GatherVerse Money Summit
December 2-3, 2025 (8:00 AM PST)
Meet the speakers

Michelle O'Connor: Bio
A seasoned technology and financial services executive, Michelle is the Vice President of Global Brand and Market Expansion at TaxBit. In this role, she drives the global brand presence for the leading tax and compliance unicorn while spearheading market expansion efforts and acting as a brand ambassador and thought leader. Her team promotes an inclusive culture, encouraging engagement through leadership and collaboration.
With over ten years in the digital asset space, Michelle is recognized as a preeminent thought leader, voted among the top 5 Women in Blockchain, and a finalist in the Diversity in Tech Awards in the Tech Leader category. In addition to her role at TaxBit, Michelle is a well-known FinTech leader, voted among the top 30 FinTech marketers, and a leading Web3 executive. She is passionate about improving access to financial services for the unbanked. She has a proven track record of leading brand management, marketing communications, and community building in the FinTech space.
Before joining TaxBit, she was the VP of Marketing and Community at Uphold, a digital money platform. In that role, she developed and implemented the brand’s marketing strategy, brought cohesion and intention to the brand voice, and facilitated Uphold’s online community. She also managed public relations, content marketing and development, and social media strategy.
Michelle also serves as the Expansion Chair of NYC FinTech Women, Chief Strategy Officer and Board Chairwoman for The Association of Women in Crypto, and as an advisor for The Financial Club and the Blockchain Steering Committee of WTIA.

Jorden Woods: Bio
Jorden is a Caltech-trained astrophysicist, successful 3-time serial entrepreneur with exits, and an early pioneer in the use of AI & Web3 decentralized technologies in business. He is a venture operator and founding partner at StarChain Ventures, a Silicon Valley venture studio.
Jorden has raised over $220 million from top tier Silicon Valley and global investors for both his own companies and advised startups. His first company GlobalSight became a market leader, leveraged AI, and was rated as one of the “Top 50 Private Companies in the World”. His second company, in 2002, was focused on decentralized technologies and what we now call the Metaverse (the 3D Web). He has also generated millions of dollars in revenue and expanded startups both nationally and internationally. Jorden has a successful track record leading strategy and technology initiatives with Fortune 500 organizations generating tens of millions of dollars in positive ROI.
Jorden has been an invited guest speaker at Stanford University, Google, UC Berkeley, MIT, Draper University, and over 100 technology events including leading blockchain and AI conferences in Silicon Valley. He is an advisor to top AI and blockchain startups globally.

Sorcha Mulligan: Bio
Sorcha Mulligan is an Irish entrepreneur, mentor & advocate specializing in fintech, blockchain technology & sustainable innovation. She is the founder of The SMEChain Ventures focused on supporting startup founders leveraging emerging technologies like blockchain to address challenges such as environmental, social & governance (ESG) concerns. Sorcha has a background in corporate treasury with over 15 years of experience at Tier 1 financial institutions.
Her roles extend across multiple organizations, including serving as a board chair at the Impact Innovation Foundation, a regional ambassador for Women in Crypto & Women in Immersive Tech Europe & an advisor for various blockchain & innovation-focused groups like Blockchain Ireland, BlockW. Sorcha is also a vocal proponent of digital inclusivity & gender equality in technology, having been recognized as one of the Top Women in VC & Startups, Top 100 Women in Blockchain & a LinkedIn Top Voice.
She regularly speaks at international conferences, highlighting her work in applying blockchain for social good & supporting sustainable development goals (SDGs).

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.

Susan Lindeque: Bio
Susan started her first company at the age of 21, launching a remarkable entrepreneural journey that would span multiple sectors and continents. As her career progressed from small business to executive roles at large multinational organizations, she anticipated pivotal transformations in international commerce, and began investing strategies ahead of emerging technological shifts. Susan made prescient investments that ultimately translated into substantial returns for herself and her family. She created Avestix to bring institutional rigor and scale to her investment strategy and provide a platform for other families and individuals to participate in these innovative market opportunities.
Prior to forming Avestix, Susan accrued more than three decades of experience leading organizations across three continents, advising private and public companies, and managing assets and wealth on behalf of families, individuals, institutional investors, and corporations. In theses roles, she raised, invested, financed, and managed more than $1 billion in real estate, private credit, private equity and venture capital endeavors.

Alex Cahana: Bio
Dr. Alex Cahana specializes in Web 3.0 transformation, especially in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDE). He is a pioneer on Satoshi Island, a founding partner at ImpactRooms and CryptoMondays, a Blockchain and Healthcare Expert for the UN/CEFACT, a Board member at AdanianLabs Africa and ACHA (Americas Continental Health Alliance), a SSA ambassador for GBBC and venture partner at Global Blockchain Ventures, Limitless Ventures and MODUS Africa Ventures.
With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Cahana consults dozens of Web 3.0 early stage companies, local and state governments and believes we should Love people and use things and not the other way around.

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.

Michael Forman: Bio
Michael Forman is a celebrated corporate speaker and networking strategist, best known as the author of Networking Unleashed. With a reputation for turning networking into a practical and profitable art form, Michael delivers dynamic presentations that empower individuals and organizations to achieve greater success including his coaching clients. A Desert Storm veteran, Michael’s leadership and service are a cornerstone of his impactful speaking style. He resides in Cumming, Georgia, with his wife. Learn more about Michael’s work at www.MichaelAForman.com.

