Michael Allison, is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart Veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, and international keynote speaker. A globally recognized expert in identity-driven leadership and organizational resilience, Michael transforms adversity into strategic advantage. Over two decades, he has led Marines in combat, managed multi-million-dollar government projects, directed higher-ed programs, and scaled an INC 5000 franchise to successful exit. Michael equips leaders and teams to break internal limitations, guard energy, and thrive under pressure. His signature frameworks—Break The Bottle and Protect The House—blend combat-tested leadership, trauma-informed coaching, and enterprise execution discipline. Michael has delivered transformational keynotes, workshops, and consulting for world-class organizations globally. He empowers professionals to align technical brilliance with human resilience and lead with clarity, creativity, and conviction.

Michael Allison, is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart Veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, and international keynote speaker. A globally recognized expert in identity-driven leadership and organizational resilience, Michael transforms a... Show more

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps people rethink the way they work with technology—bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. Whether it’s AI, automation, or collaboration platforms, I focus on shifting mindsets, not just tools-so teams can adopt tech without burnout and lead change without losing themselves in the process.

I’ve led digital transformation and AI initiatives across sectors like government, healthcare, education, and enterprise- always with a people-first, story-forward lens. I specialize in making tech relatable, untangling complexity, and helping organizations unlock real value from their investments, even in the messiest environments.

In my talks, I blend systems strategy, identity insight, and storytelling to guide audiences toward smarter adoption, cross-silo communication, and more intentional transformation. Because the real challenge with technology isn't the tech- it's how we think, build, and belong within the systems around it.

I’m a strategist and systems thinker who helps people rethink the way they work with technology—bridging the gap between innovation and execution with clarity, purpose, and just enough rebellion. Whether it’s AI, automation, or collaboration platform... Show more

My early career saw me working as a software engineer and technical leader across multiple startups. But it was my passion for education that led me to devote the last 5+ years to reimagining how we teach people to code professionally.

Over the last half decade I have had the opportunity to work in the NGO space and build alternative education systems from the ground up. Along the way I have learned a lot about how to teach well, how to build systems that teach well, and how traditional education systems fall short.

Now, my primary aim is to spread skills to educators. To empower those who empower others.

I lead the Guild of Educators, a community I founded to empower tech educators through shared resources, support, and evidence-based teaching practices. Additionally, I run Prelude, where I provide rigorous technical training, as well as consultation, and coaching for technical educators, and organisations with education functions (for example grad programs and similar).

My early career saw me working as a software engineer and technical leader across multiple startups. But it was my passion for education that led me to devote the last 5+ years to reimagining how we teach people to code professionally. Over the l... Show more

Victoria Ofuasia entered tech through web development, fell in love with backend engineering, and soon discovered the people side of technology. Since then, she hasn’t looked back on exploring the wonder of designing technology for and with people.

She is passionate about human-centered technologies, including open source and AI for social good. Victoria advances these passions through Open Source Nest, the initiative she co-founded to help everyday people learn, use, and contribute to open source in relatable ways. She further promotes human-centered tech through research and community-building initiatives. Victoria also serves as a Mozilla Common Voice community facilitator, supporting the creation of indigenous language datasets.

She has held several leadership roles, including Assistant Developer Community Lead at BlockchainUNN, Coordinator of APWEN UNN (Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, UNN Chapter), and Co-founder and Lead of NSK.AI, an AI community focused on learning and collaboration.

Her work reflects a deep belief in the people factor in technology and its power for lasting social impact. She loves to sing.

Victoria Ofuasia entered tech through web development, fell in love with backend engineering, and soon discovered the people side of technology. Since then, she hasn’t looked back on exploring the wonder of designing technology for and with people. ... Show more

Dr. Amanda Fernandez is a seasoned education leader with a dynamic career spanning traditional district and county office roles, charter schools, and higher education. She brings extensive experience in designing and leading programs that elevate student achievement, educator development, and organizational effectiveness.

Dr. Fernandez has successfully led cross-functional departments, developed teacher mentoring programs, and collaborated with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) as part of a multi-industry task force to design innovative credentialing pathways. Her work reflects a deep commitment to building sustainable systems that support both teaching and leadership pipelines.

