Media & Information

Esteemed specialists working in the fields of media education, digital media, multimedia and radio services

Heather Satterley

Heather Satterley

Heather Satterley is the Director of Education of Media at Woodard.

Heather’s passion for helping others and her love for technology have shaped her career in public accounting. Her affinity for facilitating change within an organization is paramount to her work, helping businesses design and automate their business processes using cutting-edge technologies. Heather wholeheartedly believes in the power of community and the magic that is created when people work together toward the same purpose.

In addition to her work with Woodard, Heather is the co-host of The Appy Hour with Liz and Heather, a webinar series devoted to demystifying the world of technology and apps in the accounting profession. She is also the co-creator and producer of Appy Hour Camp, a collaborative retreat experience created to connect and nurture the relationship between accounting professional educators and software developers.

Heather was named a categorical top 10 ProAdvisor in 2017 and 2019 and was listed as one of the top influential people in accounting by Accounting Today in 2019.

Heather Satterley is the Director of Education of Media at Woodard. Heather’s passion for helping others and her love for technology have shaped her career in public accounting. Her affinity for facilitating change within an organization is param... Show more

Michael Stern

Michael Stern

Michael Stern is a leader of the new communications era. As the CEO and Founder of HeadStart, Michael is redefining how Digital Health, HR Tech, and Venture Capital firms build authority in an age where the traditional PR model has fundamentally collapsed.

A three-time founder and former TV News Executive Producer, Michael possesses a "double-lens" view of the media landscape. He recognizes that in a world of AI-generated noise and fragmented attention, the old tools—pay-to-play schemes and static press releases—are no longer just ineffective; they are a liability. Michael’s mission is to replace "legacy PR" with a forward-looking framework that ensures a brand’s story reaches audiences where they are at, not where PR agencies think they have the easiest time getting placements, by developing owned and earned media strategies with LLM results in mind.

Under Michael’s leadership, HeadStart operates as an innovation partner for startups, turning "back-of-the-napkin" visions into market-defining narratives. He is a frequent speaker and mentor at Techstars, the Johns Hopkins Accelerator, and DC Startup Week, where he teaches founders how to build media engines that scale trust as fast as they scale code.

Based outside of Denver, Michael is a voracious reader and a dedicated supporter of Philadelphia sports, the Maryland Terrapins, and Everton FC.

Michael Stern is a leader of the new communications era. As the CEO and Founder of HeadStart, Michael is redefining how Digital Health, HR Tech, and Venture Capital firms build authority in an age where the traditional PR model has fundamentally coll... Show more

Ronak Barhanpurkar

Ronak Barhanpurkar

I am is a seasoned User Experience Designer with a strong focus on automotive UX, human factors, and digital accessibility. With over 4 years of industry experience, I currently contribute to the UX team at Maruti Suzuki, where we craft intuitive and meaningful in-vehicle experiences that blend technology, human behavior, and design innovation. Their expertise lies in designing digital ecosystems that not only meet user needs but also drive broader business and societal impact.

In 2024, I delivered a well-received talk at UX India on enhancing user experience in automobiles, a session that sparked widespread discussions on the future of mobility design. Beyond professional projects, I am passionate about mentoring young designers, promoting accessibility in digital spaces, and pushing the boundaries of user-centered innovation in complex industries like automotive and connected mobility.
Outside of work, I am a photography enthusiast, an avid non-fiction reader, and a traveler who loves exploring diverse cultures and ideas. This unique blend of technical expertise, user empathy, and a visionary outlook positions me as a strong voice for how design can act as a transformational force for people, businesses, and the planet.

I am is a seasoned User Experience Designer with a strong focus on automotive UX, human factors, and digital accessibility. With over 4 years of industry experience, I currently contribute to the UX team at Maruti Suzuki, where we craft intuitive and... Show more

Moses Cursor Ssebunya

Moses Cursor Ssebunya

I’m a website developer and WordPress enthusiast from Uganda. I have a strong passion for sharing knowledge and excel at creating visually appealing websites that combine design and coding expertise. I’m also a multilingual translator and skilled technical writer, making complex concepts easy to understand for a global audience. I’m committed to ensuring quality through rigorous system testing for top-notch performance. My dedication to excellence and active involvement in the tech community make me a valuable contributor to the ever-changing digital landscape. I’m a digital artisan shaping user-friendly experiences and bridging language gaps.

