Government, Social Sector & Education

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

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC
President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America
Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect | Curriculum Developer | International Trainer

"I am a Boricua. A dad. A soldier. A professional social worker. An advocate. A teacher. A professor. A counselor. And a friend. And with every role, I lead with love and serve with purpose."

Biography
Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC, is a globally celebrated architect of fatherhood engagement, social policy reform, and transformative leadership development. For over four decades, he has shaped public health, child welfare, mental health, and professional education—building bridges across disciplines, communities, and continents. His career is defined by multidimensional leadership and a relentless pursuit of equity, healing, and opportunity for all. A proud father, soldier, social worker, and visionary educator, he has devoted his life to helping people rediscover hope, dignity, and purpose. His reach spans early childhood education, public health, leadership development, and fatherhood advocacy—fields that, in his hands, become pathways toward healing and intergenerational equity.

"Insights give way to dreams—developing vision—creating purpose that ends in your why."

Foundations: Service, Resilience, and Cultural Identity
Born into a low-income household and shaped by the adversity of the child welfare system, James began his journey at age 17 as a U.S. Army Combat Medic. By 22, he became one of the youngest Substance Abuse Counselors in the Department of Defense, retiring with honors and meritorious distinction in the reserves. Over more than two decades of military service, he developed expertise in trauma response, behavioral health, and law enforcement. This experience forged his devotion to discipline, compassion, and advocacy for the vulnerable.

James's service has been recognized at the highest levels: he is the recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Call to Service Award (President Barack Obama), Points of Light Award (President George H. W. Bush), Meritorious Service Medal (U.S. Department of Defense), and Congressional Certificates from Maxine Waters, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Barbara Lee, and Diane E. Watson. He is deeply honored by the Ceremonial Elder Proclamation from the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska, the National Social Worker Leadership Resolution (FFCA), and hundreds of additional accolades from national, state, tribal, and community organizations.

Architect of Systems Change: Building Movements, Securing Hope
As founder and CEO of the Fathers & Families Coalition of America (FFCA), Dr. Rodríguez transformed a grassroots Arizona network into an international force with offices in California and Puerto Rico, and active partnerships across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and Australia. He was instrumental in creating one of the nation's first TANF-funded fatherhood programs, a model that generated over $75 million in resources and has been replicated nationwide. Under his leadership, FFCA's International Families & Fathers Conference—now in its 27th year—has become a global destination for educators, policymakers, and innovators, advancing justice and family well-being.

A founding steering committee member of the Fatherhood Research & Practice Network (FRPN) at Temple University, James has shaped federal research and policy, serving as principal investigator and senior research consultant on projects for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, CDC, NIMH, and the Oregon Center for Applied Science. His work has driven advances in public health, trauma-informed care, and family resilience.

Signature Curriculum Development and Thought Leadership
James is a master architect of transformational curricula and professional development, including the Advanced Practitioner Credential™ Course (NASW Arizona-approved), OAR Leadership Institute™ (Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility), FFCA DiSC Model™, Ikigai & The Power of Kintsugi™, and SAMHSA-approved Fatherhood and Mental Health Curriculum. He also developed the Strengthening Families Through Nurturing Leadership model. His trainings are lauded for blending cognitive science, neuroplasticity, emotional intelligence, trauma-informed care, and actionable leadership strategies, and have reached over 30,000 professionals—social workers, educators, clinicians, nonprofit leaders, and public officials—across the U.S. and four continents. Over 85% of program graduates report improved outcomes, including higher client engagement and service completion.

Certified as an Executive Coach, Master Trainer for The John R. Wooden Course™, Certified DiSC® Trainer, Life Coach, Ikigai Coach, and Schema Therapy Practitioner, Dr. Rodríguez's leadership development institutes have set new standards for excellence in behavioral health and family services.

Academic Impact, Mentorship, and Global Teaching
Dr. Rodríguez's educational reach is extraordinary. He has served as faculty, lecturer, or keynote at:

University of Southern California
Arizona State University
Morehouse College
Howard University
Columbia University
Yale University
University of Houston
Clark Atlanta University
Mesa Community College
Central Arizona College
Cornell University
Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico
University of the West Indies (Jamaica)
University of Guelph (Canada)
Malcolm X College
Sobo Tribal Nation
Navajo Nation
Qutekcak Native Tribe (Alaska)
Numerous First Nations and international partners
He developed and directed over 30 undergraduate and graduate courses, established statewide programs, and has keynoted and taught from Ivy League classrooms to tribal communities. He serves on the editorial board of PHYLON: The Clark Atlanta University Review of Race and Culture, which he joined upon the appointment of Dr. Obie Clayton, Jr., and supports scholarship on race, family, and social change.

