GatherVerse AI Summit 2026
February 3-4, 2026 (8:00 AM PST)
Meet the speakers
Whitney Hart: Bio
Whitney Hart is a strategist at the intersection of innovation and humanity. As Chief Strategy Officer at Avenue Z, she leads transformative initiatives that elevate both revenue and reputation for mission-driven organizations. Her approach fuses AI, blockchain, and finance into communications frameworks that prioritize accessibility, ethical innovation, and long-term societal impact.
With a career spanning Web2 and Web3, Whitney has advised Fortune 500 companies, governments, and global institutions through complex digital transformations. She was Executive Director of Feral File, where she helped democratize access to software art and forge partnerships between artists and institutions. As Interim Chief Marketing Officer of Trilitech, she championed the responsible expansion of the Tezos blockchain ecosystem, centering community engagement and cultural relevance.
Whitney’s work reflects a deep respect for the intersection of culture, technology, and communication. From reshaping public perception in times of crisis to building systems of trust in decentralized platforms, she blends strategic foresight with a human-centered mindset. Her clients, ranging from financial leaders like Easterly to culture-defining platforms like FashionNova, share a commitment to innovation that empowers people.
She also contributes her time as an advisor to the Blaffer Art Museum, Feral File, and Rhizome, supporting initiatives that amplify creative and inclusive voices. Whitney is passionate about creating ethical frameworks for digital engagement, where influence is measured in reach, responsibility, transparency, and positive impact.
Quentin Reul: Bio
Dr. Quentin Reul is a leading authority in Neuro-Symbolic AI, a published author with over 20 research publications, and an international speaker on AI strategy. Currently serving as Director of AI Strategy & Solutions at expert.ai, he empowers information professionals and enterprises with cutting-edge AI, specializing in leveraging knowledge graphs, NLP, and generative AI to unlock the full potential of data. His work focuses on elevating information into actionable insights and driving strategic decisions within information-driven organizations.
Quentin brings comprehensive experience across the entire AI lifecycle, from strategic scoping and data collection to model development, deployment, and monitoring. He is a vocal champion of “lean innovation”;, advocating for agile approaches to accelerate product delivery and ensure AI initiatives yield tangible business results. His insights empower business leaders to confidently navigate the complexities of AI adoption and unlock its transformative power.
Lavinia Osbourne: Bio
Lavinia is a recognised agent for change, an entrepreneur right at the front of Blockchain technology development and a futurist for web3 and AI. Through her advocacy and internationally recognised work with WiBT, she has won and been nominated for numerous accolades including a LinkedIn Top Voice in Tech & Innovation.
Passionate about bringing blockchain back to its egalitarian ideals of equal opportunity for all,
Lavinia works tirelessly to break down barriers and open doors by raising up underrepresented voices, and has created global chapters in different parts of the world.
Christopher Lafayette: Bio
Christopher Lafayette, an influential emergent technologist, speaker, and humanitarian is making remarkable strides in the metaverse, AI, medtech and applied sciences. Through eco-convergence, He’s currently studying 270+ emerging technologies.
His contributions and influence extend from Silicon Valley to the international stage, as he passionately advocates for a more equitable culture in technology.
He strongly adheres to the principle that everyone, irrespective of color or gender, should have the opportunity to build the fabric of technology.
GatherVerse, a brainchild of Christopher Lafayette, is an inspired response to an age of unprecedented technological growth.
He established Gatherverse to merge technology and human experience, ensuring every digital innovation reflects and caters to the aspirations of its users. He also founded HoloPractice, merging healthcare and technology. Along with Co-Founding Aug Lab, intersecting life sciences with AI and immersive technologies.
Christopher is a highly sought-after brand developer renowned for his exceptional ability to elevate brands to new heights placing specific emphasis on design principles, emerging technologies and humane intersections.
His advisory and keynote speaking roles span prestigious organizations, including Microsoft, Google, Meta, NFL, Mayo Clinic, Merlin Entertainments, CES, Cornell Tech, Juniper Networks, The Linux Foundation, European Commission, Nikko Hotels, Linux Foundation, Cisco, Microsoft, Salesforce, The WICT Network, NCFL, ATD, Summerfest, COABE, IME West, Verizon, Stanford University, Berkeley Haas, Tübingen University, Cal Poly, Lethbridge College, Duke University, San Jose College of Engineering, and UCLA, among others.
Additionally, his influence has reached renowned chefs, musicians, and hundreds of startups.
Lafayette consistently advocates for the integration of humanity in technological progress.
Shamane Tan: Bio
Shamane Tan, a visionary influencer and TEDx speaker, excels in aligning C-Suite and Board members with cybersecurity imperatives.
As the author of “Cyber Risk Leaders,” she unravels executive communication nuances and distills C-Suite expectations.
Her work extends to “Cyber Mayday and the Day After,” a roadmap for navigating crises by mining the wisdom of global C-level executives. Her recent book, “Building a Cyber Resilience,” featured on Forbes Australia’s top list of CEO books.
Shamane also founded a transcontinental cyber risk and executive meetup fostering mentorship and thought leadership across seven cities.
Recipient of the IFSEC Global Top 20 Cybersecurity Influencer award, Shamane is the Chief Growth Officer at Sekuro, leveraging technical prowess and business acumen to advance security maturity.
Dr. Puneet Sharma: Bio
Dr. Puneet Sharma, a distinguished academician, researcher, and expert in the field of Computer Science and Engineering. Currently serving as the Associate Dean at the Unitedworld Institute of Technology, Karnavati University, Gujarat, Dr. Sharma brings over 13 + years of exemplary teaching and research experience to his leadership roles. He has previously held the position of Dean Academics at SR University, Warangal, Telangana, and served as an Assistant Professor at Amity University and SRM-IST, Delhi-NCR.
Dr. Sharma holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, an M. Tech from CRM University, Tamil Nadu, and a B.E. from Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu. Further enhancing his expertise, he is a certified expert from the AWS Educate Academy and holds a Diploma in Networking Protocol Engineering from Annamalai University.
With an impressive portfolio of over 43+ research publications in prestigious platforms such as Scopus, SCI, Elsevier, and IEEE, along with authored book chapters published by Springer, Dr. Sharma is a recognized thought leader in his field. His research interests encompass Cloud Computing, Cloud Forensics, Software Testing, and Operating Systems, culminating in a patent credit for his innovative contributions. A proud member of IEEE and an invited member of the London Journals Press, Dr. Sharma actively enriches the academic community by organizing workshops, faculty development programs, guest lectures, and sessions at national and international conferences.
Prof. Veera Talukdar: Bio
Prof (Dr.) Veera (Pateria) Talukdar
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
linkedin.com/in/dr-veera-pateria-talukdar-26930b17/
Scopus ID: 26041100300 | Vidwan ID: 333133 | Google Scholar User: azy2nTkAAAAJ&hl ACM Professional Member – 2338244
Professional Summary Dynamic university administrator with extensive experience in strategic planning, NEP2020 implementation, and driving academic excellence. Proven leader in elevating institutional positioning through quality improvements, aligning with NAAC, NBA, and accreditation standards. Spearheaded cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, securing numerous publications and patents while fostering innovation. Expertly cultivated national and international partnerships, negotiating MOUs with universities and industries to enhance collaboration. Optimized administrative efficiency and elevated academic standards by effectively managing key departments.