I’m a website developer and WordPress enthusiast from Uganda. I have a strong passion for sharing knowledge and excel at creating visually appealing websites that combine design and coding expertise. I’m also a multilingual translator and skilled tec... Show more

Sonya Andrew

Sonya Andrew

Dr. Sonya Andrew is a public administration scholar, researcher, and speaker whose work sits at a critical and largely unexplored intersection: how media shapes and distorts the delivery of public policy, particularly for Black and marginalized communities.

Drawing on her doctoral dissertation at the University of Southern California, Dr. Andrew makes the case that public policy has a media problem — and the field has been slow to recognize it. Her research traces how media narratives have historically undermined equitable policy implementation, from Jim Crow-era rhetoric to present-day communications failures in government institutions.

Her presentations challenge practitioners, academics, and policymakers to confront two urgent realities: the field needs rigorous research into how media influence public policy outcomes, and public agencies must build their own independent, well-resourced media arms if they want their work to reach and serve the people who need it most.

Dr. Andrew has delivered paid presentations for institutions, including California State University, Long Beach. She brings a rare combination of scholarly rigor, lived perspective, and actionable insight, making her a compelling voice for conferences, academic programs, government agencies, and policy organizations.

Dr. Sonya Andrew is a public administration scholar, researcher, and speaker whose work sits at a critical and largely unexplored intersection: how media shapes and distorts the delivery of public policy, particularly for Black and marginalized commu... Show more

Julia Redner

Julia Redner

Julia has been an active member of the Microsoft community for more than 15 years. She began her career at knk with a dual study program in Business Administration (B.Sc.) at the FH Nordakademie. After graduating, she built up and now leads the marketing department of the internationally operating knk Group.

Together with her team, Julia is responsible for marketing and communication across all product lines of the knk Group: knkMedia based on Microsoft D365 Business Central, knk365 for Media Sales based on D365 for Sales, knk365 Marketing Automation based on D365 for Marketing, and VM Media Manager. In addition to product marketing, her responsibilities include employer branding.

Beyond her leadership role in marketing, Julia is passionate about team development and organizational culture. As a facilitator, she has supported implementation teams on their path to self-organization and regularly guides teams in achieving clarity and results in their meetings.

Julia has been an active member of the Microsoft community for more than 15 years. She began her career at knk with a dual study program in Business Administration (B.Sc.) at the FH Nordakademie. After graduating, she built up and now leads the marke... Show more

Jeannette Kaplun

Jeannette Kaplun

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle magazine Hispana Global, where she offers inspiration, tips and information in English and Spanish. Previously she cofounded multimedia parenting company Todobebé and was one of the first Latina mom bloggers. She was a Special Advisor to The Bank of America Institute for Women's Entrepreneurship at Cornell and was included in the Forbes #Next1000 2021 list. Her latest venture is Midlife Elevated, which hosts workshops for women over 40. Find her on social media @jeannettekaplun.

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle... Show more

Mrinal Jain

Mrinal Jain

Mrinal Jain is an Engineering Manager at STAGE OTT with 7+ years of experience building scalable full-stack and Flutter applications. A recognized tech speaker and Meta Community Lead, he has led impactful developer communities and shared insights at major tech events. Known as the Introvert Influencer, Mrinal combines deep technical expertise with community-first leadership to empower developers and scale product success.

Mrinal Jain is an Engineering Manager at STAGE OTT with 7+ years of experience building scalable full-stack and Flutter applications. A recognized tech speaker and Meta Community Lead, he has led impactful developer communities and shared insights at... Show more

Tiankai Feng

Tiankai Feng

Tiankai Feng is a Data & AI leader, musician, and optimist. As Director of Data & AI Strategy at Thoughtworks and author of "Humanizing Data Strategy" & "Humanizing AI Strategy", he brings 13+ years of experience in analytics, governance, and transformation. Passionate about the human side of technology, he makes data and AI more approachable—and even fun—through music, memes, and fresh perspectives.

Tiankai Feng is a Data & AI leader, musician, and optimist. As Director of Data & AI Strategy at Thoughtworks and author of "Humanizing Data Strategy" & "Humanizing AI Strategy", he brings 13+ years of experience in analytics, governance, and transf... Show more

Peter van Jaarsveld

Peter van Jaarsveld

I've spent 25+ years proving a thesis most organisations resist: that value lives at the edges, not the centre. The best talent isn't where you expect it. The best ideas don't come from headquarters. And the biggest returns come from reconceiving how work gets done — not optimising how it's always been done.

