Deepak John Reji is an experienced NLP practitioner and researcher who specializes in developing and designing solutions for data science products. He is passionate about domain-centric data science development and advocates for responsible and ethical AI development. Deepak enjoys working with social science and environmental data and creates videos showcasing various prototypes and AI tutorials. Additionally, he hosts the D4 Data Channel podcast, where he interviews industry experts and academicians in the fields of Data Science and Sustainability.

Deepak strongly believes in the power of open source and the democratization of AI. He actively contributes to open-source projects and shares his models and packages in Huggingface and PyPI repositories. His recent research focuses on Immigration and Integration Research, as well as studying human and community interactions in third places using AI and data.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepak-john-reji/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepakjohnreji
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=4azuuXAAAAAJ&hl=en

Deepak John Reji is an experienced NLP practitioner and researcher who specializes in developing and designing solutions for data science products. He is passionate about domain-centric data science development and advocates for responsible and ethic... Show more

After an atypical career in law, the arts and video games, I chose to retrain in development. My desire to promote continuous improvement and communication led me to become a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Systemic Professional Coach and Responsible Digital Lead. As a professional facilitator for the Fresque du Climat et du Numérique, I am constantly learning about the ecological transition, responsible digital technologies and sociology. Involved in Time For The Planet and supporting women in the digital world. As a theater practitioner, I find it a way of creatively exploring and communicating. What drives me: helping companies and individuals to integrate climate and social issues into their practices.

After an atypical career in law, the arts and video games, I chose to retrain in development. My desire to promote continuous improvement and communication led me to become a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Systemic Professional Coach and Responsible Digi... Show more

22 ans d’expérience professionnelle, dont 13 dans l’Agilité, principalement auprès de grands comptes engagés dans des transformations complexes.

Mon parcours combine audit organisationnel, management de projet, conduite du changement, coaching Agile et coaching professionnel.

Mes domaines d’expertise couvrent le coaching et la formation Agile / SAFe, l’accompagnement des équipes et des managers, le coaching individuel, le développement des hauts potentiels ainsi que l’utilisation d’outils d’analyse comportementale (DISC, Selfie…).
Je suis également coach certifiée CliftonStrengths (Gallup, coaching de talents).

Passionnée par les dynamiques humaines et l’expression créative, je pratique le patinage artistique, le théâtre et l’improvisation, et je m’intéresse également à l’écriture et à la traduction.

22 ans d’expérience professionnelle, dont 13 dans l’Agilité, principalement auprès de grands comptes engagés dans des transformations complexes. Mon parcours combine audit organisationnel, management de projet, conduite du changement, coaching Agi... Show more

Dr. Mohamed Ali Saeed is a senior educational leader with over 25 years of experience in Arabic language education, curriculum development, educational leadership, and school improvement. He currently serves as Senior Leader for Ministry of Education subjects at Safa British School, Dubai, leading whole-school strategy to strengthen teaching quality, improve student outcomes, and advance curriculum innovation.

Holding a PhD in Educational Leadership, Dr. Mohamed is also an experienced bilingual school inspector, with extensive expertise in evaluating teaching, curriculum implementation, assessment, and school performance against national and international quality standards. Throughout his career, he has led educational improvement projects, developed Arabic curricula aligned with UAE and international frameworks, and coached educators to translate research into effective classroom practice.

His educational philosophy centres on ambitious expectations, inclusive teaching, and meaningful learning. He believes that every learner should experience both appropriate challenge and the support needed to succeed. For him, language education develops more than linguistic competence: it strengthens identity, critical thinking, creativity, and the confidence to communicate with purpose. He views assessment as a tool for understanding learners’ starting points, guiding teaching, and making progress visible.

His leadership philosophy combines a clear shared vision with trust, collaboration, and accountability. He believes sustainable school improvement grows through investing in people, listening to their perspectives, and creating a culture in which educators can reflect, question, and refine their practice. He advocates leadership that builds collective expertise and evaluates success through its impact on students’ learning and well-being.

A passionate advocate for excellence in Arabic education, Dr. Mohamed delivers professional learning on curriculum design, assessment, Arabic phonics in Early Years, AI in education, and effective classroom practice. His work connects educational research with practical implementation, helping teachers strengthen their practice and improve outcomes for learners.