● National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) Present
Member Coordinator
Work Experience
● Brainware University – Kolkata July 2025 – Present
Professor & Pro Vice Chancellor
● Karnavati University – Gandhinagar September 2024 – July 2025
Professor & Controller of Examinations
● DY Patil International University – Pune June 2023 – June 2024
Professor & Director IQAC
● The Assam Kaziranga University – Jorhat October 2022 – May 2023
Professor & Registrar
● Shri Ram College of Commerce, Arts & Science – Mumbai June 2016 – September 2022
Professor & Principal
● M K College of Science, Arts and Commerce – Kalyan June 2014 – May 2016
Associate Professor & Vice Principal
● NSHM College of Management and Technology – Kolkata April 2008 – May 2014
Associate Professor
● Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management (IISWBM)May 2001 – March 2008 Assistant Professor
Professional Responsibilities
● Spearheaded timely, efficient, and progressive execution of academic, administrative, and financial tasks through comprehensive audits and a quarterly review system.
● Developed a strategic roadmap for high-quality academic and research programs by integrating NEP 2020 guidelines and adhering to the latest UGC standards.
● Implemented a continuous feedback mechanism engaging various stakeholders to enhance educational quality and outcomes.
● Optimized and incorporated modern teaching and learning methodologies to elevate instructional effectiveness.
● Strengthened the credibility of evaluation processes by integrating the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) framework within the university system.
● Ensured the adequacy, upkeep, and equitable allocation of services to meet stakeholder needs effectively.
● Facilitated the dissemination of research findings and fostered networking collaborations with institutions in India and globally.Organized Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) to sensitize faculty toward holistic development and professional growth.
● Contributed as a Board of Studies (BOS) and Academic Council member to initiate curriculum updates aligned with NEP 2020.
● Formulated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for committees, streamlining operations and documentation for accreditation and government compliance.
● Assembled a pool of seasoned industry experts to design an industry-aligned curriculum enhancing employability.
● Launched industry-academia collaborations, including engineering projects with Tata Motors and Anand Motors, to bridge skill gaps.
Education
University of Mumbai (2023)
LLB 76%
Jadavpur University (2013)
Ph. D NA
Jadavpur University (1996)
B.Ed. 59.8%
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Awadh (1994)
M.Com 61.5%
Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya-Jabalpur (1992)
M.Sc. 68%
Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya-Jabalpur (1990)
B.SC 51.5%
Certification _
Marketing Management-I IIT Kanpur via NPTEL
Sales and Distribution Management IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Managerial Skills for Interpersonal Dynamics IIT Roorkee via NPTEL
Consumer Behaviour IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
E-Business IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Intellectual Property Rights and Competition Law IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Qualitative Research Methods and Research Writing IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Marketing Research and Analysis – II IIT Roorkee via NPTEL
Supply Chain Analytics IIT Roorkee via NPTEL
Introduction to Machine Learning IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Simulation of Business Systems – An Applied Approach IIT Kharagpur via NPTEL
Building transformer Based NLP Applications Nvidia
Workshops
Name Organizing Institute
National Workshop on “Proteomics and Bioinformatics”
BOSE Institute
Quality Improvement Program (QIP) on Drug Delivery and Drug Targeting Research Department of Pharmacy, Jadavpur University
National Workshop on “Protein Folding
and Bioinformatics”
BOSE Institute
Workshop on National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health Care
Quality Council of India, Kolkata
Seminar on Importance of NABH in Hospitals Quality Council of India & ACME, Kolkata
MHRD/AICTE Sponsored Summer School on
Bioinformatics (Staff Development Program) NIT Durgapur
Short-Term Course on Techniques in Molecular Biotechnology The NIIT Institute, New Delhi
6-Months Course on Genetic Pathologies Dept. of Biophysics, Molecular Biology & Genetics, University of Calcutta
1-Year Course on C and C++ Programming LMIIT, Jodhpur Park Centre, Kolkata
6-Months Computer Basics Course NIIT, Hazar Road, Kolkata
Faculty Development Program on “Research Methods and Techniques”
Ramananda Arya DAV College
Online Learning Workshop for Faculty QASPIR (International Assessment Body)
Virtual Ten-Day FDP on Research Methodology Course MVN University + Shankar Narayan College+ ICSSR WRC
FDP on “Research Methodology & Survey Data Analysis” MVN University
FDP on “ICT Tools for Effective Teaching Learning” Kamala Nehru Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur
Generative AI for Text with Large Language Models IIIT Nagpur + IIITDM Jabalpur
Patents _
Application No.
Type
Country
Title of the Invention
202022100697 Utility Patent Germany Smart Hybrid Management System for Predicting E-Commerce User Churn Using Data Mining and Deep Learning
202211036577
Patent
India Blockchain-Based Commercial Inventory Management System and Method
202241048285
Patent
India Smart Management System for Online Technical Learning and Advanced Training Based on Information Literacy
407331-001 Design Patent India IoT Weather Reporting Device
433340-001 Design Patent India Intelligent Robot for Assisting Human Resource Department
443869-001 Design Patent India Smart Digital Watch
467081-001 Design Patent India Machine Learning Based Device for Enhancing Computer Network Safety
Technical and Language Skills
Category Details
Operating Systems Windows, Linux
Computer Skills MS Office Applications, Bioinformatics, Educational Technology Applications, Academic Auditing
Programming Languages
Python, R, C++, Java, SQL, HTML, CSS, PHP, Apex, Perl
Frameworks/Libraries TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, pandas, NumPy, React.js, Node.js
Cloud Platforms AWS, Google Cloud Platform
Data Skills Data Analysis and Visualization (Power BI, Tableau), Academic Auditing
Language Skills -Fluent (Speak, Read, Write): English, Hindi
-Intermediate (Speak, Read): Bengali, Marathi
-Beginner: French (A1 Level)
Haroon Bhorat: Bio
Haroon is Chairman of Sygnia Asset Management and is also Chair of the Nimble Group, and Non-Executive Director at listed JSE-listed retailer, PicknPay. He is a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, was a Cornell University research fellow, and studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Professor Bhorat is a member of the executive committee of the International Economic Association.
His career appointments include serving as an economic advisor to former Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan and to former presidents Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Motlanthe. He is that rare breed of an economist who is able seamlessly move between high level engagements with leaders in the private sector, public service and academia. Prof. Bhorat has an h-index is 43, ranking him as one of the most cited South African economists globally.
Micarah Malone-Gawu: Bio
Dr. Micarah Malone-Gawu is an AI researcher, educator, and founder of Carah.ai, where she explores how culture, cognition, and conscience can shape more ethical and equitable technology. Her work bridges research, design, and social impact, redefining how intelligent systems understand the people and communities they serve.
Grounded in cognitive and cultural inquiry, her research examines the evolving relationship between humans and machines, exploring how each learns from, mirrors, and influences the other. Rather than viewing technology as separate from humanity, she studies it as a co-creative force, one capable of reflecting collective memory, emotion, and understanding.