Sabrina Princessa Wang: Bio
Sabrina ‘Princessa’ Wang is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, Amazon best-selling author of The Lazy Person’s Guide to Success, and an international speaker renowned for her expertise in AI, automation, and future-focused entrepreneurship. She is also the creator of Seraphina AI, her personal digital twin designed to enhance productivity, streamline business operations, and empower entrepreneurs to leverage AI in their ventures.
Recognised as one of The Silicon Review’s “30 Entrepreneurs of the Year” and a recipient of the prestigious Singapore SME 500 and Spirit of Enterprise awards, Sabrina has a proven track record of helping individuals and businesses achieve freedom in time, wealth, location, and happiness.
The media loves a good success story. You might’ve seen her in The Straits Times, The Business Times, Vulcan Post, e27, Inc., The Peak, iWeekly, 8 Days, and a bunch of other cool places.
As the founder of People’s Inc. 360, Sabrina revolutionised marketing automation by building a SaaS platform that achieved a 7-figure ARR during the pandemic, now scaling to 8 figures. She also leads the Royal Visionary Society and its flagship Royal Launch School, equipping aspiring female entrepreneurs with the tools to turn passion into fortune, leveraging AI and automation to stay ahead in an ever-evolving world.
Sabrina’s ventures extend beyond tech and business, with her lifestyle brand, PRINCESSA, and early entrepreneurial success as the founder of Royal Privileged in 2013, a brand and product development powerhouse. A pioneer in esports, freestyle ice skater, and thought leader in entrepreneurship, she embodies the spirit of multi-passionate innovation, blending futurism with practicality to inspire a new generation of leaders.
Crowned “The Princess of AI, Automation, Tech, and Entrepreneurship” at Nas Summit 2024, Sabrina is a sought-after keynote speaker, regularly featured in leading media.
Beyond tech, Sabrina is a trailblazer in the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain. As the Secretary General of the Association Blockchain Asia, she is at the forefront of advancing blockchain innovation in the region. Over the past two years, she has grown her personal crypto portfolio from 5 to 7 digits while running a successful fund that delivers consistent monthly returns of 20 to 40 percent. Her strategic trading has also achieved portfolio growth of up to 150 percent in under two months, solidifying her reputation as a leader in blockchain innovation.
A proud cat mom to 🐈⬛️ Toothless and a passionate advocate for education, Sabrina’s mission includes building schools for the underprivileged and creating opportunities for empowerment and change worldwide. She continues to share her insights on wealth-building, mental wellness, and personal growth, driving meaningful conversations about how technology, authenticity, and innovation can transform lives.
Visit www.princessadiary.com for insights, stories, and resources to unlock your freedom in time, wealth, location, and happiness. Let’s connect and create a life of purpose, abundance, and innovation together!
💌 Read my Royal Confessions newsletter at https://princessa.beehiiv.com.

Daveed Benjamin: Bio
Daveed Benjamin is a technologist, patent holder, and author with a BS and MS in Engineering from Stanford. As a “Shift Shaper,” his work focuses on altering systems of consciousness to catalyze the deep shifts that humanity urgently needs.
As a founder of Bridgit DAO, Presence Browser and the BRC333 protocol and author of the book “The Metaweb: The Next Level of the Internet,” Daveed’s focus is decentralizing knowledge, protecting cognitive freedom, and building collective intelligence.

David Drury: Bio
David Drury is a mindset, strategy and teamwork expert, infamously deemed the Most Notorious Card Counter in America by a nationwide network of casinos–and the surveillance agencies they hired to stop him. David cleared seven figures beating blackjack as part of the legendary Church Team, which has been featured on NPR’s This American Life, and in the award-winning documentary film Holy Rollers: The True Story of Card Counting Christians.
David brings his wild preacher’s-kid-meets-high-stakes-gambling story to business audiences and conference stages, divulging time-honored trade secrets to beating the cards, but—more to the heart of the matter—revealing how beating the game transformed his mind for pursuing success in work and life in the face of uncertainty. David invites team leaders and creative business professionals to borrow “card counter mindset” in forging worthy pathways to personal and team success.
David is a writer, musician, actor and creativity coach. His forthcoming memoir The God Card is currently in pre-production for podcast and television audiences. He lives and works in Seattle, Washington.

Dr. Muhsinah Morris: Bio
Meet the first ever Metaversity Director, Dr. Muhsinah Lateefah Morris. A BS chemistry graduate of the HBCU Clark Atlanta University, she obtained an MS & PhD from the Harvard of the South, Emory University, in Biomolecular Chemistry. Dr. Morris has been part of and leader of Morehouse’s Metaversity project since the Spring of 2021. She has won numerous distinguished honors, including 2025 Leading Woman in AI by ASU+GSV, 2024 XR Women Global Trailblazer of the Year, 2023 Atlanta Technology Professional Innovator of the Year, 2023 Top 100 Women in Emerging Technology, Teaching Excellence at Morehouse College, Best Emerging Technology and Innovation from CBRE, First Place Unconventional Innovation in Industry by T-Mobile, and 2022 STEM Women Atlanta Educator of the Year.
She resides in McDonough GA with her husband and five sons. One of her sons has autism and she advocates for the entire autism community as a member of the Community Advisory Council and advocacy Ambassadors for Autism Speaks. She’s a VR pioneer in education and is transforming learning globally. She is affectionately known as Dr. M.O.M. (Molder of Minds) by all her students. She continues to mold the minds of educators and students globally in the Metaverse. She is a member of the XR Advisory Council for the XR Association and Futurist Council for Jobs for the Future (JFF). Her goal is to authentically transform the educational system for our future leaders using immersive technologies in the Metaverse. She currently trains both pre-service and in-service educators on how to create and optimize their own institutional Metaverse Culture. More recently, she founded Metaverse United, LLC where she helps people find where they belong in the embodiment of the internet called the Metaverse. Learn more at UnitetheMetaverse.com.