Dr. Mohamed Ali Saeed is a senior educational leader with over 25 years of experience in Arabic language education, curriculum development, educational leadership, and school improvement. He currently serves as Senior Leader for Ministry of Education... Show more

Dr. Andrew Young Choi is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Pace University, where he teaches and supervises in the Clinical Health Psychology Program.

His award-winning scholarship employs queer of color critique to illuminate the complexities of intersectionality, racism-related stress, and identity among Asian Americans. Leveraging psychoanalytic concepts, his interdisciplinary research explores the evolving nature of anti-Asian racialization and its theoretical and clinical implications. He brings advanced methodological expertise, including critical analysis, multivariate statistics, psychometrics, structural equation modeling, and qualitative content analysis. He has authored over 20 publications and received more than 30 awards, honors, and fellowships for his intellectual contributions.

Dr. Choi is board-certified in Counseling Psychology and specializes in culturally responsive psychodynamic psychotherapy for high-performing professionals from diverse backgrounds. He creatively integrates insight-oriented, goal-focused, and decolonial principles to support a broad range of mental health goals. He has provided effective care across diverse settings—including college counseling centers, community mental health clinics, and inpatient and outpatient hospitals—with extensive public sector experience serving clients from global majority and LGBTQ+ populations.

He earned his PhD in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and his American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited Doctoral Internship in Health Service Psychology at the Counseling and Student Development Center of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. He completed his Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Cambridge Health Alliance / Harvard Medical School. He is an alumnus APA Minority Fellow, Pacific Athletic Conference (PAC-12) Postgraduate Scholar, and University of California Regents Special Fellow.

Dr. Andrew Young Choi is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Pace University, where he teaches and supervises in the Clinical Health Psychology Program. His award-winning scholarship employs queer of color critique to illuminate the complexit... Show more

Prof. Dr. Stoyana Natseva is a Bulgarian psychologist, researcher and educator. She is Full Professor (Profesor Titular B) of Psychology and Education at Universidad Azteca and Professor of Practice in Business Psychology at Dunster Business School, Switzerland. She is the founder of Happy Life Academy® and the Happy Life Institute for Direct Change Science, and President of IAPTC®. She created the Internal Autobiographical Map (IAM) framework and the Direct Change Solution® (DCS®) applied system. She is the author of more than twenty books and two scholarly monographs, and has trained over 100,000 students across more than 50 countries.

Prof. Dr. Stoyana Natseva is a Bulgarian psychologist, researcher and educator. She is Full Professor (Profesor Titular B) of Psychology and Education at Universidad Azteca and Professor of Practice in Business Psychology at Dunster Business School, ... Show more

Rebecca Farabaugh is an award-winning marketing, customer insights and experience, and organizational strategy leader, speaker and facilitator with 20+ years of experience helping organizations understand people, navigate change and turn complexity into action.

As a certified Human-Centered Design practitioner and founder of HumanISE, Rebecca challenges leaders to keep humans at the center of work, especially in an increasingly AI-driven world where the uniquely human capabilities of curiosity, critical thinking, empathy, sensemaking, storytelling and trust-building are becoming increasingly valuable.

Rebecca brings together data, research, storytelling, strategy and human-centered design to help audiences think differently about the human advantage in business, AI and tech enablement, operational efficiency, customer and employee experience, data storytelling, brand and marketing, organizational change and the future of work.

Her sessions are practical, interactive, thought-provoking and fun. They are designed to challenge assumptions and leave people with ideas they can actually use.

Rebecca has spoken and facilitated sessions for organizations including the American Marketing Association, AdWeek, Insights Association, Quirks Media, GetWIT, 24/7 Compliance, Highmark Health, Koppers, University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne Light Company. Her recent talks include Stop Designing for Customers. Start Designing for Humans, Designing for Data Excellence, and Beyond the Numbers: Tell a Story with Your Data.

Rebecca holds an M.S. in Marketing Science from the University of Pittsburgh and is a LUMA Institute Certified Practitioner of Human-Centered Design.

She helps people see what they couldn't see before—and gives them the tools to do something about it.