My route in was making things — directing commercials, editing, VFX, hanging from helicopters to get the shot. That hands-on creative background shapes everything I do now: I don't theorise about transformation, I build it. From a startup that moved high-end visual effects off six-figure hardware onto the desktop, to a globally-distributed operation spanning 1,000+ people across seven countries, built years before remote work went mainstream. Same pattern each time: find value trapped behind an artificial barrier, build the mechanism to release it.

Now I focus on what happens when AI meets real operations — not the demo, but the deployment.

I speak about operational transformation, growth, culture, AI beyond the proof-of-concept, and the patterns that repeat every time new capability demands new ways of working.

I've spent 25+ years proving a thesis most organisations resist: that value lives at the edges, not the centre. The best talent isn't where you expect it. The best ideas don't come from headquarters. And the biggest returns come from reconceiving how... Show more

Mr. G (Galeno Chua)

Mr. G (Galeno Chua)

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU.

His sustainable business approach has won him the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation's Green Business Awards and helped push the sustainable business agenda for organizations such as the United Nations and Oxfam to the Royal Government of Cambodia.

He has a strong belief that empathetic dialogue and design are key life skills to both personal and professional success, and is currently on a mission to solve real world issues through empathy, entrepreneurship and principled leadership.

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU. His sustai... Show more

Verso Tafon

Verso Tafon

Verso Tafon is a certified graphic designer and creative professional based in Cameroon. He studied Maritime Administration at the University of Bamenda and lived and schooled in Nigeria for over 18 years, experiences that shaped his creativity, discipline, and global perspective. He is the founder of Xousiahub, a creative agency dedicated to helping brands, churches, businesses, influencers, and media companies build strong visual identities and digital experiences.

Through his work, Verso has helped clients strengthen their brand presence, create impactful content, and reach their audiences effectively. He has collaborated with Beyond Company LTD, supported media houses with livestream setups, built modern content creation studios, and managed operations at God Firm LTD.

Passionate about combining creativity, strategy, and technology, Verso focuses on delivering high-quality graphic design, brand identity development, media production, and livestream solutions. His goal is to help clients bring their ideas to life and make a meaningful impact through visual storytelling.

Verso Tafon is a certified graphic designer and creative professional based in Cameroon. He studied Maritime Administration at the University of Bamenda and lived and schooled in Nigeria for over 18 years, experiences that shaped his creativity, disc... Show more

Katrina Owens

Katrina Owens

Katrina Owens is a podcast host, speaker, and personal branding and public relations strategist who helps founders and leaders turn their personal brand into a revenue-generating asset: one that attracts opportunities, partnerships, and long-term growth. Known for her strategic approach to PR and positioning, Katrina helps entrepreneurs become recognized authorities and convert that recognition into tangible outcomes, including paid speaking engagements, media features, brand partnerships, and scalable income.

After a decade working in corporate marketing and public relations, Katrina traded boardrooms for her own bold vision, launching her company to support ambitious founders, executives, and service-based business owners who are doing exceptional work but leaving money and opportunity on the table due to under-visibility.

Today, Katrina teaches business owners how to intentionally build “famous-feeling” personal brands that actively support business growth. Through her frameworks, coaching, and thought leadership, she shows clients how to position their expertise, tell stories that convert, and use PR and visibility as tools for expansion, without relying on expensive agencies or chasing influencer culture. Her clients have landed features in Vogue, The New York Times, top-charting podcasts, paid stages, and brand partnerships around the world by leveraging their personal brand as a strategic driver of income, influence, and long-term legacy.

Katrina Owens is a podcast host, speaker, and personal branding and public relations strategist who helps founders and leaders turn their personal brand into a revenue-generating asset: one that attracts opportunities, partnerships, and long-term gro... Show more

David Akinyemi

David Akinyemi

David Akinyemi is a Web Designer, SEO Specialist, and Tech Entrepreneur with a deep passion for people, missions, and enterprise. He co-founded YouLift in August 2015, a start-up dedicated to launching ambitious tech solutions for the Global South, and is currently at the helm of developing the Churched App, a one stop hub community automation tool for churches.

