Humanities & Social Sciences

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

Mariana Sathya Llull

Mariana Sathya Llull

I fell in love with tech trying to understand the minds working behind the code. I studied a master's in cognitive sciences applied to computational thinking, I also hold a master's in HR and currently, I am studying behavioral sciences through primatology (yes! monkeys).
The scientific approach has greatly benefited my partnering with tech leads, allowing me to collaborate with them in understanding their team's behavior from the roots of our humanity, avoiding clichés and abstract theories.

I fell in love with tech trying to understand the minds working behind the code. I studied a master's in cognitive sciences applied to computational thinking, I also hold a master's in HR and currently, I am studying behavioral sciences through prima... Show more

Priyant Banerjee

Priyant Banerjee

Priyant Banerjee is an AI/ML Research Intern at IIIT Hyderabad's CSTAR Lab, working on federated learning, multimodal AI security, and deepfake-resistant authentication systems. He holds a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (First Class Honours and Distinction) from Amity University Mumbai with a minor in Economics. He has authored more than 22 peer-reviewed publications and has presented research at WILL2025 (Kyoto University), TNKU, UNM and, visited as delegate to Harvard HPAIR. His current research focuses on privacy-preserving federated systems for cybersecurity applications, at the intersection of technical architecture and legal and policy constraints.

Priyant Banerjee is an AI/ML Research Intern at IIIT Hyderabad's CSTAR Lab, working on federated learning, multimodal AI security, and deepfake-resistant authentication systems. He holds a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (First Class Honou... Show more

Swapna Chimanchodkar

Swapna Chimanchodkar

Swapna Chimanchodkar is an accomplished transformation leader with nearly two decades of experience enabling sustainable business impact for global organizations through process excellence, data-driven decision-making, and digital transformation. She has successfully led strategic initiatives spanning process and IT transformation, enterprise data strategy, and automation integrating technologies such as AI/ML, RPA, Gen AI, and advanced analytics to solve complex business challenges.
In her current role as Director at UBS Financial Services, Swapna drives large-scale transformation and integration programs across various areas of the bank. She oversees strategic integration, data modernization, and digital and process improvement initiatives, collaborating closely with senior leadership and cross-functional global teams.
A certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Swapna brings a unique combination of analytical rigor, strategic insight, and change management expertise to every engagement. She has been instrumental in designing target operating models, and implementing automation frameworks that deliver measurable efficiencies.
As a thought leader, Swapna regularly contributes to industry dialogue. She served as a keynote speaker and panelist at the NexGen Banking Summit USA 2024, discussing AI-driven business innovation and data-led digital transformation in the banking sector.

Swapna Chimanchodkar is an accomplished transformation leader with nearly two decades of experience enabling sustainable business impact for global organizations through process excellence, data-driven decision-making, and digital transformation. She... Show more

Antonio Bugni

Antonio Bugni

Sono un papà bis, da decenni nel mondo del software con una passione per la mente e per questo mi sono laureato in Psicologia. Negli ultimi anni, parallelamente al mio lavoro tra architetture software e engineering management in scaleup e realtà internazionali, mi sono dedicato alla ricerca e alla divulgazione all'intersezione tra scienze cognitive e ingegneria del software, con The Mental Stack su Medium. Sono convinto che le persone restino il motore reale di qualsiasi organizzazione che voglia costruire prodotti che durano e che capire come funziona la mente sia oggi più urgente che mai, in un settore che sta cambiando più velocemente della nostra capacità di adattarci.

Sono un papà bis, da decenni nel mondo del software con una passione per la mente e per questo mi sono laureato in Psicologia. Negli ultimi anni, parallelamente al mio lavoro tra architetture software e engineering management in scaleup e realtà inte... Show more

Nalin Theodore

Nalin Theodore

Nalin Theodore is a recent graduate of Christopher Newport University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Leadership Studies. During his time at CNU, Nalin was actively involved in the Presidential Leadership Program, Lambda Pi Eta Communication Honor Society, Residence Life, and the Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Team. Nalin’s interest in sustainability grew through his involvement in student-led environmental initiatives and his work as a Reuzzi Student Ambassador. In this role, he used his strengths in communication, storytelling, and video production to create engaging promotional content that raised awareness of Reuzzi’s sustainable solutions and encouraged more environmentally conscious choices among college students. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Management at George Mason University while working as a Sales Consultant at Safford Subaru Manassas. Nalin is passionate about using communication, leadership, and creative media to strengthen communities and make sustainability more accessible and engaging. Outside of his professional and academic work, he enjoys volunteering in his community, creating videos, staying active, exploring the outdoors, and playing ultimate frisbee.