Currently serving as Chief Fiscal Officer for a network of charter schools, Dr. Fernandez oversees financial operations, strategic budgeting, and alignment of fiscal resources with educational priorities. She also leads the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process and facilitates the Parent Advisory Committee, ensuring inclusive engagement and data-driven decision-making.

A Board Certified Coach (BCC) and ACSA Leadership Coach, Dr. Fernandez is passionate about empowering education leaders to create cultures of trust, learning, and impact, where feedback is valued, teams are developed, and every dollar advances student success.

Dr. Amanda Fernandez is a seasoned education leader with a dynamic career spanning traditional district and county office roles, charter schools, and higher education. She brings extensive experience in designing and leading programs that elevate stu... Show more

J’aide les équipes et les organisations, en France et particulièrement dans la région nantaise, à adopter l’agilité. Spécialisé dans l’accompagnement des dirigeants et des managers, je les aide à naviguer dans la complexité, à renforcer leur leadership et à structurer leur gouvernance en s’appuyant sur des outils agiles concrets et une prise de décision éclairée.
Je place l’humain au cœur des transformations, convaincu que l’amélioration continue est une opportunité pour chacun. J’encourage un apprentissage permanent et le développement de l’esprit critique, indispensables pour naviguer dans un monde en constante évolution. Mon rôle est d’ouvrir des perspectives, de challenger les certitudes et de créer des environnements propices à l’expérimentation et à l’adaptabilité.

J’aide les équipes et les organisations, en France et particulièrement dans la région nantaise, à adopter l’agilité. Spécialisé dans l’accompagnement des dirigeants et des managers, je les aide à naviguer dans la complexité, à renforcer leur leadersh... 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

Latifa DEKHICI is a full professor in computer sciences and vice dean of external relations in mathematics and computer science faculty in the university of sciences and technology of Oran; and a researcher in LDREI, Smart Grid Developement laboratory in the Higher School of Electrical and Energetic engineering of Oran. Her research interests include power dispatch, power system design, healthcare scheduling and green optimization as well as optimization methods especially metaheuristics. DEKHICI has been a member of Inside Project (Inclusion of Students With impairements in Distance Education) in 2023, of DIGITAQ Project about Quality Assurance Digitalization in Higher Education and a responsable of Digitalisation Strategy Office in her university. She partipated as a trainer in many sustainability; digitalization; accessibilty, cyber responsability and inclusivity activities.

Latifa DEKHICI is a full professor in computer sciences and vice dean of external relations in mathematics and computer science faculty in the university of sciences and technology of Oran; and a researcher in LDREI, Smart Grid Developement laborator... 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

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

Hayat Outahar is a digital innovation strategist and international speaker specializing in Web3, artificial intelligence, and digital sovereignty. She is the founder of Tech Flooz, a consultancy that helps institutions and businesses navigate the ethical and strategic challenges of emerging technologies.

With nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of technology, governance, and society, Hayat has delivered keynotes and workshops for corporate seminars and major tech events across Europe and Africa, including ETHCC, BercyInnov, Web3TalentFair, and Future of Work Africa. Her talks explore cutting-edge innovation such as AI, but above all how blockchain and smart contracts could reshape governance and diplomacy in cyberspace.

Her work bridges innovation and ethics, tackling themes such as decentralized finance, citizen empowerment, cyberdiplomacy, and the future of global governance. Passionate about education and inclusion, she also designs training programs for public sector agents, executives, and researchers to make transformative technologies both accessible and actionable.

Hayat’s mission is to foster a more ethical, resilient, and human-centered digital future, where technology serves collective intelligence rather than power concentration.

Hayat Outahar is a digital innovation strategist and international speaker specializing in Web3, artificial intelligence, and digital sovereignty. She is the founder of Tech Flooz, a consultancy that helps institutions and businesses navigate the eth... Show more

Sean Bugler leads innovation and experience efforts for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, reimagining how teams work, share, and get things done. With a background in collaboration tech and passion for untangling legacy constraints, he works with teams to move past the status quo and toward smarter, more human ways of working. An alum of Arizona State University’s Technological Entrepreneurship & Management program, he now helps shape its future as an industry advisor.

Sean Bugler leads innovation and experience efforts for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, reimagining how teams work, share, and get things done. With a background in collaboration tech and passion for untangling legacy constraints, he work... 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

Experienced Senior Power Platform consultant with a passion for Canvas apps and Power BI, and a proven track record of designing and delivering end‑to‑end solutions. Drawing on a background in teaching, I have led sessions on inclusion, accessibility and dyslexia, helping educators and organisations build truly supportive environments for all learners.

