Humanities & Social Sciences

Esteemed speakers contributing their insights into human culture, behavior, and societal development

Bernd Joussen

Bernd Joussen

Mit über 20 Jahren Führungserfahrung in Top-Unternehmen kombiniere ich Business, Produktmanagement und IT-Expertise zu praxisnaher Beratung – immer auf Augenhöhe

Was mich auszeichnet
Verständnis für Führung: Ich spreche die Sprache von IT, Business und Strategie und kenne die Dynamiken von Startups, Mittelstand und Konzernen.
Strategischer Brückenbauer: Wo Zusammenarbeit stockt, setze ich an und schaffe verbindende Lösungen.
Schnelle Empathie & frischer Humor: Meine Kunden schätzen, wie rasch ich Empathie entwickle und mit überraschenden Perspektivwechseln Impulse gebe.

Mit über 20 Jahren Führungserfahrung in Top-Unternehmen kombiniere ich Business, Produktmanagement und IT-Expertise zu praxisnaher Beratung – immer auf Augenhöhe Was mich auszeichnet Verständnis für Führung: Ich spreche die Sprache von IT, Busine... Show more

Sabrina Mazzola

Sabrina Mazzola

Intersectional journalist (female, first family academic living with disability and migrational background) who turned into a Scrum Master and Diversity Trainer (with 3 years of practice) loves to entertain you with humor and a holistic, positive perspective. After 20 years in journalism and being a leader for 3 years, I realized that my mindset was always agile and I went into IT in 2022. Being there, I saw that all things revolve around two things: psychological safety and belonging.

Intersectional journalist (female, first family academic living with disability and migrational background) who turned into a Scrum Master and Diversity Trainer (with 3 years of practice) loves to entertain you with humor and a holistic, positive per... Show more

Anders Wengelin

Anders Wengelin

From market communication and digital development to business strategy and organizational change over one and a half decades. The common denominator is helping people in organizations come together to solve the right problem and navigate uncertainty. I specialize in complex aware methodology, sensemaking, and non-linear change.

As an entrepreneur, I run Friktion, a boutique management consultancy with employees in Malmö and Stockholm, Sweden, and Münich, Germany, helping organizations direct their creativity towards solving the right problems in strategy, change, and agile. As a consultant, I help leaders navigate uncertain markets and transform their organizations to become or stay relevant.

I love speaking about complexity, sensemaking, complex problem-solving, methodology for non-linear change, strategy, and organizational transformation.

I value diversity, transparency, equity, and the ambition to leave the planet a better place than we found it.

From market communication and digital development to business strategy and organizational change over one and a half decades. The common denominator is helping people in organizations come together to solve the right problem and navigate uncertainty.... Show more

Jaïs Elalouf

Jaïs Elalouf

Jaïs Elalouf
Passionate about alternative culture and ecology, he is running Lucydelic the first digital media dedicated to alternative pop culture and the awakening of the mind. An art magazine talking about psychedelia, society, lifestyle, music, consciousness with regular podcasts and an online boutique https://lucydelic.com/

For 25 years he’s been the head of the Ping pong music PR content agency for the Ninja Tune label and developing 800 artists, among them Bonobo, Santigold, Gotan Project, Salif Keita, Gonzales, Bicep… He has produced over 200 events from clubbing to festivals and conventions, public or private. https://pingpong.fr

Also known as DJ OOF he mixes art, music and video and played over 500 Cinemix audiovisual shows (Montreux, Burning Man, Cannes…), currently being VJ of France’ National Audiovisual Institute (INA). Oof has directed 70 movies that features his own shootings and found footage, creating a sweet retro atmosphere with electronic and groovy beats. https://oof.cx

He's developing a Psychedelic Art Center reuniting his art collection, one of the largest worldwide on the topic, in immersive physical spaces and on the Metaverse. Jaïs has curated 80 exhibitions so far at the request of museums and cultural institutions. https://psychedelick.com

Jaïs Elalouf Passionate about alternative culture and ecology, he is running Lucydelic the first digital media dedicated to alternative pop culture and the awakening of the mind. An art magazine talking about psychedelia, society, lifestyle, music, ... Show more

Michał Borkowski

Michał Borkowski

With over 10 years of experience, he worked in backend, infrastructure, architecture, a bit of frontend and team leadership. He chooses the best tool for the job when needed, but likes it when the problem is solvable without leaving the terminal. He automates stuff for fun - at work, at home and in Minecraft. He'd like to be able to do everything: weld, sew, sculpt, build mud huts and autonomous robots.

