging technologies on the technology side of things.

He holds a Masters of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.

Haroon Rafique is the Manager of Development Operations at the Student Information Systems department in the Information Technology Services portfolio at University of Toronto. Haroon has 28+ years experience in information technology with 22 of them... Show more

Giselle Dejamco Cunanan is an Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies and Asian American Studies at California State University, Sacramento. Her research centers on the institutionalization and defense of Ethnic Studies, analyzing the racial labor of student activism and key grassroots community organizations. Her current work documents the legislative and political battles that threaten academic freedom and critical pedagogy. She maintains a scholarly focus on U.S.-based Filipinxs and their organizing history in the long struggle for Ethnic Studies curriculum.

Giselle Dejamco Cunanan is an Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies and Asian American Studies at California State University, Sacramento. Her research centers on the institutionalization and defense of Ethnic Studies, analyzing the racial labor of s... Show more

Kessiny Neal is a Community Coordinator in Housing & Residence Life at Kennesaw State University, where she supports residential communities and supervises a team of 25 Resident Assistants and Community Assistants. With a passion for student development, leadership, and the residential experience, Kessiny has built her career around helping students and emerging professionals recognize their strengths and turn their experiences into meaningful growth.

A 2022 graduate of Middle Georgia State University, Kessiny earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and was deeply involved in campus leadership and student engagement. During her undergraduate experience, she served as Student Government Vice President, Campus Activities Board President, Resident Assistant, Community Assistant, Knights Lead Ambassador, Emerging Leaders Ambassador, and a tutor in the Mathematics Academic Resource Center. These experiences sparked her passion for student leadership and ultimately led her to pursue a career in higher education and Residence Life.

Kessiny went on to earn a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern University and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Her professional experience includes serving in multiple Residence Life roles, from Resident Assistant and Community Assistant to Community Coordinator, giving her a unique perspective on the connection between student leadership, professional development, and higher education.

Kessiny is actively involved in the Southeastern Association of Housing Officers (SEAHO) and has been recognized for her contributions to the field, including receiving the Paul Jahr SEAHO Scholarship, placing in the SEAHO Entry-Level Case Study Competition, and being selected for the Regional Entry-Level Institute. Her professional interests center on leadership development, resilience, student staff supervision, professional identity, and supporting emerging professionals in higher education.

Through her work, Kessiny strives to create spaces where people can grow, reflect, and recognize that the experiences they gain along the way are often preparing them for more than they realize.

Kessiny Neal is a Community Coordinator in Housing & Residence Life at Kennesaw State University, where she supports residential communities and supervises a team of 25 Resident Assistants and Community Assistants. With a passion for student developm... Show more

I am a logistics professional and project manager committed to Internet governance, digital inclusion, and capacity building in Africa. As the Organizational Secretary for the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Côte d’Ivoire, I help coordinate multistakeholder initiatives that bring together various stakeholders to address digital issues. I also participate in projects led by House of Africa Côte d’Ivoire and civil society organizations, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence governance, digital rights, innovation, youth empowerment, and digital transformation. Drawing on my experience in project management and stakeholder engagement, I am committed to promoting inclusive digital policies and strengthening cooperation for sustainable digital development in Africa.

I am a logistics professional and project manager committed to Internet governance, digital inclusion, and capacity building in Africa. As the Organizational Secretary for the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Côte d’Ivoire, I help coordinate multis... Show more

Keva M. Suitte, MSN, RN, is the Simulation Lab Coordinator and Faculty Instructor in the Department of Nursing at North Carolina Central University. With more than 25 years of nursing experience and expertise in healthcare simulation and nursing education, she is dedicated to creating innovative and engaging learning experiences that prepare students for professional practice. Ms. Suitte serves as a Co-Principal Investigator for NCCU's Reverse Mentoring Program, where she collaborates on initiatives that promote reciprocal learning, leadership development, and intergenerational engagement. Her professional interests include simulation-based education, mentorship, faculty development, and interprofessional collaboration.