Today, I channel that same dedication into the tech world—advocating for women in technology, championing the importance of mentoring, and empowering communities to embrace innovation. With a warm, engaging style and hands‑on expertise, I guide audiences through practical strategies for leveraging the Power Platform while fostering inclusive cultures and effective mentoring programmes. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to deepen your skills, I’m here to inspire you to reach new heights.

Experienced Senior Power Platform consultant with a passion for Canvas apps and Power BI, and a proven track record of designing and delivering end‑to‑end solutions. Drawing on a background in teaching, I have led sessions on inclusion, accessibility... 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

Brian Alementi is an acclaimed Inspirational Keynote Speaker, award-winning leader, and certified Master Trainer renowned for engaging presentations that combine inspiration with practical, actionable insights. With a rich background in guiding and elevating teams, Brian brings his experience as a previous leader within a Fortune 500 company’s Hall of Fame learning and development division, where his dedication to growth and excellence shaped high-performing teams across the organization. His impact reaches far and wide, with numerous features on major television networks and invitations to speak on prominent stages, including TEDx. Brian’s influence continues to expand as he empowers audiences to unlock their full potential and achieve remarkable results.

His sessions blend dynamic energy, expertise, and actionable takeaways, making them impactful and memorable. His MVP Performance Model aligns individual drive with team goals, creating a foundation for extraordinary achievement. With his PG3 Leadership Model, Brian cultivates a culture of resilience, collaboration, and growth within organizations. In addition, his inspirational talk focuses on the importance of unleashing the magic within individuals and teams to elevate a positive growth mindset for success. These frameworks enable companies to positively shape their culture to boost productivity, morale, and performance.

With over three decades of public speaking experience, he has empowered audiences by delivering transformative sessions that provide clear, practical strategies for enhancing productivity and connection. Known for his infectious energy and authentic delivery, Brian resonates across industries, making his sessions both unforgettable and actionable.

A testament to his commitment, Brian’s personal life reflects the drive and resilience he talks to. With the accomplishment of completing several marathons, a strong marriage of over twenty years, and the joy of raising two remarkable children, Brian brings a genuine authenticity to every talk, inspiring audiences to pursue their goals with passion and purpose

Brian Alementi is an acclaimed Inspirational Keynote Speaker, award-winning leader, and certified Master Trainer renowned for engaging presentations that combine inspiration with practical, actionable insights. With a rich background in guiding and e... Show more

Calypso is a versatile professional with a unique background in theatre, education, and tech. After years of experience in theatre and teaching, Calypso recently transitioned into the tech industry, working with innovative startups where she applies her skills in communication, design, and collaboration to fast-paced, high-growth environments. This blend of creative and technical experience has equipped Calypso with a deep understanding of how to foster constructive feedback, empower teams, and drive continuous improvement. Calypso also thrives on building strong, connected communities. She brings a fresh perspective on collaboration, communication, and community building in both creative and tech spaces.

Calypso is a versatile professional with a unique background in theatre, education, and tech. After years of experience in theatre and teaching, Calypso recently transitioned into the tech industry, working with innovative startups where she applies ... Show more

Lazetta Rainey Braxton, MBA, CFP® is a high-impact, solution-oriented founder with a proven track record of building successful entrepreneurial ventures, driving innovation, and navigating the complexity of cultural competency in the financial services industry.

As Founder and Principal of The Real Wealth Coterie, a financial planning and wealth management firm, and Lazetta & Associates, a speaking and business consulting firm, Lazetta equips individuals and leaders to align their finances with their vision and values and achieve sustainable wealth. She is passionate about amplifying culture, talent, life, and money, and extends her expertise through public speaking, writing, consulting, and coaching.

Lazetta was named one of Crain's New York Business Notable Black Leaders and Executives and one of the top 10 of Investopedia’s 100 Top Financial Advisors for three consecutive years. Lazetta's national media presence includes TV appearances on NBC, CNBC, and CheddarNews and mentions in the WSJ, NY Times, LA Times, and Black Enterprise.