With a rich background in technology and digital marketing, David has worked in various capacities, from leading community initiatives at Gtext Media in Ogba, Lagos to serving as a Business Assistant and Web Designer at WebBoxOut in Ikoyi. Over the past 9 years, he has also led development, design, and digital marketing efforts at YouLift in Ibadan. Beyond his work with YouLift, David has collaborated with notable organizations such as Carviva - a leading autocare startup in Nigeria, ManageMyWebsite in the United Kingdom and Sustainable Digital in Vermont, United States. Currently, he holds a position as a Senior Web Designer and SEO Specialist with Spaceworks Studio in the UAE.

As a dedicated mentor and educator, David has trained over 1000 young university students across Nigeria, in a bid to inspire the next generation of tech leaders. He’s also the founder of the David Akinyemi School of Thought and Philosophical Engagement, a family trust bequeathed with the responsibility of sponsoring the education of public high school students who stand out during an annual debating and essay writing competition in Ondo State, Nigeria. He also give back to the community through Autoimmune Africa and gibormag. He recently spoke at TedxUCHIbadan on the struggles of chronic disease patients seeking access to quality healthcare in Nigeria.

In his personal life, David is a devout Christian, a loving husband to Vek Akinyemi, and a proud father to Iyebiye and Tirenioluwa. He participated in a Bachelor of Arts program in Theatre and Media Arts at the University of Benin from 2014 - 2017 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Ibadan from 2017 – 2024. An avid Liverpool Football Club supporter, he also enjoys writing poetry and playing checkers in his free time.

David Akinyemi is a Web Designer, SEO Specialist, and Tech Entrepreneur with a deep passion for people, missions, and enterprise. He co-founded YouLift in August 2015, a start-up dedicated to launching ambitious tech solutions for the Global South, a... Show more

Olga Limanska

Olga Limanska

I'm a PR and communications professional helping tech companies turn complex ideas into stories that connect. With experience spanning cybersecurity, AI, SaaS, and consumer tech, I craft tailored media strategies that drive visibility, trust, and measurable growth.

Throughout my career, I’ve partnered with startups and established brands to secure high-impact coverage, build strong thought leadership profiles, and create communication strategies that truly resonate. My approach combines strategy, creativity, and data-driven storytelling, ensuring every pitch, campaign, or media placement serves a clear business goal.

I'm a PR and communications professional helping tech companies turn complex ideas into stories that connect. With experience spanning cybersecurity, AI, SaaS, and consumer tech, I craft tailored media strategies that drive visibility, trust, and mea... Show more

Khoa Le

Khoa Le

Khoa Dinh Le is an entrepreneur and filmmaker, founder of Sutudu (Sutudu.com and Sutudu.tv), an AI-powered film & TV licensing marketplace and streaming platform helping creators distribute and monetize content worldwide. He has directed and produced work across film, commercials, and corporate branding, with projects distributed globally and available on major OTT platforms.

Khoa Dinh Le is an entrepreneur and filmmaker, founder of Sutudu (Sutudu.com and Sutudu.tv), an AI-powered film & TV licensing marketplace and streaming platform helping creators distribute and monetize content worldwide. He has directed and produced... Show more

Jade Everage

Jade Everage

Jade Everage, aka Marketing Moonie, is a social media marketer whose passion is bringing marketing solutions to small businesses and creators in the nerd culture space. From cosplayers and con vendors to anime podcasts and geek‑brand startups, she helps micro‑brands tap into the growing fandom market economy with tailored marketing systems, community growth, content strategies.

Jade Everage, aka Marketing Moonie, is a social media marketer whose passion is bringing marketing solutions to small businesses and creators in the nerd culture space. From cosplayers and con vendors to anime podcasts and geek‑brand startups, she he... Show more

Noël Burgess

Noël Burgess

I’m a journalist, content creator, and speaker living in northern California Wine Country. My goal is to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in wine/spirits, food, and travel with a focus on the places, the products, and most importantly the people! My writing and video content can be seen in Travel + Leisure, Food & Wine, VinePair, Haute Living San Francisco, Dwell, HotelsAbovePar, Wine Enthusiast, and many other media platforms. Follow me on Instagram @mrnoelburgess and YouTube @noelburgessonourway

I’m a journalist, content creator, and speaker living in northern California Wine Country. My goal is to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in wine/spirits, food, and travel with a focus on the places, the products, and most importantly t... Show more

Natalie Preddie

Natalie Preddie

Natalie Preddie is an award-winning Canadian travel journalist. author and on-air personality with bylines in international publications including National Geographic, Globe & Mail, Travel & Leisure and The Washington Post.

