GatherVerse
AI Evolve Summit 2026
May 26-28, 2026 (8:00 AM PST)
Meet the speakers
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.
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. Today, she serves as a fractional CHRO, executive coach, and advisor to CEOs and Boards by translating AI through the human, governance, and leadership lens.
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.
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.
Shiphrah Wairima: Bio
Shiphrah Wairima is a Cybersecurity and Responsible AI leader, advocate, and featured speaker, focused on building secure, ethical, and inclusive digital ecosystems across Africa. She serves as President of the Kenya Chapter at the Global Council for Responsible AI and leads WomenTech Kenya, advancing responsible AI adoption and increasing women’s participation in tech. She is also the Founding Executive Director of Founder Haus Africa, where she is building an execution-first ecosystem and residency model that supports founders in developing scalable solutions to real African problems. Her mission is to empower people, organizations, and communities to navigate the digital world safely, ethically, and affordably. Shiphrah works closely with non-technical leaders, SMEs, institutions, and underrepresented communities, translating complex cybersecurity and AI concepts into practical, accessible guidance. She has supported over 500 individuals into tech and freelancing careers, delivered trainings and workshops on cybersecurity, AI ethics, and digital safety, and helped organizations implement cost-effective security strategies. Her work centers on human-centered cybersecurity, responsible AI governance, affordable cyber hygiene, and talent empowerment through mentorship and training.
Adam Johnson: Bio
Adam Johnson is the founder of Rafer Consulting and a Fractional Chief Strategic AI Officer with 25 years of senior leadership experience at Microsoft, Amazon, and others. He advises executives and organizations on AI strategy, ethics, and governance, helping them navigate the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence with clarity and integrity.
An Executive Fellow at The Academy for AI Strategy, Adam is the architect of the Clarity Cycle framework and the “Evolutionary Capitalism” article series, which reframes business success to include wellbeing, sustainability, and community impact alongside profit. He also focuses on responsible AI leadership through his soon-to-be released Oxford Talk, “Architecture of Trust.”
Adam works at the intersection of technology, ethics, and strategy, bringing a practitioner’s voice to some of the most consequential questions facing organizations today.
Ammara Aftab: Bio
Ammara Aftab is an internationally recognized AI leader, speaker, trainer, author, and advocate for ethical and inclusive AI. Widely known as the “Pro AI Lady”, she is the Founder of Pro AI Global, a global AI community existing in 30+ countries, with a mission to build an inclusive and human-centered AI future.
Recognized as Pakistan’s first female certified AI trainer and AI podcast host, Ammara has pioneered Pakistan’s first Women in AI community and first AI community for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Through her initiatives, she has delivered 100+ AI training sessions, impacting 10,000+ individuals, including bureaucrats, lawyers, doctors, corporate professionals, students, and women across Pakistan.
Ammara is also the host of Pakistan’s first English AI-specific podcast, “Pro AI Talks with AI Lady,” alongside Pro AI Talks Urdu, featuring 50+ national and international AI experts. Her work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the mission of UN Women, focusing on education, inclusion, women empowerment, ethical AI, and future workforce readiness.
She is an AI Chair at Rotary District 3271, a UNESCO speaker, and recipient of multiple recognitions, including being featured at IT Summit Dubai 2024 and acknowledged for her contributions toward AI awareness and innovation in Pakistan.
Ramona Fellmy: Bio
Ramona Fellmy a global thought leader, a technology founder, SaaS strategist, and enterprise solutions leader at Dapp Detroit. Her work focuses on building low-code, AI-driven systems for complex, compliance-heavy industries, including insurance, financial services, and public sector organizations.
She operates at the intersection of InsurTech, FinTech, and ethical AI, helping organizations modernize legacy processes through scalable system design, intelligent automation, and responsible data practices. Her approach emphasizes practical implementation—ensuring that emerging technologies are not only effective, but also transparent, accessible, and aligned with real-world needs.
In parallel to her enterprise work, Ramona is actively exploring how AI and low-code tools can reshape education, particularly for neurodiverse and twice-exceptional (2e) learners. She is focused on how platforms within the Google ecosystem can be used to create more adaptive, personalized learning environments that better reflect how different minds process information.
Dr. Helmut Love: Bio
Dr. Helmut Love is a creative change agent and champion of responsible capitalism. Across his career, he has helped generate $750M+ in revenue and influenced systems impacting 2B+ lives.
A Texas A&M–trained biomedical engineer and Kellogg MBA, Love pioneered early digital health infrastructure at GE and McKesson, then led nine-figure portfolios at Nuance and IBM Watson, specializing in scaled innovation, turnarounds, and applied AI.
He founded The Gayly Dose (voted Atlanta Magazine’s #1 podcast) and The Gayly Impact, a nonprofit advancing personal and financial development for ALL humans.
A One Love Christian and author of Wake Up to Your Life Magic, Love leads an executive consultancy (DrHelmutLove.com) and a merit-based AI wealth platform (UnitedStatesGrants.org)
Love ran in 2025 for Mayor of Atlanta—advancing people-first, AI-powered social services rooted in accountability, compassion, and results. This vision is embodied in Ziora-Copilot.com, an AI-enabled platform startup that Love is seeking to fund and grow.
Contact him: [email protected]
Charis Loveland: Bio
Charis Loveland is the founder and CEO of Charisma Intelligence, a consulting firm helping organizations apply AI with sound judgment, ethics, and emotional intelligence. She previously led AI/ML strategy and the EQ program at Amazon, founded Rue La La’s data science team, and launched a global crowdsourcing platform for Azure Machine Learning at Microsoft. Charis teaches AI and product leadership through General Assembly and has contributed to data science programs with MIT, Columbia, and Dartmouth. She serves on Harvard’s Committee on AI and Human Flourishing and is known for translating complex technology into practical guidance that helps leaders use AI responsibly without outsourcing human judgment.
Dr. Muhsinah Morris: Bio
Short Bio:
Metaversity Director. XR/AI Expert. Innovator. Chemist. Educator. Speaker. Autism Advocate. Author. Wife. Mom.
Full Bio:
Meet the first-ever Metaversity Director, Dr. Muhsinah Lateefah Morris. She is Director of Metaverse Programs and Professor of the Practice at Morehouse College. Dr. Morris is a proud member of the inaugural HBCU IP Futures Collaborative: Powered by Michelson IP Foundation and inaugural HBCU Faculty Fellow for the Propel Center funded by Southern Company and Apple. She is currently an AI SuperUser and Fellow with Tennessee State University’s AI Applied Research Center.
A B.S. chemistry graduate of the HBCU Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Morris earned her M.S. and Ph.D. in Biomolecular Chemistry from Emory University—known as the Harvard of the South. Since Spring 2021, she has been leading Morehouse’s pioneering Metaversity project.
She’s a multi-award-winning educator and technologist recognized for her innovative leadership, including:
Teaching Excellence Award (Morehouse College)
Emerging Technology & Innovation (CBRE)
First Place – T-Mobile Unconventional Innovation
Educator of the Year 2022 (STEM Women Atlanta)
2023 Top 100 Women of the Future
2023 Atlanta Technology Professional Innovator of the Year
2024 XR Women Global Trailblazer of the Year
2024 Woman in Tech-Woman of the Year
2025 Leading Woman in AI by ASU-GSV
Residing in McDonough, GA with her husband and five sons—including one with autism—Dr. Morris advocates deeply for the autism community as part of the Community Advisory Council and Advocacy Ambassadors for Autism Speaks.
Affectionately known as Dr. M.O.M. (Molder of Minds), she is a VR pioneer transforming learning on a global scale. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and serves on the XR Advisory Council for the XR Association and the Futurist Council for Jobs for the Future (JFF).
Dr. Morris currently trains pre-service and in-service educators to create and optimize their own institutional Metaverse Cultures. Through her company, Metaverse United, LLC, where she empowers people to find where they belong in the embodiment of the internet—the Metaverse.
🔗 Learn more at UniteTheMetaverse.com.
