GatherVerse Food Summit
Meet the speakers
January 21, 2025 (8:00 AM PST)
Andrea Camargo: Bio
Andrea is a visionary at the intersection of biology and business.
With a background in veterinary medicine and a passion for innovation, she’s leading the charge in applying biomimicry principles to create sustainable and regenerative business models.
Join her to explore the exciting world of nature-inspired entrepreneurship.
Makayla Davis: Bio
I’m a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and Board Certified Nutrition Specialist®, credentialed by the American Nutrition Association® through its Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialist. I have a Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (now Sonoran University of Health Sciences). I’m also a NASM-certified personal trainer, and a certified group fitness instructor having worked for several years in many fitness facilities around the San Francisco Bay Area.
The way I work with nutrition is more than just a weight loss plan.
Nutrition is an ever-evolving hot topic and I’ve been researching it for a long time.
I was drawn to nutrition not only because I had my struggles with it (I’m a total foodie and tended to overeat), but once I learned of the alarming rates of obesity, chronic diseases, and metabolic dysfunction in this country I was hooked. I needed to understand everything under the sun about nutrition, and metabolism and figure out a way to help people reverse their metabolic conditions (i.e. insulin resistance, elevated blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, hormonal dysregulation, gut issues, etc).
Metabolic conditions are often caused by a poor diet mixed with a perfect storm of several other lifestyle factors. Together we will explore your lifestyle including everything that you consume daily from the food you eat, the drinks you drink, the people who influence you (like friends and family), the media you consume, how well you sleep, your stress level, your exercise routine, and most importantly your mindset.
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.
Sarah Demeestere: Bio
Sarah Demeestere is a French-American actress, producer, and educator with a deep passion for empowering younger generation.
She studied art and film in Paris, earning a master’s degree in film from the Sorbonne. Her journey led her to teach theater and meditation to children, where she integrated the principles of artfulness and mindfulness into her methods.
Driven by her commitment to child development, Sarah created *The Chin Show*, a unique program that encourages children to think critically and make informed, healthy choices in a fun and engaging way.
Her work continues to inspire young audiences to explore well-being through creativity and self-awareness.
Future Ahiate: Bio
Future Ahiate is the captain of Feedbag Agrihub, leading efforts to solve Africa’s most pressing agricultural challenges using blockchain technology.
He has over 7 years of experience in the Web3 and agriculture industries.
His leadership is focused on integrating innovative solutions to improve the agricultural landscape, with a particular emphasis on sustainability, food security, and efficient supply chain management.
Future also believes that every youth is a star and capable of achieving great things, emphasizing that age isn’t a prerequisite for success.
Sabrina 'Princessa' Wang: Bio
Sabrina ‘Princessa’ Wang from Singapore 🇸🇬 is an award-winning serial entrepreneur, Amazon no. 1 best-selling author, and advocate in media, marketing, and technology. Featured in The Straits Times, The Business Times, Vulcan Post, e27, and more, Sabrina is a dreamer, otaku, and proud mom to 🐈⬛ Toothless.
Named one of the “30 Entrepreneurs of the Year” by The Silicon Review, USA, and an honoree of the Spirit of Enterprise and Singapore SME 500 Award, she founded Royal Privileged and scaled People’s Inc. to 7-digit revenues amidst COVID-19.
Through the Royal Visionary Society and Royal Launch School, Sabrina empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs with practical strategies for success using AI, automation, and a holistic approach that includes wealth, health, relationships, and mental wellness.
Her mission? To share her hard-won experience to help others thrive in today’s fast-paced business world, while pursuing her bigger purpose of building schools for the underprivileged.
Ganesh Raju: Bio
Ganesh Raju is a distinguished entrepreneur, investor, and digital transformation leader renowned for his innovative approach to emerging technologies.
As the Founder and CEO of Akshaya NFT and Metaverse (www.akshaya.io) in the USA, Ganesh is at the forefront of revolutionizing the hospitality industry through the integration of Web3, NFTs, and the Metaverse.
His vision encompasses creating a new economy for chefs, culinary schools, appliance makers, food products, restaurants, and hotels by leveraging these transformative technologies. Ganesh’s expertise extends beyond hospitality.
He is a seasoned digital transformation strategist with a profound understanding of open-source, permission-less decentralized networks, blockchain, and artificial intelligence.