Through Carah.ai, Dr. Malone-Gawu leads initiatives that translate complex ideas in AI ethics into practical frameworks for education, design, and governance, empowering communities to build technology that doesn’t just process information but participates in human meaning.
Malvika Jethmalani: Bio
Malvika Jethmalani is a 3x CHRO, Certified Executive Coach, and the Founder of Atvis Group – a human capital advisory firm driven by the core belief that to win in the marketplace, businesses must first win in the workplace. Learn more at www.atvisgroup.com.
Malvika’s career has spanned over 15 years, and she possesses experience in the consulting, manufacturing, CPG, healthcare technology, and mobile gaming industries. She has led global, distributed People teams across multiple geographies and supported up to 5,000 employees in 50 countries. Her expertise includes HR strategy, talent management, talent acquisition, performance management, and organizational effectiveness. Malvika adopts a data-oriented approach to solving people challenges such as improving employee engagement, reducing turnover, developing leaders, transforming cultures, and developing talent strategies that power sustainable and profitable growth. Having served as Interim CFO and Interim COO, and given her extensive M&A (buy and sell side) and turnaround experience, she brings exceptional business acumen to her HR work.
Malvika earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and her MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.
Etoulia Salas-Burnett: Bio
Etoulia Salas-Burnett is a speaker, educator and systems thinker who works to remove the barriers that make technology feel difficult or out of reach, turning it into a tool for growth and leadership.
As founding director of the Howard University Center for Digital Business, she designs programs that connect students with digital skills, industry partnerships, and real-world experiences in AI, entrepreneurship and tech leadership. A proud Howard alumna, she also holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.
Etoulia’s philosophy is simple: everyone is a technologist. The question is never whether we use technology, but how we shape it to serve our vision and values. That belief has taken shape in her work at Howard University, where she has built initiatives that now define the Center for Digital Business. She leads The Yard @ Afrotech, a national platform for HBCU innovation; MeccaTech, an on-campus tech conference, and The Digital Literacy Project, a certificate-based program designed to help students build fluency in AI and digital skills.
Outside of titles and programs, Etoulia is most at home teaching and building systems that make life feel more possible. She is deeply committed to empowering communities of color to not just keep pace with technology, but to shape it – creating pathways for leadership, innovation and generational success.
Dr. Dhrubasish Sarkar: Bio
Prof. Dhrubasish Sarkar is presently serving as a Professor at NSHM Knowledge Campus, Kolkata. With over 28 years of diverse experience in teaching, training, research, curriculum design, academic leadership, and institutional development, Prof. Sarkar has held leadership positions at Amity University Kolkata, Supreme Knowledge Foundation, among others.
He has also served as Visiting Faculty at leading institutions including ICFAI Business School Kolkata, NMIMS Mumbai, Army Institute of Management Kolkata, and IMT Ghaziabad (Kolkata Chapter). His research interests include Computational Social Science, Recommendation Systems, Machine Learning, and AI for Social Good. He has co-authored more than 50 research publications in prestigious international journals, conference proceedings, and edited volumes, the majority with his students.
Prof. Sarkar is a frequent keynote speaker and panelist at various national and international forums, and serves on editorial review boards of reputed journals. He is actively involved as chair, committee member, and reviewer for numerous national and international conferences.
Professor Sarkar is a professional member of ACM and IEEE, and a life member of ISCA and ORSI. Prof. Sarkar is deeply passionate about collaboration, knowledge sharing, and driving academic excellence.
Quiana Bradshaw: Bio
Born and Raised in West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, I have a vast love for technology! Dr. Bradshaw has worked in higher education for 17 ½ years and previously before that in IT as a help desk and technical support agent and telecommunications. I am married with 3 wonderful children! The love of Technology happened when my father took me to see the original Tron movie (1982). I received my Doctor of Computer Science with a concentration in emerging media in September 2013 and was noted for making a significant contribution to the field. Serves a (SIIA) Software & Industry Information Association Codie Judge since 2016 to present & Serious Play Conference 2018 International Serious Play Awards Game Judge. My current research focuses on how applicable games are to education and how they can help curriculum designers create engaging curriculum for instructional technology. My goal is to create new emerging technologies and expand the STEM learning/distance education environment. I have various research interests in data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, metaverse, virtual world environments, video game development, games-based learning, game-based learning, machine learning, data analytics, human-computer interaction, information security, and educational technologies.
David Kaufer: Bio
David R. Kaufer is an autism and communication advocate, public speaker, and founder of KDMC Healthcare Marketing. Inspired by his son Stone, a once non-speaking autistic individual who now communicates through assistive technology, David bridges lived experience with innovation. His talks explore presuming competence, Spelling to Communicate, Brain Enhancement Therapy, and the role of AI as “Alternative Intelligence” to advance inclusion. He has presented at national education conferences, healthcare associations, and corporate DEI summits, equipping audiences with actionable strategies to unlock unseen potential and build inclusive systems.
Cecilia Lascialfari: Bio
Cecilia Lascialfari is the Founder of ARea6DoF an online magazine that explores the XR fields specialized into Art and Technology as XR, AI, AR, VR.
Cecilia is a GenAI Researcher & Speaker and Lead Art & Creativity for Women in AI Italy.
She creates dynamic artworks that combine Analog and Digital Art, Photography, with contents created with Generative Artificial Intelligence, enhanced by Augmented Reality, thanks to which the paintings come to life, telling the story behind their creation.
She exhibits her works in art exhibitions all over the world.
She is the Italian Representative of Artivive, an important AR platform for art, from Vienna, Austria and the organizer of the online events AWE Nite Florence (AWE, “Augmented World Expo”, based in the USA – New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles).
She is in constant contact with the most important Italian Research Institutes and Universities.
She has interviewed and collaborated with some of the most important professionals in the XR field.
Awarded Women in Tech Community Italy 2024, she served on the Voting Advisory Committee for Women in AI Global Innovation Awards 2025 (NY).
Cristina Obae: Bio
Cristina is a visionary and forward thinking innovative educational leader. She has over 20 years teaching experience both at University and secondary school level. She is passionate about curriculum and technology, strongly believing that it is through quality education that we can support the humankind and make the world advance one step at a time. Cristina has a PhD from the University of Bordeaux, a 2nd master’s degree in Educational Leadership from, TAMK, Finland, and is pursuing research towards a 2nd PhD on metaverse learning environments and curriculum at University of Lapland, Rovaniemi. Cristina was a member of the European Digital Education Hub squads on artificial intelligence (AI); immersive learning, explainable AI, futuring, sustainability and led the squad on hybrid learning.
Tanya Kelen: Bio
Founder & CEO Kelencontent (KCI), a high-impact production, distribution group + venture studios. With 20+ years of R&D product innovation to scaling globally.
Fortune 50-1000 Companies, Family Offices, Foundations, NGO’s, C-Suites, ED’s and Academia work with me to co-design Film-TV-AI-XR-WebXR, (M)EdTech products via curriculum development, marketing/PR, production, distribution.
Boost KPI’s, ROI-ROX with high impact creative content and go-to-market advisory that adds value and customer retention.