Alison Morano: Bio
Alison Morano is an XR and AI strategist working at the intersection of immersive technology, governance, and real-world adoption. With a background in international relations and emerging tech, she focuses on how spatial computing, AI systems, and human-centered design shape leadership, policy, and participation. Alison builds and advises on immersive platforms, AI-driven tools, and governance frameworks that keep people, ethics, and access at the center of innovation. Her work emphasizes not just what new technologies can do, but how they are responsibly introduced, understood, and scaled, especially for women navigating technical and leadership roles.
Shiran Mlamdovsky Somech: Bio
I am an AI Impact leader, the founder of Generative AI for Good, channeling the power of generative AI to catalyze global positive change. Driven by a fervent passion for humanity, creativity, and innovation, I spearhead projects that have not only reached millions but also saved lives and clinched international awards. These initiatives have been honored at prestigious platforms such as the UN and NATO.
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.
Cecilia Lascialfari: Bio
I am a Hybrid Artist, AI Data Analyst and International Speaker based in Florence, Italy.
My practice sits at the intersection of analog painting, Generative AI, Augmented Reality and data analytics – creating layered works that exist simultaneously in the physical and digital world.
Graduated from the Accademy of Fine Arts in Florence in Painting and holding a Master’s in Multimedia Content Design from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Florence, my career has evolved from video production and graphic design to AI data analytics – working daily with Python, AI-powered monitoring tools, audience segmentation and KPI reporting.
I am the Founder of ARea6DoF, an international online journal on AI, AR, VR and XR. Italy Representative for Artivive and Lead Art & Creativity for Women in AI Italy.
My works have been exhibited at Venice Biennale, Art Basel, Swiss Art Expo, ArtBox New York and Miami Art Week.
Co-author of “Computers with Salaries and Cemeteries: The Ethics of AI” (Springer, April 2026).
Speaker at 31+ international conferences. LinkedIn network of 27,000+ connections.
Dr. Amany Alkhayat: Bio
Dr. Amany Alkhayat is an expert in AI-powered immersive learning, conversational AI, and human-centered experience design. She teaches learners how to design engaging, ethical, and effective AI-driven educational experiences using embodied conversational agents, XR, and immersive technologies.
She earned her doctoral degree at Teachers College, Columbia University, where her research focused on embodied multimodal conversational AI in education, examining how immersive and human-centered AI systems can enhance learning, foster meaningful interaction, and authentic learner connection.
Dr. Alkhayat lectures internationally at the Media University of Applied Design in Berlin, where she teaches Conversational AI and AI Companion Design. She has also taught Human-Computer Interaction, UX Research, and XR Design at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT).
She is the creator of the award-winning Mindflow VR application, recognized as the “Most Engaging App” by Ringling College of Art and Design, and has mentored students in Meta design sprints, developing AI companions for Meta’s ecosystem, including Meta Horizon Worlds.
Through her teaching and course design, Amany empowers learners to confidently build responsible, future-ready AI and immersive learning experiences that translate research into real-world impact.
Lynn Gitau: Bio
Lynn Gitau is the Communications Director at GatherVerse. Based in Silicon Savannah, she leads communications and supports programming across GatherVerse’s global conversations on emerging technology and humanity. As an event organizer and content developer, through speaker outreach, messaging, and live moderation, Lynn helps bring thousands together, from enthusiasts to experts, creating clear through-lines between innovation and real-world impact. She has a growing history of interviewing executives, government officials, entrepreneurs, technologists, and educators.
A technologist, national speaker, and moderator, Lynn is often invited to speak on AI, immersive technology, digital culture, and how fast-moving tools are changing work, learning, health, and public trust across Africa. She brings an academic foundation with a Bachelor’s in Mass Communications, paired with hands-on experience across new media, content marketing, and growth marketing.
Her work centers on humanity-centered innovation and sustainability, with a focus on making complex topics accessible and useful to the communities and partners GatherVerse serves.
Salvation Chigereoka: Bio
I believe that technology is most powerful when it serves humanity.
With a foundation in Chemistry Education and a career built at the intersection of Product Operations and Community Growth, I have dedicated my work to building systems that empower others. Whether I am streamlining startup operations, planning sprints or advocating for digital inclusion, my goal is always to create a meaningful, human-centric, and lasting impact.
Community Leadership: As a Chapter Lead for She Code Africa Lagos, volunteering since 2022 and a contributor to Web3 communities (SheFi, Web3Ladies, Bankless Africa, ETHAccra), I am committed to digital inclusion, onboarding, and actively creating programs to support women and girls (STEM) in tech.
Global Speaker: I am a frequent voice at events across the Web2 and Web3 ecosystems, leading dialogues on the intersection of Community Impact, Education, STEM, Product Operations, Startup, Leadership, AI, Mental Health, and Tech for Good.
Beyond White Screens:
I am a firm believer in kindness, empathy, good attitude, character, hard work, faith, and optimism. When I’m not holding standups or community townhall, you’ll find me writing poetry, short stories, getting lost in a book, exploring nature, and learning a new language.
Ian Kang: Bio
Founder Bio | HAOLLA Ian Kang is the Founder and Lead Architect of HAOLLA, an AI- and cognitive science–based education platform designed to reduce educational inequality while redefining how humans learn in the age of artificial intelligence. With an interdisciplinary background spanning physical education, business administration, law, English education, and cognitive science, Ian’s work focuses on a single core question: How can technology augment human thinking without replacing it? HAOLLA operates on a hybrid B2B–B2C model, positioning AI not as a substitute teacher, but as an intelligent learning assistant and cognitive partner for students, educators, and institutions. Through AI-powered speech feedback, self-explanatory learning tasks, and metacognitive training frameworks, HAOLLA delivers international school–level education at radically accessible costs—currently serving learners through a low-cost, high-efficiency subscription model. A defining feature of HAOLLA is its human-centered AI philosophy. Rather than optimizing for speed or automation alone, the platform emphasizes thinking structures, reasoning clarity, and transferable cognitive skills—capabilities that remain uniquely human even as AI advances. Beyond education, Ian views AI as a tool for social reconstruction. HAOLLA is intentionally designed to create large-scale freelance and instructional opportunities for individuals displaced or marginalized by AI-driven labor shifts, reframing AI adoption as a source of inclusion rather than exclusion. Ian is currently pursuing advanced research in cognitive science, with a long-term vision of contributing to global education systems where AI amplifies human agency, ethical reasoning, and collective intelligence—not just productivity.
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.
Sabrina Princessa Wang: Bio
Sabrina ‘Princessa’ Wang is a futurist, founder, investor, and international speaker focused on AI, automation, and the future of human potential.
She is the founder of People’s Inc. 360, an AI-powered marketing automation SaaS platform helping brands and creators scale with systems, not burnout; Royal Visionary Society, a global community empowering founders to build wealth, freedom, and purpose; and Speakers Society, where experts learn to monetise their voice and turn thought leadership into a real business.
She is also the creator of Seraphina AI, her personal digital twin and AI operating system – designed to give people back time, clarity, and creative energy.
An Amazon no. 1 bestselling author and award-winning entrepreneur, Sabrina is known for blending strategy, technology, and humanity – proving that AI isn’t about replacing people, but about freeing them to live better lives.
Sally Good: Bio
Dr. Sally Good is a Founder, business owner, psychologist, coach for AI beginners and author of four books on Amazon: Preventing Dementia using Gentle Lifestyle Changes, Gratitude Journal with Prompts, The Prayer Journal with Prompts, and the Community Daily Gratitude Journey contributor. Her soon to be published book is “Stop Dating Losers. How to Reset Your Relational Radar.” Her speaking topics include God, You, and AI, Somatic Solutions for Stress, The Neuroscience of Gratitude, & CALM is the New Superpower. Twenty years of being a scientist/practitioner have led her to numerous conclusions, the most important of which is that dementia is, in many cases, a PREVENTABLE illness. And lifelong learning is a big part of aging well.