With over 10 years of experience, he worked in backend, infrastructure, architecture, a bit of frontend and team leadership. He chooses the best tool for the job when needed, but likes it when the problem is solvable without leaving the terminal. He... Show more

Svea Vikander

Svea Vikander

Svea Vikander is a researcher and media producer specialising in minority journalism, trauma, and storytelling. An award-winning writer with a background in psychology, she studies journalist safety at the University of the Basque Country, Bilbao, and is part of the Media, War, and Conflict (MEKK) research group at OsloMet. Her work also explores how Artificial Intelligence is shaping media, particularly in investigative journalism.

She is unintelligible (yet deeply emotional) in seven languages, and—depending on the day—can be found researching media ethics, producing Indigenous films, or struggling valiantly to make language say the unsayable/write an email. Her work has appeared in The Rumpus, This Magazine, The Toronto Star, and the CBC, and has been reported on in The San Francisco Chronicle and The New York Times.

Svea comes from a creative lineage that includes an Oscar-winning actress, a human rights journalist, and a 17th-century woman beheaded for witchcraft. She lives in Oslo.

Svea Vikander is a researcher and media producer specialising in minority journalism, trauma, and storytelling. An award-winning writer with a background in psychology, she studies journalist safety at the University of the Basque Country, Bilbao, an... Show more

Marc Bouvier

Marc Bouvier

Developpeur depuis 10 ans dans des domaines variés tels que l'assurance, les services publics et le RGPD. J'ai pu développer une sensibilité pour le craft et aussi les pratiques humaines qui font du développement logiciel plus que simplement écrire du code.
Je souhaite aujourd'hui mettre en action mon savoir faire pour contribuer à répondre aux enjeux majeurs de notre siècle tels que le réchauffement climatique, les inégalités et la démocratie.

Developpeur depuis 10 ans dans des domaines variés tels que l'assurance, les services publics et le RGPD. J'ai pu développer une sensibilité pour le craft et aussi les pratiques humaines qui font du développement logiciel plus que simplement écrire d... Show more

Umakant Kulkarni

Umakant Kulkarni

I am a fifth-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Computer Science at Purdue University. I am advised by Prof. Sonia Fahmy at PurNet Lab. Before joining Purdue, I worked as a Software Engineer at Microsoft, with primary focus on software development, architecture designing and building automation infrastructure for Affirmed Networks' Cloud Native 5G Mobile Core solution. Prior to that, I earned my master’s in Computer Systems Networking & Telecommunications from Northeastern University, Boston, MA.

My research focuses on 5G core networks, Wi-Fi networks, and cloud-computing, leveraging learning-based techniques to optimize their performance. Currently, I am working on reinforcement learning (RL) and large language models (LLMs) to enhance 5G cellular network efficiency amd management.

Research Interests
• Cellular Networks • Cloud Computing • Network Security
• Wi-Fi Networks • Reinforcement Learning • QoE • LLMs

I am a fifth-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Computer Science at Purdue University. I am advised by Prof. Sonia Fahmy at PurNet Lab. Before joining Purdue, I worked as a Software Engineer at Microsoft, with primary focus on software developm... Show more

Jamie Lewis Smith

Jamie Lewis Smith

Jamie Lewis Smith, PhD (aka, the NeHRd Lady) is passionate about making people managers suck less by providing simple, science-backed actions to transform them into empowering leaders (aka Servant Leaders)! She is the founder and CEO of Pixel Leadership Group, a team of “nerdy, but fun” executive coaches, psychologists, and data analysts who are on a mission to combat toxic cultures and supercharge employee engagement by bridging the gap between the science and practice of leadership. By offering a structured, data-driven methodology to coaching that can be applied at scale, Pixel creates real, sustainable change that turns managers into talent maximizers, builds people-centric organizational cultures, and fosters employee thriving. Jamie has spent her career as a psychologist, human resources leader, coach, and advisor across private sector, nonprofit, and government agencies, working extensively in the technology, higher education, and healthcare industries. She is a contributing member of the Forbes Coaches Council, a published author, and an international speaker on the topics of leadership, assessment, and employee retention.