Rebecca Farabaugh is an award-winning marketing, customer insights and experience, and organizational strategy leader, speaker and facilitator with 20+ years of experience helping organizations understand people, navigate change and turn complexity i... Show more

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

Lawyer & Psychologist | AI Ethics & Cognitive Sovereignty | Co-founder, EIA LATAM Committee | Lecturer (UBA & UTN FRBA)

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer, psychologist, university lecturer and independent researcher specializing in AI ethics, cognitive sovereignty and hybrid intelligence. She lectures at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and UTN FRBA and is co-founder of the EIA LATAM Committee, an interdisciplinary initiative advancing ethical AI governance from a Latin American perspective.

She is co-author of the EIA LATAM Manifesto – AI Ethics in Latin America: A Female Perspective in Defense of Human Dignity and the Future of Human Decision-Making (Zenodo: https://zenodo.org/records/21212138), author of Agilidad y Talento. Egoísmo y Altruismo del Poder (Despite the MENTE CLICK Mindset) (Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FNXD3GJQ), and is currently writing MENTECLICK.IA: The Continuity of the Species (ISBN 978-631-01-1706-5).

Her research focuses on AI ethics, cognitive sovereignty, algorithmic governance, hybrid intelligence and the future of human decision-making.

Lawyer & Psychologist | AI Ethics & Cognitive Sovereignty | Co-founder, EIA LATAM Committee | Lecturer (UBA & UTN FRBA) Verónica Recchia is a lawyer, psychologist, university lecturer and independent researcher specializing in AI ethics, cognitive... Show more

DeAngelo Burse is a behavioral scientist, TEDx speaker, and author of Yours To Design: Constructing a Life That Is Meaningful. He developed the NIMBLE framework to help people navigate hereditary and environmental influences to become their ideal selves. As a PhD candidate in psychology at the University of Birmingham in England, his research explores self-regulation, character education, and applied behavioral science. He earned a Master of Science in Psychology, specializing in social psychology, and is certified in Choice Theory® and Reality Therapy.

DeAngelo teaches social psychology and abnormal psychology as a university professor. He is also CEO of Breakroom Huddle, where he works as a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and coaching psychologist, delivering evidence-based programs for Fortune 500 companies, healthcare systems, and government agencies. His work has been featured on ABC, CBS, and NBC-affiliated channels.

Additionally, DeAngelo is the creator of 90-Second Psychologist, a video series that transforms complex psychological concepts into immediately applicable insights in just 90 seconds. He also hosts the Social Curiosity Podcast and speaks globally on the Science of Becoming—exploring character development, personal transformation, and human flourishing. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, DeAngelo enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids, outdoor activities, grilling, and watching NFL football.

DeAngelo Burse is a behavioral scientist, TEDx speaker, and author of Yours To Design: Constructing a Life That Is Meaningful. He developed the NIMBLE framework to help people navigate hereditary and environmental influences to become their ideal sel... Show more

Ich bin Kulturwissenschaftlerin und betreibe die Online-Coworking-Community THE WRITING ACADEMIC, einen Zusammenschluss von Wissenschaftler*innen, die ihr Schreiben priorisieren und das Format der Focus-Session für einen produktiven Schreiballtag einsetzen. Ich veranstalte Schreib-Retreats für Wissenschaftler*innen (Schreibaschram) und bin als Coach und Trainerin in der wissenschaftlichen Weiterbildung aktiv.

Ich bin Kulturwissenschaftlerin und betreibe die Online-Coworking-Community THE WRITING ACADEMIC, einen Zusammenschluss von Wissenschaftler*innen, die ihr Schreiben priorisieren und das Format der Focus-Session für einen produktiven Schreiballtag ein... Show more

Crystal T. Ash is a dynamic speaker, host, moderator, life strategist, and author whose passion is rooted in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. An esteemed 2006 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and 2013 graduate of Liberty University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. With over 15 years of speaking experience, Ash brings a wealth of knowledge and authenticity to her engagements. Her insightful presentations on personal and professional development captivate audiences, as she skillfully breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for success. Her signature talk is No More Orange Popsicles: Empowering thru Core Values, which examines how operating through core values can serve as a compass for making aligned decisions and positively impacting others.

In 2021, Ash published her debut book, Lessons from My Grandma's Table, further exemplifying her commitment to inspiring others through storytelling and authentic engagement. She is renowned for infusing her speaking engagements with vibrant energy, warmth, and a genuine desire to uplift her community. Whether addressing young or mature audiences, Ash’s core message encourages self-discovery, personal growth, and meaningful transformation, inspiring all to live out their true purpose.