Haroon Bhorat: Bio
Haroon is Chairman of Sygnia Asset Management and is also Chair of the Nimble Group, and Non-Executive Director at listed JSE-listed retailer, PicknPay.
He is a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, was a Cornell University research fellow, and studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Professor Bhorat is a member of the executive committee of the International Economic Association.
His career appointments include serving as an economic advisor to former Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan and to former presidents Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Motlanthe.
He is that rare breed of an economist who is able seamlessly move between high level engagements with leaders in the private sector, public service and academia.
Prof. Bhorat has an h-index is 43, ranking him as one of the most cited South African economists globally.

Rodrigo Moheno Torres: Bio
I am a lawyer with extensive experience in international finance, law, and market analysis. I graduated from Universidad Panamericana in Mexico City, with a specialization in International Taxation alongside the New York University (NYU). Over the years, I have gained expertise in international law, financial regulations, fintech, cryptocurrencies, blockchain, investment funds, and asset management. I have further honed my skills with diplomas in blockchain, cryptocurrencies, market analysis, and risk management from platforms like Udemy and Coursera. Additionally, I hold a diploma in International Political Economy from the London School of Economics and a certification in Human Rights from Intermedia Consulting A.C. and Collège Universitaire Henry Durant.
Currently, I am the Co-Founder and Board Member of Ziran Wealth Management an asset manager from the BVI where we manage two hedge funds from the Cayman Islands, one is mainly focused in crypto and the other is mainly focused on equity, Co-Founder and CEO of Ziran Tech a business consulting company, and Co-Founder and CPAO of Ziran Capital a tech investment fund. I also serve as Chief of the Technology Division and Partner at the Mexican law firm Moheno, González & Oropeza (MGO). My work integrates law, finance, and crypto.

Chebet Kipingor: Bio
Chebet Kipingor is a digital marketing innovator who transforms complex technologies into powerful business strategies. As the Kenya Lead at Busha, she bridges the gap between cutting-edge blockchain technology and practical market solutions. Her journey spans continents and industries, from managing digital campaigns for global brands like Microsoft and UNHCR to pioneering blockchain initiatives across Africa.
With over 8 years of experience, Chebet has a unique talent for leveraging artificial intelligence and digital platforms to unlock new market opportunities. Her Google certifications and expertise in programmatic media buying have enabled her to craft data-driven strategies that connect brands with emerging demographics.
Beyond her professional achievements, Chebet is a passionate advocate for diversity in tech. As the Regional Ambassador for Africa at the Association of Women in Cryptocurrency, an active member of the Kenya Blockchain Ladies Association DAO, and the Women in Web 3 African Chapter, she champions inclusivity while empowering startups through strategic training and insights shared via her “Science of Social” newsletter.
At Busha, Chebet continues to push the boundaries of digital marketing, transforming technological potential into tangible business growth.

Thomas Wilson: Bio
Thomas R Wilson is a professional Advocate, Writer, Consultant, Business Owner, and Sensory Friendly Event Specialist. His work is centered around an empathic and person-first mindset that works to empower and uplift community voices. His work is inspired by his own personal experiences within his life as a member of the Neuro-diverse and Mental health community. His work has been highlighted internationally and he has partnered with over 40 + businesses in the United States. Overall, Thomas’ work continues to be a bright spot that is celebrated by the community.

Nadja Bester: Bio
Nadja Bester brings a wealth of diverse expertise to AdLunam as an entrepreneur, board member, advisor, award-winning startup mentor, international speaker, author, and host of the podcast “The Future of NFTs.”
Boasting nearly two decades of experience in marketing and communications and former owner of two marketing agencies, she has a proven track record that includes a role as a former Chief Digital Marketing Officer in the pharmaceutical industry.
Nadja’s impressive tenure in the blockchain sector since 2017 includes consulting and fractional CMO roles where she significantly contributed to fundraising efforts that collectively secured over $300 million for various companies.
In addition to her broad consulting and leadership roles, she has contributed as a journalist to several publications, including Bitcoin.com and Investing.com.
Nadja has been featured in media outlets like International Business Times, Benzinga, HackerNoon, Be in Crypto, L’Atelier BNP Paribas, The South African, DC News Now, and Viet Nam News.

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.

Madiha Mirza: Bio
Madiha Shakil Mirza is an Artificial Intelligence Engineer at Avanade.
She has Master of Science in Computer Science and 6 years of professional experience in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, and Generative AI.
Her Master’s thesis specialized in Generative Al, with an emphasis on developing Large Language Models for Computational Humor.
She has presented at several Artificial Intelligence and Data Science conferences. She is also a published researcher in Al.
Her research has been published in Association for Computational Linguistics (ACL) which is a top-tier conference in Al and the most prestigious journal of Natural Language Processing.