Lazetta Rainey Braxton, MBA, CFP® is a high-impact, solution-oriented founder with a proven track record of building successful entrepreneurial ventures, driving innovation, and navigating the complexity of cultural competency in the financial servic... Show more

Mustafa Olgun is a Resource Development Coordinator at IHH, where he plays a vital role in building strategic partnerships and securing funding to support a wide range of humanitarian initiatives. With a strong focus on resource mobilization, he designs and implements proposals and outreach strategies that effectively engage diverse stakeholders and foster collaboration across teams and communities.

He is also the founder of Qarint, an innovative online platform dedicated to providing accessible English language learning opportunities to individuals seeking to improve their skills. Mustafa holds a degree in Communication from Marmara University and is currently pursuing a Marketing Master at Bilgi University, combining academic knowledge with hands-on experience to drive impact in both nonprofit and educational projects.

Through his work, Mustafa is committed to creating sustainable solutions and building meaningful relationships that advance the mission of IHH and Qarint.

Mustafa Olgun is a Resource Development Coordinator at IHH, where he plays a vital role in building strategic partnerships and securing funding to support a wide range of humanitarian initiatives. With a strong focus on resource mobilization, he desi... Show more

Caleb Roose (MDiv) is the founder and coach of Good Enough Dads (goodenoughdads.com), where he provides holistic life, career, and parenting coaching for fathers. In addition to his coaching and speaking on fatherhood, he also manages research and training at the Fuller Youth Institute and coauthors resources. Caleb lives with his wife and three young children near Pasadena, CA.

Caleb Roose (MDiv) is the founder and coach of Good Enough Dads (goodenoughdads.com), where he provides holistic life, career, and parenting coaching for fathers. In addition to his coaching and speaking on fatherhood, he also manages research and tr... 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

Dr. Shana Fancher is an author, speaker, and educational leader passionate about equipping professionals to lead with impact. As founder of Dr. Fancher Speaks and author of The War on Childhood: The Fight to Raise Resilient Kids, she empowers audiences with practical tools for resilience, leadership, and AI-powered productivity.

Dr. Shana Fancher is an author, speaker, and educational leader passionate about equipping professionals to lead with impact. As founder of Dr. Fancher Speaks and author of The War on Childhood: The Fight to Raise Resilient Kids, she empowers audienc... Show more

Dr. Ewa Antczak is an internationally recognized Behavioral Scientist, psychologist, and AI innovator dedicated to creating safer and more empathetic digital environments. With over two decades of professional experience, she has guided more than 15,000 individuals through her clinical and educational work, with expertise in emotional intelligence, gifted behavior, and youth mental health.
A published author of several books and peer-reviewed papers on behavior and attitude change, she completed her doctorate at the age of 24 while serving as a researcher and lecturer at the Polish Academy of Sciences and University of Social Sciences and Humanities, specializing in personality and the role of narrative mode in behavior change.
She is the founder of Felixa, a pioneering AI-powered platform that proactively detects and transforms harmful behavior in online communities, strengthening trust, collaboration, and inclusion. Her work uniquely bridges behavioral science with advanced technology, setting new standards for how societies can address digital safety and human well-being.
Dr. Antczak also created IdealMe, a personal development system that builds emotional intelligence and resilience in individuals and teams, and Talk2Alex, an app that has supported thousands of young people in regulating emotions and behaviors, particularly during the pandemic. She also serves on the Boards of Resilient Children Canada and the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO).
A frequent speaker at global conferences, Dr. Antczak continues to influence leaders, innovators, and policymakers at the intersection of psychology, technology, and human progress.

Dr. Ewa Antczak is an internationally recognized Behavioral Scientist, psychologist, and AI innovator dedicated to creating safer and more empathetic digital environments. With over two decades of professional experience, she has guided more than 15,... Show more

Analista de Sistemas, formado Administrador de Empresas com ênfase em AS. Especialista em Qualidade de Software, com 40 anos de carreira na área de TIC atuando em diversos papéis.

Especialista em Tecnologias na Aprendizagem, praticante e estudioso da heutagogia (auto-aprendizagem), do e-learning e do desenvolvimento pessoal e profissional, com foco em soft skills necessárias à cultura ágil desde 2015. Concluindo especialização em Projetos Sociais e Políticas Públicas.

No Serpro desde 2006. Trabalhou com Garantia da Qualidade, melhoria contínua de processos, sendo professor convidado da pós-graduação em Qualidade de Software da Unisinos de 2011 a 2015.

