Bolster is a technologist and an occasional public speaker.

As Head of Data Science at Black Duck Software, he uses advanced data mining and machine learning techniques to provide adaptive cybersecurity for global brands at scale, and is building a community of practice around Data Science in Belfast.

Bolster’s academic works focused on the applications of Autonomous and Intelligent systems in defence and marine contexts, as well as emergent behaviours in distributed and decentralised systems, particularly focused on the application of social contagion theories of trust to make autonomous marine communication networks resilient to state-level interference.

He is a member of multiple AI Ethics groups and has taught on related subjects, including recent talks on AI explainability and the responsible use of machine learning in industry.

Bolster is a technologist and an occasional public speaker. As Head of Data Science at Black Duck Software, he uses advanced data mining and machine learning techniques to provide adaptive cybersecurity for global brands at scale, and is building ... Show more

Fatima is a dedicated development practitioner, microbiologist, and emerging innovator committed to advancing education, youth empowerment, and community development across Northern Nigeria. Born in Jos and originally from Gamawa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, and has completed the National Youth Service Corps (2022). She further expanded her professional capabilities through the 3MTT Learning Program, with Quality Assurance track Course . which was very transformative through learning technical Skills and enhancement in problem solving abilities which leads to Career development through research especially bieing passionate about identifying, supporting, and celebrating children with technical talents, whom she describes as “treasures"with the potential to transform the future.” She advocates for early talent discovery,
Fatima’s career reflects a growing portfolio of impact-driven work. She gained hands-on experience through participated in the African Deep Tech Challenge, an experience that strengthened her interest in technology, innovation, and the future of digital skills in Africa. This exposure has shaped her current mission: helping children discover and refine their unique technical abilities, which she believes are treasures that can shape the future.

Fatima champions early talent identification, foundational learning, and inclusive educational practices. She advocates for creating spaces where children—especially those in underserved communities can explore creativity, build confidence, and gain exposure to digital and technical skills. Her awareness work emphasizes the importance of recognizing children’s talents early, preventing stigma and impulsment on child Career and promoting respectful, supportive learning environments to kids with gifted unique Abilities.

Known for her strong work ethic, fluency in English and Hausa, and her passion for research and problem-solving, Fatima is committed to contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s educational and technological development landscape. She continues to refine her expertise as she works towards becoming a leading voice in innovative learning, talent discovery, and ( TTkids) tech Talented kids centered development initiatives.

Fatima is a dedicated development practitioner, microbiologist, and emerging innovator committed to advancing education, youth empowerment, and community development across Northern Nigeria. Born in Jos and originally from Gamawa Local Government Ar... Show more

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps organizations rethink how they build and live with technology, bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. My work focuses less on tools and more on how people and organizations think, especially as AI reshapes how work gets done.

I’ve led digital transformation and AI initiatives across government, healthcare, education, and enterprise environments, often in moments of ambiguity, constraint, and rapid change. I specialize in untangling complexity, surfacing hidden assumptions, and helping organizations design systems that can adapt, rather than break, the moment priorities shift.

In my talks, I blend systems strategy, organizational insight, and storytelling to challenge how we define “future-ready” technology. Because the real challenge with AI isn’t capability, it’s whether the systems we build can move with change, and whether humans are still allowed room for judgment, context, and evolution inside them.

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps organizations rethink how they build and live with technology, bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. My work focuses less on tools and more o... Show more

As a Walt Disney Imagineer, Brian helped create the stories and magic for some of the world’s most beloved attractions. Over the past 30+ years, he has produced work for a who’s-who list of corporations, as well as small entrepreneurial ventures. As an Instructor at the University of Central Florida, Brian teaches a variety of classes related to immersive/thematic design, entertainment business, and emerging technologies. He is also a sought-after Futurist and Innovation Consultant through his practice known as The Brainstorm Institute where he works with both large and small companies to help them gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace through design thinking and adopting innovative practices. He has spoken at conferences around the world, is passionate about education, and is an advisory board member for several innovative tech start-ups.