Policy Leadership, Board Service, and Community Engagement
Dr. Rodríguez's policy influence extends to every level of government. He has developed legislation for Connecticut's Fatherhood Initiative, served on Arizona and California TANF/family-strengthening task forces, and advised the New York City Mayor's Fatherhood Advisory Council, DYCD, and ACS. He has shaped policy in partnership with SAMHSA, Region II Head Start, the State of Maryland, and the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health. He has provided expert testimony before the U.S. House Ways & Means Committee. He collaborates with Congressman Danny K. Davis and hosts national Fireside Policy Roundtables on equity, child support, and education reform.

His board service is cross-sectoral and visionary, including:

100 Black Men – Arizona Chapter
AGAPE Adoption Agency
Maricopa County Human Services
Fatherhood Corrections Network
Black Family Preservation Institute
And numerous national, state, and tribal boards
Public Health, Equity, and Systems Innovation
James has led multiple national initiatives addressing mental health equity, early childhood wellness, and culturally responsive care—serving Latino, African American, Somali, First Nations, and other underserved communities. His work with the Somali Association of Arizona, the Hispanic/Latino and African American Parent Depression Research Project, and tribal partners has been recognized for its transformative impact on systems and inclusion.

Author, Storyteller, and Purpose-Driven Advocate
As founder of Borinqueño Within Press and author of the forthcoming The Purpose Within—Rise Out of the Ashes Like the Phoenix, Dr. Rodríguez's story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of purpose. He weaves together memoir, leadership philosophy, and spiritual reflection, inspiring audiences to discover their own capacity to lead and transform.

Personal Values, Humanity, and Enduring Legacy
Above all, Dr. Rodríguez is a father, grandfather, and mentor. He draws daily inspiration from his children—Antonio (Cassandra), Amber Rodríguez-Young, LMSW (Daric), and Jazmín Rodríguez—and his grandchildren, Ariston and Adalena. His life and work are an expression of core values: love, empathy, humility, and a drive to uplift others. Whether leading a boardroom, inspiring a conference, or building coalitions for social change, James delivers wisdom, practical strategies, and hope—leaving every audience moved to action.

"Leadership is not about titles. It is about being water—shaping, flowing, and giving life wherever you go." — Bruce Lee.

If your organization seeks a keynote speaker, leadership institute facilitator, or strategic advisor who brings unparalleled experience, intellectual rigor, cultural fluency, and a proven record of impact, Dr. James C. Rodríguez is the transformative presence your audience deserves.

Contact:
james.rodriguez@fathersandfamiliescoalition.org
www.fathersandfamiliescoalition.org

"Never The End, Never Goodbye, Just I love You." – Your Friend, James

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect ... Show more

Evan Kirstein

Evan Kirstein

Evan Kirstein works in financial-sector information security, running a day-to-day security program under federal examination: governance, risk and compliance, identity, data protection, and the AI-assessment work that now comes attached to all of it. They research passive RF systems alongside that. Their MARVIN project uses receive-only Wi-Fi and Bluetooth observation to study networked license-plate-reader infrastructure, with no probing, no association, and no credential capture by design.

At Wild West Hackin' Fest Deadwood 2026 they are scheduled to teach a two-hour MARVIN workshop and co-host the RF Village. Evan also teaches access governance for SaaS, guest and AI-agent identities, affordable cybersecurity practice, and emergency communications built on drones and LoRa mesh networks, most recently in a July 2026 Antisyphon Anti-Cast with Luke Canfield. They have briefed state legislators at the Colorado State Capitol on AI risk, data privacy and cybercrime.

Evan holds an M.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Western Governors University, writes for The Cybersleuth Chronicles, and co-founded Study GRC, a nonprofit offering free governance, risk and compliance training, where they serve as security lead and a board member. They are an FCC-licensed amateur radio operator, KJ5MCN, and an ARES emergency communications volunteer. Outside all of that: homelabs, tabletop and video games, cars, motorcycles, and karaoke.

Evan Kirstein works in financial-sector information security, running a day-to-day security program under federal examination: governance, risk and compliance, identity, data protection, and the AI-assessment work that now comes attached to all of it... Show more

Himanshu Patil

Himanshu Patil

Himanshu Patil is a cybersecurity professional and educator focused on cybersecurity awareness, digital risk understanding, and practical security education. His work centers on helping students, professionals, and organizations understand modern cyber threats and develop the skills needed to build safer digital environments.

With professional training in cybersecurity, cybercrime investigation, cyber law, and digital forensics, Himanshu has developed expertise in areas such as network security, OSINT investigation, metadata analysis, cyber threat awareness, and responsible cybersecurity practices.