His influence in the Web3/DeepTech space is notable, having been an early adopter and thought leader in blockchain, cryptocurrencies, DeFi, NFTs, Digital Twin, and the Metaverse.
In addition to his role at Akshaya, Ganesh serves as the COO of RapidEVChargE, a leading EV charging solutions company in India.
His entrepreneurial spirit and strategic insights have driven successful exits in the EV charging domain, showcasing his ability to anticipate and lead market transitions. Ganesh’s contributions to the tech community are vast.
As the incoming Vice Chairman for the IEEE Houston Chapter, he spearheads multiple initiatives with local government bodies to establish Texas as a hub for industrial blockchain solutions.
He frequently shares his expertise as a speaker at international technology conferences, covering topics such as IoT, big data, machine learning, cloud computing, and blockchain/crypto technologies.
Through his diverse roles and substantial contributions, Ganesh Raju continues to shape the future of digital and physical interactions, making him a visionary leader and a pivotal figure in the tech community.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ganeshraju07
Akshaya NFT and Metaverse: www.akshaya.io
RapidEVChargE: www.rapidevcharge.com
Amy Graves: Bio
Amy’s mission is to help those in the food and beverage industry, who want to do better, be more transparent. Her journey started over a decade ago with multiple health issues.
As a super sensitive to food, how ingredients are made, and packaging, she has learned the depth of how her allergen is used. She also learned the extent of unrecognized allergies and the frustration she and millions of others experience trying to eat.
Today she uses her knowledge combined with peer-reviewed research to show the connection between food and health and her client’s bottom line.
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 a passionate advocate for supporting women in the creative sector.
His first-hand experience from the radio industry, including ventures like MadBop, a platform dedicated to supporting and uplifting women, has provided him with deep insights into the challenges they face. This fuels his desire to champion their advancement and create a more equitable future, especially for his nieces pursuing creative endeavours.
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.
Jared Arms: Bio
Jared Arms is the visionary founder and CEO of Kylar.io Coin, a pioneering blockchain platform that merges immersive virtual worlds and decentralized finance.
Jared is actively developing advanced interactive cityscapes that utilize 3D and 4D technology, creating dynamic environments with interactive buildings, concert stages, and real-time animated elements like a moving anaconda.
This virtual world project reflects Kylar.io Coin’s role in leading the next wave of AI-powered spaces, redefining human interaction, community building, and future decentralized economies.
His work aligns perfectly with the evolving vision of virtual spaces as both economic and social ecosystems.
Michael Allison: Bio
US Marine Purple Heart Veteran Michael W. Allison is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, best-selling author, expert leadership trainer, and award-winning INC 5000 entrepreneur.
Michael Allison is a US Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient, leadership expert, and the visionary CEO of The Adversity Academy Leadership Development Company. With over 20+ years of experience in leadership, Michael has transformed lives and organizations by empowering individuals to embrace adversity, break through limitations, and lead with resilience around the globe.
Michael’s path to leadership was cemented during his devoted and faithful years of service in the United States Marine Corps, where he deployed to combat zones in the aftermath of 9/11 and the Iraq War where he led his unit on several mission critical assignments. His military service earned him the prestigious Purple Heart and shaped his deep understanding of leadership under extreme pressure. These high-risk combat experiences have all served as the launching point for his proprietary “The UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3-D” methodology. His proven methodologies serve organizations and team members to foster a mutual trusted environment of Resilience, Accountability, and Leadership.
As a globally recognized keynote speaker in areas of Leadership, Corporate Culture, High-Performance Teams and Mental Wellness. Michael has delivered transformative presentations at high-level leading organizations and Fortune 500 companies such as Microsoft, TEDx, NBC, and the University of Columbia. His keynotes, The UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle, challenge conventional leadership paradigms, inspiring audiences to take control of their destinies, shatter their own limiting beliefs, and unlock their full leadership potential.
Michael’s entrepreneurial journey has seen him successfully launch multiple businesses, earning recognition from outlets like INC 5000, Franchise Consultant, USA Today, and ESPN. He holds a Bachelors of Science in Business Information Security Systems and MBA in Applied Management from Indiana Wesleyan University. He was honored with the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award from Indiana Wesleyan University, reflecting his impact as a leader, mentor, and advocate. Additionally, his insights have been featured in publications like VFW Magazine, NBC, multiple podcasts and most recently About Face Military Mental Health Tribute.