Jamie Lewis Smith, PhD (aka, the NeHRd Lady) is passionate about making people managers suck less by providing simple, science-backed actions to transform them into empowering leaders (aka Servant Leaders)! She is the founder and CEO of Pixel Leaders... Show more

Anne Goldberg

Anne Goldberg

I'm 72 and I've been teaching seniors how to use smartphones in private and group classes since 2013 in South Florida. I'm a senior teaching seniors! I've just written my book, Take This Phone and Shove It! A Frustrated Senior's Guide to Smartphones. I'm an author, speaker, teacher and muse to seniors. I want all elders to know they are old enough to have a past and young enough to have a future - at any age!

I'm 72 and I've been teaching seniors how to use smartphones in private and group classes since 2013 in South Florida. I'm a senior teaching seniors! I've just written my book, Take This Phone and Shove It! A Frustrated Senior's Guide to Smartphones.... Show more

Ergul Demir

Ergul Demir

Prof.Dr.Ergul Demir is an expert in the field of educational measurement and evaluation, with a particular focus on psychometric modelling, item response theory, data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative), and, more recently, educational and psychological data science.

Prof.Dr.Ergul Demir is an expert in the field of educational measurement and evaluation, with a particular focus on psychometric modelling, item response theory, data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative), and, more recently, educational and p... Show more

Mikel Ngueajio

Mikel Ngueajio

Mikel is a driven Fourth-year Ph.D. student in Computer Science at Howard University in Washington, D.C., specializing in AI applied to NLP. Her research centered on the interplay between Language, Computation, and AI impacts on Humans and Society, primarily through the lens of Explainable AI, Hate speech, and fake news detection.

Recognized as a 2023-2024 TMCF HBCU Apple Scholar and an AWS Research Fellow, Mikel brings both academic excellence and industry experience to their work. She has previously interned as a Data Science intern at Amazon, a Web Development apprentice at Bloomberg, and a Machine Learning Engineering intern at Apple.

Mikel is an active Kaggle competitor, and a prolific researcher, with work featured in top-tier AI and HCI conferences. Mikel has been a Graduate Student Researcher, collaborating with researchers from the National Geospatial Agency, the Educational Testing Service, and Google. She has also served as a conference reviewer for Blacks in AI and Women in ML at NeurIPS.

Check out my Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=XPwyeRYAAAAJ&hl=en ) and do not hesitate to reach out for future collaborations.

Beyond academia, Mikel enjoys speaking and blogging about recent advances in technology. She's an avid watcher of medical documentaries, a tennis enthusiast, and loves spending quality cooking and playtime with her family.

Mikel is a driven Fourth-year Ph.D. student in Computer Science at Howard University in Washington, D.C., specializing in AI applied to NLP. Her research centered on the interplay between Language, Computation, and AI impacts on Humans and Society, p... Show more

Susana Blaya

Susana Blaya

Susana Blaya is a versatile and trilingual journalist with a passion for international affairs, women's empowerment, technology, and human rights. With experience across various media formats including TV, radio, news agency, and book publishing, she serves as an official delegate for UN Women UK at this year's United Nations Commission.

Susana holds both an undergraduate degree in Journalism (Hons), and a Master's Degree in TV Journalism, and has completed several courses in Creative TV and Outside Broadcasting. Originally from Spain, she spent four years in Portugal during her Erasmus studies and scholarship, later working as a Communications Manager and Editorial Coordinator for a publishing house.

In Scotland, she collaborates with EFE News Agency, providing coverage for Spanish audiences.

Susana Blaya is a versatile and trilingual journalist with a passion for international affairs, women's empowerment, technology, and human rights. With experience across various media formats including TV, radio, news agency, and book publishing, she... Show more

Molly Richardson

Molly Richardson

Kate and Molly bring a wide range of sessions to brighten your next event.

Combining Intergenerational wisdom and business expertise, Ze Fairies speak on a vast array of subjects.

We can help you create environments to question ageism in NFTs or initiate focus on mental health and wellbeing in the metaverse, with our life experience and philosophical nature allows us to question things differently.

We interpret disruptive innovation and explain it to the layman.

With a unique jigsaw of personality and relatability, there is Kate, with her background in Old-Fi (traditional finance) and Molly with a background in creative arts, they are choosing the blockchain as their next venture.

Working together in a male-dominated industry, transitioning from construction to Web3 with years of business experience, the Fairies will leave you entertained and educated.

Whether you call them Kate and Molly, Mother and Daughter or Fairies, they bring their signature high-energy every time and will leave the audience feeling empowered or even magical.