Sean Mann: Bio
Sean Mann, CEO of RP1, is a visionary leader with 25 years of entrepreneurial and technology expertise. In 2023, he was named ‘Innovator of the Year’ at the WebXR Awards, ranked as a top 20 Metaverse Industry founder by Metaverse Insider, and a featured Industry thought-leader on CNBC. Sean shapes RP1’s strategic direction, drawing from a diverse background in B2C and B2B sectors, including medical, consumer electronics, software technology, fitness, and wellness. His career highlights encompass business transformation, strategic partnerships, and pioneering marketing strategies. Sean and RP1 are active members of the Metaverse Standards Forum, the Open ARCloud, IEEE, The World Wide Web Consortium.

Kee Jones: Bio
Kee Jones is the Chief Executive Officer of Black Girl Ai, the CoFounder of Including Us in Tech, and the Founder/CEO of RESET. At Black Girl Ai, she empower and inspire girls to become future leaders in the tech industry, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to excel in AI. Her passion lies in helping women and young girls learn all things tech-related, fueling their aspirations in the field. As CoFounder of Including Us in Tech, she further extends her mission to promote diversity and inclusion in the technology sector. In her role as Founder/CEO of RESET, Kee helps women conquer and defeat trauma, combining her tech expertise with a deep commitment to emotional healing and empowerment.
Currently also serving in the healthcare industry, Kee Jones has accumulated an impressive 25 years of experience in various specialties. Her dedication to healthcare and her commitment to excellence are clear in her work.
Before transitioning into tech, Kee worked in education for 10 years, an experience that ignited her drive to establish Visions Academy—an online tutoring and enrichment program. Her commitment to education and learning remains unwavering especially when it involves using artificial intelligence ethically and responsibly.
A dedicated philanthropist, Kee’s commitment to serving others is evident in all her endeavors.

Ian Kang: Bio
A comprehensive English education platform planner & Instructor (for both teachers & students) inspired by the Aristotelian method, focused on improving linguistic logic and meta-cognitive abilities through presentation- and discussion-based lessons. This hyper-personalized learning system aims to enhance performance across all subjects and tests. The platform integrates principles of logic, cognitive science, and AI.
I entered university as a PE major, but after an injury forced me to pursue a new path, I later entered law school, admitted as the top-ranking student. However, due to the intense competition and sense of caution from those around me, I experienced severe depression. In the process of overcoming this, I gained diverse experiences, knowledge, and insights. Through these challenges, I realized that human intelligence is not a fixed value but a variable attribute, something I experienced firsthand and confirmed through teaching, which is also proven by many recent studies.
I now dedicate my life to sharing this hopeful message with students, leveraging Korean educational strengths—renowned for its high education standards and advanced system—to contribute to the global K-study & K-Edtech initiative. Moreover, I’ve designed an AI-based recommendation system that matches students with compatible teachers and group members. This approach not only helps reduce mental stress and cognitive burden from excessive educational competition but also enhances learning efficiency.
Recently, I have integrated Python with OpenAI API to develop educational tools. These include a program that analyzes students’ presentation videos to assess their grammar and expressions, as well as a tool that provides detailed scoring and feedback for each section of the TOEFL Speaking test. Additionally, I have fine-tuned AI models to generate customized exam materials for various language proficiency tests, which I provide to students.
Currently, I am deeply focused on developing a highly intelligent Virtual Human Talker to further enhance the learning experience. My ultimate goal is to show students that studying can be as enjoyable as their favorite sports or video games. I am deeply committed to helping students enjoy high-efficiency, compressed learning that enables them to rest well, pursue their hobbies, and still maintain strong academic performance. I have guided numerous international school students through a 2-on-1 micro-group learning approach, achieving substantial results, and I am still continuing to research and develop this model further.
Through my life experiences, I have come to realize that there is no greater joy than using my small abilities to ignite powerful change in the lives of those who hold a desperate hope for education in developing nations. Your introductions could make this possible, and for that, I would be deeply grateful.
I was born into a low-income family and described as dumb in many places, but I have had the opportunity to interact with the highest echelons of society. From that, I have come to understand just how hollow the pursuit of wealth and fame can be. I also deeply understand—both experientially and academically—that human intelligence is fundamentally emotional and not a fixed trait, and that social connectedness plays a vital role not only in one’s success in life but also in academic achievement.
If my efforts bear fruit in Morocco, (I am about to help people there through ‘FORUM MAROCAIN POUR (M.L.L.L.FORUM) L’APPRENTISSAGE TOUT AU LONG DE LA VIE’ and if I can live out this earnest and heartfelt mission through your trust and introductions, I am even considering stepping away from my current private international school education business. My true wish is to serve only those who genuinely need support, wherever they may be in the world.
I truly believe that the education model I’ve acquired over my long life journey is the secret code that has been revealed by God, I believe, and this hyper language learning efficiency has never existed so far in human history, since the public use of AI has just started, and there are not many educators or companies that fully take advantage of this kind of techniques. The reason also derives from the fact that once these educational institutes have set their fixed curricular, they cannot update it instantly to the fast-changing pace of AI technologies.
However, when you think about the online education like mine, it is not a big deal as I can flexibly and instantly update the teaching and learning techniques up-to-date anytime and anywhere for learners, making them the cutting-edge education methods with the state-of-the-art technologies.
This is also why some of the international school heads I’ve talked with mention that they fully agree with my viewpoint that if we only focus on the outcome of language proficiency and academic performance, international schools become meaningless, demonstrating that anyone in this world could enjoy the to-be-meaningless international school education, not in the future, but right now.
This just shows how powerful this sort of teaching and learning methods are, and I strongly believe this would be the typical kind of education in the following years.
This is why I’ve been so passionate about this, almost being a bit obsessed with this model. When this can be equipped with the AI Virtual Human Talker technology I envision, the prohibitively high cost international school education or native speakers’ private lessons will all be meaningless, providing a substantial advantage to those in need.
Can you truly believe in my faith and what has driven me so far. I truly believe I have been guided by God (FYI, I don’t even belong to any religion, but I clearly know this.) and this is the mission, duty, and destiny assigned to me by him as well.
I deeply and truly appreciate you recognizing this small business man who has been long described and viewed as a frivolous talkative tutor after I dropped out of Law School. I am well-aware of how important you are and how valuable your support is to me.