🔹Expert Content Creator🔹Producer 🔹Distributor🔹Supervised 8000+ hours of premium content (Films, TV Series, Digital-XR-EdTech Platforms) sold in 180+ territories
🔹$100 M+ revenue over career to date
🔹Venture Studio Partnership Development🔹Award-Winning Researcher/Grant Writer (Media-XR-AI-EdTech)🔹Co-Developed First XR-VR Storytelling and Digital XR Mobile Lab Pilot for Conestoga College’s NSERC-Awarded Grant (22-2025). Industry lead for sustainable model Northern ON Q42025
🔹2000+ buyers A&E, Animal Planet, APTN, Bell Media, BBC, CBC, Corus, Disney, HBO, ITV, Nickelodeon, YouTube & more!🔹Selected Credits: Hero Dogs of 9/11; Little Sedna, Empress of the Sea (Feature+Series Spin Off); Fun2Be (TFO); Faithful Hero Dogs
SERVICES:
🔹Bona Fide Distributor🔹 Investor🔹Executive Producer🔹Producer🔹Co-Producer
🔹Grant / RFP Writer to Secure Partnerships🔹Business Plans🔹Pitch Decks 🔹 Demo Reels🔹Competitive Analysis🔹Comprehensive Audits🔹Audience Development Plans🔹Social Impact Branded Campaigns🔹Go-to-Market Expert🔹PR & Marketing Services🔹IP Evaluation 🔹Tax Credits
ECOSYSTEM CONNECTOR:
🔹Networks, Studios, YouTube, Streamers, Publishers, Museums, Government Agencies, Academic Institutions, Innovation & Economic Development, NonProfits, Foundations, Family Offices, VCs for 🚀🚀🚀
NEWS:
🔹Launched XR Masterclass
🔹The Creative Pitch CoLabs
🔹Secured global distribution and spin-off rights for 250+ episodes www.JerryCo.tv Canada’s leading Indigenous Animation Studio and succession planning underway!
TRAINING PROGRAMS:
🔹The Creative Pitch Lab🔹Future of AI & XR in Premium Branded Content 🔹Medicinal Media Storytelling🔹Next Creative Star Program🔹Story World Building for Impact🔹Co-Production 101 | Non-Fiction | Fiction | Animation
SPEAKER TOPICS:
🔹The Future of AI + XR Learning in the Abundance Economy 🔹The Future of Media: How Film + TV Entertainment + AI-XR + Gaming = Medicinal Media for greater wealth creation for civil society
🔹Why neurodiverse teams perform 30% better than average (HBR 2017)
Lynn Gitau: Bio
Lynn Gitau is a distinguished figure in the technology sector, recognised for her innovative contributions and leadership in advancing digital interaction and communication.
As a key organiser in the tech community, Lynn has significantly contributed to bringing together thousands of enthusiasts and experts in a more subdued but impactful manner.
Her initiatives have laid a broad foundation for tech innovation beyond just XR, contributing to a substantial shift in the region’s technical landscape.
She is an emerging technologies explorer, national speaker, communications director for GatherVerse, founding member of the African Meta Club, and passionate about Social Impact XR and Web3.
Casey Jensen: Bio
With over 15 years of experience leading digital transformation, Casey has helped top brands like Apple, Hilton, Google, Walmart, and American Airlines turn emerging technologies into unforgettable brand moments. He specializes in translating complex tech—XR, AI, immersive media, and virtual production—into strategies that drive business impact and audience engagement. From guiding enterprise partnerships to advising on creative technology and leading business development, he thrives on building meaningful relationships and bringing bold ideas to life. As a passionate educator and frequent industry speaker, Casey is dedicated to making innovation approachable, exciting, and actionable. He now serves as Head of Client Partnerships for North America at Zebrar, where they deliver next-gen interactive experiences, digital activations, and immersive content for some of the world’s most iconic brands.
Stefan Youngblood: Bio
Stefan Youngblood is a global entrepreneur, a forward thinking social impact builder and founder of diverse ecosystems. His work includes founding the first Black AI Think Tank, HireBlack.com, ChatGPT For Beginners, and Black Metaverse. With a team of AI leaders, he launched the first National Black AI Literacy Week.
With a storied 40-year history in global connection, he stands as an authority in fusing technology, diversity, and social justice. Stefan is a compassionate bridge-builder, ardently working to close the job and wealth gap through AI and technology.
Earning recognition as an influential thinker in AI, Stefan’s expertise breaks conventional confines. His profound insights into Unbiased Ethical AI spark rich discussions with major AI leaders about the future of AI in work and society. His leadership impact spans from Myanmar and Tunisia to Ukraine, Haiti, and Nepal.
His passion for digital ownership and AI literacy is emphasized in his ongoing AI consulting business, National Black AI Literacy events, and training through his Jumpstart into AI, for the Black Community.
A proud father of three, (PopPop to 5), an enthusiastic explorer and hiker, and the honored recipient of the Shenandoah University Presidential Award, Stefan Youngblood shines in his efforts to integrate marginalized communities into the AI realm, always championing future progress through collaborative ideas.
Serenity Parker: Bio
Serenity “Ren” Parker is the founder of MyEIROS (Emerging Intelligence: Resonant Operating System), a relational-intelligence company pioneering emotionally attuned AI. Her work centers on building technologies that listen, learn, and evolve with humanity—bridging data and empathy, logic and resonance. Ren’s approach blends narrative design, ethics, and emotional cognition to create AI that is not only intelligent, but kind.
Russell Bundy: Bio
Russell is a dynamic multidisciplinary entrepreneur with a proven track record of success across diverse industries, including radio, music, e-commerce, and blockchain. Throughout his career and entrepreneurial ventures, Russell has consistently demonstrated a commitment to positive social impact. This dedication is evident in his radio business, where he strived to entertain listeners and foster a strong community, evidenced by the growth of his station to over 50,000 monthly unique listeners and a thriving 22,000-member Discord community in 2016.
Russell’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch a successful e-commerce business. This venture honed his strategic thinking and business management expertise, encompassing all aspects from operations to finance. Notably, he achieved this success through bootstrapping, demonstrating his resourcefulness and financial acumen.
The e-commerce world opened the door to the burgeoning landscape of Web3 technologies. Recognizing the potential of NFTs, Metaverse, Crypto, DAO, AI and other emerging trends, Russell became an early adopter in 2020. He has since developed a deep understanding of these technologies and their strategic applications. Witnessing both the opportunities and challenges within this new space, Russell is passionate about leveraging Web3 for positive global change.
Driven by the belief that financial success can coexist with social impact, Russell is dedicated to advocating for humanity before technology and creating a better world. His experiences across various industries have reinforced his commitment to using innovative technologies for the greater good. He aims to contribute to a future where technology serves to enhance human well-being and foster a more equitable and sustainable society.
Emily Wright: Bio
Emily Wright is a rising voice of their generation, with an eclectic background encompassing child care, education, marketing, and management, to name a few, and they have assisted in the establishment and growth of multiple small businesses.
Their work focuses primarily on the psychology of discrimination, and their organisation, It’ll be alwright®, offers wellness coaching and mental and emotional guidance, which helps to combat bias by improving clarity of headspace and thus decision-making. Emily has written multiple books, including ‘Mind Bites’, which presents simple techniques to reprogram the mind, and ‘The 100 Days of Colour: Celebrating Frequetic Beauty’, which explores the relationship between subconscious and algorithmic bias.