Grant McGaugh: Bio
Grant McGaugh is a visionary leader, storyteller, and the driving force behind 5 STAR BDM, a trailblazing brand development and business growth consultancy empowering executives, entrepreneurs, and organizations to unlock their fullest potential. With more than two decades of executive leadership and strategic transformation experience—spanning Fortune 500 companies, healthcare, technology, and digital innovation—Grant is known for illuminating the path through complexity and guiding clients to enduring success.
As the architect of the proprietary BRAVE Framework (Boldness, Resilience, Authenticity, Vision, Execution), Grant has helped countless professionals elevate their brands, amplify their influence, and lead with purpose and clarity. His signature approach cultivates courageous leadership, deepens self-awareness, and transforms ambiguity into actionable impact, helping clients not just build brands, but craft legacies.
Grant’s journey is rooted in his own story of resilience, purpose, and transformation—a journey that began with personal tragedy and evolved into a calling to empower others to embrace their true identity, disrupt the status quo, and become catalysts for change. As the host of the acclaimed “Follow the Brand” podcast, Grant shares powerful insights and success stories that inspire leaders worldwide.
Widely recognized as a Brand Development Master (BDM), Grant is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and strategic advisor. He champions authenticity, diversity, and human-centered leadership in every engagement, making “Integrity doesn’t have a price tag” his personal and professional mantra.
Connect with Grant to discover your thunder, define your brand’s authentic voice, and lead your field with bold, measurable transformation
Amy Edelstein: Bio
Amy Edelstein is a visionary in the future of education design, an educator, and author, recognized for her transformative work in empowering individuals and articulating new ideas that can help us reshape culture. As the founder and director of Inner Strength Education, she has positively impacted over 35,000 Philadelphia high school students and 5,000 educators through innovative mindfulness and systems thinking programs, earning a Philadelphia Social Innovation Award and a Philadelphia City Council Resolution. Inner Strength Education’s programs have received the coveted Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) Recommended designation for their evidence-based advancement of student well-being.
With over 40 years of deep expertise in contemplative practices, systems thinking, and transformative philosophies, Amy has presented globally, from the C20 Technology & Education Summit in India to Chautauqua Institute. She has convened Future of Education Design Dialogues, hosting leading thinkers to source visionary and transformative ideas as well as leading meditation and transformational retreats. Passionate about preparing youth to thrive in a complex world, she is actively collaborating with technology innovators to integrate wisdom and wellness into an innovative and principled AI mindfulness coach.
Amy is also the co-founder of Emergence Education, a publishing platform for books and courses that inspire and transform. A Cornell University College Scholar and the author of eight books, including bestsellers The Conscious Classroom and Adventure in Zanskar. Her work has been honored with Nautilus, Publishers Weekly Ben Franklin, and IPPY book awards.
Dr. Sancian Crawford: Bio
Dr. Sancian Crawford, PhD, DCM, MPH is a Global AI Governance and Regulatory Intelligence Advisor and the architect of J.A.I.M.E.™, an executive AI governance methodology built for federal agencies, regulated industries, and international policy bodies. Her advisory portfolio spans HHS, CDC, FDA, NIH, CMS, and ATSDR, and her published research includes a World Health Organization contribution on AI in public health.
She is the founder of the AI SoftLife™ brand and a two-time international bestselling author of Health Reclaimed: How AI Is Transforming Public Health and The AI SoftLife™: How Leaders Use AI to Reclaim Their Minds, Their Mission and Their Time. She also founded Humanitarian Heart International, which extends her humanity-first principles into community-facing global health work.
Her keynote and advisory practice questions the premise of every AI deployment, because the wrong AI question, scaled, produces the wrong outcome faster. She brings that lens to leaders, regulators, and global bodies working at the edge where AI policy meets human consequence.
Shreya Choudhuri: Bio
Shreya Choudhuri is the founder of Build Her Labs, a community-led accelerator on a mission to get 100 women funded and scaled by 2030. Born in India and educated in design before completing her management degree at ESCP Paris (top 5 globally), Shreya built her career at the intersection of growth marketing, venture ecosystems, and innovation including as a founding team member at the Barclays Innovation Hub and Impact Fundry, where she organised 24+ events and observed firsthand the persistent underrepresentation of women in tech and finance.
That pattern became her purpose. Build Her Labs launched publicly in February 2026 and has grown to 250+ members with 180 pre-seed founders and 70 pre-idea stage in under a year. The community runs a three-phase model: open community events and workshops, an intensive sprint programme with mentor-mentee pairing, and a full accelerator connecting founders to investors, VCs, and corporate partners. Unlike traditional accelerators, Build Her Labs takes an open-source approach with sharing contacts, strategies, and resources publicly and reinvests all revenue into workshops and scholarships.
Shreya speaks on female founder challenges, the confidence gap in fundraising, and building communities that go beyond networking to actual building. She believes the next generation of female founders won’t wait for permission, they’ll build it themselves.
Lisi Linares: Bio
From recording artist to reality tv to doing pr for xr projects, Lisi Linares has done it all. Now, she turns her attention to Verticals or as she prefers to call it, Social Media Cinema. Linares, has recently founded 77 Verticals where she will creating mini-movies about the adventures and people on Holbox Island.
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.
Dr. Eloho Ifinedo: Bio
Eloho Ifinedo, Ph.D. is an Instructor at New Brunswick Community College and in the Computer Science Department at University of New Brunswick, Canada. She is deeply committed to teaching and research across the fields of educational technology, instructional design, human–computer interaction, and social innovation.
Dr. Ifinedo has led several educational technology research initiatives focused on learner experience, digital learning platforms, STEAM mentorship, and technology engagement among seniors. In addition to her academic work, she has managed impactful social innovation projects addressing systemic anti-Black racism and supporting immigrant entrepreneurs within the province of New Brunswick.
She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Technology and a master’s degree in Mobile Technology and Business from University of Jyväskylä, Finland. Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Dr. Ifinedo values family, community engagement, and continuous personal development.
Soenil Soebedar: Bio
Mr. Soenil Soebedar is a solution-oriented Cybersecurity professional who spent more than 33 years in the IT sector, 23 years as a Freelancer & Founder & CEO of SOEBIT Cybersecurity in Netherlands (EU) and 13 years in the Cyber Security field as Ethical Hacker, Penetration tester, PKI/Cryptography specialist and Architect, Senior Security Engineer, Senior SOC Specialist, Digital Forensics Investigator, Trainer & Speaker. He lives and study in the Netherlands.
Worked as freelancer for Ministry of Defence (MoD) NL, Dutch Banking sector, Power & Gas sector, International Education/Training sector, Ministry of Justice & Security in the Netherlands and many more companies.
He holds 34 international cybersecurity certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), RCCE, CCISO, CHFI, Microsoft Azure & Security certifications (SC-100, SC-200, AI-102), HSM Professional Engineer – PECB – Certified AI professional (CAIP), Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), PECB Lead Forensics Examiner, PECB Lead Network Security Manager PECB Lead Pen Test Professional and others in mobile forensics, cryptography, and advanced penetration testing. He is certified Trainer for PECB, EC-Council & Rocheston and speaks English, Dutch, and Hindi.
Technical/Keynote/Panel/Moderator speaker on AI, IT, Cybersecurity conferences on AFCEA (NATO Army) Germany 2025, BigData & AI Conference Lithuania, DevCon 2025 – Romania, PECB Conference – Barcelona 2025, AFCEA (NATO Army) Italy 2025, DEVTALKS Romania 2025, Cyberwisecon 2025 – Lithuania, CYBERSEC ASIA – Thailand 2025, CYBERSEC Netherlands 2024, IT/CS University’s in Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Bangalore, NMITCON 2023+2024, Bangalore, AsiaTech Singapore 2023, C0c0n 2022 by Kerala Government & Police in India, Diversec-con, Since 2018 speaker for IEEE India speaker.
Zakia Ghafari: Bio
Zakia Ghafari, PharmD, is a pharmacist, speaker, and thought leader who helps individuals and organizations create sustainable change without burnout. Drawing on neuroscience, behavioral design, and real-world leadership experience, she developed the Change Is Easy framework, which reframes resistance as a clarity problem—not a motivation problem. Zakia’s work challenges traditional wellness and productivity narratives by replacing willpower-based solutions with practical systems that make change inevitable. She speaks on workplace culture, leadership, and work–life integration, equipping audiences with tools that create lasting transformation.