Kate and Molly bring a wide range of sessions to brighten your next event. Combining Intergenerational wisdom and business expertise, Ze Fairies speak on a vast array of subjects. We can help you create environments to question ageism in NFTs o... Show more

Darke Hull

Darke Hull

Darke Hull was a dedicated and highly skilled law enforcement officer who spent more than two decades serving the Portland, Oregon, community through the Portland Police Bureau. His unwavering commitment to public safety, justice, and teamwork allowed him to make a lasting impact on multiple areas of law enforcement, including patrol supervision, traffic safety, and administrative leadership. His career was defined by a strong work ethic, integrity, and an ability to lead by example, ensuring that officers under his supervision received the training, mentorship, and guidance necessary to excel. His ability to balance operational duties with strategic administrative initiatives made him a pivotal figure in modernizing department procedures and enhancing law enforcement efficiency. His influence extended beyond the force, as he worked closely with policymakers and legislative bodies to shape public safety initiatives that benefited the broader community. Throughout his tenure, his proactive approach to problem-solving, dedication to professional development, and commitment to fostering an accountable and effective police force earned him the respect of his colleagues and the public he served.

Darke's leadership skills were formally recognized in 2013 when he was promoted to sergeant, a position that significantly expanded his responsibilities and influence within the department. His first assignment in this role placed him at the Central Precinct, where he assumed the critical responsibility of supervising patrol teams and ensuring operational effectiveness. His leadership philosophy emphasized teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement, strongly focusing on officer well-being and professional growth. Through his mentorship, he helped develop future leaders in law enforcement, guiding officers through complex situations and instilling in them a sense of duty and ethical responsibility. His approach to leadership was hands-on, involving direct engagement with team members to ensure they were well-equipped to handle the challenges of policing. His efforts extended beyond immediate supervision, as he was integral in coordinating training programs that reinforced best practices in law enforcement, crisis management, and community engagement. His ability to foster a cohesive and motivated team set a high standard for leadership within the department.

Hull's contributions to the Portland Police Bureau were not limited to field operations, as he played a crucial role in administrative advancements that improved department-wide efficiency. His ability to analyze operational challenges and implement strategic solutions led to the development of innovative projects that enhanced internal processes. He spearheaded the creation of personnel tracking systems, allowing for better resource allocation and performance management. His work in designing new staffing models optimized law enforcement coverage, ensuring that the bureau could effectively meet the community's needs. His most impactful contribution was developing a new Use of Force After Action document. This critical tool streamlined the investigation process while ensuring compliance with bureau policies and Department of Justice regulations. This innovation improved accuracy in reporting and reinforced accountability measures within the department. His commitment to refining administrative procedures demonstrated his ability to bridge the gap between operational needs and strategic planning, making him an invaluable asset in law enforcement management.

Darke Hull's expertise in traffic safety and impaired driving enforcement positioned him as a trusted advisor in legislative discussions on public safety. Recognized for his deep understanding of DUII enforcement and road safety laws, he provided testimony before the Portland City Council and the Oregon State Legislature, advocating for evidence-based policy solutions that enhanced law enforcement capabilities. His involvement in shaping impaired driving laws and traffic enforcement protocols helped strengthen legal frameworks prioritizing public safety. His ability to translate real-world policing experiences into actionable policy recommendations ensured that legislative efforts were practical and effective. Working alongside policymakers, he drove initiatives that reduced traffic-related fatalities and improved road safety. His contributions in this field reflected his commitment to making law enforcement more effective, transparent, and responsive to community needs.

Darke's commitment to collaboration and collective problem-solving was evident in his active participation on various committees and advisory boards within the Portland Police Bureau. He served on the Collision Review Board, where his expertise helped refine investigative protocols for traffic incidents, ensuring thorough and efficient case management. His involvement in the Use of Force After Action Committee further demonstrated his dedication to enhancing accountability within the department, contributing to policy adjustments that improved transparency and procedural integrity. His ability to evaluate complex law enforcement challenges and propose actionable solutions made him an essential voice in internal review processes. His collaborative efforts extended beyond the department, as he worked with legal professionals, community representatives, and fellow officers to advance law enforcement practices that prioritized fairness, accuracy, and public trust. His work in these committees reinforced the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement in policing strategies.

Hull's exceptional service and dedication to excellence were recognized through numerous commendations and awards. Throughout his career, he received 27 commendations, 14 initiated by community members who directly benefited from his actions. His ability to connect with the public and handle complex situations with composure and professionalism earned him widespread respect. In addition to these recognitions, he was awarded two life-saving medals, honoring his ability to make critical, life-saving decisions in high-pressure situations. These accolades reflected his technical proficiency, leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others. His recognition within the department and the broader community was a testament to the profound impact of his service, solidifying his legacy as a respected and accomplished law enforcement professional.