Emily offers insight on the intersection of Humanity and Technology, and how it relates to our evolution as a conscious species. Their research on bias is crucial to the conversation of ethics and equity.
Katherine Fry: Bio
Katherine Fry, SHRM-SCP, is an award-winning executive coach, burnout expert, and creator of Thought Intelligence™—a neuroscience-based, humanity-first framework that helps individuals think more clearly, make ethical decisions, and lead with resilience in an AI-driven world. With nearly 30 years of HR leadership experience, Katherine supports global leaders, women professionals, and mission-driven organizations in navigating overwhelm, mental fatigue, and rapid change.
Named the Best Burnout Coach in the U.S. (2024), Katherine delivers transformative programs that weave psychology, neuroscience, wellness, and inclusive leadership principles. Her work empowers people to reset their minds, strengthen their emotional wellbeing, and show up in their communities with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
Jesper Hansen: Bio
Jesper is a technologist and health expert having advanced his knowledge in health to bring it into simple universal principles.
He is focusing on athletic performance in his day-to-day life and work, taking fitness and health from an athlete’s perspective and bringing it to everyone else.
He is utilizing technology to create the connections and productivity to utilize it as an enhancement.
Charlene Nichols: Bio
Charlene Nichols is a visionary ecosystem architect and dedicated founder who builds bridges between business, technology, and human creativity. Her expertise spans immersive innovation, B2B logistics, and ecosystem-scale design, with a career rooted in transforming traditional industries through frontier technologies.
Thomas Wilson: Bio
Thomas R. Wilson is a professional Educator, Writer, Consultant, Business Owner, and purpose-driven event Specialist. His work is centered around an empathic and person-first mindset that works to access and uplift community voices. It is inspired by his own lived experiences and his desire to enact mindful change. His work has been highlighted internationally, and he has partnered with over 55 businesses in the United States. Overall, Thomas’s work continues to be a bright spot celebrated by the community.
Marian Villa: Bio
Marian Villa es Diseñadora Senior Full-Stack. Fellow de la Real Academia de Ingeniería de Londres. Mentora de Google Launchpad, pertenece al programa de Google Developers Experts en Desarrollo Web, y es embajadora de Women Techmakers a nivel global y forma parte del equipo de la Fundación Interledger fortaleciendo la relación con desarrolladores.
Anar Rasul: Bio
At the International Eurasia Press Fund, I led projects to success by developing strategic plans, ensuring clear communication, and engaging key stakeholders. Committed to global collaboration, I aligned initiatives with strategic goals and financial parameters.
As a Project Manager, I leveraged MS Project and data analytics to navigate risks and optimize resources with precision. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Management at the University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw, I am sharpening leadership and strategy skills to drive impactful outcomes.
Passionate about bridging international relations and project management, I thrive in dynamic, cross-cultural environments
Girlie Tendayi: Bio
Girlie Tendayi is a digital marketing specialist, small business owner and academic, passionate about Africa and the growth of African markets. As Co‑Founder of OptiPath Solutions, she empowers SMEs and entrepreneurs through digital strategy, visibility, and business optimisation. Her work equips African businesses to thrive in an evolving digital landscape.
Grant McGaugh: Bio
Grant McGaugh is a visionary leader in personal branding and business development, renowned for integrating technology and AI into strategic growth initiatives.
As the founder of 5 STAR BDM, he empowers professionals to enhance their brand presence and market influence.
In collaboration with the St. Croix Economic Development Initiative (SEDI-CASE), Grant has been instrumental in launching the CASE Capital Markets (CCM) Formation and Structure Program. This initiative aims to establish a new financial center in the U.S. Virgin Islands, attracting investments and fostering economic growth in the Caribbean and Latin America.
Grant’s expertise in leveraging AI-driven strategies has been pivotal in creating innovative solutions that bridge technology with economic development, positioning the region as a hub for financial and technological advancement.
Megha Chawla: Bio
Megha Chawla is the Co-Founder of Menlo AI, where she leads strategic initiatives to bridge emerging technologies and human-centric solutions. With over 5 years of experience in AR, AI, and spatial computing, Megha has worked closely with global enterprises to implement innovative XR and multiscreen solutions that enhance productivity and engagement. She has a proven track record in building partnerships, scaling tech products, and consulting Fortune 500 companies on integrating immersive technologies into their operations. Passionate about humanity-first tech, Megha is dedicated to exploring how AI and XR can create more accessible, ethical, and impactful experiences for people worldwide.
Srinivasan Pakkirisamy: Bio
Srinivasan Pakkirisamy serves as Director at SPL Consulting Inc, a Texas-based technology consulting leader and certified Oracle partner, where he brings nearly 23 years of global experience as a development lead and solution architect specializing in cloud-based digital transformations for enterprise organizations. An Oracle Certified Associate with technical certifications in Oracle Cloud, Oracle Financials Cloud, and as a Certified ScrumMaster®, Srinivasan has led complex projects across diverse industries including automotive, finance, and logistics, working previously for top global IT services companies and most recently serving as Principal Developer for a leading North American automotive parts provider. His multidisciplinary background includes a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Coimbatore Institute of Technology, a Master of Science in Computer Science from Liverpool John Moores University (UK), and advanced executive education from McKinsey & Company’s Asian Management Accelerator program, complemented by his role as an IEEE Senior Member and Judge for the prestigious Globee® Awards for Artificial Intelligence. With expertise spanning enterprise architecture, Oracle Cloud, Azure, AWS, and advanced payment processing solutions, Srinivasan specializes in transforming privacy and compliance requirements into competitive advantages through innovative cloud-native architectures that prioritize both technological excellence and human-centered design principles.
Delia Perla: Bio
Speaker Bio: Delia Perla
Delia Perla is a seasoned strategist and pioneering leader in digital transformation, with over 20 years of experience merging technology and business growth. She has guided Fortune 500 companies, mid-market enterprises, and fast-scaling startups through complex digital shifts, specializing in customer engagement, SaaS expansion, data intelligence for decision-making, and digital marketing campaigns with measurable ROI. Delia holds a BA from the University of Washington and Business Graduate studies at Notre Dame de Namur, providing her with a strong foundation for her work at the intersection of business and technology.
Currently, Delia serves as the Senior Vice President of Revenue at BizzTech, where she leads growth strategies and revenue operations for the company’s digital immersive technologies. Based in San Francisco, she oversees business development, strategy, product launch in the US, and market expansion initiatives, helping position BizzTech at the forefront of innovative AI and metaverse technologies.
At this webinar on Agentic AI for Cities, she shares how next-generation AI can redefine urban design, governance, and citizen experiences, weaving together global trends with her focus on customer-centric inclusivity.
Recognized by Crunchbase as one of the Top 30 Influential Women in Sales in 2023, Delia’s career bridges both enterprise and startup environments. She is known for translating emerging technologies like Agentic AI, automation, and digital twins into practical roadmaps for innovation and competitive advantage. Her certifications in AI Strategy from Cornell, as well as additional credentials from Microsoft and Google, demonstrate her commitment to driving technological adoption and business transformation.