He holds internationally recognized certifications including CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, and PMP, along with professional training in Certified Ethical Hacking (CEH), cybercrime investigation, and cyber forensic analysis.

Himanshu is actively involved in cybersecurity education and skill development, where he conducts training programs, cybersecurity workshops, and internship mentoring sessions for students and aspiring cybersecurity professionals. His teaching approach focuses on real-world cyber threats, practical security thinking, and responsible use of technology.

In addition to training, he is also engaged in cybersecurity research and academic work, including research on AI-assisted metadata and OSINT correlation for darknet investigations, exploring how analytical techniques can support digital investigations while maintaining legal and ethical compliance.

Through education, research, and community engagement, Himanshu works toward promoting cybersecurity awareness, responsible technology use, and stronger digital resilience in the modern connected world.

Himanshu Patil is a cybersecurity professional and educator focused on cybersecurity awareness, digital risk understanding, and practical security education. His work centers on helping students, professionals, and organizations understand modern cyb... Show more

Marouaa Yakhlef

Marouaa Yakhlef

Marouaa Yakhlef is an AI and STEM Leader with over 17 years of experience in education, specializing in STEM education, robotics, educational technology, and innovative learning design. As a STEM Robotics Trainer of Trainers (TOT), she leads initiatives that integrate AI, emerging technologies, and project-based learning to create engaging and authentic learning experiences.

Throughout her career, Marouaa has supported educators and students in developing critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through technology-rich learning environments. She has led educational technology initiatives, innovation projects, and a podcast exploring emerging trends and best practices in education.

Her work also includes mentoring students and supporting participation in STEM, robotics, and innovation competitions, helping learners develop confidence, resilience, and a mindset of inquiry and innovation.

Marouaa is passionate about empowering students to move beyond knowledge acquisition and become creators, innovators, and solution designers. Her current focus is exploring how AI-supported inquiry and project-based learning can help students address authentic challenges and create meaningful impact within their communities.

Marouaa Yakhlef is an AI and STEM Leader with over 17 years of experience in education, specializing in STEM education, robotics, educational technology, and innovative learning design. As a STEM Robotics Trainer of Trainers (TOT), she leads initiati... Show more

Johnathan Meunier

Johnathan Meunier

Staff Engineer at AXA France, specialized in front-end development, I aim to solve problems before they even arise!
Passionate about new technologies and debate, I host the podcast "C'est Pas Le Sujet" ("That’s Not the Point").
I constantly try to share my knowledge and challenge it by speaking at numerous events (keynotes, conferences, meetups, etc.) and teaching in several engineering schools.

Staff Engineer at AXA France, specialized in front-end development, I aim to solve problems before they even arise! Passionate about new technologies and debate, I host the podcast "C'est Pas Le Sujet" ("That’s Not the Point"). I constantly try to ... Show more

Thomas de Klerk

Thomas de Klerk

Thomas de Klerk works as a learning consultant and trainer at Info Support, where he spends much of his time helping people make sense of complex technology — including AI.
His background is not purely technical. Early in his career he trained as a teacher at university level, later specialising in Human Resource Development. That combination still shapes how he looks at technology today: not just in terms of what it can do, but how people think, learn and make decisions around it.
His work now sits somewhere between training, facilitation and experimentation. He designs workshops, learning journeys and the occasional escape room to explore how people actually work with tools like AI in practice.
He uses AI himself, daily — which is exactly why he keeps questioning what it does to his own thinking.

Thomas de Klerk works as a learning consultant and trainer at Info Support, where he spends much of his time helping people make sense of complex technology — including AI. His background is not purely technical. Early in his career he trained as a ... Show more

Leland Sandler Coach

Leland Sandler Coach

Leland Sandler Coach is an executive coach and consultant based in Jefferson County, Colorado. A University of California, Berkeley alumnus, he began his career as a university educator, curriculum developer, and faculty leader before venturing into professional consulting. In 2002, he founded The Sandler Group, a professional consulting and coaching firm that has grown into a respected entity in executive advising and organizational effectiveness.

Currently, Leland serves as the managing partner at The Sandler Group, located in Solana Beach, California. Under his leadership, the firm has made significant strides in the life sciences and technology sectors, helping individuals and organizations enhance their business operations and strategic positions in the global market. As the firm celebrates its 20th anniversary in December 2022, it continues to be lauded for its innovative approaches and sustainable impact on its clients, which include notable companies like Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Boston Scientific, and Sony Corporation.