Dr. Lawrence Iweriebor: Bio
AI and data science scholar-practitioner with a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, an M.S. in Data Science, an M.S. in Economics, and advanced doctoral work in Financial Cybersecurity. More than seven years of experience applying artificial intelligence, machine learning, statistical modeling, business intelligence, data engineering, and predictive analytics to complex, data-rich decision environments. College teaching experience includes data science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence instruction across in-person, hybrid, and online modalities, including adult learners, international students, curriculum development, student advising, recruitment, retention, and institutional service responsibilities.
Beth Zukowsky: Bio
Beth Zukowsky is a former enterprise CTO and AI transformation leader, now co-founder of AI Between Worlds. After leading large scale global technology and AI adoption efforts inside complex organizations, she focuses on the work most AI initiatives skip. Alignment. Her work helps leaders align how people use AI before scaling systems, so automation reduces operational load instead of creating risk, confusion, or AI debt. Through AI Between Worlds, Beth works with founders and leadership teams to design calm, ethical, and durable AI practices that hold up under real business pressure. Her perspective bridges executive decision making, hands on systems design, and the human realities that ultimately determine whether AI succeeds or quietly fails.
Quiana Bradshaw: Bio
Dr. Quiana Bradshaw is from West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and married with 3 beautiful children. 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. I have obtained my Bachelor of Science in IT, 2 MBA’s, Master of IT, Master of Higher Education College Administration Leadership, and Doctor of Computer Science and a Google Data Analytics Certification & Google Cybersecurity Certification. I’m an Academic Program Director, Emerging Technology (@ Columbia Southern University) and Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Judson University.
My current research focuses on how applicable games are to education and how they can help curriculum designers create engaging curricula 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, health sciences, virtual world environments, video game development, games-based learning, game-based learning, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, human-computer interaction, information security, educational technologies, and immersive learning environments.
Stephanie Cummings Carr: Bio
Stephanie Cummings Carr is the President & CEO of Stephanie Marthine Consulting Services, LLC, an AI boutique firm focused on Cloud/AI strategy and business trans‐formation. She operates as an AI Certified Consultant, leveraging deep industry experience to help organizations harness artificial intelligence.
Based in the Washington, D.C. area, Stephanie played a pivotal role at Google developing and managing cloud partnerships within the Government Public Sector, driving collaboration, cloud adoption, and revenue growth through AI/ML services.
As a Strategic Partner Executive at Amazon Web Services (AWS), she serviced FSIs and ISVs. With 20+ years in IT and software sales, Stephanie has built a proven track record at Amazon Web Services, Oracle, and IBM.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Stephanie is actively involved in public service organizations including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The Links, Inc., The Society, Inc., and The GirlFriends, Inc. She serves on the Advisory Council for the University of Maryland Smith School of Business and is a board member of ScholarCHIPS, Inc., a Washington, D.C.–based nonprofit providing college scholar‐ships and mentorship for children of incarcerated parents.
Happily married to Jefery Carr, a civil rights attorney, Stephanie enjoys traveling and relaxing at spas. For organizations exploring their AI journey, Stephanie is ready to help.
Connect at stephaniemarthine.com or [email protected]
Karen Shidlo: Bio
Marketing leader with experience building and scaling brands across fintech, AI, emerging technologies, and digital platforms. I specialize in go-to-market strategy, growth marketing, and brand positioning, helping companies translate complex technologies into clear, compelling customer value.
My background spans startups and scale-ups where marketing plays a key role in driving adoption, engagement, and measurable business growth.
I am also currently working in AI with Kelvon, an AI-native prediction market research and trading platform focused on helping users identify market insights and make more informed decisions through data-driven intelligence and emerging technologies.
I’m particularly interested in opportunities at the intersection of AI, technology, finance, and innovation, where marketing can help make complex systems more accessible, engaging, and impactful.
Dishon Mwachia: Bio
As a visionary entrepreneur and founder of APICI Technologies, I am driven by a singular mission: to redefine how we experience the world through experience innovation. My work bridges the gap between cutting-edge data and technology and the art of sensation, creating environments that immerse, engage, and entertain.
At APICI, we specialize in designing ecosystems tailored to elevate experiences across diverse industries – education, advocacy, research, or public awareness, we enhance how people connect with and internalize critical information. Through innovative hardware and tools, we help businesses deliver unforgettable, emotionally resonant experiences that align with their brand and customer expectations.
I am passionate about exploring perception through data-driven sensory innovation. I use research on behavior, cognition, and emerging trends to design immersive, impactful experiences with a strong focus on personalization, psychological triggers, and cultural context. Beyond my professional pursuits, I enjoy diving into neuroscience research, conducting field studies at experience hubs, and designing training tools that prepare individuals for the next generation of communication and human computer interaction.
Let’s connect if you’re ready to revolutionize how people experience the world.
We can create moments that linger in memory and inspire awe.
Gayatri Tavva: Bio
Gayatri Tavva is a Lead Data Engineering Architect specializing in enterprise-scale AI systems where governance, safety, and trust are built into the architecture. She designs and delivers AI-driven data platforms used for high-stakes decision-making, with a strong focus on explainability, privacy, and responsible AI adoption.
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 100k 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.
Pooja Kashyap: Bio
A technology enthusiast and conversational AI evangelist working at the intersection of academia and industry, she focuses on making AI practical and understandable for real-world applications.
At Conversive AI, she develops thought leadership across the messaging ecosystem and regularly interviews industry experts to explore the evolving landscape of conversational technologies.
She is also the founder of TechieTonics.com, a platform exploring breakthroughs in robotics, space, health, and future technologies. Outside of work, she is an endurance runner who has completed nearly 40 marathons.
Adeniyi Temitope: Bio
Adeniyi Temitope grew up unclaimed, a daughter her mother couldn’t look at without pain, and a father she met at ten who never fully let her in before he died. She navigates childhood alone with no map and no one holding the door open, she built her own door.
Today Temi is a Lagos-based African Luxury Brand Strategist, founder of Zafaxa Solutions Limited, and the quiet force behind brands that now stand boldly in the market. She named one of her businesses after her grandmother, the wonan was her real home. She wrote a book, built from zero, more than once. She recently stepped out from behind the scenes entirely, choosing at last to be seen.
Her work lives at the intersection of strategy, story, craft and survival. She believes the most powerful brands are built by people who have no choice but to figure it out themselves.
Eli Boahen: Bio
Cross-disciplinary collaborator & Cyborg Anthropologist, Eli Boahen specializes in design, data, ethics, and autonomy. She believes our technological future has already arrived and that questions need to be asked so we can discuss our uncomfortable answers.
In 2024, Eli achieved their master’s degree in Data Analytics and Computational Social Science ( DACSS ) at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in just one year. She focused on technology policy as well as technology literacy as means of power, consent, and self-advocacy. Ask Eli about sentiment analyses and the “technological-other”.
Lynn Gravatt: Bio
Shamama Lynn (Lynn Gravatt) is a Quantum Energy & Embodiment Coach, former NASA and Boeing Aerospace Engineer, and creator of the Purpose Embodiment Method—a transformational framework blending science, spirituality, and somatic healing.
After a spontaneous awakening in 2008, she shifted her focus from outer space to inner space, devoting the last 15+ years to mastering energy work, somatic movement, and multidimensional healing practices.
Her work supports high-achieving professionals—especially women in structured or corporate environments—to move beyond burnout, reconnect with purpose, and embody authentic leadership. She guides clients from mental overdrive into clarity, nervous system regulation, and creative power—always rooted in coherence and soul alignment.
Whether through 1:1 mentorship, her Purpose Embodiment Academy, or immersive retreats, Lynn helps leaders apply intuition, vibration, and embodied focus to navigate AI disruption, career transitions, and personal growth—so they can live and lead from their highest-vibration timeline.