Natalie shares travel tips with national television & radio audiences on shows like Breakfast Television, Sirius XM and Montreal Now.

She is the host of the travel series, GET LOST with Natalie Preddie.

Most importantly, she is the mother of 3 little boys aged 4,6 and 8.

You can follow her travel adventures on social media and her site, nattyponline.com.

IG: @ _nattyp

Natalie Preddie is an award-winning Canadian travel journalist. author and on-air personality with bylines in international publications including National Geographic, Globe & Mail, Travel & Leisure and The Washington Post. Natalie shares travel... Show more

Jennifer Walton

Jennifer Walton

Jennifer Walton is a strategic narrative consultant and the founder of the Sky Nile Narrative Development Studio, where she helps Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and public sector organizations transform how they're understood, trusted, and chosen.

With over 15 years leading brand strategy across Abbott Nutrition, Nationwide Insurance, and Columbus Regional Transit Authority, Jennifer has built a reputation for solving the problem many leaders don't want to name: their story isn't working for them. She specializes in developing proprietary narrative frameworks that align leadership teams, activate culture, and create measurable market differentiation.

Jennifer's talks blend strategic rigor with cultural intelligence, delivering actionable frameworks that audiences can implement immediately. She speaks on corporate storytelling, authentic leadership, and how organizations can build narratives that drive belief, action, and long-term impact. Her approach is direct, practical, and designed for leaders who are tired of visibility without results.

She also writes The C.O.D.E., a weekly newsletter on LinkedIn teaching career "cheat codes" to ambitious professionals navigating organizational life.

Jennifer lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two daughters where she serves on a number of Boards, such as Zora's House, Girls Health Period, and the Columbus College of Art and Design. Community building is not just a passion, but a priority for her as the co-founder of GroundxGrind, a community social hub in her city that brings together people and programming in a thirdspace that's thriving.

Jennifer Walton is a strategic narrative consultant and the founder of the Sky Nile Narrative Development Studio, where she helps Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and public sector organizations transform how they're understood, trusted, and chosen... Show more

Jonny Ross

Jonny Ross

Jonny Ross is a Fractional CMO, digital strategist, and founder of the award-winning agency Fleek Marketing. With over 24 years’ experience in small business and more than two decades working in digital, Jonny helps organisations cut through the noise, build visibility, and turn their websites and marketing into genuine growth engines.

A former e-commerce business owner himself, Jonny brings a practical, commercial mindset to everything he does. His work focuses on modern SEO, content strategy, and discoverability in evolving search environments — including AI-driven platforms and generative search — always grounded in real customer behaviour and measurable outcomes.

Jonny works with leadership teams to clarify strategy, strengthen messaging, and build internal capability, often acting as the bridge between vision and execution. He’s known for translating complex digital concepts into clear, actionable insights that teams can actually use.

An experienced speaker, trainer, and event host, Jonny regularly talks about SEO, AI, content, and website strategy, with an emphasis on storytelling, trust, and long-term visibility. He is co-author of WebProud, host of the Jonny Ross Fractional CMO Podcast, and co-host of the 90-Day Website Mastery Podcast.

Jonny’s approach is simple: no gimmicks, no jargon — just smart strategy that helps businesses get found, chosen, and grow with confidence.

Jonny Ross is a Fractional CMO, digital strategist, and founder of the award-winning agency Fleek Marketing. With over 24 years’ experience in small business and more than two decades working in digital, Jonny helps organisations cut through the nois... Show more

Sophie Ferrlein

Sophie Ferrlein

Sophie has spent over a decade working with data across various roles, company sizes, and industries. With a deep passion for data and a versatile background in media informatics and communication studies, she thrives at the intersection of analytics and creativity.

In her professional role as a Senior Product Data Analyst, Sophie focuses on transforming complex data into actionable insights and advocates for the power of data visualization to simplify decision-making and drive business success.

On the creative side, Sophie explores the artistic potential of (mostly open) data. She crafts data-driven code art, where numbers and algorithms shape captivating visuals. Sharing her journey on Instagram @bytesbysophie, she showcases digital sketches, inspiring others to see data in a new light.

Sophie has spent over a decade working with data across various roles, company sizes, and industries. With a deep passion for data and a versatile background in media informatics and communication studies, she thrives at the intersection of analytics... Show more

Taylor Maez

Taylor Maez

Taylor Sisco Maez is the Principal Product Manager at Capital Group, where she leads the end-user experience strategy for Enterprise Generative AI and core productivity platforms. With extensive expertise in implementing Microsoft 365 solutions, Taylor is dedicated to driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and fostering collaboration through cutting-edge technologies.