Throughout his career, Sandler has held various influential roles that shaped his expertise and approach to executive coaching. He has developed curricula for MBA programs adopted nationally, including specialized courses for students with learning disabilities. His academic contributions extended to roles such as university instructor and presenter at prestigious institutions like the University of California, San Diego, where he was integral to the executive education program.

Before his tenure at The Sandler Group, Leland Sandler was deeply involved in academia and business development. His roles included Head of Enrollment at the University of Phoenix, General Manager at Productivity Point's San Diego office, and Associate Partner at C.G. Wright & Associates. In these positions, he focused on leadership development, addressing team execution challenges, and navigating organizational changes.

Leland's educational journey is as impressive as his professional one. After earning a bachelor's degree in history from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1975, he obtained secondary teaching credentials from the same institution. He later pursued a master's degree in education at San Francisco State University, followed by an MBA from Pepperdine University in 1988.

Sandler's commitment to professional growth and development extends beyond his business endeavors. For five years, he served on the board of the Growth Edge Network, an international coaching association. His expertise in executive coaching is especially recognized in the San Diego biotech industry, where he collaborates closely with key players and research institutions.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Leland Sandler Coach is an avid philanthropist. He has devoted considerable time to pro bono work, including leadership and team development projects with the San Diego Opera and the U.S. Department of the Navy and Marine Corps. His commitment to the community is also reflected in his active involvement in the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce's Defense, Veterans & Military Affairs Council.

Residing in Morrison, Colorado, Leland enjoys the natural beauty of his surroundings and engages in hobbies such as cross-country skiing, hiking, and photography. His interests also include reading and writing short stories, which allow him to explore different perspectives and ideas. His dedication to his professional and personal life reflects his holistic approach to leadership and development, ensuring he remains a respected and influential figure in his field.

Leland Sandler Coach is an executive coach and consultant based in Jefferson County, Colorado. A University of California, Berkeley alumnus, he began his career as a university educator, curriculum developer, and faculty leader before venturing into ... Show more

Joe Martine

Joe Martine

Born in Brooklyn and based in Düsseldorf, Joe Martine is an artist, creative educator and lifelong believer in the power of human connection. His professional life has taken him through education, communications, creative business, film, sales and the arts, but the common thread has always been people, words, ideas and finding ways to bring them together.

Joe is the creator of Superfuzz Bigfluff, a large-scale participatory art project built around touch, play, curiosity and connection. His work grows from a simple belief: deep human connection is the most precious resource on planet Earth.

Whether he’s leading a workshop, teaching, developing a creative project or simply having a really good conversation, Joe is most at home where ideas are being exchanged, people are engaged and something unexpected has room to happen.

Born in Brooklyn and based in Düsseldorf, Joe Martine is an artist, creative educator and lifelong believer in the power of human connection. His professional life has taken him through education, communications, creative business, film, sales and th... Show more

May Zalat

May Zalat

May Zalat is the Inclusion Director at Kids First Group, leading inclusion across 36 nurseries in the UAE and Qatar. With over 18 years of experience in Early Years education, she has held senior leadership roles, including Education Director and now Inclusion Director, bringing strong expertise in both educational quality and inclusive practice. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Educational Needs.
She is a qualified Early Years Trainer and Assessor, founder of the IECE Initiative, Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator (CPDPE) and Certified Learning Language and Loving It™ Program Provider. Through her work, May supports educators and families with practical training, coaching, and guidance that strengthen teaching, inclusion, behaviour support, and sustainable quality.
May’s mission is to create early years environments where every child belongs, educators feel empowered, and quality is sustained through strong leadership and continuous development.

May Zalat is the Inclusion Director at Kids First Group, leading inclusion across 36 nurseries in the UAE and Qatar. With over 18 years of experience in Early Years education, she has held senior leadership roles, including Education Director and now... Show more

Giselle Falcao

Giselle Falcao

Giselle Falcão é PhD em Modelagem Matemática Computacional, Cientista de Dados e Engenheira de IA com mais de 11 anos de experiência em projetos que unem SQL, Ciência de Dados e Aprendizado de Máquina. Atuou em grandes empresas como Mercedes-Benz, Seguros Unimed e VLI, além de liderar iniciativas educacionais reconhecidas pelo MEC no uso de IA para recomposição da aprendizagem. Especialista em transformar dados em soluções de impacto nos setores de finanças, saúde, indústria e educação, combina expertise acadêmica e prática corporativa para criar modelos preditivos escaláveis. É palestrante em congressos nacionais e internacionais sobre Ciência de Dados e Inteligência Artificial.