Through The Adversity Academy, Michael delivers world-class leadership programs and personal coaching designed to help individuals and organizations build resilience, embrace change, and drive results. His mission is clear: to inspire others to become resilient leaders who thrive in the face of adversity.
While his impressive list of accolades and contributions continues to grow, Michael remains unwavering in his commitment to serve others. Drawing on his experiences alongside senior military leaders, congressional representatives, diplomats, and even the Secretary of State, Michael is driven by a clear mission: to dedicate himself to cultivating a culture of accountability, commitment, and authentic leadership. Whether on stage, coaching, or leading his programs, Michael’s focus is always on empowering others to overcome adversity and lead with integrity. Off stage, he is a devoted husband to Courtney and proud father to Omar and Corey, embodying the values of resilience, dedication, and family in all areas of his life.
Kelly Kam: Bio
Kelly Kam is a dynamic and empathetic leader in holistic health, known for her personable approach, unwavering reliability, and results-driven ethos. With a rich background in transforming lives through personalized health strategies, Kelly has become a trusted name for those seeking not just fitness, but an enduring path to total well-being.
After experiencing her own transformative journey from corporate burnout to vibrant health, Kelly’s mission became clear: to empower others to reclaim their vitality and live fulfilling, balanced lives. Her approach goes beyond conventional coaching; she brings a deeply empathetic, adaptive methodology, making each client’s goals her own and tailoring every strategy to fit their unique needs and lifestyle. It’s this rare blend of care, adaptability, and dedication that has set her apart in the wellness industry.
Kelly’s clients know her as more than just a coach; she’s a committed partner who believes in their potential even when they can’t see it themselves. Her hallmark is a deep, genuine concern for each individual’s progress, meeting them where they are, and guiding them forward with compassion and unshakeable support. Driven by the conviction that true wellness encompasses physical, mental, and even financial health, Kelly’s work spans a holistic spectrum that is as motivational as it is effective.
With a reputation as both a steadfast guide and a motivational force, Kelly Kam is a sought-after speaker, media feature, and trusted wellness expert, inspiring audiences and clients alike with her warmth, expertise, and unwavering dedication to real, sustainable transformation. Whether in the press, on stage, or one-on-one, Kelly’s story and approach resonate, inviting everyone she meets to join her on a journey to a life of health, balance, and purpose.
William Jackson: Bio
Educator of 33 years teaching STEAM+M, AI, VR and Metaverse.
CEO MetaverseWP & My Quest To Teach
Building metaverse opportunity sites since 2022 and speaking
internationally since 2016 on multiple platforms and multiple areas.
Past GatherVerse speaker and contributor. Since 2017 sponsored over
500 youth and teens to speak at technology conferences globally.
MetaverseWP https://metaversewp.com/
My Quest To Teach https://myquesttoteach.com/
Have built multiple metaverse sites for multiple African WordCamp Conferences.
WordCamp Nairobi 2024
https://www.spatial.io/s/WordCamp-Nairobi-2024-665d157224cde6462e89747c?share=8392184705472013784
WordCamp Jinja 20204
https://www.spatial.io/s/WordCamp-Jinja-2024-666a225f1f8e2c956a558c63?share=2803546888868971155
WordCamp Lira 2024
https://www.spatial.io/s/WordPress-in-Education-Showcase-2024-65b1bcec8e2f7d82aabcca4a?share=8619185572815629897
WordCamp Port Harcourt
https://www.spatial.io/s/WordCamp-Port-Harcourt-2024-667b8e117c838866ca924ff6?share=6936060895912826408
WordPress In Education Youth and Teen Workshop
https://www.spatial.io/s/WordPress-in-Education-Showcase-2024-65b1bcec8e2f7d82aabcca4a?share=8619185572815629897
Meghan Sickner: Bio
Meghan Kelly Sickner is a seasoned expert, and thought leader with decades of experience in luxury wellness, healing modalities, personal, and professional transformation. She works with prestigious resorts like the Ritz Carlton and provides private consulting, bringing a wealth of knowledge in holistic practices to clients worldwide.
As the author of *The Acquiescing Alpha Female*, Meghan shares her insights on balancing strength and surrender, guiding individuals—especially women—toward empowerment, healing, and self-awareness.