As a Walt Disney Imagineer, Brian helped create the stories and magic for some of the world’s most beloved attractions. Over the past 30+ years, he has produced work for a who’s-who list of corporations, as well as small entrepreneurial ventures. As ... Show more

Maria-Anastasia is a software engineer and a Microsoft IoT Most Valuable Professional (MVP). She currently works as a software engineer at BEWISE. She holds a Diploma in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras.

Furthermore, she is also a PhD candidate at the University of the Aegean, having completed a Master's Program in the Didactics of Mathematics, Science, and Information and Communication Technologies in Education: Interdisciplinary Approach. Her thesis focused on designing and implementing an interactive digital book for teaching mathematics through programming. Her research interests include teaching and learning for the development of Computational Thinking (CT), the pedagogy of Information Technology, and the integrated educational approach of IT and Mathematics for CT development.

Maria-Anastasia has received four awards in international robotics competitions with the Robotics Club UoP. She is a frequent speaker at national and international technology conferences, and is also a blogger and co-host on the IoTeaLive Livestream. With seven Microsoft Certifications, she is dedicated to continuous learning in technology. Additionally, she has volunteered in various labs, technology conferences, and environmental clubs, reflecting her commitment to environmental concerns.

Maria-Anastasia is a software engineer and a Microsoft IoT Most Valuable Professional (MVP). She currently works as a software engineer at BEWISE. She holds a Diploma in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras. Furthermo... Show more

Máté Benyovszky is the Head of IT Development and AI at the Hungarian Integrity Authority, supporting the agency's work through the implementation of state-of-the-art technologies. He has over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, with a background that includes roles as a project manager, business analyst, and presales specialist in the development field.

Máté is also the founder and co-President of the Hungarian Robotics Association.

He has a passion for finding innovative solutions, whether for future strategies, efficient processes, or new applications. His professional approach is centered on solving problems and supporting people. He is also a dedicated tech enthusiast with a love for future and green technologies, always looking for opportunities to evolve and improve.

He earned his MSc in IT Engineering from Pázmány Péter Catholic University, followed by postgraduate specializations in E-commerce and Bionic Computing. He also pursued PhD studies in Cognitive Science at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME).

A PMP-certified project manager and an expert in several Microsoft technologies, Máté actively follows the latest trends and developments. In his presentations and publications, he showcases the practical applications of AI and robotics, particularly for business process optimization and enhancing efficiency. His work contributes to ensuring that artificial intelligence is used more widely to create tangible value.

Máté Benyovszky is the Head of IT Development and AI at the Hungarian Integrity Authority, supporting the agency's work through the implementation of state-of-the-art technologies. He has over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, with a backgroun... Show more

As a techie enthusiast and female entrepreneur with a deep-rooted passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, I bring a unique perspective to the intersection of these transformative technologies. After my academic career in the field of AI, I spent the last 5 years working in industry as a leader for AI-driven initiatives, leveraging cloud platforms and delivering groundbreaking digital solutions for over 150 different domains and clients.

I am a big believer of the transformative power of AI and cloud computing, I am committed to sharing my knowledge and expertise with the broader tech community. As a speaker, I am passionate about inspiring others to embrace these technologies and shape the future. Whether delving into the intricacies of AI algorithms or exploring cloud-based solutions, I am dedicated to delivering engaging and informative presentations that leave audiences empowered and eager to explore the limitless possibilities of AI and cloud.

As a techie enthusiast and female entrepreneur with a deep-rooted passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, I bring a unique perspective to the intersection of these transformative technologies. After my academic career in the fie... Show more

I’m a strategic consultant, learning designer, and gamification expert with over 20 years of experience helping organisations drive social and environmental impact through experiential learning. I've had the privilege to work with over 40 organisations and train more than 2,000 individuals across three continents, creating transformative learning experiences that build 21st-century skills.

My work bridges gamification with sustainability, equipping purpose-driven organisations to achieve measurable impact through playful and experiential approaches. I’m passionate about fostering a world of equal rights and opportunities where diverse, active citizens work towards an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.