Nalin Theodore is a recent graduate of Christopher Newport University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Leadership Studies. During his time at CNU, Nalin was actively involved in the Presidential Leadership ... Show more

Anita Sevilla Ull

Anita Sevilla Ull

Anita Sevilla Ull es UX Lead con más de 10 años diseñando productos digitales.

No llegó al diseño por el diseño. Llegó por las personas.

Estudió psicología, se recibió en guión y dirección de cine, y se graduó en marketing. En cada etapa aprendió lo mismo desde ángulos distintos: cómo piensa la gente, qué la mueve y por qué se comporta como lo hace.

Fundó Comunidad UXUI en 2021, hoy la comunidad de UXers más grande del mundo hispanohablante.

Quiere vivir en un mundo más accesible, inclusivo y usable, y eso rige cada decisión que toma — en la vida, en la comunidad y en cómo diseña.

Anita Sevilla Ull es UX Lead con más de 10 años diseñando productos digitales. No llegó al diseño por el diseño. Llegó por las personas. Estudió psicología, se recibió en guión y dirección de cine, y se graduó en marketing. En cada etapa aprend... Show more

Sanad Alrashidi

Sanad Alrashidi

Sanad Alrashidi is a Saudi student of Economics at Boston University with a minor in Political Science. His interests sit at the intersection of communication, decision-making, and how people understand complex problems. He has worked on research related to AI-supported adaptive learning and has represented Saudi Arabia in international youth policy spaces, including the ECOSOC Youth Forum. His experience also includes innovation and technology-focused internships and a long-standing background in Arabic and English speaking, from school programs and Arabic performance work through Katabah to conference and policy settings. His work is driven by one question: how can people think more clearly in a world moving too fast?

Sanad Alrashidi is a Saudi student of Economics at Boston University with a minor in Political Science. His interests sit at the intersection of communication, decision-making, and how people understand complex problems. He has worked on research rel... Show more

Deborah de Graaff

Deborah de Graaff

Formal CV

Dr Deborah de Graaff is a celebrated Australian clarinettist, educator, music psychologist, and adjudicator, known for her dynamic artistry and deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. A winner of the prestigious ABC Young Performers Awards, Deborah has performed as a soloist and chamber musician on major stages nationally and internationally, including numerous ABC broadcasts and 14 acclaimed CD recordings.
Deborah earned her PhD from UNSW with pioneering research in expert practice and motivational music psychology—work that continues to influence teaching studios and conservatoria alike. A passionate educator, she has taught clarinet and chamber music at the Sydney Conservatorium High School, the Open Academy, and the University of Sydney, where she also supervised postgraduate research. Many of her students have gone on to win national competitions, scholarships, and professional positions in major ensembles.
Former artistic director of the touring ensemble Ku-ring-gai Virtuosi, she was a founding artistic director of SILO SOUNDS Inc. in Harden-Murrumburrah regional NSW, she brought elite-level classical music of excellence and youth and elders mentorship to her rural community.
Known for her insightful musical judgment, warmth, and inspiring presence, Deborah is a highly respected adjudicator and mentor, uniquely bridging performance excellence with psychological insight and pedagogical rigour.
She delights that many previous students are working professionally as clarinet players and educators.

___________

alternate

About Deborah de Graaff, a Personal Profile

Clarinetist Educator Communicator:
Australian clarinetist Deborah de Graaff is acclaimed for her expressive artistry, distinctive voice in chamber music, and deep commitment to teaching and audience engagement. A musician of rare depth, Deborah has combined a rich performing life with a thoughtful, communicative approach to repertoire — from classic masterpieces to new commissions.

A Life Shaped by Music:
Growing up immersed in the world of opera and song, Deborah was profoundly influenced by her mother, contralto Lauris Elms. This early exposure to lyricism, tone, and storytelling continues to shape her sound — one that is vocal in colour, expressive in phrasing, and consistently grounded in musical intention.