Outside of work, Taylor is an avid traveler who enjoys exploring new cultures and cuisines with her husband. She is also a devoted dog owner, cherishing time spent with her Havanese, Jack. Committed to sharing knowledge, Taylor helps others maximize their use of Microsoft technologies, believing that technology can unite people and create meaningful connections.

Taylor Sisco Maez is the Principal Product Manager at Capital Group, where she leads the end-user experience strategy for Enterprise Generative AI and core productivity platforms. With extensive expertise in implementing Microsoft 365 solutions, Tayl... Show more

Dr. Luis Alberto Gonzalez

Dr. Luis Alberto Gonzalez

Dr. Luis Alberto González is a seasoned media executive and educator with over 35 years of experience in Radio, TV, Newspaper and Digital Media journalism. He’s currently the owner and president of Newsroom Coaching and Consulting, a company he founded in 2003 in Los Angeles, CA.

He’s also an Assistant Professor of Journalism and New Media at Florida International University. Due to his experience and current work with media clients, his students are exposed to the latest trends in content creation, technology, and workflows.

Luis Alberto has spent the past 25 years leading the technological evolution of newsrooms, while managing its direct impact on journalism. During his tenure as a media executive, he led the implementation of TV duopolies, the transition to tapeless, wireless, digital newsrooms, and the integration of new media. His work in local markets such as Boston, Atlanta, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Buenos Aires and San Juan, has given him a unique perspective regarding multicultural audiences, and their shift in behavior as consumers of content across multiple platforms. His clients include Voice of America, the Associated Press, GFR Media, and the Telemundo Station Group.

His work has earned him Emmys, Golden Mikes, and the RTDNA Communicator Award.

Luis Alberto was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where he obtained his B.A in Communications from the University of the Sacred Heart. He holds a M.S. in Broadcasting from Boston University and recently obtained a Ph.D in Journalism from Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

Dr. Luis Alberto González is a seasoned media executive and educator with over 35 years of experience in Radio, TV, Newspaper and Digital Media journalism. He’s currently the owner and president of Newsroom Coaching and Consulting, a company he found... Show more

Owilla Abiro Mercy

Owilla Abiro Mercy

Owilla Abiro Mercy is a seasoned researcher and writer specialising in investigative journalism at the African Institute for Investigative Journalism (AIIJ). With a passion for uncovering hidden truths and holding the powerful accountable, Mercy has dedicated her career to shedding light on critical social issues and promoting transparency in Africa.

Mercy's work extends beyond traditional reporting. She is well-versed in utilising Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) techniques to gather and analyse digital information, adding a new dimension to her investigative reports. Her expertise in OSINT has garnered attention and recognition within the industry, and she is often sought after for her insights on leveraging digital tools and technologies in investigative journalism.

Passionate about sharing knowledge and empowering others, Mercy frequently conducts workshops and training sessions on investigative journalism, OSINT, and ethical reporting practises. She believes in nurturing the next generation of investigative journalists and equipping them with the skills necessary to make a significant impact.

Owilla Abiro Mercy is a seasoned researcher and writer specialising in investigative journalism at the African Institute for Investigative Journalism (AIIJ). With a passion for uncovering hidden truths and holding the powerful accountable, Mercy has ... Show more

Erich Archer

Erich Archer

Erich Archer has spent over two decades in television and media production, combining a deep understanding of storytelling with a forward-thinking approach to technology. An Emmy-winning producer, he has led high-impact projects across film, television, and branded content, always pushing the boundaries of creative storytelling. As the founder of CGA Creative, Erich helps brands integrate generative AI into their content strategies, making high-quality production more efficient and accessible.
His expertise in AI-driven storytelling has made him a sought-after consultant, working with companies across Hollywood, Bollywood, and beyond to navigate the intersection of AI and media. Recognized in The CEO’s AI Playbook by Chuck Bolton, Erich is actively shaping conversations about how AI is transforming creative industries, guest lecturing at Section, Innovating with AI, and Harvard University.
A regular podcast guest, Erich shares insights on the evolving role of AI in content creation, storytelling, and business strategy. As the creator of Smarty Pants AI, an AI ecosystem designed for industry professionals, he is helping companies integrate AI into strategic decision-making.
With AI rapidly changing how content is produced and consumed, Erich’s experience in both traditional media and emerging AI technologies offers a practical perspective for businesses looking to stay ahead. His work focuses on making AI an asset for storytellers, marketers, and creators—helping them produce engaging, high-quality content at scale.