If you’re a purpose-driven organisation, an educator, or a changemaker seeking to amplify your impact and cultivate future-ready skills, let’s explore how we can make a difference together. I’m ready to collaborate and bring lasting change. Let’s change the world together!

I’m a strategic consultant, learning designer, and gamification expert with over 20 years of experience helping organisations drive social and environmental impact through experiential learning. I've had the privilege to work with over 40 organisatio... Show more

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the founder of Difela Hymns, she has digitized African hymns, enhancing accessibility and preserving cultural heritage for global audiences.
A passionate advocate for Women in STEM, Lebogang has been honoured with the Women in STEM Award and Inspiring50 South Africa Award. She is an active IEEE member and champions continuous learning, teamwork, and responsible AI adoption. Her work bridges cutting-edge technology with human impact, from mentoring developers to promoting innovation in education. Lebogang brings her expertise in AI tools like GitHub Copilot and insights on cognitive biases to inspire developers of all levels to code smarter and grow faster.

Lebogang Madise is an Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, where she drives AI and security strategies for education organizations across Africa, empowering developers and institutions to modernize applications and streamline workflows. As the... Show more

Full details at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgeelen/

Executive Director at CyberMinute, also managing consultant at Quest For Security, from Leuven, Belgium.

With +25y experience, I have built strong experience in enterprise security & architecture, identity & access management, information security, data protection & privacy, cyber & cloud security, corporate security policies, security best practices.

Committed to continuous learning, I hold renowned security certificates in Information Security, Cyber & Cloud security, Supply Chain security, Incident Mgmt, BCM & DRP, Data Protection & Privacy, Architecture, Software Security, Ethical Hacking, HR security... and still growing.

Accredited lead auditor & lead implementer ISO27001, ISO27701, ISO22301, ISO9001 & ISO17021 & other ISO standards.

Accredited and authorized trainer for PECB, ISC2, ISACA.
Microsoft Alumni MCT.

Since 2005, technical focus on Microsoft IAM solutions: MS Identity Manager and related platforms like AD, Azure, PKI, single sign-on & security solutions, identity management…
Plus hands-on experience in scripting (PowerShell), development basics (VB/C#), SQL and Exchange... and a small bit of SharePoint, to survive.

I strive to spend time on the Microsoft community both online as offline.

Find my personal blog at http://blog.identityunderground.be.

12x Microsoft MVP Security (Identity and Access), 2008 - 2025

Strong believer and active supporter of knowledge sharing, to build and grow the security & data protection communities.

Full details at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgeelen/ Executive Director at CyberMinute, also managing consultant at Quest For Security, from Leuven, Belgium. With +25y experience, I have built strong experience in enterprise security & archite... Show more

Foyin Olajide-Bello is a seasoned technology leader with deep expertise in Microsoft AI, the Power Platform, and Modern Workplace solutions. In the last 16 years, she has helped organisations harness AI-driven innovation to enhance productivity and automation. Passionate about simplifying complex technology decisions, Foyin empowers businesses to strategically adopt cutting edge technologies to drive tangible business outcomes. Foyin has a deep "love" for Microsoft's Power Platform and she has a wide experience structuring and implementing impactful organizational projects with these tools. She is passionate about this because it empowers people to do MORE with less.

She strongly believes in knowledge sharing, and is an active member of technology communities like Power Platform user group in Ireland and Nigeria. She is also an advocate of women empowerment through Information Technology and cofounded TechStylers – a community to upskill women and is a member of Women in AI, Connecting Women in Tech Ireland. She speaks frequently at global events and is an active member in similar international groups.

Foyin Olajide-Bello is a seasoned technology leader with deep expertise in Microsoft AI, the Power Platform, and Modern Workplace solutions. In the last 16 years, she has helped organisations harness AI-driven innovation to enhance productivity and a... Show more

Founder of Shadowland Consulting. In January 2015 decided to permanently leave Poland and discover new worlds. Actually settled in Hucknall (The Last home of The Byron Family). Community leader focused on SQL Server, SharePoint, security, collaboration and ITIL, DR, BCM, and SLA.