Keva M. Suitte, MSN, RN, is the Simulation Lab Coordinator and Faculty Instructor in the Department of Nursing at North Carolina Central University. With more than 25 years of nursing experience and expertise in healthcare simulation and nursing educ... Show more

I am currently the Associate Director for Residence Life at Furman University. I have been at Furman since 2022, and I supervise both full-time and student staff. I specialize in Student Staff Training and Selection.

I am currently the Associate Director for Residence Life at Furman University. I have been at Furman since 2022, and I supervise both full-time and student staff. I specialize in Student Staff Training and Selection. Show more

He wears many different hats. In universities, he is an assistant professor. In enterprises, he is an AI-enabled service consultant. In elementary school, he is a STEM teacher. In public, he is a cloud advocate, especially for Azure.

He wears many different hats. In universities, he is an assistant professor. In enterprises, he is an AI-enabled service consultant. In elementary school, he is a STEM teacher. In public, he is a cloud advocate, especially for Azure. Show more

Larissa Barth ist Künstlerin, Fotografin und Lernenthusiastin. An der Bauhaus-Universität Weimar gestaltet sie in der Universitätsentwicklung Unterstützungsformate rund um Lehren und Lernen, studentische Partizipation, künstliche Intelligenz und wissenschaftliches Schreiben.

Larissa Barth ist Künstlerin, Fotografin und Lernenthusiastin. An der Bauhaus-Universität Weimar gestaltet sie in der Universitätsentwicklung Unterstützungsformate rund um Lehren und Lernen, studentische Partizipation, künstliche Intelligenz und wiss... Show more

Coach Asha Mohd brings her story, “From Sky to AI,” to the way she teaches, coaches and speaks.

A Certified AI Instructor, Certified AI Engineer, Career Coach, Keynote Speaker and Founder of Trainito Academy in Malaysia, Asha helps people build the skills and confidence to move forward in a workplace changing with AI.

After more than a decade in aviation, retrenchment led her to rebuild her career. Her experience across hospitality, aviation and banking gives her a grounded understanding of people, service and the courage it takes to start again.

Today, she works with government and corporate teams across generations and cultures, combining practical AI skills with career development. Human judgement, cultural understanding and responsible AI use are central to her approach.

An HRD Corp Accredited Trainer, Asha holds Microsoft certifications, Google Educator and Claude Practitioner credentials, alongside professional certifications from CompTIA and CertNexus.

Recognised by Favikon as a top AI voice in Malaysia for 2025, she continues to feature in its AI and productivity rankings in 2026. She also ranks among Malaysia’s leading Top 20 female creators and Top 100 creators.

Asha brings warmth, relatable stories and hands-on learning to her sessions. Her goal is for people to leave with confidence, a clear next step and a plan they can act on.

She knows what starting over feels like. Now, she helps others see what they can build next.

Coach Asha Mohd brings her story, “From Sky to AI,” to the way she teaches, coaches and speaks. A Certified AI Instructor, Certified AI Engineer, Career Coach, Keynote Speaker and Founder of Trainito Academy in Malaysia, Asha helps people build th... Show more

Dr. Tia Murry is an influential leader and the Co-Founder of Veridian Christian University (VCU), where she focuses on blending faith with learning to empower students for impactful careers. Dr. Tia is also the Founder of FLI, LLC, where her transformative F.L.I. method (Forgive. Let Go. Initiate.) inspires women to lead balanced, purpose-driven lives. Dr. Tia has a proven record in driving strategic initiatives, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and developing sustainable growth strategies.

A sought-after International Speaker, Dr. Tia has delivered keynotes for universities, nonprofits, and conferences, including the renowned SpeakerCon stage with figures like Les Brown. Her bestselling book, F.L.I. Forgive. Let Go. Initiate., quickly became an Amazon Best Self-Help Short Read, chronicling her journey through personal challenges with courage and resilience.

Recognized with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Tia has received numerous honors, such as the Women of Distinction by the United Nations Global Women Foundation, Women In Management Africa, Champion Leadership Award U.K., and the Lifetime Commitment to Community Service Award.