Rajesh Mattaparthi: Bio
value through advanced machine learning initiatives.
In addition to his technical leadership, Rajesh is actively involved in mentoring college interns, helping recruit emerging AI talent, and engaging with the local AI and technology community. He participates in community and talent-development efforts connected to organizations such as CICP Indiana, which brings together leaders from industry, higher education, and philanthropy, and stays engaged with the broader AI ecosystem through events such as the Databricks Summit, AI Summit in University of Indianapolis, and Palantir AI Summit. Currently pursuing a Master’s in AI, Rajesh combines deep enterprise data engineering experience with a strong commitment to advancing practical AI adoption, workforce development, and innovation.
Teresa Villa: Bio
Teresa Villa is the Founder and Chief Architect of JusticeTree AI™, a survivor-led governance platform redefining how AI interacts with human lives in public-benefit and civil rights systems. Drawing on lived experience inside DSS, SSA, CBMS, and child-support enforcement, she designed the Justice Engine™ Validator — the first constitutional safeguard framework built to prevent automated administrative harm.
Her work bridges law, public administration, and AI governance with a focus on record integrity, authority containment, contestability, and trauma-informed system design. Teresa’s frameworks have been used to support housing discrimination cases, disability rights advocacy, FOIA audits, and AI ethics policy development across state and federal contexts.
A Gen-X technologist with a lived understanding of systemic failures, she speaks bluntly about the realities of AI deployment: “AI doesn’t need to be evil to cause harm — it just needs to inherit broken systems.”
Teresa is recognized for building what many policy papers overlook: the procedural spine that makes AI safe for real people.
Thalia Diedrick: Bio
Thalía Diedrick is the Vice President of Marketing at GoTu, the largest dental workforce platform in the U.S. She leads brand, growth, and go-to-market strategy for a company redefining flexibility, career longevity, and access within dentistry. Passionate about the intersection of wellbeing, AI, and meaningful work, Thalía focuses on building systems that empower professionals to thrive while driving sustainable business growth.
Kamilah Sanders: Bio
Kamilah Sanders is an award-winning Global Strategist and Ecosystem Weaver with over 25 years of experience in marketing and executive leadership. She is the CEO of Greater Than Equal, an action-driven think tank helping leaders maximize their impact through self-awareness and strategic action. As an advisor and ecosystem builder, Kamilah specializes in helping leaders realize their vision for impact by facilitating large-scale projects and curating events that redefine the future of global collaboration connecting diverse networks, shifting power dynamics, and accelerating social innovation.
Kamilah is the visionary behind HauteLink, which leverages technology to build interconnected ecosystems and drive future-focused innovation. As a prominent voice in technology, sustainability, and leadership, she co-hosts AI for Creatives podcast and hosts Fashion Futurist podcast and serves as Founder of Impact Impetus Media, which serves as a humanity-first, innovation-driven communication platform drawing on emerging technology to future-proof social impact.
Her career spans over two decades in marketing and executive leadership spending decades of crafting strategies that have generated more than $1 billion in revenue opportunities for Fortune 500 companies, NGOs, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and more. Kamilah advises innovative founders of impactful projects, organizations, and accelerator programs.
Kamilah’s global work includes serving as a Remake Ambassador, Climate Reality Leader, and Governing Council Member and Sustainable Fashion Collaboration and Digital Co-Lead at Catalyst Now international organization. She connects BIPOC communities, governments, corporations, technologists, and local communities to amplify their voices and drive systemic change. Her ability to address tough conversations has made her a sought-after speaker in Web3, sustainability, innovation, and leadership. She has been featured in platforms such as Forrester, Greenbiz, Fashion Revolution, Remake, Fashion Takes Action WEAR, Catalyst Now Davos Social Innovation House, Catalyst Now, Brooklyn Fashion Week, The Sustainable Fashion Podcast, Change is Now Podcast, Verizon, MogulCon, Forrester, Black Sustainability, Ruckus Roots, People Over Product, Nashville Design Week and more.
Through her podcasts, strategic initiatives, and international advocacy, Kamilah Sanders is redefining the future of collaboration, empowering leaders, and championing systemic transformation.
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.
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.
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.
Kat King: Bio
Katharyn King (she/her) is a disabled Army veteran, immersive media creator, and XR accessibility advocate living with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Her work sits at the intersection of storytelling, neurotechnology, and mental health—designed not for spectacle, but survival.
With a background in signals intelligence, linguistics, and theater, Katharyn brings a multidisciplinary lens to the future of immersive design. She leads CatheXis Films, a creative studio developing the Glass Stars franchise—a queer, neurodivergent-centered sci-fi epic spanning film, literature, and AR experiences. Her projects are deeply personal, built to reflect those often erased from both fiction and futurism.
She is currently developing PerceptAR, an augmented reality tool to support individuals navigating psychosis—leveraging spatial computing not as escape, but as a means of reality anchoring and self-advocacy.
Katharyn is committed to building a future where neurodivergent and disabled creators don’t just participate in XR—they lead it.
Richard Bukowski: Bio
Richard Bukowski is a strategic foresight advisor with over two decades helping organizations navigate digital transformation across media, advertising, and emerging technology. His current focus is Digital Realities, a practice framework for leaders operating at the convergence of physical and digital experience. Through his newsletter Reality Shift(s), he tracks convergence signals before they become obvious trends, translating complex technological shifts into actionable strategy for executives, founders, and builders. Richard is also an early-stage inventor currently developing a novel system that brings together a convergence of technologies with applications spanning entertainment, healthcare, and community experience. Human creative professionals remain central to its design. He is actively seeking early conversations with aligned investors and collaborators.
Dr. J.J Peterson: Bio
Dr. J.J. Peterson is the Head of StoryBrand and a leading expert in communication and marketing strategy. Since 2013, he has helped thousands of organizations clarify their messaging to drive growth and increase engagement.
He holds a PhD in Communication and has over 20 years of experience teaching and applying communication theory. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at the Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management.
Dr. Peterson has worked with organizations such as Microsoft, Tempur Sealy, and Certified Angus Beef, helping them create clear, compelling messaging that drives results.
He is an internationally recognized keynote speaker known for delivering practical, engaging, and actionable presentations.
Paula Bowens: Bio
PB is an AI, marketing, and business strategist who helps organizations leverage emerging technology for scalable growth and real-world impact. As an AI consultant and cybersecurity advocate, she works across AI, blockchain, and digital assets to drive adoption, revenue, and long-term value. At Disruptor DAO, she contributes expertise in marketing strategy, business development, and event execution to expand access, education, and economic empowerment.
Uday Surendra Yandamuri: Bio
Uday Surendra Yandamuri is a Technology & Operations Analyst with over 5 years of IT experience, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, and Intelligent Decision Support Systems. He brings a rare blend of technical expertise, business strategy, and operational intelligence, with a strong industry focus on Hospitality Technology and AgriTech.
With 3+ years of deep domain expertise in Hospitality Technology and 2 years of AgriTech exposure, Uday works at the intersection of industry operations and advanced analytics-driven automation, designing solutions that improve efficiency, forecasting accuracy, and real-time decision-making. His work emphasizes AI-powered operational optimization, predictive intelligence, and scalable cloud-based analytics systems tailored to industry-specific challenges.
Academically, Uday holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and an MBA in Informatics, a combination that uniquely positions him to bridge agricultural systems, enterprise operations, and digital transformation strategy. This interdisciplinary foundation enables him to translate business problems into intelligent, data-driven solutions.
Sadio Jonas: Bio
Sadio Jonas is a 20-year technology veteran, Fractional AI Executive, and AI innovator with a deeply global background. She has lived, studied, and worked in multiple countries across the U.S. and Europe, and has traveled to more than 30 countries—experiences that shaped how she approaches technology, leadership, and change.
She is the Founder and Director of AI Strategy at AI Vantage Consulting, the first Gen AI native consulting firm in the US; and the Founder of The Academy for AI Strategy, which equips leaders with the critical skills and mindset shift needed to confidently guide their organizations through the AI-Augmented Era.