Her performances are known for their luminous tone, architectural clarity, and emotional directness, traits particularly evident in her acclaimed recordings of the Brahms clarinet works and other core repertoire. Whether in concerto, chamber music, or solo recital, Deborah’s playing invites listeners into a world where each phrase breathes and each curve of line is compellingly articulated.

​Championing Clarinet Repertoire:
Deborah’s large discography and concert career has reflected both masterworks of the clarinet literature and thoughtful explorations of new and rare gems. Her recordings are celebrated for their: Artistic depth and expressive range. Clarity of musical structure. Deep empathy with composers’ intentions

Teacher & Mentor
As a dedicated educator, Deborah brings the same musical sensitivity and analytic insight to the studio as she does to the stage. Her teaching is characterised by:
A focus on sound quality and expressive intention
Clear, structured pedagogical approaches to technique and musicianship
Encouragement of personal musical voice alongside disciplined craft
University students, young professionals, and community musicians alike value her clarity, patience, and mentorship.



Connection & Communication
Whether through live concerts, recordings, masterclasses, or online media, Deborah believes strongly in connecting with audiences — helping listeners hear with fresh ears and experience music as a living, breathing art.

She has appeared as a featured artist and speaker at festivals, conferences, concert series, and educational forums, and is regularly invited to adjudicate, lecture, and lead workshops.



Behind the Music
When she isn’t playing or teaching, Deborah can often be found:
Mentoring with young people and exploring new repertoire with collaborators
Somewhere in the garden nurturing trees and growing fruit
Listening deeply to everything from lieder to chamber music and podcasts on the environment and world politics
Sailing, boating, varnishing, painting and building
​Walking Harry-dog through bushland or open rural fields with er wonderful wife
Keeping in touch with her talented inspiring young people and students

Formal CV Dr Deborah de Graaff is a celebrated Australian clarinettist, educator, music psychologist, and adjudicator, known for her dynamic artistry and deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. A winner of the prestigious AB... Show more

Mija Rabemananjara

Mija Rabemananjara

Née à Madagascar, Mija Rabemananjara a grandi à la Réunion, à Bordeaux, en
région parisienne et décide de tenter l’expérience de l’Amérique du Nord en Septembre 2019 en
s’installant au Québec. Avec une forte expérience dans l’IT, elle devient coach agile en 2015 et
construit 2 cursus de formations :
 Devenir coach agile Agilopathe®
 Devenir un manager/gestionnaire agile avec Montessori Extended®

Son ambition est d’accompagner les organisations vers plus d’auto-organisation et au-delà pour
plus d’engagement, plus de performance, plus d’innovation, pour une société plus saine.

Sur son site http://lesagilopathes.com vous retrouverez ses publications, des vidéos de ses
conférences précédentes, la description de ses offres et les événements à venir !

Née à Madagascar, Mija Rabemananjara a grandi à la Réunion, à Bordeaux, en région parisienne et décide de tenter l’expérience de l’Amérique du Nord en Septembre 2019 en s’installant au Québec. Avec une forte expérience dans l’IT, elle devient coa... Show more

Luz López

Luz López

Luz López es HCI Strategist y Behavioral systems designer, especializada en la intersección entre diseño conductual, interacción humano-computadora y adopción de IA.
Su trabajo se centra en la soberanía cognitiva de las personas frente a los sistemas tecnológicos que operan.
Mg. en Digital customer emotional experience, centrado en neurociencia y human-computer interaction. Además, cuenta con diplomatura, certificaciones y cursos de UX/UI, psicología cognitiva para la interacción, CX, AI-generativa y HCI.
Durante 8 años lideró áreas de research y diseño de servicios en compañías de retail, SaaS, banca y fintech. Hoy, en su noveno año profesional, opera 100% como consultora independiente.
Desarrolla frameworks de ingeniería del comportamiento para rediseñar la relación entre personas y herramientas tecnológicas enfocada en proteger y elevar el criterio humano mediante distintas interfaces.