Love licensing stuff. Microsoft Certified Trainer, freelancer, and consultant. Subject Matter Expert at Microsoft. Member of Microsoft Terminology Community, Friends of RedGate PLUS, PASS, ISSA, ACM and several communities in the world. Since 1st July 2010 Data Platform MVP.

Former President of the Polish SQL Server User Group. Creator of SQL DAY Conference and Conference CEO 2009-2011. Co-Leader of PASS East Midlands Group. Speaker at group meetings and conferences. STEM Ambassador. After hours cyclist, traveller, and photographer. Coffee Addicted.

Founder of Shadowland Consulting. In January 2015 decided to permanently leave Poland and discover new worlds. Actually settled in Hucknall (The Last home of The Byron Family). Community leader focused on SQL Server, SharePoint, security, collaborati... Show more

I am passionate about people and how design can enable transformation in organizations. I support innovation projects, digital product design, and service design.

My goal is to assist projects that impact people's daily lives. I have a strong interest in health-related topics, especially those involving patient experience and the organizational transformation of hospitals, as well as subjects related to public innovation and their impact on citizens' everyday lives.

I am passionate about people and how design can enable transformation in organizations. I support innovation projects, digital product design, and service design. My goal is to assist projects that impact people's daily lives. I have a strong inte... Show more

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events fundraising.

Megan is a career fundraiser with 20+ years international experience. Delivering growth strategies, programs and leading teams. Extensive experience in capital and capacity campaigns, mega and major gifts, bequests, partnerships, community and events... Show more

Founder, BlockchainKids (2019-Present) | Building worldwide community eliminating child trafficking through technology
Published Researcher | International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research | "Emojis for Sale: The Privatization of Human Emotion in AI Markets" | AI Governance & Technology Law
Keynote Speaker | Microsoft Summit | Scottish Summit | Youth Tech Education & Responsible Innovation
Professional Trainer | Blockchain Technology | Entrepreneurship Mindset | Design Thinking | Ages 3 to College Level
Panel Speaker | C# Corner | Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking Expert
Guest of Honour | Chandigarh University
Blockchain & Entrepreneurship Mentor | 100+ Kids, Techies & College Students | Entrepreneurial Mindsets | Blockchain Literacy
Legal & Technology Professional | Legal Intern, Multicloud4u Private Limited | Data Protection & Privacy Law (DPDP Act 2023, GDPR) | AI Governance | Contract Review
BBA LLB (Hons.) | National Forensic Sciences University Delhi
NFAT Exam | All India Rank 17
Published Author
State Level Basketball Player

Founder, BlockchainKids (2019-Present) | Building worldwide community eliminating child trafficking through technology Published Researcher | International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research | "Emojis for Sale: The Privatization of Human Emotion... Show more

A Security researcher acknowledged by Nepal's Government and Also by Tech giants like Microsoft. A Saviour of 3 Crore+ Citizen's data from nation's database breach. Worked with many Organizations including renowned ITU.

A Security researcher acknowledged by Nepal's Government and Also by Tech giants like Microsoft. A Saviour of 3 Crore+ Citizen's data from nation's database breach. Worked with many Organizations including renowned ITU. Show more

For the last 10 years, Carolina has worked as a clinical psychologist decoding the human mind; now, she’s using that expertise to revolutionize public speaking training.

Mixing her talent development knowledge, mindfulness, and her background in theatre, she creates transformational experiences that take individuals from shy and uncertain to confident and impactful speakers.

Her unique 4-personality framework has helped hundreds of professionals find their speaking zone of genius—whether they’re natural storytellers or data-driven thinkers. She has worked with global companies like Upwork and P&G, and specializes in training teams to communicate with clarity, confidence, and influence.

For the last 10 years, Carolina has worked as a clinical psychologist decoding the human mind; now, she’s using that expertise to revolutionize public speaking training. Mixing her talent development knowledge, mindfulness, and her background in ... Show more

I’m a NYC-based professional actor, improv comedian, and adjunct instructor. I’ve appeared in theatres all over the country performing in everything from Shakespeare to Neil Simon to Shrek: The Musical. You may have even seen me dancing in my underwear on One Tree Hill or co-starring in commercials with NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon or the Roaming Gnome. Improv comedy is my passion and I can be seen making audiences, my scene partners, and myself laugh regularly at some of the best and worst improv shows in New York City.