Andrea Camargo: Bio
Andrea is a Veterinary Medicine professional and business leader dedicated to fostering collaboration and resilience on both local and global scales. As Co-founder and Storyteller at ReFi Collective, she and her team accelerate the transition toward regenerative systems across Latin America by connecting visionary teams with essential tools, support, and funding. Drawing on her scientific background and expertise in communication, biology, and innovation, Andrea crafts narratives that spark transformative changes in lifestyle choices and mental paradigms, ultimately cultivating a profound sense of abundance and love.
In addition, Andrea serves as a global community leader in Yoga and Mindfulness, sharing well-being practices worldwide and championing cultural shifts toward conscious lifestyles that prioritize both personal and planetary health.

Pearl Renua: Bio

Dominion Ndubuisi: Bio
Startup operator and innovation strategist with 10+ years of experience building and scaling tech ventures across Africa. Proven leadership in operations, partnerships, and program strategy. Successfully led cross-continental initiatives, including a 500+ stakeholder US-Africa Trade Expo, and co-founded ventures in fintech, edtech, and foodtech.

Kristi Straw: Bio
Kristi Straw is redefining modern leadership, recently recognized among 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲’𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝟱𝟬 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 — a reflection of her city’s growing role as the “Wall Street of the South.” Since arriving in Charlotte only three years ago, Kristi has made an undeniable impact, earning the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 award from the Charlotte Business Journal and, in the 11 months since leaving corporate life, building her own powerhouse consultancy, Lighthouse Leadership Consultants.
Kristi’s swift journey from the C-suite of wealth and finance to her own entrepreneurial venture showcases her exceptional mix of strategic insight and unapologetic boldness. Now a #𝟭 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 of UNICORN Leader: Driving Innovation and Influence in the Modern Era, Kristi embodies a leadership style that marries 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 and 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆. Her approach combines the authentic storytelling of Brené Brown with the fearless, entrepreneurial drive of Barbara Corcoran, creating a brand of leadership that is as revolutionary as it is deeply resonant.
What makes Kristi stand out is her commitment to future-proofing leadership through a blend of empathy, innovation, and fearless change. As the 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗿, 𝗸𝗲𝘆𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿, 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗢𝗥𝗡 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗔𝗖𝗧 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗟𝗮𝗯, Kristi doesn’t just inspire change—she activates it. Her keynotes go beyond “just speeches” and are experiences that ignite leaders to drive their own impactful revolutions.
At the core of Kristi’s philosophy is her 𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗢𝗥𝗡 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸, a powerful model that champions bold, NextGen leadership, reshaping traditional norms to build inclusive, innovative environments. Her work is a launchpad for a new kind of leadership, one where empathy fuels execution, vision meets bold action, and leaders are empowered to future-proof their impact.
In a world that demands fresh, fearless leadership, Kristi Straw is leading the charge with her unique, UNICORN-like vision. Her journey in Charlotte is just the beginning, as she continues to challenge and inspire leaders across industries to innovate, influence, and make a meaningful difference.

Tina Fleming: Bio
Tina Fleming is the Senior Director of AI Optimization at Avenue Z, where she leads the agency’s proprietary approach to AI-era visibility, performance media, and brand discoverability. With over a decade of experience in digital strategy and search intelligence, Tina has helped Fortune 500 brands and emerging startups adapt to the algorithmic age, bridging the gap between human storytelling and machine learning. She is a frequent educator on AI literacy and the future of brand visibility.

Alison McMurtrie: Bio
Alison is a respected serial entrepreneur, who is an active contributor in the start up eco system. Her background in Exec level international corporate gave her the business and growth knowledge essential in the startup ecosystem. Alison co-founded and served as the COO of CyberPie, an Irish startup that achieved successful investment and exit strategies.
Not put off by the founder journey she then co-founded and became COO of Trrue, a Layer 1 blockchain protocol for the Financial Services ecosystem, focused on Impact, and Green finance, UK and Ireland based. She spearheads Idunn Consulting, where she serves as the Founder and Principle, leveraging her extensive expertise to offer strategic management consulting services, research and thinktank to startups and SME’s. Focusing predominately on female startups and SME’s, in Ireland and Northern Ireland, iDunn Consulting advises on long term business sustainability and scaling. Alison is also an Advisor to a number of startups.
Alison is cofounded emerging VC, Equisscore, focusing on under represented founders with impact startups.