Darke Hull of Portland's passion for continuous learning and professional development extended beyond his career, as he took pride in mentoring the next generation of law enforcement officers. His dedication to knowledge enhancement led him to complete specialized training in death investigation, traffic homicide analysis, and biomechanics. He also served as an assistant instructor for Critical Incident Management at the Sergeant’s Academy, where he shared his expertise with future leaders in the force. His contributions to law enforcement education were not limited to department training, as he also played a key role in legislative workgroups and statewide safety initiatives. His participation in the Governor’s Advisory Committee on DUII allowed him to contribute valuable insights into improving road safety and strengthening impaired driving laws. His ability to integrate field experience with policy development positioned him as a critical figure in advancing law enforcement training and reform efforts. His commitment to professional development ensured that officers under his mentorship were well-prepared to navigate the evolving challenges of policing.

After dedicating 25 years to the Portland Police Bureau, Darke transitioned from law enforcement to pursue a new professional cybersecurity path. His commitment to lifelong learning led him to embark on a second degree in the field, with plans to complete his studies by 2026. His pursuit of industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+, demonstrated his drive to stay ahead in an ever-evolving technological landscape. His transition into cyber security reflected his adaptability and ability to embrace new challenges while applying his analytical skills in a different professional domain. His decision to enter this field was a testament to his problem-solving mindset and continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Beyond his professional achievements, Hull maintains a fulfilling personal life enriched by meaningful interests and community involvement. An avid scuba diver, he enjoys exploring underwater environments and discovering new perspectives through travel. Gardening has become a therapeutic outlet, offering a sense of peace and relaxation while helping him manage PTSD. His commitment to helping others extends beyond his career, as he actively works with law enforcement officers struggling with alcohol-related issues, providing them with guidance and support. His philanthropic efforts include contributions to causes such as Shattuck-St. Mary’s School and the Thin Blue Line Foundation reflect his dedication to community service. His strong partnership with his wife is a cornerstone of his personal life, providing him with a foundation of love, support, and shared values.

Darke Hull's career in law enforcement, dedication to professional growth, and commitment to community service define a legacy of leadership, resilience, and unwavering integrity. Whether through his past service or ongoing cyber security pursuits, he remains dedicated to making a meaningful impact. His influence in law enforcement, policymaking, and mentorship will continue to shape public safety efforts for years. His ability to navigate multiple fields while maintaining his passion for service highlights the depth of his expertise and determination. Hull's contributions will leave a lasting imprint on law enforcement, public safety initiatives, and the lives of countless individuals he has touched.

Darke Hull was a dedicated and highly skilled law enforcement officer who spent more than two decades serving the Portland, Oregon, community through the Portland Police Bureau. His unwavering commitment to public safety, justice, and teamwork allowe... Show more

RainbowMosho.nft | The Rogue Kingdom | 💙💛

RainbowMosho.nft | The Rogue Kingdom | 💙💛

I am an artist. I have Autism and my brain sees things differently. I am racially diverse. My colorful art expresses my emotions and discoveries.

Rainbow Mosho is half Greek, half Puerto Rican. She was developing like any other child. But at 30 months, she had a massive regression, and autism became a part of her life. She loves Oreos, dinosaurs, whales, family and movies.

Her digital art can be found as NFT's on BuildTree, Tezos
Top 25 Girls of Web3
Speaker - UNGA79, NFTNYC 2023/2024
Speaker - Give4Kidz Expo 2022/2024
Exhibits - Frist Art Museum, Riverside Art Museum, Autism Museum
Donations to Ukraine Fund, Monroe Harding, MAWI
Sponsor - Carrots is Consistency Zine

Rainbow is a self-published author with 5 books on Amazon -
What I Gained and Lost During COVID19
Rainbow Rabbit Meets Oracle the Alphabet Creature
Balloons
Adventures at the Zoo
Rogue Girls Rule
The Rogue Kingdom (March 2025)

I am an artist. I have Autism and my brain sees things differently. I am racially diverse. My colorful art expresses my emotions and discoveries. Rainbow Mosho is half Greek, half Puerto Rican. She was developing like any other child. But at 30 mo... Show more

Sidrah Hassan

Sidrah Hassan

Sidrah Hassan is a passionate AI Ethicist on a mission to shape technology for the greater good. With a background spanning across user research and product management Sidrah is dedicated to championing ethical design and implementation. Beyond her role as an AI Ethics Consultant at AND Digital, Sidrah also creates social media content for the BBC, shedding light on both the promises and pitfalls of AI. Through her work, she inspires others to envision a future where AI uplifts humanity and does not hinder it.