Giselle Falcão é PhD em Modelagem Matemática Computacional, Cientista de Dados e Engenheira de IA com mais de 11 anos de experiência em projetos que unem SQL, Ciência de Dados e Aprendizado de Máquina. Atuou em grandes empresas como Mercedes-Benz, Se... Show more

Birjan Crispin

Birjan Crispin

Birjan D. Crispin is a bold, compelling and convciting speaker who looks forward to serving your audience. He currently serves as an econominc development consultant in Indianapolis, IN. From 2023 to 2025, Birjan served in the Indiana House of Representatives as a legislative aide for the House Republican Caucus. In this role, he staffed the Indiana C.H.O.I.C.E. Board and the Commerce, Small Business & Economic Development Committee, contributing to policy development in economic and community-focused areas.

Birjan holds a B.A. in Finance and Political Science from Hope College. He is a graduate of The Heritage Foundation's Leadership Fellowship (as a fiscal and monetary policy fellow), The Leadership Institute's Young Leaders Program, and Indiana Family Institute's Hoosier Leadership Series Class of 2024.

A sought-after voice in public discourse, Birjan is a regular guest on podcasts nationwide and has spoken at conferences across the country. He shares his compelling personal journey—from Orphan to Advocate—while addressing faith-centered formation, legislative initiatives for child and family protection, parental righs, economic & fiscal policy.

Before entering public service, Birjan worked in corporate finance in Chicago, specializing in portfolio risk analysis and business management.
Birjan resides in Anderson, Indiana, with his wife Brooke and their daughter Abigail. The family is deeply engaged in their local community and are active members of Grace Baptist Church in Anderson.

In his personal time, Birjan is a classical violinist and an avid golfer.

Birjan D. Crispin is a bold, compelling and convciting speaker who looks forward to serving your audience. He currently serves as an econominc development consultant in Indianapolis, IN. From 2023 to 2025, Birjan served in the Indiana House of Repres... Show more

Ricardo Rossello

Ricardo Rossello

Ricardo Rosselló has spent his career moving between systems that rarely coexist on a single résumé: science, entrepreneurship, academia, government, crisis leadership, and emerging technology. A biomedical scientist by training and former Governor of Puerto Rico, he became fascinated by a recurring problem: why do well-prepared people and well-intentioned institutions so often produce outcomes they never intended?
His work focuses on the hidden signals and incentives beneath stated goals. Through The Signal and his Signal Flip framework, Rosselló helps leaders identify those forces, examine where they lead, and redesign the conditions that shape behavior. His sessions connect that idea to organizational transformation, decision-making under pressure, hyperconvergence, foresight, and longevity.

Ricardo Rosselló has spent his career moving between systems that rarely coexist on a single résumé: science, entrepreneurship, academia, government, crisis leadership, and emerging technology. A biomedical scientist by training and former Governor o... Show more

Joy Hopkins

Joy Hopkins

Joy Hopkins (she/they) has more than 15 years of experience in education. After an extensive career in the nonprofit sector, they transitioned to tech about 9 years ago. Joy has a deep background in the performing arts which is the foundation for both their communication and project management skills. Their data science expertise and passion lie primarily in data literacy, visualization, and storytelling. Joy has a Bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and a Master’s degree from American University.

Joy Hopkins (she/they) has more than 15 years of experience in education. After an extensive career in the nonprofit sector, they transitioned to tech about 9 years ago. Joy has a deep background in the performing arts which is the foundation for bot... Show more

Emanuel Toledo

Emanuel Toledo

Emanuel Toledo is a Data Scientist and holds a degree in Public Management, specializing in the implementation of artificial intelligence and the strategic use of data in organizations.

With over 15 years of experience in the public sector, he works on designing practical frameworks for AI adoption, addressing its limitations, risks, and challenges in real-world decision-making contexts.

He is the founder of Thinking Out!, a consulting firm focused on data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation, where he supports institutions and professionals in the effective integration of these technologies.

He is currently researching how the public sector can reduce its structural gaps and improve its capabilities through the strategic adoption of technology. As part of this work, he developed a digital transition approach adaptable to different types of organizations, aimed at effectively integrating data and artificial intelligence in real-world management contexts.

Emanuel Toledo is a Data Scientist and holds a degree in Public Management, specializing in the implementation of artificial intelligence and the strategic use of data in organizations. With over 15 years of experience in the public sector, he wor... Show more

Jarrod Connolly

Jarrod Connolly

Jarrod Connolly is an engineering leader who has spent 25 years building backend and platform systems across gaming, network infrastructure, real estate, and travel. He has led teams through hiring, performance, and delivery in player-coach roles, and he still writes the code when the problem needs it.

He added Date support to Node.js N-API, holds two patents in web acceleration, and spoke at OpenJS World 2022 on building a compiler in Node.js. Complect, that compiler, now targets native binaries via LLVM and renders graphics with SDL. He writes about the work at nestedquotes.ca.