Working across cultures taught Sadio that technology alone is never enough. Successful innovation depends on understanding people, communication styles, values, and context. Today, she partners with organizations and executive teams to lead enterprise-wide AI transformation with clarity, confidence, and a distinctly human-centered and intercultural approach.
Outside of work, she is a happy wife and proud Mom of 2 children who keep her “on her toes.”
Bindu Madhavi Mangalampalli: Bio
Bindu Madhavi Mangalampalli is a Business Intelligence & Data Engineering specialist with deep expertise in Healthcare Analytics. Her professional focus spans healthcare data warehousing, clinical analytics ETL, insurance claims intelligence, and medical data governance making her a versatile force in the healthcare data ecosystem.
From 2021 to 2026, Bindu has pursued rigorous research across the full spectrum of healthcare BI, beginning with scalable data warehouse architecture and ETL optimization, and advancing into AI-driven anomaly detection, machine learning for medical billing fraud, and generative AI for data mart design.
Her most recent work explores large language models for automated healthcare data dictionaries, federated learning for multi-organization collaboration, and conversational AI for self-service BI platforms reflecting her forward-thinking approach to intelligent, compliant, and patient-centered data solutions.
Bindu exemplifies the convergence of engineering precision and healthcare domain expertise, driving smarter, more equitable analytics across insurance and clinical environments.
Tania Kapoor: Bio
Tania is where creativity meets code—on a mission to help people live healthier, happier lives through AI. Known for turning complex problems into clear, human-centered solutions, she’s a natural troubleshooter who builds tailored tech that delivers real results. With a sharp eye on scalability, performance, and real-world impact, her work blends innovation with purpose.
Abigail Merrill: Bio
Abigail Merrill is a Founder, CEO, and leading operator voice for women in AI. Since 2019 she has owned and operated GrowthUP Partners, an AI consultancy firm that has delivered 120+ projects helping small to mid-sized businesses move from scattered AI experimentation to measurable business results. She is a Certified AI Practitioner with credentials from CertNexus, Google, and Microsoft, and brings 15+ years at the intersection of AI, operations, and business growth.
Abigail has built her thought leadership at the intersection of human-centered AI and women’s leadership. Team finalist for a WIN AI Challenge grant by the Melinda Gates French Gates Foundation focused on AI literacy for k-12 teachers in rural NC, co-creator for the first AI for Women Conference in the RTP region, a recurring speaker on practical and responsible AI at SheEvolved, the Center for Practical AI, and AI Ignite. Her flagship AI for ROI Framework and Circle of Human methodology operationalize a single thesis: AI accelerates only when humans set the direction and own the outcome. Based in Durham, NC, Abigail is committed to making AI approachable and accessible to the women, operators, and leaders who will shape what humanity-centered AI actually looks like.
Venetia LaSha’ Herring: Bio
LaSha’ Herring is a founder, strategist, storyteller, and creative technologist building at the intersection of AI, immersive media, accessibility, and community impact. She is COO of FlareNova Studios, where she leads Phenix Passport, a geo-anchored AR storytelling platform that brings erased and underrepresented histories back into the places where they happened. She is also co-founder of DocuHero, an AI-powered documentation and compliance platform designed to reduce administrative burden for direct care providers and help agencies stay audit-ready. Across her work, LaSha’ focuses on human-centered technology, cultural preservation, ethical AI, and tools that help communities, caregivers, and creators be seen, supported, and empowered.
Pradeep Kachakayala: Bio
Pradeep Kachakayala as Cloud Engagement Manager and Enterprise Architect with over 20 years of experience leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives across cloud infrastructure, enterprise data platforms, AI-driven automation, and modernization programs. He specializes in Microsoft Azure technologies, enterprise architecture, hybrid cloud strategy, SAP ecosystem integration, data engineering, and AI-enabled business transformation for global enterprises.
He has led and contributed to multiple enterprise modernization programs involving Azure cloud migration, Microsoft Fabric, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, Azure AI, SD-WAN connectivity, enterprise governance, and real-time analytics architectures. His work has supported organizations in industries including consumer goods, retail, healthcare, telecom, and manufacturing, helping drive operational efficiency, cloud optimization, intelligent automation, and scalable enterprise data platforms.
Pradeep has extensive experience designing secure and scalable cloud-native architectures, integrating SAP S/4HANA with enterprise analytics ecosystems, and implementing event-driven and AI-powered enterprise solutions. His contributions include enterprise automation initiatives, intelligent observability platforms, hybrid cloud networking strategies, and governance frameworks for modern digital enterprises.
In addition to his industry leadership, he actively contributes to the professional and research community through conference judging, peer review activities, technical publications, and research initiatives focused on Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Enterprise Data Engineering, and Intelligent Infrastructure Modernization. He is also engaged in advancing enterprise innovation through thought leadership in AI-native platforms, cloud governance, and intelligent enterprise architecture.
Bobby Humes: Bio
Bobby is an executive, leadership coach, and strategist with extensive experience in human resource operations and organizational change strategy. Bobby brings presence, discernment, and a sense of humor to his work with clients. Bobby works to create a space to plan, identify barriers, and help identify and leverage values and present opportunities.
Bobby has deep experience developing and supporting dynamic leaders and complex teams. He served as the City of Seattle’s chief HR officer, providing executive leadership consultation to members of the executive cabinet and their executive and HR teams. He is a sought-after speaker on organizational development, HR operations, workplace culture, and diversity, equity, and inclusion best practices.
Bobby is a United States Army Combat Veteran who served honorably for ten years. He holds a master’s in human resources management from UMass Global Campus and an executive coaching certification from the Hudson Institute of Coaching.
Nagawa Lule: Bio
Nagawa Lule helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs and small businesses develop clear, values-led growth strategies at the intersection of creativity, culture, and technology.
A certified AI consultant, marketer, and trainer who grew up between cultures, she brings both strategic expertise and lived experience to understanding how businesses operate across markets. This allows her to identify patterns, nuance, and opportunity across different contexts, and to design strategies that align branding, marketing, and systems with real-world impact.
Her work spans ethical AI strategy, brand and marketing strategy, AI-generated visual storytelling (Synthography), and smart automation, supporting founders to scale sustainably and build businesses that work for people and planet.
Leela Venkata Sai Rajesh Guntupalli: Bio
Bernice Omiunu: Bio
Bernice Omiunu is a tech ecosystem leader advocating for diversity in technology and passionate about startups and innovation in Africa. She is the Founder of Women in Blockchain Africa (WiBA), with presence across all five African regions (North, East, West, South, and Central Africa).
From her previous works, Bernice has contributed to programs and initiatives that provide funding and support to startups and businesses, helping entrepreneurs access capital, mentorship, and growth opportunities. She has been recognized through prestigious fellowships, including the YALI Regional Leadership Center, the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), and the U.S. Exchange Program.
Through her leadership and collaborations, initiatives she has championed have impacted 50,000+ women, youth, and startups in tech across Africa, driving inclusive, tech-driven growth.
Raghunath Loganathan: Bio
Raghunath Loganathan is a distinguished expert in enterprise risk management, compliance management, and data center governance, specializing in the design and implementation of integrated frameworks that address the complex regulatory and operational demands of global customers. With deep expertise spanning risk assessment, privacy management, security architecture, and AI-enabled compliance solutions, he has established himself as a trusted authority in safeguarding critical digital infrastructure at enterprise scale.
His work encompasses the full lifecycle of risk and compliance management — from policy formulation and regulatory alignment to the deployment of intelligent, automated governance platforms that serve multinational organizations across diverse industries and jurisdictions. He is particularly recognized for his ability to integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence methodologies into compliance and risk workflows, enabling organizations to proactively identify vulnerabilities, streamline audit processes, and maintain continuous adherence to global regulatory standards such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and NIST frameworks.
Raghu’s expertise extends to the intersection of data center operations and enterprise governance, where he architects scalable, resilient compliance ecosystems that address the unique security, privacy, and sovereignty requirements of global data center environments. His command of AI-powered risk intelligence, predictive compliance analytics, and privacy management has positioned him at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field — one where the convergence of digital infrastructure, regulatory complexity, and artificial intelligence demands rare, specialized mastery.