She is a Founder of Strategy Sphere Advisors LLC and advises start ups and projects when time allows. As a trusted advisor and active thought partner, Delia participates in panels and executive workshops, sharing and learning from others how to navigate technology-driven change. Beyond her corporate leadership, Delia dedicates time to mentorship and philanthropy, supporting digital skills training for underrepresented groups and collaborating with nonprofits to advance technology education. Her commitment ensures digital transformation extends beyond business, bringing greater access and innovation to communities.
She was born in Peru and raised in Seattle, WA. She is a mother of three adult sons who all live in the Bay Area. She enjoys hiking, traveling, live music, and staying current with a variety of podcasts. She is also an enthusiastic supporter of the Seahawks and Sounders.
James Welniak: Bio
James Welniak is a digital transformation expert, keynote speaker, and founder of KUP Advisory, with over 25 years of experience leading global organizations through the evolving challenges of technology, leadership, and human performance.
For 14 years at Deloitte, James guided clients through complex change, helping them embrace the rise of artificial intelligence while staying grounded in mindful productivity and human-centered innovation. He became known for his ability to balance strategic clarity with emotional intelligence—teaching teams how to thrive in ambiguity, not just execute in certainty.
But James’ most profound transformation came not in a boardroom—but in a hospital room. After years of digital overload, he experienced a 10-day hospitalization for suicidal thoughts—a breaking point brought on by digital addiction. A medical MRI, along with diagnoses of Tinnitus and TMJ, became the wake-up call he could no longer ignore.
Out of that crisis, James created the Mindful Relationship with Information (MRI) practice—a transformative framework of methods and tools designed to heal, restore, and empower the self in the age of AI. MRI is not just about managing information—it’s about protecting the mind, restoring the body, and reconnecting with the spirit in a world that never stops demanding more.
Through KUP Advisory, James now brings MRI to the world via keynotes, workshops, and the MRI Newsletter, helping individuals and organizations build healthier, more intentional relationships with information, technology, and themselves.
James’ story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. He is on a mission to help others reclaim their clarity, protect their attention, and lead with intention in a world of constant noise.
Nehal El Naggar: Bio
Dr. Nehal is a distinguished Business Professor and Dean of Student Affairs at the Royal University for Women, dedicated to empowering students and advancing women’s initiatives. With a strong background in strategic management and entrepreneurship, she mentors students to enhance their personal and professional development within an inclusive environment. As a respected consultant and trainer, Dr. Nehal inspires her students to realize their potential and make meaningful contributions to society.
Additionally, she serves as the Lead Researcher for the Bahrain National Team of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). Recently, Dr. Nehal was honored as the MENA Award Winner at the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards. She also received the Woman of the Year Award in Education for 2024, recognizing her entrepreneurial efforts in supporting students and the ecosystem in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Allen Olson-Urtecho: Bio
Allen is the founder of Studio Bahía, a humanitarian organization dedicated to designing embodied therapies to alleviate pain and suffering. Founded in response to the suffering of children in refugee camps, Studio Bahía uses immersive design and technology to improve health. The name honors La Bahía de Tela Honduras, a region celebrated as the home of Magical Realism.
Jebet Chepkoyo: Bio
I am a community development practitioner working at the intersection of peacebuilding, climate justice, digital innovation, and youth empowerment.
I have passionately coordinated grassroots initiatives and leading strategic partnerships and implemented impactful programs across Northern Kenya.
I have played roles in peace and reconciliation dialogues, working closely with women, elders, and youth from conflict-affected communities to promote healing, build trust, and promote nonviolent coexistence. My work in climate-responsive programming complements my peacebuilding efforts by addressing resource-based tensions and advocating for sustainable, community-led solutions.
Additionally, I am a strong advocate for digital inclusion and has collaborated with organizations such as Ajira Digital to train over 500 youth in Baringo and Isiolo through hands-on programs that teach digital literacy.
I am also deeply passionate about virtual reality (VR) and its potential to tell immersive stories that drive empathy and social change. I envisions using VR to elevate underrepresented voices and spotlight the lived realities of marginalized communities across Kenya and beyond.
Santosh Kumar: Bio
Santosh Kumar is Technical Lead – AI at HCLTech (USA) and Vice Chair of the IEEE Denver, CIR (University of Colorado, Denver). With over 15 years of experience in Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, and Responsible AI, he leads innovation at the intersection of humanity and technology. An IEEE Senior Member and ACM Professional Member, he has authored multiple IEEE and Springer research papers, AI books, and patents focused on ethical, privacy-preserving, and human-centered AI. His work promotes equitable, secure, and transparent AI ecosystems that empower healthcare, insurance, and enterprise innovation.
Kim Nelson-Wright: Bio
Kim Nelson-Wright
Fractional COO | Founder, K.N.W. Business Advisors | Creator of The Regulated Growth Method™
Kim Nelson-Wright partners with visionary leaders to re-imagine sustainable systems of growth and wellness in the age of innovation. With more than 20 years of experience leading operations in corporate, consultant and non-profit sectors, she empowers high-performance teams to build businesses that work for their people as much as their profits.
Her signature framework, the Regulated Growth Method™, bridges operational excellence, emotional intelligence and human-centric strategy, to disrupt the hustle-only narrative and champion leadership that lasts.
Kim brings this voice to GatherVerse to amplify the intersection of leadership, technology and wellness, because thriving teams aren’t just built on tools, they’re built on people.
Kuldeep Singh: Bio
Kuldeep is a seasoned technology leader with over two decades of experience across roles spanning software development, product management, technology leadership, and practice head. He has been at the forefront of innovation, establishing Centers of Excellence in emerging technologies such as IoT, AR/VR, and Web3, while driving large-scale data initiatives and delivering scalable enterprise solutions.
A holder of multiple patents in emerging tech, Kuldeep is also an active contributor to open-source projects and ITU standards. Beyond his technical expertise, he is a prolific writer and international speaker, dedicated mentor, and nonprofit advocate—positively impacting more than 70,000 individuals worldwide.
With an unwavering passion for empowerment and innovation, Kuldeep is recognized as a thought leader in the future of technology. He is the author of Exploring the Metaverse: Redefining Reality in the Digital Age.
Tobe Nneji Agbelusi: Bio
Tobe Nneji is a corporate speaker, leadership trainer, and senior program leader with nearly two decades of experience spanning media, consulting, and technology. She currently leads high-impact delivery programs at Amazon Web Services and serves as Director of Professional Development for BEN Nig, where she designs programs that support the professional and leadership growth of Nigerian immigrants in corporate America.
As the founder of ProjectYOU, Tobe develops frameworks that help individuals strengthen their voice, presence, and personal leadership — including Daily Agile, a human-centered growth model practiced in cohorts and workshops. Her work sits at the intersection of communication, identity, cultural intelligence, and faith. She speaks with warmth, depth, and lived experience — helping people lead with clarity, confidence, and humanity.
Jon Lakefish: Bio
Jon Lakefish is a seasoned marketing and branding expert with over two decades of industry experience. Renowned for his deep insights into consumer behavior and a fervent passion for innovation, Jon has spearheaded marketing initiatives across various sectors, significantly enhancing brand presence and engagement. A leading figure in the integration of AI in marketing, Jon is frequently invited to speak at industry events, offering engaging, insightful perspectives on AI’s role in transforming marketing landscapes. His consulting services are sought after for empowering businesses to leverage AI, boosting their efficiency and creativity in brand growth strategies.