He has chaired a school Parent Advisory Council and served on the City Advisory Committee, and is building PAC Hub so those organizations can run a year from one place.

Jarrod Connolly is an engineering leader who has spent 25 years building backend and platform systems across gaming, network infrastructure, real estate, and travel. He has led teams through hiring, performance, and delivery in player-coach roles, an... Show more

Sai Sravan Cherukuri

Sai Sravan Cherukuri

Sai Sravan Cherukuri is a visionary technology leader, DevSecOps Technical Advisor, PaaS Automation Lead, and Program Manager. With over 20 years of experience in federal IT transformation, he is a recognized expert in DevSecOps, FinOps, AI governance, CMMC readiness, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), open-source advocacy, and Policy as Code (PaC). He is the creator of the FIBER AI Maturity Model and contributes as a member to the national AI safety initiatives through NIST’s U.S. Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute Consortium.
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Sai Sravan, a Commissioner’s 2024 Award recipient, has led enterprise-scale automation, modernization, and capacity planning initiatives that deliver measurable results. He serves on the Board of Directors at TMMi America and is a dedicated community mentor and volunteer.
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As a Platform Engineer and Open-source advocate, Sai is committed to advancing accessibility in engineering and inclusivity in the community. He is a strong proponent of the "Docs-as-Code" movement, maintaining that long-term project sustainability relies on clear documentation and automated CI/CD pipelines that lower barriers for contributors. Currently, he is bridging the gap between agentic workflows and cloud-native standards; as an active explorer of the Model Context Protocol (MCP), he utilizes OpenTelemetry to build open-source AI observability frameworks, enabling the scaling of reliable, self-service agents.

Sai Sravan currently serves as the program lead for the application team, spearheading the institutionalization of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) through Terraform practices.

Sai Sravan Cherukuri is a visionary technology leader, DevSecOps Technical Advisor, PaaS Automation Lead, and Program Manager. With over 20 years of experience in federal IT transformation, he is a recognized expert in DevSecOps, FinOps, AI governanc... Show more

Fábio Williams

Fábio Williams

Fábio Williams é Assessor Especial e líder de implantação de serviços hiperautomatizados na Prodesp – Companhia de Processamento de Dados do Estado de São Paulo. Líder em implantação de soluções digitais e hiperautomação, atua como especialista em transformação digital no setor público, conduzindo projetos estratégicos voltados à modernização dos serviços prestados à população paulista. Entre suas principais entregas estão iniciativas de grande impacto como a Transformação Digital do Detran-SP, TDV (Transferência Digital de Veículos), SEI! SP, SNE-Detran-SP, SNE-DER-SP, Compras.gov.br, PAGSP, Transfere.gov.br, Obras.gov.br e a Carteira de Identidade Nacional (CIN) em SP.

Com 12 anos de experiência na Polícia Rodoviária Federal – onde foi Diretor de Tecnologia da Informação e Comunicação –, acumula sólida trajetória em liderança, infraestrutura de TI, gestão administrativa e telecomunicações. Também atuou por mais de 18 anos no setor privado, com forte foco em engenharia eletrônica, automação industrial e redes ópticas, além de gestão de contratos e implantação de sistemas de qualidade.

Fábio Williams é Assessor Especial e líder de implantação de serviços hiperautomatizados na Prodesp – Companhia de Processamento de Dados do Estado de São Paulo. Líder em implantação de soluções digitais e hiperautomação, atua como especialista em tr... Show more

Rhiana Heppenstall

Rhiana Heppenstall

Rhiana Heppenstall is a senior front-end developer specialising in making web sites and applications accessible for people with disabilities. Combining her background in educational psychology and a love of computers she prides herself in developing software that is a delight for users and fellow developers alike. She has spoken and given workshops to businesses, at meetups and conferences around Australia, as she is a big advocate for professional development. Based in Melbourne when she isn't working she's going to the latest festival, museum or zoo with her two children.

Rhiana Heppenstall is a senior front-end developer specialising in making web sites and applications accessible for people with disabilities. Combining her background in educational psychology and a love of computers she prides herself in developing ... Show more

Lirone Glikman

Lirone Glikman

Lirone Glikman is an international speaker, bestselling author, and consultant on business networking and personal branding using AI, and business development for startups and high-tech companies. She has consulted and spoken to developers, founders, and women leaders in 28 countries, sharing her methodology for achieving business results through authentic connections.