Luz López es HCI Strategist y Behavioral systems designer, especializada en la intersección entre diseño conductual, interacción humano-computadora y adopción de IA. Su trabajo se centra en la soberanía cognitiva de las personas frente a los sistem... Show more

Rabia Khan

Rabia Khan

Dr. Rabia Shunaid Khan is a Head of Inclusion, researcher, speaker, and advocate for meaningful and sustainable inclusive education. With over 11 years of experience across inclusive and special education, she has led whole-school initiatives focused on improving outcomes for diverse learners through systems-level change, capacity building, and inclusive leadership. Rabia is the developer of the Inclusive Support Framework (ISF), a research-informed framework designed to bridge the gap between inclusive education policy and classroom practice. She is a TEDx organizer, GESS speaker, and doctoral graduate from the Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Spain, whose work challenges educators to move beyond superficial solutions and create lasting impact for all learners.

Dr. Rabia Shunaid Khan is a Head of Inclusion, researcher, speaker, and advocate for meaningful and sustainable inclusive education. With over 11 years of experience across inclusive and special education, she has led whole-school initiatives focused... Show more

Emily Williams

Emily Williams

Emily Williams is a Social Media Specialist for Enrollment Services Communications and Marketing (ESCOMM), partnering with Undergraduate Admissions, the Registrar’s Office, the Bursar’s Office, Scholarships & Financial Aid, and New Student Programs. In addition to managing multiple social media channels with a combined follower count of over 36K, Emily serves as the advisor for the Kennesaw State Brand Ambassador team. A former Ambassador herself, Emily joined the program in 2019 as a student and has since played a key role in transforming it from a small, unfunded initiative into a strategic team of 35 students that support recruitment, storytelling, and brand engagement. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Gender & Women's Studies from KSU in Spring 2023 and a Master of Science in Digital & Social Media Communication from the University of West Georgia in Spring 2026.

Emily Williams is a Social Media Specialist for Enrollment Services Communications and Marketing (ESCOMM), partnering with Undergraduate Admissions, the Registrar’s Office, the Bursar’s Office, Scholarships & Financial Aid, and New Student Programs. ... Show more

Salma AlKetbi

Salma AlKetbi

Salma Mohammed Salem Al Ketbi is an Emirati educator and researcher specializing in Arabic language curricula. She serves as a Vice Principal and is recognized as one of the leading education professionals in the UAE.

She is the recipient of the Mohammed bin Zayed Award for Best Teacher, named Best Teacher in the Arab World, and is the first Emirati teacher to enter the Guinness World Records for a world-first innovation in creative writing.

She has led several impactful educational initiatives, including the “International Teachers Knowledge Fund Platform” and the Tokkatsu Project, both focused on teacher development and student character building. She has also contributed to national programs supporting reading, writing, and student assessment preparation.

Salma has participated in various research projects and conferences locally and internationally, contributing to curriculum development and educational innovation.

She believes education is a key driver for shaping the future and is committed to empowering teachers and students to become lifelong learners and active contributors to society.

Salma Mohammed Salem Al Ketbi is an Emirati educator and researcher specializing in Arabic language curricula. She serves as a Vice Principal and is recognized as one of the leading education professionals in the UAE. She is the recipient of the M... Show more

Jeffrey Osier-Mixon

Jeffrey Osier-Mixon

Nathan Egge is an engineering manager at Google. He is co-chair of the RISE Project Technical Steering Committee.

Nathan Egge is an engineering manager at Google. He is co-chair of the RISE Project Technical Steering Committee. Show more

Roni Habib

Roni Habib

Roni Habib is a speaker, author, and expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, more connected to their purpose, and more playful. The founder of EQ Schools, he speaks and leads workshops in organizations nationally and abroad. His dynamic keynotes leave audiences laughing, insightful, elevated, and inspired to take action.

Early in his career, Roni struggled with the high stresses and demands of teaching, even losing touch with why he wanted to be a teacher in the first place. It was so painful that he finally discovered the power of integrating improv, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and positive psychology in his own life as well as at work and felt called to share this new approach with the world.

In the last decade with EQ Schools, Roni has taught and inspired thousands of Teachers, Principals, Superintendents, Administrators, Business Leaders, and Parents.

Prior to earning his Masters of Education and teaching credential at Harvard University, he lived in Israel and Belgium. Most importantly though, Roni has a huge heart and loves helping people.