Crystal T. Ash is a dynamic speaker, host, moderator, life strategist, and author whose passion is rooted in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. An esteemed 2006 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor's... Show more

Amy J. Wilson is the founder of Culture Shift Studio and the author of Empathy for Change, with a new book, The Shift That Sticks, in progress. Her work focuses on the human side of change: how people, teams, and institutions unlearn old patterns so that new tools and practices actually last.

Amy served as a White House Presidential Innovation Fellow and co-created Innovation.gov, a public-sector resource used by hundreds of thousands of federal employees. She also co-founded the Better Government Movement, a community of practice that grew to more than 5,000 public servants across 112 federal agencies. Her speaking has included the UN, the White House, SXSW, Google, Stanford, and the World Bank.

Today she works with nonprofits, government agencies, and social enterprises on organizational readiness, leadership, and sustained culture change. She is an RSA Fellow, an Aspen Tech Policy Fellow, and a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner.

Amy J. Wilson is the founder of Culture Shift Studio and the author of Empathy for Change, with a new book, The Shift That Sticks, in progress. Her work focuses on the human side of change: how people, teams, and institutions unlearn old patterns so ... Show more

Drawing on neuroscience, 20+ years of transformational work, and experience in stand-up comedy, Jennifer Ally Kern makes big ideas practical, relatable, and fun! She challenges what audiences think they know about leadership, intuition, success, and challenging relationships so they lead with clarity, follow their inner voice, and enjoy healthier interactions.

Jennifer helps conscious entrepreneurs, founders, and leaders understand their intuition, embody self-authority, and cultivate inner alignment. From that place of coherence, they handle difficult people calmly and effectively, make clear decisions, have a bigger positive impact, and build healthier relationships, without getting hijacked by reactive patterns or sacrificing their peace.

She has spoken at Mayo Clinic, IBM, Best Buy, WeightWatchers, American Lung Association, University of Minnesota, CreativeMornings, and American Business Women's Association. Her Mayo Clinic trainings were filmed in Rochester and broadcast across Mayo Clinic campuses, including Scottsdale and Jacksonville.

She is the author of the national award-winning book The Drama-Free Way: Authentic Thriving in a Chaotic World.

Engagements are available in English and Spanish.

Drawing on neuroscience, 20+ years of transformational work, and experience in stand-up comedy, Jennifer Ally Kern makes big ideas practical, relatable, and fun! She challenges what audiences think they know about leadership, intuition, success, and ... Show more

Lorraine Hamilton is a former RF engineer, ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), coach educator and working stand-up comedian. She brings an engineer's eye for systems and patterns to the wonderfully complicated business of being human.

With 20 years in professional coaching and a background in telecommunications leadership, Lorraine works with individuals, leaders and professional coaches to understand the patterns behind behaviour, challenge assumptions and find simpler ways forward.

Her work spans leadership, organisational culture, human behaviour, professional coaching and the human side of technology adoption. She's particularly interested in what happens when capable people find themselves struggling with systems, expectations or ways of working that don't quite fit.

Based on New Zealand's Kāpiti Coast, Lorraine combines technical thinking, deep human insight and a healthy appreciation for the absurdities of everyday life.

Lorraine Hamilton is a former RF engineer, ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), coach educator and working stand-up comedian. She brings an engineer's eye for systems and patterns to the wonderfully complicated business of being human. With 20 ... Show more

Bruce Fullah is an author, speaker, and creator of Connection Architecture and The Five Connection Types, a framework for understanding the natural vantage points from which people create connection and contribute to shared reality.

His work grew from an observation that followed him across remarkably different environments: people can enter the same room, encounter the same situation, and notice entirely different things.

Bruce spent twenty years in the United States Marine Corps, rising from enlisted Marine to commissioned officer and retiring as a Captain. His journey also carried him through ministry and into corporate cybersecurity, where he worked within complex organizations requiring people with different responsibilities, priorities, and perspectives to understand one another well enough to accomplish something together.

Today, through Voice & Presence Studio, Bruce speaks on relational intelligence, leadership, human connection, teams, and navigating change. Drawing from Connection Architecture and his book, The Five Connection Types, he helps audiences recognize where they naturally stand, understand the contributions they make from there, and relate more intelligently with people whose perspectives differ from their own.