Atua desde 2019 com cultura organizacional, inicialmente no time Cultura Dides, cuja missão é apoiar a propagação e engajamento na cultura ágil no âmbito da Diretoria de Desenvolvimento de Soluções (DIDES) do Serviço Federal de Processamento de Dados (Serpro), a partir de maio de 2024 integrando o Departamento de Cultura Organizacional. da Superintendência de Educação, Pessoas e Talentos, na Diretoria de Pessoas, com o desafio de modelar a segmentação dos processos de Cultura Organizacional tanto em termos regionais como nas diversas diretorias.

Autor, ator, cantor (em vias de se tornar produtor musical), e facilitador de debates e painéis. Pai de quatro filhos. Metódico e bem-humorado. Às vezes não. Cri-cri-cri, sempre: crítico, criterioso e criativo. Não cabe em caixa, recomenda-se nem tentar.

Analista de Sistemas, formado Administrador de Empresas com ênfase em AS. Especialista em Qualidade de Software, com 40 anos de carreira na área de TIC atuando em diversos papéis. Especialista em Tecnologias na Aprendizagem, praticante e estudios... Show more

Ghassan Barakat has demonstrated a rare ability to move between sectors such as finance, law, technology, and philanthropy, applying strategy while keeping community needs at the forefront. Whether launching startups, growing multi-million-dollar platforms, or supporting charitable initiatives, he has always emphasized systems that strengthen people's lives and leave a lasting legacy.

In 2022, Jason founded Nolos Cabinet Multidisciplinaire Inc., serving as Founder & CEO. Nolos was created to integrate FinTech, InsurTech, and LegalTech under a single platform. This venture aims to democratize financial and legal services, particularly for middle-class families. The company combines a Quebec-based legal firm, a notarial study, and a national financial MGA distributing solutions from Canada's leading institutions. With his leadership, Nolos has expanded through acquisitions and new partnerships. Among these was the acquisition of Skylegal in 2022, followed by creating a charitable foundation in 2023 to help families access justice and financial protection during estate and legacy planning. More recently, Jason acquired a technology firm that builds software for public and private organizations, further enhancing the B2B reach of the Nolos platform.

Before establishing Nolos, Ghassan gained experience as a Strategic Senior Consultant, working with Chubb Insurance and other major industry players. From 2003 to 2021, he was President and Principal Officer with AMF of La Capitale Services Conseils, where he grew assets under management from $300 million to over $3 billion, serving public sector employees with specialized solutions. In 2017, he became President of La Capitale Financial Security, where he expanded national operations for disability and personal finance services, redesigned compensation structures, and created an inclusive and high-performance culture. He also served as President of SSQ Financial Group Distribution, where he modernized retirement planning, oversaw post-merger alignment, and improved client experience and compliance.

Philanthropy has been a central part of Jason Barakat's life for over two decades. He has supported the Guignolet de Saint-Vincent de Paul tradition and contributed to various charitable efforts connected to public institutions and retirement planning. In 2021, he partnered with Peartree Canada to advance philanthropic planning for organizations and families. He later launched the Nolos Foundation, which is dedicated to expanding access to Justice & Family Legacy Planning. Jason is also a volunteer leader for nonprofit boards and interfaith humanitarian initiatives.

Jason studied at Concordia University, John Molson School of Business, focusing on finance, business law, and theology. He has also completed studies in securities, investments, estate planning, insurance, venture capital, and strategic philanthropy, earning certifications in these areas.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Ghassan Barakat is a devoted husband and father of two. His family provides daily motivation and guides his values of love, faith, and responsibility, shaping his personal and professional life. With empathy, service, and humility, he remains committed to leaving a legacy for his children, his community, and future generations.