Roni Habib is a speaker, author, and expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, more connected to their purpose, and more playful. The founder of EQ Schools, he speaks and leads workshops in organizations nation... Show more

Lisa R. Triggs

Lisa R. Triggs

The Menopause Queen, Lisa R. Triggs is a Certified Menopause and Neuroscience Coach, Best-Selling Author, Motivational Speaker, and host of The Menopause Mindshift Self-Love Podcast. After improving more than 30 menopause symptoms through lifestyle changes, stress regulation, and neuroscience-based strategies, she developed The Menopause Mindshift methodology to help women work with their brain and body together. Lisa empowers women with practical, sustainable tools to lower stress, improve mental clarity and build the confidence to write their own story, define their own journey, and ulitmately unleash their inner queen.

The Menopause Queen, Lisa R. Triggs is a Certified Menopause and Neuroscience Coach, Best-Selling Author, Motivational Speaker, and host of The Menopause Mindshift Self-Love Podcast. After improving more than 30 menopause symptoms through lifestyle c... Show more

Dr Aby Daniel Areekal

Dr Aby Daniel Areekal

Dr. Aby Daniel is a Behavioural Sciences and Special Education professional with over 10 years of experience in the UAE and India. He specializes in Neuropsychology, Brain Mapping, and Inclusive Education, integrating clinical insight, research, and school leadership. As Head of Inclusion, he designs and implements evidence-based frameworks, teacher training programs, and interventions supporting diverse learners. Founder of the ISS Psychosocial and Educational Research Centre, he developed tools such as SLMBC and SPSQ to enhance early assessment and parent engagement. Dr. Aby has authored books, published research papers, presented at national and international conferences, and shared applied psychology insights through media and his YouTube channel, Dr Dan Psychology, impacting educators, parents, and learners worldwide.

Dr. Aby Daniel is a Behavioural Sciences and Special Education professional with over 10 years of experience in the UAE and India. He specializes in Neuropsychology, Brain Mapping, and Inclusive Education, integrating clinical insight, research, and ... Show more

Eraina Ferguson

Eraina Ferguson

Eraina Ferguson is a special needs advocate, journalist, and TEDx event curator, and TEDx speaker. Her company, My Good Life, enables families of children with special needs to live their best life despite their circumstances. Her recent monologue, Listen to Her, was read by actress Marla Gibbs and featured at the WACO Theatre’s 50in50 event. Her writing has been featured on NBC Universal, Red Tricycle, LA Parents Magazine, and the LA Times. Eraina lives in California with her husband and children.

Eraina Ferguson is a special needs advocate, journalist, and TEDx event curator, and TEDx speaker. Her company, My Good Life, enables families of children with special needs to live their best life despite their circumstances. Her recent monologue, L... Show more

Candela Castaldo

Candela Castaldo

Profesional de ciberseguridad especializada en gestión de riesgos, awareness y factores humanos de la seguridad. A lo largo de su carrera ha trabajado en proyectos vinculados a concientización, simulaciones de ingeniería social, gestión de riesgos y marcos de seguridad para organizaciones de distintos sectores. Actualmente complementa su formación técnica con estudios de Psicología, enfocándose en comprender cómo las personas toman decisiones, construyen confianza y responden a la manipulación en entornos digitales. Su interés principal se encuentra en la intersección entre ciberseguridad, cibercrimen, comportamiento humano y protección de niños, niñas y adolescentes en internet.

Profesional de ciberseguridad especializada en gestión de riesgos, awareness y factores humanos de la seguridad. A lo largo de su carrera ha trabajado en proyectos vinculados a concientización, simulaciones de ingeniería social, gestión de riesgos y ... Show more

Yousif Abdelrahim

Yousif Abdelrahim

Dr Yousif Abdelrahim is an Assistant Professor at Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University and a researcher specialising in culture, social values, organisational behaviour, and management in emerging economies. His work examines how informal institutions, social norms, trust, and cultural values influence individual and organisational outcomes. He has published research on education, management, workplace behaviour, and socio-cultural dynamics, with a particular interest in the Middle East and developing countries. Dr Abdelrahim's research seeks to bridge local insights and global theory while providing practical implications for educators, leaders, and policymakers. He regularly presents research at international conferences and is committed to advancing culturally informed approaches to education and organisational development.