As an educator, I have taught Acting, Improvisation, Public Speaking, Communication Studies at too many colleges to mention. I also teach and coach acting, improv, and applied improv for theatres, private groups, and individuals, and in the corporate space.

I’m known at Collegiate Empowerment for connecting with participants from the toughest mandatory audiences to passionate student leaders to coaching participants through my comedy, passion, high energy, and enthusiasm. Within CE, I’m known for focusing on what students want and need, being a kickass teammate and making weird faces during team meetings.

I’m a NYC-based professional actor, improv comedian, and adjunct instructor. I’ve appeared in theatres all over the country performing in everything from Shakespeare to Neil Simon to Shrek: The Musical. You may have even seen me dancing in my underwe... Show more

Marissa Lee is the Gifted and Talented Coordinator for Pampa ISD, leading Advanced Academic services for K–12 students in the rural Texas Panhandle. With ten years in education and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, she advocates for rural G/T learners through equitable identification, thoughtful programming, and differentiated instruction. Marissa is passionate about working alongside parents and teachers to reimagine gifted education in ways that truly serve a small‑town community.

Marissa Lee is the Gifted and Talented Coordinator for Pampa ISD, leading Advanced Academic services for K–12 students in the rural Texas Panhandle. With ten years in education and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, she advocates fo... Show more

Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs, tech startups, and tech innovation. She is the lead organizer for STL TechWeek.

Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs... Show more

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams.

She was born and raised, and continues to live, in Mexico City. Fátima is a graduate of the La Salle University, Mexico City Campus. She believes in sharing knowledge to make this world a better place to live in.

She loves to speak about Technology and Education. She has participated as a Guest Speaker at several conferences. She also created the Office 365 Academia Community.
Join her at LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
LinkedIn: fatimablancas
Facebook: /fatimablancasv
Twitter: JaydithBV

Fátima Blancas is the founder and CEO of iTProve Corporation. For the last fourteen years, she has been a consultant on Microsoft Technology, from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint Online, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams. She was born and raised, and ... Show more

Amber Vanderburg is a multi-award winning businessperson, keynote speaker, author, and founder of the international learning development company, The Pathwayz Group, which has led 800,000+ learners in more than 75 countries in action-focused learning journeys. Amber's history in talent development includes authoring top-reviewed online learning courses for platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Lecturio, and PluralSight, acting as Director of a national education leadership company, and coaching with professional sports team academies in Asia. In 2022, she published her first business adventure book "Uniquely Better" about building higher team performance.

Speaking engagements:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMNcx7Jwk9Sp6WxuvrfOOBqdP9440SKl0

Amber Vanderburg is a multi-award winning businessperson, keynote speaker, author, and founder of the international learning development company, The Pathwayz Group, which has led 800,000+ learners in more than 75 countries in action-focused learning... Show more

Leading Expert in National Cybersecurity Strategy & Policy A seasoned professional with 20 years of experience, Yunseong Choi has made significant contributions to the advancement of the cybersecurity ecosystem in Korea and internationally. He is a pioneer and leader in SW Supply Chain Security and SBOM (Software Bill of Materials) policy and standardization. His extensive experience as PM for 20 e-Government security projects demonstrates a profound understanding of national infrastructure security. He successfully launched the 'Best of the Best (BoB)' program, playing a pivotal role in nurturing top-tier white hat hacker talent for the nation. As a pioneering figure in OT/ICS (Operational Technology/Industrial Control System) converged security, he helped establish graduate programs and delivers influential lectures, contributing to future industrial security.