Dr. Tia's true joy lies in empowering women, advocating for economic advancement, and inspiring audiences through her talks on leadership, faith, and personal growth. Outside of her professional sphere, she is a devoted mother to Derrick, Tamia, and Jazmyn, and a proud grandmother to Amaiah. Her passion for inspiring transformation makes her an invaluable presence at events where she combines authenticity with actionable insights.

Dr. Tia Murry is an influential leader and the Co-Founder of Veridian Christian University (VCU), where she focuses on blending faith with learning to empower students for impactful careers. Dr. Tia is also the Founder of FLI, LLC, where her transfor... Show more

Dr. Zakaria Sawadogo
Specialist in Artificial Intelligence Applied to Cybersecurity
Initiator of Cybersecurity Awareness and Training Programs in Burkina Faso

Dr. Zakaria Sawadogo is a researcher specializing in artificial intelligence applied to cybersecurity. His work focuses on behavior-based detection of malware, the protection of digital infrastructures, and the security of mobile devices in resource-constrained environments. He particularly investigates the risks associated with the widespread use of smartphones in Africa and the cyberattacks targeting vulnerable populations.

Highly committed to promoting digital rights and developing technological skills, he leads and supports several capacity-building initiatives in cybersecurity targeted at youth, women, and rural communities in West Africa.

Dr. Sawadogo also contributes to international collaborations in research, publications, and innovative projects bridging AI, security, and digital inclusion

Dr. Zakaria Sawadogo Specialist in Artificial Intelligence Applied to Cybersecurity Initiator of Cybersecurity Awareness and Training Programs in Burkina Faso Dr. Zakaria Sawadogo is a researcher specializing in artificial intelligence applied t... Show more

Alex B. Hill highlights the intersections of power, privilege, and race in regards to health equity, access to basic services, and the social and political determinants of health. He is Project Director for the Detroit Food Map Initiative, Property Praxis, Detroit Atlas Collaboration, and DetroitData. Alex started DETROITography (detroitography.com) in 2013 to bring together various Detroit mapmakers and cartographers to showcase their work and encourage community members to start mapping their own city. He teaches in urban studies, public health, and geography at Wayne State University and Michigan State University. Alex is the author and cartographer of the books, Detroit in 50 Maps (2021) and Great Lakes in 50 Maps (2025) from Belt Publishing. He is a regular contributor to Model D Media, Flintside, Detroit PBS and the Detroit Free Press.

Alex B. Hill highlights the intersections of power, privilege, and race in regards to health equity, access to basic services, and the social and political determinants of health. He is Project Director for the Detroit Food Map Initiative, Property P... Show more

Gopichand Mannava is a senior public-sector data and technology leader, enterprise data architect, and independent AI researcher. His work focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence, enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, analytics, data governance, and digital transformation.

With professional experience in enterprise data architecture, Oracle databases, business intelligence, analytics, cloud identity and access management, and technology strategy, Gopichand helps organizations modernize complex data environments while improving security, governance, scalability, and trust. He is particularly focused on responsible generative AI adoption and on helping public institutions use data and emerging technologies to improve decision-making and service delivery.

Gopichand brings both technical depth and an executive perspective to discussions on AI strategy, data governance, cybersecurity, cloud identity, enterprise analytics, and public-sector modernization. He translates complex technology issues into practical, outcome-oriented approaches that support innovation while managing operational, privacy, and security risks.

In addition to his technology leadership work, Gopichand is building an independent-researcher profile through professional writing, research, speaking, peer review, advisory participation, judging, and industry recognition. He is committed to advancing thoughtful, responsible, and practical conversations about AI, digital trust, and the future of public-sector technology.

Gopichand Mannava is a senior public-sector data and technology leader, enterprise data architect, and independent AI researcher. His work focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence, enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, analytics, data... Show more

Sreedhar Ailu is a software quality practitioner specializing in User Acceptance Testing (UAT) governance, release readiness oversight, and quality risk management for large-scale regulated enterprise systems. With more than 13 years of experience, he has led and supported acceptance testing, deployment governance, and release decision-making across complex multi-vendor healthcare and public-sector technology programs.