Dr Yousif Abdelrahim is an Assistant Professor at Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University and a researcher specialising in culture, social values, organisational behaviour, and management in emerging economies. His work examines how informal institutions... Show more

Svetlana Malkarova

Svetlana Malkarova

Dr.Svetlana Malkarova, PH.D ( Sociology), Fulbright Program Alumna
Director for the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics in Dubai.
Dr.Svetlana's professional interests include research in the field of comparative analysis of students' value orientations "Comparative Analysis of Value Orientations of Students in the Northeast of Russia and the North of the USA" and in the field of developing a knowledge society as the head of the UNESCO Chair "Societal, Legal, and Ethical Frameworking of a Knowledge Society".

Dr.Svetlana Malkarova, PH.D ( Sociology), Fulbright Program Alumna Director for the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics in Dubai. Dr.Svetlana's professional interests include research in the field of comparative analysis of students' valu... Show more

Kashif Khan

Kashif Khan

Kashif Khan is a co-chair of CNCF TAG Infrastructure and maintainer of the CNCF project Metal3.io for 6 years. He works as an open source Architect for Ericsson Software Technology, Finland. He holds a PhD in Computer Science. Kashif is a research and open source enthusiast and his current area of interest is kubernetes deployments on baremetal systems in distributed cloud scenarios.

Kashif Khan is a co-chair of CNCF TAG Infrastructure and maintainer of the CNCF project Metal3.io for 6 years. He works as an open source Architect for Ericsson Software Technology, Finland. He holds a PhD in Computer Science. Kashif is a research an... Show more

Paulina Kowalke

Paulina Kowalke

I am a programme leader, coach, and community builder with 10+ years of experience across talent, leadership development, social innovation, and organisational transformation. Throughout my career, I've supported founders, professionals, and leaders to navigate career transitions, make values-aligned decisions, and build meaningful careers. My expertise is grounded in the On Purpose Leadership Programme, IDEO.org human-centred design certification, Equality Impact Investing practitioner training, and ongoing work in systems change.

I am a programme leader, coach, and community builder with 10+ years of experience across talent, leadership development, social innovation, and organisational transformation. Throughout my career, I've supported founders, professionals, and leaders ... Show more

Rolando Masís-Obando

Rolando Masís-Obando

Dr. Rolando Masís-Obando is a filmmaker, author, entrepreneur, and computational neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins University. Rolando uses VR/AR, EEG, fMRI, AI, machine learning, and brain-computer-interface type methods to study how contexts shape the way we think and remember our day-to-day experiences. His academic journey spans from his Bachelor’s in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology at Yale University to his PhD in Computational Neuroscience at Princeton. During his undergraduate studies, he co-founded Shuflix, the largest activity search engine (at the time), to help people interact with their environment in a playful way while helping small businesses get more exposure. Beyond academia, he channels his creativity through his YouTube channel where he shares programming tutorials on generative AI, AR/VR development, and CGI for sci-fi films. Additionally, he directs mini-documentaries exploring the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Recently, he co-founded one of the first, if not the first, hybrid academic/industry conference on the future of reality (Neuroethics & the Future of Reality; https://futurerealities.org/NFR2023/). Rolando and his brothers have an upcoming book titled “DIY AI” slated for release in 2025 with the practical know-how for coding and running your own AI models from home. Rolando also provides consulting for small businesses and start-ups in neuroscience, AI and XR.

Dr. Rolando Masís-Obando is a filmmaker, author, entrepreneur, and computational neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins University. Rolando uses VR/AR, EEG, fMRI, AI, machine learning, and brain-computer-interface type methods to study how contexts shape th... Show more

Mahwish J. Khan

Mahwish J. Khan

Dr. Mahwish is a marketing academic, researcher, and industry advisor with almost two decades of experience spanning higher education, technology, and business. She holds a PhD in Marketing, with an MBA in Marketing and Finance, and a BS in Computer Science from Wichita State University, USA.

Mahwish has taught at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels in Pakistan and now the UAE, as well as supervised research in areas including sustainability, digital marketing and consumer behavior. Her research has been published in internationally recognized journals and is currently interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and consumer insights.