A collaborative innovator and thought leader, Raghu actively contributes to the advancement of the discipline through research, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional leadership. He works alongside global teams, regulatory bodies, and technology partners to define best practices, shape governance standards, and drive the adoption of next-generation security and compliance architectures. His efforts consistently yield measurable outcomes reducing organizational risk exposure, accelerating compliance readiness, and enabling global enterprises to operate with confidence in the most demanding regulatory environments.
Harvey Sijenyi: Bio
Harvey Sijenyi is a cybersecurity executive, AI security strategist, and infrastructure leader with over a decade of experience securing enterprise environments across Africa.
He currently serves as Head of Security and Infrastructure at Eclectics International, where he leads initiatives spanning cyber resilience, infrastructure protection, cloud security, digital trust, and secure digital transformation.
Harvey is also the Founder of Cyber Space Consultancy, a firm dedicated to helping organizations strengthen their security posture, build cyber awareness, and develop resilient digital ecosystems.
His expertise covers AI security, identity and access management (IAM), SOC operations, threat detection and incident response, governance risk and compliance (GRC), DevSecOps, and security operations engineering. He holds multiple industry certifications including CISA, CISM, CEH, and Microsoft Security credentials.
Harvey is deeply passionate about the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and humanity-first innovation — ensuring that emerging technologies are deployed responsibly, ethically, and securely, while enabling organizations and communities to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
He has contributed to conversations around cyber resilience, AI governance, cloud-native security, and secure digital transformation across enterprise and industry platforms.
John Pyke: Bio
John Pyke is an award-winning speaker, #1 international best-selling author of How to Build World Class Teams, and a recognized authority in leadership, hiring, employee engagement, retention, scaling, and peak performance. He has trained, assessed, and helped hire more than two million individuals throughout his career. John’s work has helped organizations achieve measurable results, including a nationally recognized 48% surge in sales thirty days after a single keynote. He is passionate about helping leaders create cultures where people thrive and organizations grow.
Venkata Akhilesh Ranga Reddy: Bio
Venkata Akhilesh Ranga Reddy is a Senior Application Architect with over 11 years of deep specialization in Healthcare IT, with the majority of his career spent at Health Care Service Corporationone of the largest payer-side healthcare organizations in the United States.
His expertise spans the full breadth of enterprise healthcare technology: from member eligibility and claims processing to data engineering, cloud migration, and solution architecture. A practitioner who has evolved from database development and ETL programming to designing cloud-native, microservices-based platforms, Venkata Akhilesh brings a rare combination of technical depth and architectural vision to complex, regulated healthcare environments.
Over a five-year research journey from 2021 to 2026, he has developed 25 research titles spanning Healthcare Data Systems, Data Engineering & Architecture, Application Design, Cloud & DevOps, and AI-Assisted Healthcare reflecting his commitment to translating hands-on enterprise experience into knowledge that advances the field.
His work bridges the gap between the operational realities of large-scale payer systems and the emerging potential of generative AI, cloud-native infrastructure, and domain-driven design making his insights both practically grounded and forward-looking.
Joe Wilson: Bio
Joe provides trusted advisory and technical enablement to organizations on cloud, data, and AI solutions. With a background in data science, international development and global health policy and management, Joe sits at the intersection of data, technology and international development. A former AWS Solutions Architect with hands-on experience building cloud solutions across machine learning, data and analytics, and formerly co-managing a $1.2M U.S Department of Energy Workforce development program for the City of Philadelphia, Joe has practical experience in technology and project management.
Leigh Felton: Bio
Leigh Felton is President of the AI for Job Security Foundation and an AI governance strategist focused on the operational realities of artificial intelligence inside organizations and society. Her work examines how AI systems evolve from tools into environmental forces that shape institutional behavior, workforce structures, decision-making, and human outcomes over time.
She is the author of multiple books exploring co-adaptive anthropotechnical environments, AI governance, organizational adaptation, and the hidden risks that emerge when systems scale faster than accountability structures evolve. Her work focuses particularly on quiet failures, persona drift, governance externalization, and the growing disconnect between AI deployment metrics and real-world societal impact.
Leigh speaks internationally on responsible AI implementation, performance accountability, organizational readiness, and humanity-centered governance frameworks.
Angel Mosley: Bio
Angel is a visionary cybersecurity leader with over 20 years of experience spanning government, finance, healthcare, and hospitality sectors. With a unique ability to translate complex cybersecurity strategies into actionable insights, Angel has emerged as a trusted voice in the field. Her career trajectory showcases a deep commitment to empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals through education, mentorship, and advocacy.
She is the founder of CyberSecurity GameChangers (CSGC), a non-profit organization dedicated to sparking student interest in cybersecurity through tailored programs that provide critical skills for success.
“When I appeared on national television, I asked leaders to imagine getting a call from the FBI about their company’s data being exposed. The reaction was immediate — because cyber risk isn’t theoretical. My talks move audiences from awareness to decisive action.”
Soumya Chattopadhyay: Bio
I,Soumya Chattopadhyay, am a Solution Architect working at Insperity Inc. based out of Houston Texas. I have more than 18 years of experience in Application Development and design with expertise in AI technologies, Cloud Technologies, Microsoft Technologies ,Single Page Applications, Databases. I have worked in domains like Retail,HR, Finance and Travel for various companies.
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.
Krystal Hestand: Bio
My name is Krystal Hestand, and I’m the Product Manager for FrameVR. I’ve spent the last 13 years in tech—originally starting in the world of Quality Assurance. That “QA mindset” has followed me through the video game, casino gaming, and virtual world industries, and it’s what drives my passion today for building high-quality, immersive experiences that actually work for the user.
Kellep Charles: Bio
Dr. Kellep A. Charles, D.Sc., CISSP, is a cybersecurity executive, educator, researcher, and author with more than 25 years of industry experience and nearly two decades in higher education. He serves as Cybersecurity Chair at Capitol Technology University and is the founder of SecurityOrb, LLC. Dr. Charles specializes in AI governance, AI security, digital forensics, incident response, vulnerability management, and cyber risk management. He is the author of the upcoming book Artificial Intelligence: Governance, Risk & Compliance (AI GRC) and is widely recognized for his work in AI red teaming, responsible AI, and AI governance frameworks including the NIST AI RMF and ISO/IEC 42001. A frequent speaker, researcher, and mentor, he has contributed to cybersecurity education, industry initiatives, and national conversations surrounding secure and ethical AI adoption.
Avinash Reddy Segireddy: Bio
Avinash Reddy Segireddy is a leading expert in DevOps engineering, cloud transformation, and secure automation for financial messaging systems. His field of endeavor centers on modernizing cross-border payment infrastructures, ensuring they are scalable, resilient, and compliant in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With a career spanning finance and telecom, he has made impactful contributions in CI/CD pipeline design, containerization, cloud-native deployments, and DevSecOps practices.
Advancing Financial Infrastructure with DevOps
At SWIFT, Avinash has engineered end-to-end CI/CD pipelines, automated deployment frameworks, and cloud-native architectures that support the backbone of international payments. His work ensures that critical financial applications achieve maximum uptime, minimal latency, and robust compliance. Through automation, he reduced manual release activities by over 70%, delivering measurable improvements in speed and reliability.
Cloud, Automation, and Security
Avinash’s expertise in AWS, Kubernetes, Docker, Terraform, and Ansible has driven the migration of payment systems into cloud environments. His field of endeavor extends to self-healing infrastructures and proactive monitoring using ELK, Splunk, and AppDynamics. By embedding DevSecOps into every layer, he ensures platforms meet strict financial security standards while accelerating delivery.
AI/ML and Generative AI in DevOps
Building on his foundation in automation, Avinash has contributed to AI-augmented DevOps practices leveraging machine learning for predictive monitoring, anomaly detection, and pipeline optimization. His current research integrates Generative AI into deployment automation and exception handling, creating intelligent systems that adapt dynamically to operational demands.