His larger aim is to cultivate relational intelligence: knowing where you stand, recognizing that others stand somewhere else, and learning how to build with the difference.

Bruce Fullah is an author, speaker, and creator of Connection Architecture and The Five Connection Types, a framework for understanding the natural vantage points from which people create connection and contribute to shared reality. His work grew ... Show more

Antoine Rivers is a reentry advocate, learning and development professional, author, and host of The Conviction Fiction Podcast. After spending nearly 17 years incarcerated, he uses his lived experience to help change the narrative of life after lock-up and encourage practical conversations about accountability, employment, housing, family, and personal growth. His professional background includes technical training, employee development, instructional design, and learning-platform administration, with experience at Intelliswift, Visual Lease, and Vonage. Antoine connects the perspective of someone rebuilding a life with the practical skills of a workplace trainer. His work encourages individuals, employers, and community partners to make second chances actionable.

Antoine combines firsthand reentry experience with professional experience designing and facilitating workplace learning. His resume documents training and learning roles at Intelliswift Software, Visual Lease, and Vonage, including onboarding, technical enablement, virtual and in-person facilitation, and learning-platform administration. Through The Conviction Fiction Podcast, he creates space for conversations about the personal and practical challenges of reintegration.

Antoine Rivers is a reentry advocate, learning and development professional, author, and host of The Conviction Fiction Podcast. After spending nearly 17 years incarcerated, he uses his lived experience to help change the narrative of life after lock... Show more

Danita Samuel Prakash is a cybersecurity professional and researcher specialising in human factors, cybersecurity, and human centred security. She holds an MSc in Cyber Security and Human Factors and has over five years of experience across IT and cybersecurity. Her research explores social engineering, AI, and the human factors behind cyber threats. Danita has contributed to academic research and presented on cybersecurity and technology across conferences and professional forums, with her work published in venues including the ACM Digital Library. She is also the founder of Cyber Seren and a 2026 Everywoman in Technology Awards Rising Star winner.

Danita Samuel Prakash is a cybersecurity professional and researcher specialising in human factors, cybersecurity, and human centred security. She holds an MSc in Cyber Security and Human Factors and has over five years of experience across IT and cy... Show more

Bea Mensing is a member of Klasse Klima with a background in Performing Arts, Philosophy and Education. Her interest lies in creating interdisciplinary and inclusive learnspaces, that combine theory and practice and consider cognitive and sensual aspects.

Bea Mensing ist ein Mitglied von Klasse Klima mit einem Hintergrund in Performativen Künsten, Philosophie und Bildung. Ihr Interesse liegt darin, interdisziplinäre und möglichst inklusive Lernräume zu gestalten, die Theorie und Praxis verbinden und sowohl kognitive als auch sinnliche Aspekte beachten.

Bea Mensing is a member of Klasse Klima with a background in Performing Arts, Philosophy and Education. Her interest lies in creating interdisciplinary and inclusive learnspaces, that combine theory and practice and consider cognitive and sensual asp... Show more

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

Julia Kurkowski is founder and CEO of aimea, the real-time voice AI for structured first interviews in hiring, high-risk under the EU AI Act. Trained as an organizational psychologist, she builds aimea with orchestrated coding agents: 60 skills, 40 hook scripts and a plan chat that judges every package before a human merges. aimea holds 5 signed pilot agreements with German companies. Julia is overall winner of the Harbour Founder Summit Hamburg 2025, chosen from hundreds of applicants and sixteen startups that pitched across four categories, which took aimea to the Startup World Cup Grand Finale in San Francisco on 6 November 2026. She holds an EXIST Women grant.

Julia Kurkowski is founder and CEO of aimea, the real-time voice AI for structured first interviews in hiring, high-risk under the EU AI Act. Trained as an organizational psychologist, she builds aimea with orchestrated coding agents: 60 skills, 40 h... Show more

My thing is figuring out how things work.

I started out with language and machines: linguistics, speech and natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and software development.
These days, my interests have shifted towards evolutionary biology and paleontology.

In my spare time, I play and compose music.
I also have a perfectly reasonable fascination with dinosaurs and an entirely unreasonable love of platypuses.
I don’t look up that often, but when I do, it's usually at the stars.