She is the author of the amazon bestseller "The Super Connector's Playbook". With over 20 years of global experience across Europe, Australia, and the U.S., she brings both corporate and startup perspectives to the tech world. Lirone contributes to leading global magazines and serves as an executive director at a UN-affiliated NGO supporting the Sustainable Development Goals.

Lirone Glikman is an international speaker, bestselling author, and consultant on business networking and personal branding using AI, and business development for startups and high-tech companies. She has consulted and spoken to developers, founders,... Show more

Amber Vanderburg

Amber Vanderburg

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

Bhuvana Meenakshi Koteeswaran

Bhuvana Meenakshi Koteeswaran

Ms. Bhuvana Meenakshi is an Assistant Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, and a socio-technical researcher working at the intersection of technology, education, inclusion and open knowledge.

She is the founder of Women In Tech Collectives, India, a community initiative focused on supporting and educating women from marginalised backgrounds, and Co-Founder of EmergeAbility, an initiative that supports neurodivergent communities in accessing education and career opportunities while mapping support ecosystems globally.

Bhuvana is an active advocate for open-source and open-knowledge practices and has spoken at academic institutions and technology conferences. She has volunteered with global communities including Wikimedia and Mozilla, representing and connecting Indian communities with international projects and initiatives.

One of her ongoing initiatives, WikiForAll, focuses on bridging academia with real-world technical and open-knowledge practices through Wikimedia projects. The initiative creates opportunities for students to develop technical, research and collaborative skills while contributing to the Wikimedia ecosystem, with a particular focus on accessibility, inclusion and participation from underrepresented communities. She has also contributed towards a Wikimedia community research titled, "Bridging the Gender gap: A report on Indian Language Wikimedia Communities".

Her work has been recognised with the Best Poster Presentation Award from the Ministry of Science and Technology at the India International Science Festival 2016 and the Dr. Kalam Young Achiever’s Award from the World Youth Federation in 2016.

Alongside her professional and community work, Bhuvana is also a trained performing artist in Bharatanatyam and Kathak, with merit certifications from Annamalai University and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, London.

To connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhuvana-meenakshi-koteeswaran-a67b58103/

Ms. Bhuvana Meenakshi is an Assistant Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, and a socio-technical researcher working at the intersection of technology, education, inclusion and open kno... Show more

Yackson Eustaquio Chaverra Mena, Doctorado

Yackson Eustaquio Chaverra Mena, Doctorado

Yackson Eustaquio Chaverra Mena is a Colombian prosecutor, legal scholar and researcher working at the intersection of criminal justice, artificial intelligence, digital evidence, cybercrime and institutional governance. He currently serves as a sectional prosecutor in Colombia, with professional experience in complex criminal investigations, public-sector crime and cases involving significant institutional and evidentiary challenges.
He holds two Doctorates in Law, including a doctorate from Universidad Católica de Colombia and a PhD from Universidad de Baja California, Mexico, awarded Magna Cum Laude. He has also conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Bologna, Italy, and has advanced academic training in public law, criminal law and criminal justice.

His research focuses on the responsible application of emerging technologies to criminal justice, including artificial intelligence, Big Data, blockchain, digital evidence and technology-assisted risk assessment. His work explores how prosecutors and justice institutions can use technology to strengthen investigative capacity and decision-making while preserving due process, human rights, accountability and meaningful human oversight.

His current research includes the development of innovative approaches to digital and relational risk in criminal proceedings, particularly in complex corruption and financial crime investigations. He has also worked on the challenges of institutional preparedness, technological resilience and AI governance in justice systems operating under resource constraints and complex social conditions.

As a practitioner-researcher, he brings together frontline prosecutorial experience and interdisciplinary research to address a central question for modern criminal justice: how can artificial intelligence strengthen justice institutions without replacing human judgment, judicial guarantees or institutional responsibility?

He speaks on Artificial Intelligence and Criminal Justice, AI Governance, Digital Evidence, Cybercrime and Criminal Investigation, Prosecutorial Decision-Making, Digital Risk, Legal Technology, and the future of justice institutions.

Yackson Eustaquio Chaverra Mena is a Colombian prosecutor, legal scholar and researcher working at the intersection of criminal justice, artificial intelligence, digital evidence, cybercrime and institutional governance. He currently serves as a sect... Show more

Antonios Triantafyllakis

Antonios Triantafyllakis

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

Jackie Bedford

Jackie Bedford

For almost 30 years I've run Step Ahead as Founder and CEO - an award-winning employment and training organisation that has helped thousands of people find work, often from the toughest starting points. But some of my most powerful conversations have happened informally - with my own sons, their friends, and the children of friends who came to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and invisible in a job market that nobody had prepared them for. The same questions kept coming up. The same avoidable mistakes kept quietly costing people opportunities.