Sidrah Hassan is a passionate AI Ethicist on a mission to shape technology for the greater good. With a background spanning across user research and product management Sidrah is dedicated to championing ethical design and implementation. Beyond her r... Show more

Jenifer Pepen Aquino

Jenifer Pepen Aquino

Jenifer Pepen Aquino, known as SirenAi, is a first-generation American of Dominican descent and an AI artist. As the owner of a digital art gallery, President and Co-Founder of One Love Art DAO, Jenifer is deeply involved in both creating and curating digital art. Her work explores themes like spirituality, mythology, history, relationships, and her Latina heritage, influenced by her multicultural background. After starting as an avid NFT collector, she has grown into a recognized artist in the space. Through AI, SirenAi tells stories that resonate with universal human experiences. As a public speaker and writer, Jenifer is committed to empowering other artists and fostering the growth of the digital art community.

Jenifer Pepen Aquino, known as SirenAi, is a first-generation American of Dominican descent and an AI artist. As the owner of a digital art gallery, President and Co-Founder of One Love Art DAO, Jenifer is deeply involved in both creating and curatin... Show more

Güldeniz Bektaş

Güldeniz Bektaş

Güldeniz is graduated in Astronomy and Space Sciences but works as a Data Scientist for 1.5 years. She also loves to contribute to community. She organizes workshops, events and give talks and workshops herself in her country.

Güldeniz is graduated in Astronomy and Space Sciences but works as a Data Scientist for 1.5 years. She also loves to contribute to community. She organizes workshops, events and give talks and workshops herself in her country. Show more

Melody Passemante Powell M.Ed (she/her)

Melody Passemante Powell M.Ed (she/her)

Melody is an early childhood leader and specialist with over 20 years of experience in the field of education. Melody currently works as a Child Care Specialist III as a Supervisor within Fairfax County’s Institute for Early Learning. She Supervises Child Care Specialists II as they design and facilitate professional development for early childhood educators enrolled in the Neighborhood Community Services (NCS) Institute for Early Learning. Melody holds a BS in Early Childhood Education as well as a MEd in Education Management. She has been working with young children, families, and early childhood educators for over two decades in a variety of roles including the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center – Center Director and Office of Engagement Director. She was honored to be a member of the 2021-2022 NAEYC Regional Advocacy Fellowship, collaborating with other DC AEYC, Northern Virginia AEYC and Maryland AEYC fellows to build community, a network for advocacy, and create a shared policy agenda. Melody is passionate about meeting families, educators, and children where they are and creating responsive professional development workshops and curricula that meet their individual needs. She is deeply committed to social justice, equity, and continuous personal reflection. She has participated in various diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, both professionally and personally. Melody is dedicated to supporting educators in their understanding of relationship based and empathy driven support, to provide high quality, equitable educational experiences for all families and children.

Melody is an early childhood leader and specialist with over 20 years of experience in the field of education. Melody currently works as a Child Care Specialist III as a Supervisor within Fairfax County’s Institute for Early Learning. She Supervises ... Show more

Tod Creneti

Tod Creneti

Tod has spent 30+ years as a leader and coach in various settings. While his path began on the athletic fields where he built championship teams in various sports, Tod has been applying his teaching and coaching skills in the business world for more than a decade. Tod focuses on helping teams of all types become their best. He has been able to translate the lessons learned on the field into improvements in performance and culture in the workplace. ​

​Tod has an MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and continues to commit to his growth as a professional. His approach to teaching and coaching is based on a deep understanding of how the human brain works, especially as it’s facing transformation. While his coaching and training sessions cover much ground related to human behavior, his work frequently helps clients shift mindsets, improve emotional intelligence, and embrace servant leadership. Tod’s clients have improved personal performance, rebuilt struggling cultures, and created inclusive work environments that challenge each team member to bring their best work to the table every day.​

Tod is best known as a connector and motivator. He has built a reputation based on his honest and genuine approach. Helping others embrace adversity and achieve excellence remains the driving force in his life.​

Tod has spent 30+ years as a leader and coach in various settings. While his path began on the athletic fields where he built championship teams in various sports, Tod has been applying his teaching and coaching skills in the business world for more ... Show more

Cosme Aristides

Cosme Aristides

I have a degree in Physics and Astronomy, but I work in IT. Okay, nothing special there. The unlikely thing is that before I ventured into the "exact sciences" (a somewhat inaccurate label, by the way), I actually completed 6 semesters of Literature. So, I have some "humanities" in my academic background. Okay, but what career doesn't? Details of my profile that might give you an idea of ​​the line I want to take in my content production.