Before entering academia, Dr. Khan worked as a Senior Software Engineer, bringing a unique blend of technological and marketing expertise to her teaching and research.

She is passionate about innovation in education and helping organizations, educators, and students navigate an increasingly AI-enabled world.

Dr. Mahwish is a marketing academic, researcher, and industry advisor with almost two decades of experience spanning higher education, technology, and business. She holds a PhD in Marketing, with an MBA in Marketing and Finance, and a BS in Computer ... Show more

Aquayemi-Claude Akinsanya

Aquayemi-Claude Akinsanya

Aquayemi-Claude’s relentless drive for systemic reform has positioned him as a key figure across global platforms. He serves as a leader in youth empowerment, a mentor in educational equity, and a public speaker whose message resonates with diverse audiences. As a solopreneur and thought leader, his work bridges entrepreneurship, activism, and environmentalism, while his contributions to the Global Network of Young Persons with Disabilities highlight his commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for marginalized communities.

A compelling public speaker and storyteller, Aquayemi-Claude captivates audiences with inspiring narratives and thought-provoking insights. With a gift for communication and a dedication to amplifying marginalized voices, Aquayemi-Claude inspires action and fosters dialogue on issues of social significance.

Aquayemi-Claude is also an accomplished author, sharing perspectives and experiences that challenge conventional wisdom and inspire critical reflection. Through written works, Aquayemi-Claude invites readers on a journey of discovery and empowerment, encouraging introspection and growth.

Aquayemi-Claude’s relentless drive for systemic reform has positioned him as a key figure across global platforms. He serves as a leader in youth empowerment, a mentor in educational equity, and a public speaker whose message resonates with diverse a... Show more

Victoria Charra

Victoria Charra

Victoria lleva casi +16 años formando parte del ecosistema de start-ups en Argentina, donde ha sido una pionera en la construcción de equipos de alto rendimiento en ingeniería y desarrollo de producto. Además de ser anfitriona y ponente habitual en conferencias tecnológicas, también ha sido profesora invitada en programas de MBA, compartiendo su experiencia en talento y estrategia.

Sus especialidades incluyen el desarrollo de estrategias de contratación, mentoring, networking y asesoramiento a start-ups en crecimiento. A través de Talent Wind, su empresa, conecta a profesionales excepcionales con proyectos que marcan la diferencia, ayudando a personas y organizaciones a alcanzar sus objetivos de carrera y crecimiento.

Victoria lleva casi +16 años formando parte del ecosistema de start-ups en Argentina, donde ha sido una pionera en la construcción de equipos de alto rendimiento en ingeniería y desarrollo de producto. Además de ser anfitriona y ponente habitual en c... Show more

Cécile Especel

Cécile Especel

Fernanda Ochoa O - Mi Vida con Ella Podcast

Fernanda Ochoa O - Mi Vida con Ella Podcast

I'm Fer Ochoa — a digital strategist, content creator, creative director, and audiovisual producer from Mexico, based in Utah, United States. Through my agency 91 Studio, I work with Latino entrepreneurs and business owners to take their brands to the next level — because I understand from the inside what it means to build something of your own in a country that isn't yours.
My story starts with a moment of deep clarity: recognizing my own talents and understanding that no one else was going to come build my dreams for me. Since then, I've dedicated my work to creating paths — for myself and for others.
I'm passionate about finding formulas, tools, and inspiration to help us become our best selves. That search led me to found Mi Vida con Ella ("My Life with Her"), a Spanish-language podcast built around deep conversations with women who have made hard decisions, built businesses, and reinvented themselves. A space created especially for Hispanic women who sometimes feel they don't belong or that their dreams aren't possible — and who need to hear that they are.
Beyond my digital work, I've spoken at local events in Utah, connecting closely with the needs of the Hispanic community and bringing messages of information, motivation, and possibility to those who need it most. For me, the greatest achievement isn't a number — it's the real connection with my community.

I'm Fer Ochoa — a digital strategist, content creator, creative director, and audiovisual producer from Mexico, based in Utah, United States. Through my agency 91 Studio, I work with Latino entrepreneurs and business owners to take their brands to th... 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

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