So I put everything I told them into a programme - every step, every shortcut, every mistake to avoid - so people can follow the exact same path. Practical, direct, and built around what actually gets people hired. No fluff. No theory. Just what works.

I am the creator of Get The Job You Want, a training course that helps graduates globally to get them hired, in the job they want.

For almost 30 years I've run Step Ahead as Founder and CEO - an award-winning employment and training organisation that has helped thousands of people find work, often from the toughest starting points. But some of my most powerful conversations have... Show more

Mofazzel Hosen Morshed

Mofazzel Hosen Morshed

Mofazzel Hosen Morshed, is a Software Engineer, young entrepreneur, and aspiring technology leader from Bangladesh, known for his passion for innovation and digital transformation. With a strong commitment to leveraging technology to solve real world challenges, he has been actively involved in developing forward thinking ideas and ventures that promote progress in the tech ecosystem.

Outside of work, I dive into research on topics that fascinate me education, gender equality, climate change, and social issues. Whether I’m in the field conducting studies or brainstorming solutions behind a computer screen, I’m committed to making a difference. Multitasking comes naturally to me; I thrive in environments where no two days are the same.

And when it comes to taking on new tasks, I’m the kind of person who doesn’t believe in saying ‘no’ I see every project, whether research or management, as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Mofazzel Hosen Morshed, is a Software Engineer, young entrepreneur, and aspiring technology leader from Bangladesh, known for his passion for innovation and digital transformation. With a strong commitment to leveraging technology to solve real world... Show more

Moritz Schmid

Moritz Schmid

Moritz Schmid studiert Politikwissenschaft und Volkswirtschaftslehre an der Universität Regensburg. Seit April 2026 ist er Sprecher des Bayerischen Landesstudierendenrats und vertritt die über 400.000 Studierenden in Bayern. In dieser Funktion sind seine Schwerpunkte Künstliche Intelligenz, Nachhaltigkeit und die Zukunft der Lehre.

Moritz Schmid studiert Politikwissenschaft und Volkswirtschaftslehre an der Universität Regensburg. Seit April 2026 ist er Sprecher des Bayerischen Landesstudierendenrats und vertritt die über 400.000 Studierenden in Bayern. In dieser Funktion sind s... Show more

Arjun Sharda

Arjun Sharda

Arjun Sharda is the 15-year-old Executive Director of TLEEM (Arabic: تعليم), Texas's largest K-12 networking nonprofit with over 4,000 K-12 and college student members from 11 countries through 37 clubs. Aside from TLEEM, he's been programming for over seven years and has written for outlets such as the Washington Post and the Austin-American Statesman. He has received recognition from Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas State Board of Education.

Arjun Sharda is the 15-year-old Executive Director of TLEEM (Arabic: تعليم), Texas's largest K-12 networking nonprofit with over 4,000 K-12 and college student members from 11 countries through 37 clubs. Aside from TLEEM, he's been programming for ov... Show more

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in context engineering, knowledge graphs, and AI-driven developer tooling where Nyah has built high-impact technical communities and led initiatives that advance a critical understanding of AI and its use cases. They are also the Founder & CTO of Afros in AI, a technical community dedicated to showcasing the multifaceted nature of artificial intelligence. Beyond Nyah's technical expertise, Nyah has a background in government leadership and technology policy, having served as Chief of Staff in the U.S. state government, where they helped shape tech-driven legislative initiatives and equity-driven legislation. When not immersed in their work, Nyah cares about empowering, teaching, and tutoring engineers, live-streaming technical deep dives, and building open-source tools that make software more accessible, explainable, and community-driven.

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in context engineering, knowledge graphs,... Show more

Elisa Bárcena Martín

Elisa Bárcena Martín

Scientist and teacher by vocation
I arrived in the Power Platform world 4 years ago and I was captured by it. I believe in continuous improvement and learning.

"To excellence you have to go and knock on the door, it is an everyday job".

Scientist and teacher by vocation I arrived in the Power Platform world 4 years ago and I was captured by it. I believe in continuous improvement and learning. "To excellence you have to go and knock on the door, it is an everyday job". Show more

Ismael Novo

Ismael Novo

🎓Formador de Formadores por Babson College
🔴ExPresidente de la Confederación Española de Junior Empresa
💻Consultor Informático en EPAM
📊Prince2 & Scrum Master
🏫Alumni del Colegio Mayor Azarbe

🎓Formador de Formadores por Babson College 🔴ExPresidente de la Confederación Española de Junior Empresa 💻Consultor Informático en EPAM 📊Prince2 & Scrum Master 🏫Alumni del Colegio Mayor Azarbe Show more

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