Charlotte Kemp: Bio
A futurist keynote speaker and futures thinking executive coach, Charlotte Kemp works with leaders to co-create preferred futures. She is a Past President of the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa (PSASA), the Immediate Past President of the Global Speakers Federation (GSF) and maintains membership of the Association of Professional Futurists (APF). Charlotte has been awarded the prestigious Founders Award from the PSASA and has a list of over 100 recommendations from clients and audience from around the world, on her LinkedIn profile.
Charlotte is also Chief Relationship Officer for Voices Into Africa, an events company seeking to raise the profile of speakers, events and collaborations across Africa.
Charlotte has experience in working with leaders of SME organisations and presents her content in various ways including presentations, workshops, facilitations and coaching. She has an extensive library of content that she has produced and books published on Amazon. As a futurist her work spans strategic foresight, all areas of the 4 stages of developing a coherent futures thinking plan, coaching to develop a futures focussed mindset, and specific tools and models such as trend analysis, Causal Layered Analysis, visioning and developing capacity and expertise in using Artificial Intelligence.

Emily Wright: Bio
Emily Wright is a rising voice of their generation, with an eclectic background encompassing child care, education, marketing, and management, to name a few, and they have assisted in the establishment and growth of multiple small businesses.
Their work focuses primarily on the psychology of discrimination, and their organisation, It’ll be alwright®, offers wellness coaching and mental and emotional guidance, which helps to combat bias by improving clarity of headspace and thus decision-making. Emily has written multiple books, including ‘Mind Bites’, which presents simple techniques to reprogram the mind, and ‘The 100 Days of Colour: Celebrating Frequetic Beauty’, which explores the relationship between subconscious and algorithmic bias.
Emily offers insight on the intersection of Humanity and Technology, and how it relates to our evolution as a conscious species. Their research on bias is crucial to the conversation of ethics and equity.

Lindsay Raé Perry: Bio
Lindsay Raé Perry is a healing justice strategist, TEDx speaker, and founder of Journey to CEO®. Her work explores the intersection of trauma, apathy, systemic oppression, and embodied leadership, inviting individuals and institutions to remember their humanity through truth, care, and restoration. A former tech entrepreneur turned transformational facilitator, Lindsay guides people-first innovation with a lens rooted in ancestral wisdom, somatic intelligence, and equity-centered strategy. Her TEDx talk, Transforming Apathy into Emotional Freedom, challenges dominant narratives about burnout and disconnection, reframing apathy as a protective invitation back to truth.

Jeannie Dougherty: Bio
My name is Jeannie Dougherty, but my clients call me the money whisperer. I bring ease and wisdom to people who want to get out of money burnout and who want more than just control of their finances–they want their money to work for them. The most common things my clients achieve after working with me are making more money, losing financial stress, and shattering their own glass ceiling.

Tonderai Ndimazhou: Bio
A bit about me I am Tonderai a creative technologist with a wide range of experience in technology development both software and hardware. I truly enjoy problem-solving, computer programming, and engineering. My fields of interest range from entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, game programming, virtual reality, augmented reality, autonomous systems and how all these connect with the wider human society. As an XR specialist I have worked on numerous XR projects. Most recently starting ParadigmXR a UK based extended reality agentic browser App. The vision is to create a social agentic AI spatial media app from users young and old can interact with spatial media.

Shamane Tan: Bio
Shamane Tan, a visionary influencer and TEDx speaker, excels in aligning C-Suite and Board members with cybersecurity imperatives.
As the author of “Cyber Risk Leaders,” she unravels executive communication nuances and distills C-Suite expectations.
Her work extends to “Cyber Mayday and the Day After,” a roadmap for navigating crises by mining the wisdom of global C-level executives. Her recent book, “Building a Cyber Resilience,” featured on Forbes Australia’s top list of CEO books.
Shamane also founded a transcontinental cyber risk and executive meetup fostering mentorship and thought leadership across seven cities.
Recipient of the IFSEC Global Top 20 Cybersecurity Influencer award, Shamane is the Chief Growth Officer at Sekuro, leveraging technical prowess and business acumen to advance security maturity.

Anish Baheti: Bio
Anish Baheti, Founder Concepts Coach
4x TEDx Speaker | Award-Winning Author | Ikigai Awakener | Keynote Talks
Anish Baheti is a globally recognized Ikigai Coach, 4x TEDx Speaker, and transformational guide who helps individuals and organizations align purpose with performance. Through his expertise in Ikigai for Personal Growth and Ikigai at Work, he empowers people to cultivate clarity, motivation, and fulfillment—while enabling professionals to drive execution, accountability, and tangible results in their careers.
Transitioning from a career as a Chartered Accountant to becoming a leading voice in the field of self-development, Anish has dedicated his life to helping others discover meaning, clarity, and passion in both personal and professional spheres. As the visionary founder of Train My Brain®, he leads high-impact experiences through Ikigai Coaching, Brain Mapping, and his signature 3-6-9-12™ Meditation, transforming lives across education, corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and sports.
His work is sought after by CEOs, business leaders, and professionals worldwide, with his recent Ikigai at Work session in Pune—curated for 22 multi-million-dollar company CEOs—receiving exceptional feedback. Known for his ability to simplify complex concepts and inspire actionable change, Anish is widely regarded as a trusted mentor and thought leader.
In June 2025, Anish was honored with The Global Thought Leader in Personal Development Award in Hong Kong, a prestigious recognition celebrating his global impact and innovation in unlocking human potential.
Recently, he authored “U Inside You – A Journey from the Tumultuous Currents of Desire to the Serene Shores of Spiritual Surrender”, a powerful book that offers practical tools to integrate mindfulness, simplicity, and surrender into daily life. It’s a transformative invitation for readers to deepen their inner awareness and embrace aligned living.
A seasoned traveler, Anish has explored 41 countries and covered 50,000+ solo kilometers across 26 Indian states and four international borders, weaving profound insights on resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery. Having lived in Australia for over a decade, he brings a compelling fusion of Eastern wisdom and Western pragmatism to his work.
Anish holds a Chartered Accountant degree (ICAI), an MBA from the University of Technology, Sydney, and certifications as a Life Coach (Australia), Ikigai Coach, and Brain Mapping Practitioner (UK). His pioneering work in Ikigai Coaching and experiential learning has earned him numerous accolades, positioning him as a trailblazer in purpose-driven leadership.
As a 4x TEDx Speaker, in-demand coach, and international keynote speaker, Anish continues to illuminate paths and awaken minds, inspiring audiences across the USA, Dubai, Australia, and India with his unique blend of practical tools, deep human connection, and timeless wisdom.