My completed writing projects are: editorial and writing for the pop culture and science dissemination magazine Geeky~iD, as well as authoring the book “A Paisagem Limpido ~ Gênese vampírica”. I also wrote research and dissemination articles on Physics, Epistemology, Ancient History, Comparative Religions and Mythology.

As academic activities, I coordinated the UFF/Unesco extension project in Environmental Education, gave lectures at research institutes on Climate Change, clean energy, sustainable development, astronomy, quantum theory, relativity, philosophy of science, data science and artificial intelligence.

I have a degree in Physics and Astronomy, but I work in IT. Okay, nothing special there. The unlikely thing is that before I ventured into the "exact sciences" (a somewhat inaccurate label, by the way), I actually completed 6 semesters of Literature.... Show more

Paul Hylenski

Paul Hylenski

Paul Hylenski is an accomplished Aerospace Business Leader based in Maryland. Paul started his leadership journey during his time in the United States Marine Corps. With over 20 years of experience in the aerospace industry, Paul is passionate about leadership and human dynamics. Paul has implemented psychological safety and social engineering principles to create environments where individuals can thrive.
As a thought leader, Paul has written numerous articles on human-centric leadership and maintains a popular LinkedIn newsletter dedicated to the subject. He has also authored books such as "Culture Change through Environment Change," "Coaching for Growth," and "Error-Proofing Humans." These publications showcase his expertise and provide guidance for aspiring leaders in the aerospace industry.
With a track record of success and a genuine commitment to empowering others, Paul Hylenski continues to make significant contributions to aerospace manufacturing. His leadership philosophy and dedication to human dynamics inspire positive and transformative change within organizations.

Paul Hylenski is an accomplished Aerospace Business Leader based in Maryland. Paul started his leadership journey during his time in the United States Marine Corps. With over 20 years of experience in the aerospace industry, Paul is passionate about... Show more

Alice Brosey

Alice Brosey

I am a Senior Developer at Hitachi Solutions and a freelance developer for my company The Bunny Network. I'm a wife, and mother of an amazing 10 year old. A third generation printer on both sides of my family, I have ink in my veins and a love of the printed word. I'm also into genealogy, historical preservation, and bicycling.

I am a Senior Developer at Hitachi Solutions and a freelance developer for my company The Bunny Network. I'm a wife, and mother of an amazing 10 year old. A third generation printer on both sides of my family, I have ink in my veins and a love of the... Show more

Symone Johnson

Symone Johnson

Symone is a cybersecurity and data privacy consultant with a strong focus on data protection, governance, and risk management. Her expertise spans across multiple areas including GRC, privacy operations, vulnerability management, and data security. She is passionate about making security approachable and uses her voice as a speaker to break down complex topics and inspire others to grow in the field.

Symone is a cybersecurity and data privacy consultant with a strong focus on data protection, governance, and risk management. Her expertise spans across multiple areas including GRC, privacy operations, vulnerability management, and data security. ... Show more

Dane Maddams

Dane Maddams

Dane Maddams, named one of Amplitude’s Product 50 leaders, is a Director of Product at Culture Amp specialising in HR tech. He operates at the intersection of product strategy and organisational psychology, leveraging 1.5 billion data points on workplace engagement to design systems where performance and people thrive together. Known for cutting through jargon and telling it like it is, Dane leaves audiences with practical frameworks, sharper thinking, and the confidence to lead with both ambition and empathy.

Dane Maddams, named one of Amplitude’s Product 50 leaders, is a Director of Product at Culture Amp specialising in HR tech. He operates at the intersection of product strategy and organisational psychology, leveraging 1.5 billion data points on workp... Show more

Yunning Zhang

Yunning Zhang

Yunning Zhang is the Arnaldo Momigliano Postdoctoral Scholar at the Department of Comparative Literature at the University of Chicago, where she received her Ph.D. in August 2025. Bridging global early modern studies, critical race studies, and Asian American studies, her research examines how race, religion and aesthetics intersect in textual sources and visual arts of colonial Latin America and Iberian Asia. More broadly, her teaching and scholarship engage questions of extractive and settler colonialism, queer relationalities in the archive, and the afterlives of transpacific slavery and indenture labor in contemporary visual, literary, and curatorial practices. Her work has appeared and is forthcoming in Colonial Latin American Studies, postmedieval, ASAP/Review, GLQ, Romance Notes, and Symposium. She is also currently teaching at Parsons School of Design (The New School).