My thing is figuring out how things work. I started out with language and machines: linguistics, speech and natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and software development. These days, my interests have shifted towards evolutionary... Show more

Aaron Gross directs the Center for Food Systems Transformation (CFST) at the University of San Diego, where he is also Founding Faculty in Food Studies and a tenured Professor of Theology and Religious Studies. CFST supports research and practice aimed at equitable, climate-friendly food systems, with a focus on reducing food-related Scope 3 emissions in higher education and closing the gap between institutional values and campus food practices — work that runs through faculty, students, and dining operations alike. Gross is founder and board chair of Farm Forward, whose research and advocacy target factory farming, and co-founder of the Better Food Foundation, which develops and deploys behavioral strategies, including plant-based defaults, to shift institutional procurement and student food choice. He collaborated with Jonathan Safran Foer on Eating Animals and brings more than two decades of work in food ethics and animal agriculture to applied campus change.

Aaron Gross directs the Center for Food Systems Transformation (CFST) at the University of San Diego, where he is also Founding Faculty in Food Studies and a tenured Professor of Theology and Religious Studies. CFST supports research and practice aim... Show more

Mr. Abrar Hussain is a young researcher in the field of probiotics and pursuing his Ph.D. degree from ICCBS, University of Karachi. Mr. Hussain, received his master degree in chemistry/ biochemistry from university of Peshawar, Pakistan. He also obtained C.T. (certified teacher), B.Ed. and M.Ed. degree in Science education from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan. Recently he completed M.Phil./MS degree in biochemistry from HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, ICCBS, University of Karachi. He completed his M.Phil. thesis on the "Molecular assessment and validation of the selected enterococcal strains as probiotics". Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in the probiogenomics analysis of probiotic. So far his contribution in the field is the indication of bright future as he published articles in probiotics and delivered lecture and participating in conferences to explore the field of probiotics.
He is also a professional speaker and delivered numerous lectures on different topics. Attending seminars, conferences, and participation in scientific events are the marking agents of his enthusiasm. He is also writing blogs on both scientific and social or religious perspectives. He has more than 100 participation certificate, delivered more than a dozen lectures and present his views in different conferences.
His research skills are also shaping his personality. He has strong research skills and is able to work in a team and independently. He also trained many internships students in his laboratory and also guide multiple students across the country for their scientific writing.
In short, Mr. Hussain is a man of rule, has keen interest for science, have excellent research, writing, and presentation skills. He fell more than happy to helps other students and guide them in their careers.

Mr. Abrar Hussain is a young researcher in the field of probiotics and pursuing his Ph.D. degree from ICCBS, University of Karachi. Mr. Hussain, received his master degree in chemistry/ biochemistry from university of Peshawar, Pakistan. He also obta... Show more

Lindsay Ellis Lee, Ph.D., is an educational psychologist, researcher, educator, and consultant specializing in gifted education, neurodiversity, creativity, and educational technology. She serves as a faculty member at Elmbridge University and is the Founder and Director of Advanced Learning Research & Consulting, LLC. Dr. Lee's work explores the intersection of gifted education, neurodiversity, creativity, and human-centered technology integration, with a focus on expanding access, opportunity, and talent development through strengths-based learning design. She has published research in leading gifted education and creativity journals, serves as Chair-Elect of the National Association for Gifted Children's Research & Evaluation Network, and collaborates with schools, universities, and educational organizations on research, program evaluation, and professional learning initiatives.

Lindsay Ellis Lee, Ph.D., is an educational psychologist, researcher, educator, and consultant specializing in gifted education, neurodiversity, creativity, and educational technology. She serves as a faculty member at Elmbridge University and is the... Show more

Ben Kereopa-Yorke is a Senior Security Researcher at Microsoft, based in Melbourne, working on AI security, security research, red teaming, and agentic systems. His work sits at the intersection of technology and human security, and he does active research and writing across AI security, cyber security, and socio-technical risk.

He co-leads the OWASP Machine Learning Security Top 10, serves as an Associate Editor for IEEE Transactions on Technology and Society, and is a member of the Australian Computer Society Professional Standards Board. His research has peer-reviewed publications spanning AI security, cyber security, human-computer interaction, Brookings, and Oxford Intersections: AI in Society. His public work also includes open technical projects on GitHub and Hugging Face, where he publishes under the name Zen0.