His work focuses on the often-overlooked gap between successful testing and true production readiness. Drawing from real-world experience in highly regulated environments, he explores challenges related to regulatory interpretation alignment, testability coverage, release governance, and operational risk. His interests center on helping organizations make more informed release decisions when dependencies, integrations, and compliance requirements introduce hidden risk.

Sreedhar is an accepted speaker at CAST 2026 and an accepted author at PNSQC 2026. He actively contributes to the software quality community through practitioner research, conference participation, peer review, and knowledge sharing. His current areas of exploration include release readiness metrics, regulatory interpretation alignment, testability coverage, quality risk management, and governance approaches that improve confidence in enterprise software delivery.

When not working on quality and governance challenges, he enjoys mentoring practitioners, studying software delivery patterns, and contributing to discussions that advance the practice of software quality engineering.

Sreedhar Ailu is a software quality practitioner specializing in User Acceptance Testing (UAT) governance, release readiness oversight, and quality risk management for large-scale regulated enterprise systems. With more than 13 years of experience, h... Show more

Abogado especializado en cibercrimen y evidencia digital (UBA), e investigador certificado (TRM-CI). Comenzó su camino profesional en la industria de medios de pago, luego sumó experiencia en derecho comercial y desde hace algunos años trabaja en el Ministerio Público Fiscal de la Nación. Allí combina técnica jurídica e investigación avanzada para colaborar con el equipo en la investigación y litigio de causas penales.

Abogado especializado en cibercrimen y evidencia digital (UBA), e investigador certificado (TRM-CI). Comenzó su camino profesional en la industria de medios de pago, luego sumó experiencia en derecho comercial y desde hace algunos años trabaja en el ... 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

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

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

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Possui 18 anos de experiência no setor privado de telecomunicações, atuando em funções técnicas e de gestão antes de ingressar no serviço público.
É servidor de carreira da Anatel desde 2007, onde ocupou diversos cargos estratégicos: Gerente Operacional de Redes na área de Gestão da Informação, Gerente da Unidade Operacional no Maranhão , Assessor na Secretaria do Conselho Diretor, Assessor e Gerente substituto na Gerência de Canais de Relacionamento com os Consumidores, e atualmente, ocupa o cargo de Gerente de Planejamento, Desenvolvimento e Segurança de Sistemas na Superintendência de Gestão Interna da Informação.

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Poss... Show more

I have been a successful Deputy Chief of Police, State Representative, serial entrepreneur, COO, consultant, and am presently the CEO of a non-profit business. So basically, I've led everything but a conga line (though I not ruling it out).

I describe myself as the kind of leader who’s learned the hard way, laughed through the mess, and lived to tell the story—with a microphone in hand.

From the board room to the back alley, break room to the ballot box, my unique perspective and track record of success speak to my leadership style which is as practical as it is punchy.

I challenge audiences with thought provoking, engaging, and energetic presentations that leave attendees feeling empowered and enlightened reminding them that "Excellence lives in the area where most people fear to tread." Session titles like, "Tech Creep and the Chaos of Convenience" and "You can't Google what you don't know...you don't know," create interest and audiences are traditionally more engaged and enthusiastic.

If you are looking for a dynamic, insightful, thought-provoking speaker, I would like to be your choice.

Thank you for your time reviewing my fit for your event and if you need additional information you can find it at TCClements.net.

I have been a successful Deputy Chief of Police, State Representative, serial entrepreneur, COO, consultant, and am presently the CEO of a non-profit business. So basically, I've led everything but a conga line (though I not ruling it out). I des... Show more

A Full-Stack engineering leader and a Certified Associate Cloud Architect with 9 years of experience in software engineering, leading cross-functional teams across finance, e-commerce, logistics, digital marketing, and healthcare. Delivered enterprise-grade web applications for clients in Nigeria, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and the United Kingdom. Expertise in React, Node.js, Python Flask, and cloud platforms. Proven ability to analyze customer needs, build high-quality software, and empower businesses. Active community advocate, passionate about tech education.

A Full-Stack engineering leader and a Certified Associate Cloud Architect with 9 years of experience in software engineering, leading cross-functional teams across finance, e-commerce, logistics, digital marketing, and healthcare. Delivered enterpris... Show more