- WG Chair, MSIT's ‘SW Supply Chain Security Forum’ (Policy)
- WG Leader, Government-wide ‘SW Supply Chain Security TF’
- Member, Presidential Committee on National AI (Security TF)
- Member, Financial Security Advisory Committee
- Member, CISA's SBOM Community Working Group
- Member, OpenSSF's Community Day Program Committee

Leading Expert in National Cybersecurity Strategy & Policy A seasoned professional with 20 years of experience, Yunseong Choi has made significant contributions to the advancement of the cybersecurity ecosystem in Korea and internationally. He is a p... Show more

Bacharel em Administração desde 2013 e apaixonada pela profissão. Construindo uma carreira em Melhoria Contínua e se especializando em Gestão Híbrida de Projetos e Inovação e Tecnologia. Pensadora criativa que toda possibilidade de melhoria é sobre e para pessoas.

Bacharel em Administração desde 2013 e apaixonada pela profissão. Construindo uma carreira em Melhoria Contínua e se especializando em Gestão Híbrida de Projetos e Inovação e Tecnologia. Pensadora criativa que toda possibilidade de melhoria é sobre e... Show more

I am a multilingual, intercultural leadership speaker who helps rooms of executives translate ambition into aligned action across borders through a values‑driven approach to transformation. Rooted in lived experience from Morocco to Germany, I connect with audiences across the USA, Europe, the Gulf, and Asia—bridging cultures with stories that land and practices that stick. On stage, I share the 4 Empires—Mindset, Heartset, Healthset, and Soulset—to unify performance, presence, energy, and purpose into one operating system leaders can use immediately. Conferences bring me in to spark inclusive conversations that turn difference into momentum, spotlighting the host’s commitment to representation, belonging, and leadership that resonates across languages and industries. Beyond the stage, my work funds on‑the‑ground charity initiatives in Morocco, and I actively position the host conference as a partner in inclusion and impact so attendees see the message—and the model—in action. If the goal is to inspire action and demonstrate real commitment to global inclusion, I deliver a keynote and community moments that help organizers amplify their message across international networks with credibility and heart.

I am a multilingual, intercultural leadership speaker who helps rooms of executives translate ambition into aligned action across borders through a values‑driven approach to transformation. Rooted in lived experience from Morocco to Germany, I connec... Show more

Ayobami Atolagbe
Founder & Executive Director, BitKwa | Co-Founder & CEO, Demohub

Ayobami Atolagbe is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and growth marketing executive on a mission to empower 10 million Africans through Bitcoin, education, and technology. He is the Founder and Executive Director of BitKwa, a nonprofit organization driving Bitcoin education, adoption, and circular economy initiatives across Africa. Through BitKwa, Ayobami has educated over 10,000 individuals and empowered grassroots movements via merchant onboarding programs, community workshops, and strategic partnerships that advance financial inclusion.

He is also the Founder and CEO of Demohub, an AI-powered EdTech platform making globally relevant digital skills accessible to African youth. Ayobami’s leadership bridges education, innovation, and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

Ayobami previously served as Head of Growth at Paycrest (San Francisco), helping build fintech products for the Global South, and held key roles at Paxful and NoOnes, where he expanded Bitcoin’s reach across Africa through ambassador programs, market expansion strategies, and community-driven campaigns. He also volunteered with Built With Bitcoin to support the construction of a school in Kaduna, Nigeria, demonstrating Bitcoin’s real-world impact on education and community development.

Personal Philosophy: Always Thrive Towards Greatness

Ayobami Atolagbe Founder & Executive Director, BitKwa | Co-Founder & CEO, Demohub Ayobami Atolagbe is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and growth marketing executive on a mission to empower 10 million Africans through Bitcoin, education, and t... Show more

Ishita is a sanctions data engineer at Bloomberg working at the intersection of technology, global regulation, and geopolitics. She holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Glasgow and has experience across business intelligence and software engineering with prior roles at Amazon and J.P. Morgan. Alongside her industry work - Ishita is a Women Techmakers Ambassador and a Google Developer Group organiser - contributing to tech communities through advocacy, speaking engagements, mentorship, and hosting events with a focus on bridging the gap between education and industry to make careers in technology navigable for students and early career professionals.