Erich Archer has spent over two decades in television and media production, combining a deep understanding of storytelling with a forward-thinking approach to technology. An Emmy-winning producer, he has led high-impact projects across film, televisi... Show more

Ryan Bn. de Ropp

Ryan Bn. de Ropp

Former data architect, current Geopolitical Strategist with Risk Ready Research.

I have worked on just about every database system under the sun, and now use those software development skills to map OSINT to track and forecast global events.

I hope to shed light on the possible futures we may find ourselves in over the next decade involving AI, our CPU supply chain, and their relationship, that most people aren't prepared for.

I'm also a niche celebrity in the Dungeons and Dragons community, have a successful YouTube channel called Dungeon Masterpiece, and have parlayed that success into founding and running a premium RPG Retreat at Ancient Lore Village called Green Dragon Fest which has sold out every year.

Former data architect, current Geopolitical Strategist with Risk Ready Research. I have worked on just about every database system under the sun, and now use those software development skills to map OSINT to track and forecast global events. I ... Show more

Craig Smith

Craig Smith

Meet Craig Smith: an unstoppable force in Live Television Shopping and a dynamic keynote speaker who commands both the stage and the screen. As the go-to host for global brands like Google, HP, Samsung, and more, Craig doesn’t just represent companies—he elevates them. His mastery of storytelling is a true superpower, one that energizes audiences, ignites customer passion, and builds communities that actually stay engaged.

With over 4,000 live television appearances, Craig has become a recognizable face in broadcast retail. His magnetic presence has lit up QVC, CBS Saturday Morning, America’s Steals & Deals, and HSN, reaching millions of viewers nationwide. Whether pitching to Fortune 500 executives or inspiring a packed auditorium, Craig brings a clear conviction: storytelling is the ultimate connector.

What sets Craig apart is a rare combination of skill and presence. He crafts experiences audiences remember, turns customers into advocates, and builds vibrant communities around the brands he champions. A seasoned speaker, emcee, media coach, and live TV host, Craig helps organizations communicate with clarity, confidence, and connection.

When you want to captivate, connect, and create lasting impact, Craig Smith is the one audiences never forget.

Meet Craig Smith: an unstoppable force in Live Television Shopping and a dynamic keynote speaker who commands both the stage and the screen. As the go-to host for global brands like Google, HP, Samsung, and more, Craig doesn’t just represent companie... Show more

Stacy Quackenbush

Stacy Quackenbush

Accomplished executive and visionary leader, recognized as one of the top women in Web3 and AI by Unstoppable Women of Web3/AI and shortlisted by Wirex for Best Founder. With a distinguished track record in immersive entertainment, blockchain, and decentralized tech education, Stacy has built and scaled transformative ventures, including the first fully immersive, technology-driven entertainment complex in the U.S. and pioneering blockchain platforms in education and entertainment. A leader in tokenizing ticketing, streaming educational content on-chain, and using NFTs as souvenirs for events, she has also driven initiatives to fund artists and release new music through blockchain-backed models, enabling creators to connect directly with audiences and unlock new revenue streams. Known for driving strategic growth, building influential partnerships, and leading high-profile, tech-driven projects, Stacy excels at creating transformative opportunities within the Web3 space across industries. Skilled in investor relations, brand positioning, and team development, she is dedicated to reshaping the future of tech, entertainment, and decentralized learning, empowering communities, and fostering innovation in high-growth sectors.

Accomplished executive and visionary leader, recognized as one of the top women in Web3 and AI by Unstoppable Women of Web3/AI and shortlisted by Wirex for Best Founder. With a distinguished track record in immersive entertainment, blockchain, and de... Show more

Lizzi Pittman

Lizzi Pittman

Lizzi's career in client services encompasses a wide variety of projects across multiple disciplines: video & media production, traditional & digital advertising, and app & website development. As a Sr. Project Manager, Lizzi manages projects from discovery to delivery, with a focus on collaborative and compassionate leadership.

Lizzi's career in client services encompasses a wide variety of projects across multiple disciplines: video & media production, traditional & digital advertising, and app & website development. As a Sr. Project Manager, Lizzi manages projects from di... 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