Yunning Zhang is the Arnaldo Momigliano Postdoctoral Scholar at the Department of Comparative Literature at the University of Chicago, where she received her Ph.D. in August 2025. Bridging global early modern studies, critical race studies, and Asian... Show more

Takuya Maeda

Takuya Maeda

Mellon Sawyer Postdoctoral Fellow in Transpacific Thought at NYU

Mellon Sawyer Postdoctoral Fellow in Transpacific Thought at NYU Show more

Ramsey Elkholy

Ramsey Elkholy

Ramsey Elkholy is a guitarist, producer, songwriter, and anthropologist who founded the indietronica collective Monotronic in 2016. He conceived the project as a communal platform where instruments interweave into a single expressive force. Rather than spotlighting individual virtuosity, he emphasizes shared intention and group chemistry, encouraging collaborators to shape each track with their own textures, instincts, and creative voice.

Elkholy’s parallel career in anthropology informs that philosophy. He earned a PhD and authored Being and Becoming: Embodiment and Experience Among the Orang Rimba of Sumatra, a study of rainforest foragers in Indonesia. His research explored how identity, environment, and daily practice intertwine. That perspective carries into his music, where rhythm and atmosphere reflect lived experience and collective awareness.

Travel has also played a defining role in his artistic development. After spending three years backpacking across Asia and beyond, studying Indian music in Calcutta, and completing two years of fieldwork in Sumatra, Ramsey Elkholy Monotronic developed a deep sensitivity to polyrhythm and texture. He has described the rainforest at night as a vast, layered symphony. Raised in New York and now based in Los Angeles, he works from a home garage studio.

Monotronic’s 2026 album Waiting for You represents a significant chapter in the collective’s growth. The record features acclaimed bassist Mohini Dey on Close Enough and legendary drummer Omar Hakim throughout the project. Several accompanying videos, including Looking Away and Everything Moves, premiered at number one on VEVO, expanding the band’s reach and visual identity.

The album blends indie rock, pop, and electronic elements into a cohesive, cinematic sound marked by reflective lyrics and polished production. Everything Moves unfolds in a high-energy escape room setting, while Kettle Song pairs dynamic choreography with striking imagery. Many of the songs were written during time spent in Tulum, where coastal landscapes shaped the album’s contemplative mood.

Since releasing their self-titled debut in 2019, Monotronic has earned praise from outlets such as Rolling Stone and Relix. A rotating roster of accomplished musicians has contributed to the project, many of whom have ties to major artists across genres. Singles including Kids of Summer and In Between have drawn a strong critical response, reinforcing Elkholy’s reputation for genre-fluid songwriting and immersive sound design.

Ramsey Elkholy is a guitarist, producer, songwriter, and anthropologist who founded the indietronica collective Monotronic in 2016. He conceived the project as a communal platform where instruments interweave into a single expressive force. Rather th... Show more

Lisa Johnson

Lisa Johnson

Lisa Bennett Johnson is an Assistant Professor of Health Sciences in the School of Arts and Sciences and the Assistant Program Director for the Bachelor of Health Sciences program. Her research centers on health education promotion and HPV-related cancer prevention. She has experience as an oral medicine research investigator for multiple clinical oncology trials and several qualitative health promotion research studies examining HPV and HPV vaccine awareness amongst healthcare providers and in underserved communities. She has disseminated her research via multiple peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and conference presentations. Her current research expands on previous work to improve health education initiatives that increase evidence-based HPV knowledge among future health professionals at the university level.

Lisa Bennett Johnson is an Assistant Professor of Health Sciences in the School of Arts and Sciences and the Assistant Program Director for the Bachelor of Health Sciences program. Her research centers on health education promotion and HPV-related ca... Show more

Please note that Sessionize is not responsible for the accuracy or validity of the data provided by speakers.

Join Speakers Directory

Join our Speakers Directory today and amplify your reach! Showcase your expertise to a global audience hungry for your insights. Let your voice be heard!

Create Profile