Ben Kereopa-Yorke has been recognised publicly with the 2025 Charles Sturt University Alumni Award for Professional Excellence, and his public writing emphasises practical AI security, governance, and Pacific perspectives on AI safety. He speaks and writes regularly on how real-world AI systems fail, how agentic security workflows are changing offensive and defensive practice, and what organisations need to do to secure the next generation of AI-enabled systems.

Ben Kereopa-Yorke is a Senior Security Researcher at Microsoft, based in Melbourne, working on AI security, security research, red teaming, and agentic systems. His work sits at the intersection of technology and human security, and he does active re... Show more

Dan Desmarques is a visionary author and transformational thought leader whose work has inspired millions worldwide to break free from limitations and awaken to their fullest potential. With over 100 published books—including 34 Amazon bestsellers and eight that reached the #1 spot in their categories—his writings have become essential guides for those seeking meaningful personal and spiritual growth.

Blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology and esoteric knowledge, Desmarques offers profound yet practical insights into mastering the subconscious mind, navigating karma, and creating lasting personal transformation. His distinctive voice is direct, honest, and deeply conversational—reading his books often feels like receiving candid, life-changing advice from a wise friend.

Readers frequently describe encountering his work at critical turning points in their lives. Many credit his teachings with helping them dissolve limiting beliefs, reclaim their inner power, and step into greater abundance, courage, and clarity. His message is both empowering and urgent: question everything, trust yourself completely, and dare to live authentically.

A lifelong world traveler and polymath fluent in several languages, Desmarques draws from a rich mosaic of global experiences and cross-cultural perspectives. His books, now translated into seven languages and available in over 240,000 stores and libraries worldwide, speak to a diverse audience—from entrepreneurs and leaders to spiritual seekers exploring life’s deeper mysteries.

As a personal coach and influential voice in personal development, Dan Desmarques continues to shape the conversation around human potential—bridging timeless philosophical truths with practical, modern tools for a new era of conscious living.

Dan Desmarques is a visionary author and transformational thought leader whose work has inspired millions worldwide to break free from limitations and awaken to their fullest potential. With over 100 published books—including 34 Amazon bestsellers an... Show more

With over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, network and systems administration, and risk management, combined with a background in sociology and behavioral science, Jesse brings a unique blend of technical expertise and human insight to his speaking.

With over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, network and systems administration, and risk management, combined with a background in sociology and behavioral science, Jesse brings a unique blend of technical expertise and human insight to his... Show more

Michelle is a multipassionate portfolio careerist who intentionally lives on cross-boundary intersections, bringing together innovation, creative expression, and human well-being. As an Innovation Designer and Human Well-Being Insight Designer, she explores how people live, work, and thrive, translating complex insights into meaningful everyday practices and solutions. Her work as a Vision-to-Experience Curator connects ideas to real-world impact, helping individuals and organizations bring purposeful concepts to life.

She has led workshops, trainings, and sessions focused on leveraging creativity and technology to drive innovative thinking, collaborating with diverse teams to tackle complex challenges. Committed to building bridges between different perspectives, she thrives on turning bold ideas into actionable strategies that yield meaningful, sustainable impact in both the short and long term. Her aim is always to bring people together in ways that spark self-discovery, creative expression, and personal liberation—ultimately empowering every individual to step fully into their potential.

Alongside these roles, Michelle is an author, artist, and podcaster, using storytelling and creative expression to explore themes of purpose, resilience, and modern innovative work. Her multidisciplinary path reflects a commitment to curiosity, integrity, and designing a life that aligns with her values, vision of success, and purpose.

With experience across multiple sectors and creative fields, Michelle brings a grounded, integrated perspective to conversations about wellness, innovation, and entrepreneurship, offering insights shaped by both lived experience and intentional design.

Michelle is a multipassionate portfolio careerist who intentionally lives on cross-boundary intersections, bringing together innovation, creative expression, and human well-being. As an Innovation Designer and Human Well-Being Insight Designer, she e... Show more

Kerry is a Data Visualisation Consultant and Business Intelligence Manager hailing from Adelaide, South Australia.

With a background in psychology and the social sciences and over fifteen years reporting experience across a range of industries, Kerry brings a considered and creative edge to BI and data visualization design.

Kerry is a Data Visualisation Consultant and Business Intelligence Manager hailing from Adelaide, South Australia. With a background in psychology and the social sciences and over fifteen years reporting experience across a range of industries, Ke... Show more