Ghassan Barakat has demonstrated a rare ability to move between sectors such as finance, law, technology, and philanthropy, applying strategy while keeping community needs at the forefront. Whether launching startups, growing multi-million-dollar pla... Show more

Sheena Yap Chan is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. She is the founder and host of the acclaimed podcast, The Tao of Self-Confidence, where she interviews women about their journeys to self-confidence. With over one million downloads, her podcast ranks among the top 0.5% most popular shows globally and features over 800 interviews, including conversations with celebrities and eight-figure CEOs. Sheena's influence extends beyond podcasting. Her debut book, The Tao of Self-Confidence: A Guide to Moving Beyond Trauma and Awakening the Leader Within, published by Wiley, is a Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestseller. It is also recognized as one of the top 20 best self-confidence books of all time by Book Authority, the world's leading site for book recommendations. Her work has been featured on prominent platforms such as MindValley, FOX, NBC News, and the Manila Times. Sheena is dedicated to closing the gender confidence gap through her training and programs, aiming to elevate women into leadership roles across all industries. She has delivered impactful speeches for organizations like Live Nation, NASA, and UKG, sharing her insights on self-confidence and leadership.

Sheena Yap Chan is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. She is the founder and host of the acclaimed p... 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

Lea Hildermeier studiert Anglistik und Erziehungswissenschaften an der Universität Bielefeld. Seit 2024 ist sie studentische Mitarbeiterin im CHE-Team des Hochschulforums Digitalisierung.
Als Gründungsmitglied und Vorstand der Hochschulgruppe LiLiGoesMental setzt sie sich seit 2018 für die Entstigmatisierung psychischer Gesundheit ein und organisiert Workshops sowie Austauschformate.
Als DigitalChangeMaker der Kohorte 2024 engagierte sich Lea in den Bereichen studentische Partizipation, Student Wellbeing und dem Einsatz von Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Hochschulbildung, unter anderem durch ihre Mitarbeit am KI-Sprint. Derzeit begleitet sie als Mentorin die neue DigitalChangeMaker-Kohorte.
Seit September 2024 engagiert sich Lea im Common Grounds Forum, damit junge Menschen ihre Stimme in bildungs- und digitalpolitischen Anliegen einbringen können.

Lea Hildermeier studiert Anglistik und Erziehungswissenschaften an der Universität Bielefeld. Seit 2024 ist sie studentische Mitarbeiterin im CHE-Team des Hochschulforums Digitalisierung. Als Gründungsmitglied und Vorstand der Hochschulgruppe LiLiGo... Show more

Bogdan combines 25+ years of corporate training experience, with neuroscientific research and strategic thinking.

Bogdan is the founder of The Essential Experts, an agency focused on delivering high-impact leadership programmes and hyper-personalised learning experiences in the form of keynotes, workshops, teambuildings and training. The Essential Experts do not publicly disclose their client portfolio, as confidentiality is paramount to them.

Participants report that Bogdan’s keynotes have such a profound effect, that they still vividly recall the skills and insights years later, describing the sessions as profoundly memorable experiences, even for those who believe they have 'seen and heard it all'.

In his quest to decipher the human brain, Bogdan gathered an MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience, a PGDip in Organisational Neuroscience, built on a BSc in Neuropsychology, and a BA in Behavioral Economics. Nowadays, Bogdan operationalises Neuroscience in business in the form of keynotes, workshops, teambuildings, training and learning experiences.

Keynote topics include: leadership development, team performance, the neuroscience of change and uncertainty, stakeholder management, effective communication, neuroscientific presenting, negotiation & facilitation, crisis management, high performing teams collaboration, the neuroscience of innovation, stress & resilience.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bogdanmanta/
Website: https://www.tee.academy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the-essential-experts/featured

Bogdan combines 25+ years of corporate training experience, with neuroscientific research and strategic thinking. Bogdan is the founder of The Essential Experts, an agency focused on delivering high-impact leadership programmes and hyper-personal... Show more

The Founder of Mastishk, an AI-powered personalised learning platform designed to empower students, teachers, and parents through intelligent assessments and adaptive learning. With a vision to make education more human, personalised, and purposeful, he is leading Mastishk’s mission to bring high-quality learning innovation to Tier-2 and Tier-3 schools in India.

Before founding Mastishk, Manoj served as Head of AI & Software Centre India at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, where he scaled a 75+ member team, delivered enterprise-grade digital transformation, and initiated AI strategy for global business units.

An Executive MBA graduate from IIT Bombay and Washington University in St. Louis, Manoj brings a rare blend of technical depth, strategic vision, and human-centred leadership, making him a sought-after speaker on AI in education, the future of learning, and leading with empathy in a digital world.

The Founder of Mastishk, an AI-powered personalised learning platform designed to empower students, teachers, and parents through intelligent assessments and adaptive learning. With a vision to make education more human, personalised, and purposeful,... Show more