Ishita is a sanctions data engineer at Bloomberg working at the intersection of technology, global regulation, and geopolitics. She holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Glasgow and has experience across business intellig... Show more

Dr. Noe Lorona is an Army officer currently serving as a platform engineer for the Army where he plans, develops and deploys cloud architecture to support Agile application development. He later transitioned to to become a platform product manager where he leads his team through tactical platform product development. Noe holds a Doctor of Management from Colorado Technical University. He began giving back to the academic community by teaching online courses and publishing articles about software development and general technology topics in several professional magazines. Noe holds several IT, UX, and Project Management certifications.

Dr. Noe Lorona is an Army officer currently serving as a platform engineer for the Army where he plans, develops and deploys cloud architecture to support Agile application development. He later transitioned to to become a platform product manager w... Show more

Mohammad Reza Sharifi is a Data Solutions Engineer with a strong passion for leveraging data and artificial intelligence to enable informed decision-making and meaningful impact. With an academic foundation in Computer Science and Data Science, his career reflects a balance of technical depth, research curiosity, and a long-standing commitment to teaching and knowledge dissemination.

Sharifi began his professional journey as an ESL instructor at the Star Educational Society in Kabul, where his enthusiasm for education and mentoring first took shape. He later earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Applications from the University of Mysore on a prestigious ICCR scholarship funded by the Government of India, while simultaneously working as a Web Developer at Shishira Softbiz Pvt. Ltd. This early blend of academia and industry laid the groundwork for his interdisciplinary expertise.

He went on to complete a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Mysore, with a focus on machine learning and data science. Following this, he pursued doctoral research in Computer Vision for nearly two years before choosing to further specialize by undertaking a second Master’s degree in Data Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence at the School of Computing, Newcastle University, UK, from which he graduated with distinction. He intends to return to doctoral research in the future. His current research interests center on Sentiment Analysis and Natural Language Processing, particularly applications involving Large Language Models (LLMs).

Sharifi possesses strong technical expertise in Python, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, R programming, Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA), statistical modeling, and a range of frontend and backend web technologies. He currently works as a Data Solutions Engineer, consulting with businesses and organizations to help them better utilize their data for strategic, operational, and policy-driven decision-making.

In parallel with his industry work, Sharifi has remained actively involved in teaching and academic engagement. He has delivered Full Stack Web Development training at Aptech Computer Education, one of India’s leading IT training institutes, and has conducted technical workshops and courses at universities across India and Afghanistan.

With a strong foundation in data analysis, NLP, statistical modeling, and information technology, Mohammad Reza Sharifi is committed to advancing fact-based, data-informed policy and delivering innovative technological solutions to address complex societal and institutional challenges.

Mohammad Reza Sharifi is a Data Solutions Engineer with a strong passion for leveraging data and artificial intelligence to enable informed decision-making and meaningful impact. With an academic foundation in Computer Science and Data Science, his c... Show more

Andy Crotty is a TS/SCI-cleared cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience in cyber threat detection, incident response, and security engineering across federal, financial, and enterprise environments. He currently serves as a Cyber Network Defense Analyst 3 with Leidos, supporting the Department of Homeland Security in a 24x7x365 NOSC environment. In this role, Andy leads high-impact investigations, develops and optimizes detection logic aligned to MITRE ATT&CK, and mentors junior analysts to strengthen operational readiness and cyber defense capabilities.

A U.S. Army Warrant Officer with over 15 years of military service, Andy has led teams in advanced persistent threat (APT) analysis, cyber threat hunting, and defensive operations for the Department of Defense. His civilian career includes senior roles in security operations for Wells Fargo and the State of Arizona Department of Homeland Security, where he enhanced detection strategies, streamlined incident response workflows, and strengthened enterprise security postures.

Beyond his operational work, Andy is passionate about cybersecurity community engagement and mentorship. At DEFCON 33, he served as a staff member for Noob Village, where he coordinated community-focused activities including volunteer outreach, CTF raffle setup, and securing sponsors to provide prizes. Through his YouTube channel GingerHacker and mentorship initiatives, Andy continues to guide aspiring cybersecurity professionals, sharing practical insights on breaking into the field, building technical skills, and navigating a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Andy Crotty is a TS/SCI-cleared cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience in cyber threat detection, incident response, and security engineering across federal, financial, and enterprise environments. He currently serves as a Cyber ... Show more