Golden Johnson: Bio
She is recognized for her work at the intersection of GTM strategy, AI × human collaboration, and mindset frameworks, guiding early-stage and Series B founders to build credible, fundable, and future-proof businesses.
Her approach—anchored in clarity, confidence, and refinement—has helped founders across North America, Europe, and Africa turn raw ideas into scalable systems.
A published strategist and certified success and mindset coach, Golden J. Johnson has been featured in The Guardian, USA Wire, and Vanguard, and serves as a sought-after speaker on digital legacy, leadership psychology, and AI-powered growth.
Through House of Golde, she teaches entrepreneurs how to align vision with execution, build receipts that speak for themselves, and design systems that outlast trends.
Tsitsi Musiwarwo: Bio
Tsitsi Musiwarwo is a passionate law student and mental health advocate with a growing interest in the intersection of technology and access. With experience in public speaking, social initiatives, and student leadership, she brings a fresh and human-centred perspective to how AI can reshape systems for inclusion, especially in education
Veronica Rose: Bio
Veronica Rose is a seasoned IT audit and risk professional with deep expertise in IT governance, data privacy, and strategic assurance. Holding globally recognized certifications as a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE), she brings a forward-thinking approach to internal audit, digital risk, and compliance.
As a dedicated contributor to the ISACA Foundation, Veronica plays an active role in advancing digital trust, promoting inclusive access to technology education, and mentoring the next generation of audit and cybersecurity professionals. She is known for her ability to bridge technical insight with executive communication, championing innovation, transparency, and ethical leadership in every role she undertakes.
Dominion Ndubuisi: Bio
Startup operator and innovation strategist with 10+ years of experience building and scaling tech ventures across Africa. Proven leadership in operations, partnerships, and program strategy. Successfully led cross-continental initiatives, including a 500+ stakeholder US-Africa Trade Expo, and co-founded ventures in fintech, edtech, and foodtech.
Mary Waweru: Bio
Mary Waweru is the Founder and Lead Trainer at AI Literacy Hub, a fast-growing initiative empowering young people, creators, and professionals to understand and apply Artificial Intelligence in their daily work and careers.
With a background in Marketing and Innovation, Mary blends strategy, creativity, and technology to simplify complex AI concepts into practical, human-centered solutions. She’s passionate about helping African youth build sustainable, future-ready careers through digital innovation and AI literacy.
Mary has trained hundreds of learners and professionals across Kenya, leading sessions on AI ethics, digital transformation, and AI-powered personal branding. Her mission is simple — to make AI understandable, accessible, and empowering for everyone.
When she’s not speaking or training, Mary’s curating conversations on AI trends, tech for social good, and creative empowerment, inspiring her audience to see AI not as a threat, but as a partner for growth.
Linda Porter: Bio
Professional Biography
Linda L. Porter
Linda L. Porter currently serves as the Assistant Director of Assessment at Tennessee State University, where she develops and refines comprehensive assessment plans and strategies. She is instrumental in designing and implementing data collection processes, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations. Linda employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze assessment data accurately, providing valuable insights that drive decision-making and continuous improvement efforts within the university.
Linda’s responsibilities also extend to preparing detailed assessment reports and presentations, effectively communicating findings to stakeholders. She provides guidance, resources, and training to faculty, staff, and administrators involved in assessment activities, fostering a culture of assessment and accountability within the organization. Her contributions to program review processes and accreditation efforts have been pivotal, ensuring compliance with standards and promoting evidence-based practices.
Academic Background
Linda L. Porter is a seasoned professional with a robust background in educational assessment, administration, and leadership. With over two decades of experience, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology Christian Studies and a Master of Science in Leadership and Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Linda is currently pursuing a PhD in General Psychology with a specialization in Mental Health at Grand Canyon University.
Professional Experience
Prior to her tenure at Tennessee State University, Linda served as Director of Imperial Child Development, where she managed staff, handled payroll and data entry, and ensured compliance with state regulations. Her leadership and problem-solving skills were evident as she trained staff to achieve productivity and professional development goals. Linda managed complex travel arrangements, organized workshops and conferences, and created efficient administrative systems. Her ability to train and mentor administrative staff has had a lasting impact on organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Linda also studies as an AI Consultant Student with Alicia Lyttle and is an AI Superuser with Tennessee State University. She serves as Treasurer for the Hadley Park Line Dancers and is a former board member and founder (Treasurer) of the Nashville Panthers Little League Football team.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Linda is actively involved in her community. She founded and built an accredited travel agency, iTravel Global Too Inc., ghostwrote several books, and authored two books of her own: Peeling of a Peach and The Road to Positioning. Linda’s diverse professional and personal experiences demonstrate her commitment to excellence, youth development, and community building.
PhD Student
Linda is currently a PhD student at Grand Canyon University, specializing in General Psychology with a focus on Mental Health. Her professional journey reflects her unwavering dedication to improving educational practices and fostering positive outcomes, making her an asset to any organization.
Bernice Loman: Bio
A visionary leader and innovator, Bernice Loman is passionate about merging faith, technology, and creativity to transform organizations. Recognized for her expertise in marketing and technology, Bernice has dedicated her career to equipping ministries, nonprofits, and businesses to thrive in the digital age.
Anar Bayramov: Bio
Anar is a Head of Product at Polygraf, where he helps enterprises adopt AI securely. Specializing in AI security and compliance, he’s built tools for detecting AI-generated content, protecting sensitive data, and enabling safe AI use. With a background in scaling enterprise products, Anar brings a founder’s perspective on navigating the risks and opportunities of responsible AI.
Mary Collins: Bio
Mary Collins is a certified Hypno-Specialist, therapist, and coach with over twenty years of experience in international multimedia journalism. Combining her background in global media with advanced therapeutic training, she specializes in helping individuals and organizations enhance emotional well-being, performance, and resilience. Mary is also a leading voice on the integration of technology and therapy, delivering talks on immersive XR and the future of the wellness industry.
Lorna McFarlane: Bio
Lorna E. McFarlane helps individuals and organizations break free from limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging patterns. Having overcome imposter syndrome and procrastination herself, she empowers others to transform fear into action through mindset shifts, forgiveness, and self-awareness. From inspiring incarcerated individuals to motivating professionals, Lorna brings clarity, accountability, and purpose to every stage she graces. With a master’s in business administration, she guides audiences toward resilience, productivity, and authentic leadership—helping them remove roadblocks, reframe thinking, and embrace transformation.
Patrick Chang: Bio
I’m a Family Wealth Coach specializing in helping successful families design a vibrant Protirement—a chapter of life filled with purpose, clarity, and emotional peace. My guidance is built on the 6Ps foundation, ensuring a smooth transition from a primary career to a life of continued impact and fulfillment.
Beyond financial planning, I act as a CFP® and an ICF-credentialed coach to help you architect a legacy where your wealth unites, rather than divides. By aligning your financial strategy with your core values, we can ensure your life’s achievements become a cornerstone of unity and your family stays connected for generations.