Sebastian Uzcategui: Bio
My name is Sebastian Uzcategui, and my story is one of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of freedom. Born in Venezuela, I moved to Florida with my family at the age of 3.
As an only child, I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to do everything I can to uplift my parents and create a brighter future for us all. Growing up, I developed a passion for entrepreneurship, personal growth, and financial freedom—dedicating myself to breaking free from the 9-5 lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same.
I started my entrepreneurial journey early, founding my first business at 16, and stepping into public speaking as a way to share my story and empower others. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at churches, seminars, podcasts, workshops, schools, and events, connecting with audiences from all walks of life. Even earlier than that, at the age of 14, I discovered the stock market—a path that would later lead me to financial freedom.
Today, at 22, I’m a full-time trader, business owner, and founder of Stocks University, a platform I launched at 18 with a mission to make financial education accessible, supportive, and life-changing. With over 1,200 students trained, I’ve created a unique approach that prioritizes personal mentorship and integrity, offering church members and others the chance to learn and succeed without financial barriers.
What sets me apart is my belief in service over profit. My program allows students to practice and profit before any payment is required, ensuring that financial empowerment is available to everyone—no matter their background or circumstances.
I’ve been honored to work alongside respected leaders like Pastor Michael Norman and Apostle Francina Norman, speaking to congregations about how to understand and leverage financial opportunities.
My goal is to equip as many people as possible with the tools to multiply their resources, fulfill their potential, and live out their purpose with financial independence.
As a speaker, I bring more than just expertise—I bring a passion for transformation. Through my journey, I’ve learned what it takes to overcome obstacles, shift mindsets, and create meaningful change.
My talks leave audiences inspired, equipped, and ready to take action toward a better future.

Lauren Descher: Bio
I recently acquired my Master’s degree in Virtual Reality at the University of the Arts London, where my passion lies in exploring various facets of the technology industry. Specifically, I am captivated by emerging technologies like AR, VR, and MR, and I aspire to contribute to their advancement in this rapidly evolving field.
My primary goal is to create a positive impact in the world, striving to make a difference in the lives of those I encounter. I firmly believe in the power of imagination and its ability to manifest reality. Guided by the motto “If I can dream it, I can create it,” I embrace every new idea and connection as an invaluable opportunity for personal growth and learning.
Driven by motivation, outgoing nature, and an optimistic outlook, I have gained practical experience in various VR sectors such as entertainment, education, health art and design I aim to enhance human interaction and elevate it to a whole new level through future Intelligence. I excel both as a team player and a leader, and my colleagues find inspiration in my ability to radiate positivity and empower others.

Ashwed Patil: Bio
With six years of experience, I bring a unique blend of deep technical implementation and strategic business acumen. I’ve led impactful, client-facing projects, delivering measurable outcomes in areas like enterprise AI deployments, cybersecurity upgrades, and infrastructure optimization for diverse organizations, including nonprofits.
My commitment to social justice, particularly through technology, has been a lifelong passion. From my undergraduate days volunteering and leading at an education nonprofit to currently serving on the board of a tech nonprofit building the world’s first open-source verified LGBTQ+ platform, I am dedicated to leveraging technology for positive social impact. I’m passionate about empowering users through technology adoption and believe strongly in the power of community and knowledge sharing.

Christina Lott: Bio
I’m Christina Lott— Speaker, Learning & Development Leader, Culture Champion, and Founder of Life with CGL. My mission? To help people and organizations navigate the messy middle of growth, lead with purpose, and build cultures where talent doesn’t just survive—it thrives.
With over a decade of experience designing scalable training programs, coaching bold leaders, and leading values-driven culture initiatives, I bring strategy, storytelling, and soul into everything I do. From main stages to team workshops, I create experiences that inspire real transformation and real results.
I’ve partnered with franchisees, corporate teams, educators, and emerging leaders—delivering talks and trainings that fuel leadership development, adult learning, cultural alignment, and navigating change. I believe culture is more than perks—it’s the heartbeat of any successful team.

Michael Allison: Bio
Michael W. Allison, MBA, is a U.S. Marine Purple Heart Veteran, award-winning keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Adversity Academy Leadership Development Group. He is a globally recognized authority on identity-driven leadership and resilience under pressure, blending over two decades of battlefield-tested experience with transformational leadership strategy. Michael has worked with leading organizations including Microsoft, TEDx, NBC Universal, Salesforce, and Columbia University. His signature keynotes—Break The Bottle™ and Protect The House™—have inspired thousands to break internal limitations, lead with emotional clarity, and thrive in uncertainty. His work transforms adversity into sustainable leadership and peak performance.