Meghan is passionate about helping people unlock their full potential .Her extensive experience allows her to design bespoke wellness retreat programs. Her highest vision is to assist in humanity’s awakening.
Her expertise spans trauma-informed yoga, somatic experiencing, breathwork, and transformative modalities that address both mind and body. She holds numerous certifications, including Transformational Breathwork, Somatic Release Therapy, Somatic Respiratory Integration NLP, and is a Reiki Master, along with her extensive Shaman training.
Derek Anderson: Bio
Derek Anderson, retired NBA Champion, philanthropist, and entrepreneur.
Derek’s story of perseverance, leadership, and success, both on and off the court, has inspired thousands, making him an exceptional keynote speaker for corporate events, leadership seminars, and motivational gatherings.
With a career that includes an NBA Championship, founding a nonprofit (Stamina Foundation), and successful entrepreneur, Derek brings unique insights into achieving success through resilience, teamwork, and strong values. He has spoken at numerous events, captivating audiences with his personal journey and practical strategies for thriving in high-pressure environments.
Derek can tailor his message to fit a variety of themes, including:
Leadership and teamwork in the workplace
Overcoming adversity and building resilience
Fostering a winning mindset in life and business
Philanthropy and giving back
Diana Torres: Bio
Diana Wolf Torres is a skilled writer and educator with a passion for AI, STEM, and social impact. She holds certifications in Writing for the Sciences and Food Sustainability from Stanford Online, bringing both technical depth and a forward-thinking approach to her work.
As the founder of the Deep Learning Daily AI newsletter, she translates complex tech concepts for broad audiences and inspires future generations of STEM innovators.
With 20+ years of experience, Diana is a respected voice in the AI and tech communities, combining her expertise with an educator’s dedication to empowerment and diversity. When not writing about AI or challenging the status quo, Diana enjoys vegan cooking and volunteering with the 501st Legion.
Brandon Ellis: Bio
Brandon Ellis is a creative technologist, innovator, and the founder of SpatialGrow, a pioneering EdTech startup revolutionizing the way students learn about agriculture, computer science, robotics, renewable energy.
With a background in mixed reality and AR/VR experiences, Brandon has worked with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital – ALSAC, developing immersive storytelling applications and collaborating with cross-functional teams to build world-class experiences for events like the PGA World Golf Championship and Augmented World Expo.
His passion for technology and education led him to create SpatialGrow, a platform that offers immersive virtual STEM simulations, bridging the gap between traditional education and real-world applications.
Leveraging partnerships with farms and other STEM labs across the world, SpatialGrow empowers students with practical skills and fosters engagement in the digital workforce.
Vernon Ruffin: Bio
Vernon Ruffin is an experienced Associate Professor of Biology with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry, the Principal Investigator of the first biomedical research neuroscience laboratory at Virginia Union University (VUU), and the CEO/Principal Investigator at Ruffin NeuroLab, LLC.
The Ruffin NeuroLab is an educational program that aids in professional development and provides academic and research training. a professional networking platform and a resource for educational and research opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Vernon Ruffin is on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the American Physiological Society and on the Professional Development Committee of the Society for Neuroscience.
Vernon Ruffin is also a Review Editor for Frontiers: Neoplastic Pathologies of Aging.
Vernon Ruffin received his undergraduate degree in Biology from VUU and received his graduate degree in Neurophysiology Howard University College of Medicine.
Venu GR: Bio
—– 25+ Year industry Exprience ( IT | Telecom | HealthCare | Fintech & AgriTech )
E E of the Year,2022 Top 50 Leaders of INDIA | CEO of the Year, 2020 | NED Board Advisor – FinTech & IT | Academic Advisor-RMIT | SMU| UM | Business Formation Advisor – Virtual Centers| Venture Support – Mentor
Mentor for Below Org:
Wadhwani FoundationStartup Mentor, IND
RMIT UNIVERSITY – AUS | SIG | VN
MICRO MENTOR, GLOBAL WW
Mentornets, USA
GuidePoint, Chief Mentor
SMU University, USA
SMU CoX, UK
University of WestMinister, UK
Youth Mentor- ATL Mission, IND
NEN Mentor, IND
Washington University, Mentor
Aston University, London, UK
Business Mentor, CoffeeMug