Faith Katua: Bio
Faith is an IT professional with experience in IT Audit, Information Systems Security, IT Governance, IT Project Management, IT Risk Advisory, Cybersecurity and emerging tech. Faith has spearheaded technology innovations, emerging trends and currently the audit tools and process automation champion. Ifaith is Certified in Advanced in Artificial Inteligence Audit (AAIA) , Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and a Microsoft Certified Specialist (MCTS).
Faith is currently the Advocacy Director, ISACA Kenya Chapter. Faiths mandate entails ensuring the Chapters visibility through collaborations and partnerships with government, private and academia sectors. She spearheaded review of national policies, laws and regulations that address digital trust matters. I have been an ISACA active volunteer. She volunteers as an ISACA Foundation Scholarship Judge, ISACA Mentor and a SheLeads Tech Ambassador. She was a judge at the 2024 Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) Conference Hackathon whose aim was to develop add-ons to enhance Data Privacy Principles in websites. She has been involved in mentoring young women in technology through STEM initiatives and women in energy sector. She is also a volunteer in KenGen foundation through their giver Initiative which supports bright students’ education from rural communities.
Carmen Milagro: Bio
Carmen Milagro is a dynamic speaker and multi-faceted “entrepren-artist” dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations worldwide. With her engaging storytelling, insightful expertise and infectious energy, Carmen leaves audiences inspired and poised to act.
As the Visionary, Founder & Chair of the DIVINA WORLD Foundation’s Indigenous & World Music Hall of Fame Project, Carmen champions InterGenerational and MultiCultural connections, fostering cultural preservation as a necessity for the present and the future and drawing upon the past for growth, resilience and an international community in the Metaverse.
As a life coach who empowers and motivates she is passionate about supporting youth as well as women over 50, offering a unique blend of wisdom and experience. As the host of her livestream Wellness 360 with Carmen Milagro series, now in its 4th season on expandiTV, she approaches health and wellness from a holistic, 360-degree perspective.
Amy Yamada: Bio
Amy Yamada is a keynote speaker, Business Coach, and AI strategist who helps entrepreneurs use AI to deepen human connection, build authentic messaging, and create more mental and financial freedom. With over 24 years of experience, Amy blends personal growth, emotional intelligence, and business strategy to empower leaders to become the best version of themselves, while growing businesses they love.
Caleb Yang: Bio
Caleb is the founder of orphanage mentoring initiative. Orphanage Mentoring Intiative is a social enterprise that works with universities and companies to provides orphans in education, career and entrepreneurship guidance before they leave the orphanage. He is also a experienced software developer with experiences working in python and C#. He sees public speaking as a platform to share his perspective and experiences to his audience.
Kee Jones: Bio
Kee Jones is the Chief Executive Officer of Black Girl Ai, the CoFounder of Including Us in Tech, and the Founder/CEO of RESET. At Black Girl Ai, she empower and inspire girls to become future leaders in the tech industry, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to excel in AI. Her passion lies in helping women and young girls learn all things tech-related, fueling their aspirations in the field. As CoFounder of Including Us in Tech, she further extends her mission to promote diversity and inclusion in the technology sector. In her role as Founder/CEO of RESET, Kee helps women conquer and defeat trauma, combining her tech expertise with a deep commitment to emotional healing and empowerment.
Currently also serving in the healthcare industry, Kee Jones has accumulated an impressive 25 years of experience in various specialties. Her dedication to healthcare and her commitment to excellence are clear in her work.
Before transitioning into tech, Kee worked in education for 10 years, an experience that ignited her drive to establish Visions Academy—an online tutoring and enrichment program. Her commitment to education and learning remains unwavering especially when it involves using artificial intelligence ethically and responsibly.
A dedicated philanthropist, Kee’s commitment to serving others is evident in all her endeavors.
Stephanie Sylvestre: Bio
Stephanie Sylvestre: Transformational Leader, Innovator, and Champion for Black Excellence
Stephanie Sylvestre is a powerhouse transformational leader whose career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to elevating communities, advancing equity, and leveraging technology for social good. As the co-founder of Avatar Buddy, an AI solution that uses generative AI to help people become the best version of themselves, Stephanie is at the forefront of democratizing access to personal and professional development—especially for marginalized communities.
A 2022 fellow of Harvard’s Advanced Leadership Initiative, Stephanie designed an asset-based framework for Black wealth creation in Miami-Dade County, focusing on access, income diversification, and courageous conversations. Her approach blends social-emotional wellness with practical strategies, empowering individuals to rewrite their narratives and unlock generational wealth.
Stephanie’s impact spans both public and private sectors. As Chief Programs Officer and Chief Information Officer at The Children’s Trust, she managed a $184 million portfolio, transforming fragmented agencies into a high-performing partnership that delivered measurable results for children and families. Her visionary leadership in IT modernization earned her the South Florida Business Journal’s CIO of the Year award and enabled a seamless transition to remote work during the pandemic.
A passionate advocate for civic engagement, Stephanie co-launched the “Vote The Future” initiative, mobilizing thousands of new voters in Miami-Dade. She has served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, the National LGBTQ Task Force, and the Aqua Foundation, and was honored with “Stephanie Sylvestre Day” by Miami-Dade County.
Stephanie holds degrees from the University of Southern California, the University of Miami, and Harvard University. Her legacy is one of innovation, inclusion, and impact—building bridges, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation of Black professionals to lead with brilliance and purpose.
Joy Dixon: Bio
Joy Dixon has worked in the Tech Industry for 25+ years as an engineering leader, software engineer, technical trainer, and network administrator. Additionally, Joy is also a venture capitalist, investing in and advising startups. Currently, Joy facilitates the leadership transformation needed to inspire consistent high performance through regenerative practices to drive success.
Joy holds a Bachelor’s degree in African-American Studies, a Master’s degree in Software Engineering, and several professional certifications. In the course of a diverse career, Joy has led development teams as well as designed and developed applications at start-ups and global companies using several programming languages, including Java and Python. In addition, she has configured and administered networks.
Joy has always been fascinated by leadership. She was the school president in the 5th grade — yes, she was that kid. About 15 years ago, Joy started taking on mentees who were Black and Latine Women, as well as anyone who experienced challenges in the Tech Industry, whose experience ranged from their first job after college to seasoned professionals. What Joy noticed was that regardless of their age and experience, they faced the same challenges in the Tech Industry that Joy has faced and still faces. It was at this time that Joy decided to put down the curly braces and move into leadership.
Since then, Joy has led several engineering teams simultaneously that successfully delivered the company’s highest, most visible, and valuable initiatives.
Joy’s Leadership Expertise includes:
– Building Inclusive, Engaged, and Innovative Teams
– Cultivating Collaborative Cross-Functional Environments
– Guiding Agile Transformations
Joy’s Leadership Style is centered on:
– Collective Genius
– Mindset / Transformational Coaching
– Justice Equity Diversity Inclusion (JEDI)
Asante Asiedu: Bio
Asante is the CEO of Udēēsa a consulting firm using XR technology to equip learners with tools that build retention, cultural identity and real-world skills.
By leveraging storytelling and interactive media Udeesa has enhanced access to vocational training and community education resources.
Formerly at Lehigh University’s CITL, researching the intersections of STEAM, data systems, and Africana Studies.
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