Research, Original Contribution, and Industry Impact
Avinash has authored and contributed to research on self-healing cloud systems, AI-driven DevOps pipelines, containerized payment infrastructures, and security automation. His original contributions advance the future of financial technology infrastructure, where reliability, speed, and compliance converge with intelligent automation. His impact is recognized across the financial and technology community for transforming the way global payments are delivered securely.
Keerthi Amistapuram: Bio
Keerthi Amistapuram is a distinguished technology professional whose field of endeavor centers on insurance domain digital transformation, specializing in the development of scalable, secure, and intelligent enterprise applications. With deep expertise in .NET Core, C#Web APIs, microservices, SQL Server, and cloud-native architectures, she has driven innovation in insurance systems that serve millions of policyholders and agents. Her career embodies the integration of AI/ML, deep learning, and Generative AI into insurance platforms, enabling smarter underwriting, predictive risk modeling, and advanced claims automation.
Transforming Insurance Technology
Keerthi has been instrumental in re-engineering complex insurance systems into modern, microservices-based platforms. Her contributions span policy administration systems, eligibility engines, customer-facing portals, and marketplace applications, ensuring high performance and reliability. By applying her mastery of .NET frameworks, Angular, REST APIs, and distributed caching, she has modernized legacy systems into cloud-ready applications that are agile and secure.
AI/ML and Generative AI in Insurance
Her field of endeavor extends into applying artificial intelligence and machine learning across the insurance lifecycle. Keerthi has integrated fraud detection models, predictive analytics for claims, and customer behavior modeling into enterprise platforms. More recently, she has contributed to Generative AI initiatives, developing intelligent chatbots, document automation engines, and GenAI-assisted decision systems that streamline policy servicing and claims investigations. These innovations elevate the customer experience while reducing operational costs and risks.
Leadership in Engineering Excellence
As a Lead Software Engineer, Keerthi provides technical leadership for global teams, guiding architecture design, mentoring developers, and overseeing the migration of large-scale applications to .NET Core and cloud environments. Her strong commitment to Agile practices, secure coding, and system resilience has set high standards of delivery for mission-critical insurance applications. Her leadership fosters collaboration across onshore and offshore teams, improving both quality and efficiency in software delivery.
Multi-Domain Expertise
Beyond her primary work in insurance, Keerthi’s field of endeavor spans banking, credit bureau, and public sector systems, giving her a broad understanding of regulated, high-volume transaction environments. This multi-domain background strengthens her ability to design robust platforms that meet compliance, scalability, and customer experience requirements across industries.
Research, Original Contribution, and Global Impact
Keerthi has contributed to research and applied work on topics such as machine learning in insurance claims, Generative AI in fraud analytics, and microservices migration strategies. Her original contributions have shaped how insurance firms leverage AI/ML to enhance transparency, accuracy, and customer-centricity. She stands as a thought leader at the intersection of insurance, AI, and enterprise software engineering, advancing the mission of modernizing global insurance systems.
Nathan Ornick: Bio
I’m Nathan Ornick, Managing Director at BOOST+ in Switzerland. I manage teams in digital production, experience design, VFX, games, film & animation, digital twins, VR and XR. As a producer, I bring together talent and technology to create synergy and solve creative challenges.
My projects include mixed reality experiences for museums such as Kunstmuseum Basel, the Swiss National Museum, and Bern’s Museum for Communication (MfK), integrated XR experience platforms for Novartis, digital humans for Adidas, David Guetta, and Terres des Hommes, games for Swiss Re and MINOR Chocolate, brand activations for F1 & Vodafone, and all kinds of integrated campaigns for global brands & institutions.
Paulo Mendes: Bio
Paulo Mendes is a renowned Transformation Architect, Relationship Coach, speaker, and founder of Waymaker – Transformational Life Coaching, dedicated to helping individuals and couples rediscover their identity, heal emotional wounds, and build lives rooted in purpose, clarity, and authentic connection.
Known for his powerful ability to guide deep inner transformation, Paulo specializes in helping people break destructive cycles, overcome limiting beliefs, and realign their lives with their highest values and vision. His work goes beyond traditional coaching — architecting sustainable personal, emotional, relational, and spiritual transformation from the inside out.
With years of experience in emotional intelligence, communication mastery, and human behavior transformation, Paulo integrates proven methodologies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and faith-based principles that bridge the gap between psychology, identity, and lasting personal growth.
Through his coaching programs, workshops, speaking engagements, and online platforms, Paulo has empowered countless men and women to rebuild confidence, restore emotional balance, strengthen relationships, and cultivate lives of authenticity, wholeness, and intentional living.
Paulo believes that true transformation begins when individuals learn to understand their emotions, rewrite their internal narratives, and make conscious decisions aligned with who they were created to become.
Whether working with high-performing professionals, couples rebuilding trust and connection, or individuals searching for deeper meaning and direction, Paulo’s mission is clear:
To awaken people to their God-given potential and equip them with the mindset, tools, and emotional mastery needed to lead fulfilled, purpose-driven lives — personally, relationally, and spiritually.
Narendra Mangala: Bio
I am Narendra Mangala, a seasoned Cloud Data Engineering and Analytics professional with over 15 years of experience building enterprise-grade data solutions on Microsoft Azure and modern cloud platforms. My career has spanned roles as a Data Engineer, Data Architect, BI Developer, and Database Developer, giving me a well-rounded command of the full data lifecycle from ingestion and transformation to governance, visualization, and reporting.
I specialize in designing and implementing end-to-end data pipelines using Azure Data Factory, Microsoft Fabric, Databricks, and PySpark, with deep expertise in Medallion Architecture (Bronze/Silver/Gold). My work consistently focuses on creating scalable, reliable, and governance-ready data platforms that enable organizations to make faster, smarter decisions.
Over the years, I have led the engineering of MLOps-ready infrastructure, feature engineering pipelines, and AI-augmented data quality frameworks, placing me at the intersection of data engineering and modern artificial intelligence. I have implemented Databricks Unity Catalog for centralized data governance, built CI/CD automation via Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions, and designed real-time monitoring frameworks to ensure data accuracy and compliance with PII and GDPR standards.
My research profile — spanning 25 titles from 2021 to 2026 — reflects my commitment to staying at the forefront of the field, exploring topics from agentic data pipelines and generative BI to responsible AI data architecture and next-generation lakehouse design.
I am passionate about converging data engineering, business intelligence, and generative AI into unified intelligence platforms and I bring that vision to every project I undertake.
Sasi Kumar Kolla: Bio
Over the years, Sasi has evolved from architecting large-scale EHR data platforms and secure clinical data exchange models to pioneering cutting-edge research in federated learning, generative AI for rare disease research, and graph neural networks for drug interaction prediction.
His most recent work encompasses large language models for EHR knowledge extraction, foundation models for precision medicine, and autonomous clinical monitoring using reinforcement learning reflecting his commitment to advancing equitable, explainable, and real-time AI solutions in medicine.
Sasi stands at the forefront of healthcare AI, bridging engineering rigor with clinical impact to shape the future of intelligent, data-driven patient care.
Shah Zaib: Bio
Shah Zaib is a digital transformation leader and capacity-building expert who has trained over 1,000+ individuals across Balochistan, Pakistan on AI, digital skills, and digital leadership. As a founding member of Balochistan’s First AI Space for Women, he is pioneering accessible technology education in underserved communities.
Shah has spoken at AI Indus Week and serves as a digital trainer for Global Shapers (World Economic Forum). He has delivered impactful training programs through prestigious platforms including Lincoln Corners (US Consulate), Balochistan Youth Resource Center (Government of Pakistan) where he trained 400 school, university, and college students, and consulted for Balochistan’s largest Youth Summit with 400 participants. His targeted initiative training 600 women on digital skills demonstrates his commitment to inclusive technology access.
With 7 years of experience across national and international organizations, Shah specializes in digital leadership, AI literacy, educational technology, and community empowerment. His work bridges the digital divide, equipping youth and marginalized communities with skills for the future economy.
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.