Shauna Adams: Bio
Shauna Adams, celebrated as “The Muse of AI,” embodies a fusion of community commitment, global outreach, and innovative strides in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
She is a Certified AI consultant. Her narrative was sparked by a Senator’s endorsement for a Japan Exchange Program during high school, cultivating a cherished alumnus bond with Auburn University, echoed through a spirited “War Eagle.”
Shauna advocates for vital policy reforms while nurturing the next generation. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her travel agency and AI consultancy, where her passion for exploration meets her expertise in AI.
Her ability to secure significant funding through grant writing has propelled community-centric projects forward. A seasoned speaker with a tenure spanning 25 years, Shauna’s insights have resonated across both local and international platforms. Embracing her inner nerd, she finds joy in Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars realms, enriching her imaginative outlook.
As an herbalist and metaphysics enthusiast, she delves into the intricate dance between the natural and the abstract, reflecting a continual quest for broader understanding.
Known as “The Muse of AI,” Shauna’s journey is a captivating testament to resilience, perpetual learning, and the boundless domain of AI, intertwining technological foresight with a profound commitment to societal betterment.

Yuantai Liu: Bio
I left the pharmaceutical sector to be a HAPPY Coach!
Having graduated from the National University of Singapore with a degree in pharmacy, I was practising for a number of years in the retail sector.
It was a comfortable job, but I was not happy…
I made a transition to become a career coach, to empower people with the right mindsets and solutions to be happy.
After helping people in discovering their true purpose, I realized that many are not HAPPY!
And I found the secret sauce to being HAPPY.
Helpful
Abundance
Purpose
Passion
You
I have also started a movement to encourage people to empower people to retire on their own terms. I started the Happy retirement tribe and 3 separate weekly hiking groups.
I coach professionals and help them to rediscover joy and passion for what they do.
If these values resonate with you, I look forward to connecting with you.
Please check out my free content on mindset and money:
https://www.youtube.com/c/happycoachyuantai

Nancy Eke-Agu: Bio
Nancy Eke-Agu CAITL ® , PMI-RMP ®, PMP ® is a dynamic leader in artificial intelligence with deep expertise in AI technologies, digital transformation, and AI-driven innovation.
As Principal Consultant at JDZ Technology Consulting, she has led cutting-edge projects that leverage AI to solve complex business challenges and transform organizational capabilities.
Nancy is passionate about using AI to create impactful solutions across industries, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and driving technological growth.
She also leads initiatives to democratize AI knowledge to Students, Professionals, and Organizations, using her EdTech platform the Artificial Intelligence Academy Hub, empowering underrepresented communities to engage with AI and embrace its potential.
With certifications in AI Transformation Leadership, Project Management, and Risk Management, Nancy is committed to shaping the future of AI by fostering innovation and advancing responsible AI practices.

Carlos Gladden: Bio
Carlos Gladden, CEO of 360 Degrees Group Inc., is a transformative leader who blends business innovation with a deep commitment to sustainability, equity, and human development. With over two decades of experience and a strong foundation in strategic business management, Carlos has successfully positioned 360 Degrees Group as a dynamic force in technology, infrastructure, and business systems—serving small businesses and underserved communities across the country.
Carlos is not just a corporate leader; he is a changemaker. Under his direction, 360 Degrees Group has expanded into new markets guided by ethical leadership, responsible innovation, and community-centered values. He believes business success must include a positive impact on people and the planet. His advocacy for environmentally sustainable practices and community reinvestment reflects a forward-thinking model that inspires other entrepreneurs and executives alike.

Elle Benson: Bio
Elle Benson is a keynote speaker, author, and renowned national consultant who specializes in helping organizations transition to greater impact and build capacity. She founded Nonprofit Leadership LLC to support the social sector. With a remarkable career in the nonprofit sector, she has gained extensive expertise in various areas, including organizational development and change, executive transition consultancy, strategic planning, leadership development, and board governance.
Academically, Benson holds an MBA in organizational change and a Bachelor of Arts degree in business. She has obtained certifications in BoardSource and Group Facilitation to support nonprofit board of directors.
Notably, Benson’s thought-provoking TEDx talk, titled “A Crash Course in Learning to Laugh,” has catapulted her into the spotlight as a highly sought-after keynote speaker. Benson’s passion for sharing wisdom extends to her writing as well. She is the author of two books that focus on mindfulness and happiness. Her publications, “Cultivate Your Happiness: Mama-to-Be” and “Cultivating Calmness in Children,” provide practical strategies and insights making happiness obtainable daily. Through her books and keynote presentations, Benson aims to empower individuals and teams to cultivate wellbeing in their lives.

Adeyinka Fakunmoju: Bio
At Kaleidoscope XR, we believe the most powerful technologies are those that enhance human connection and capability. We stand at the intersection of healthcare and education, building innovative solutions to solve some of today’s most pressing training challenges. Our mission is to harness the potential of immersive technology (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to create scalable, impactful, and deeply human-centric experiences.
From our groundbreaking AI-driven platform, OSCEai Pro, which revolutionizes clinical exam preparation, to our acclaimed Caregiver VR platform, which fosters empathy and skill in dementia care, our solutions are designed with one goal in mind: to empower people. We provide safe, repeatable, and realistic virtual environments where learners can develop critical skills and emotional intelligence.
We are a team of technologists, strategists, and creators passionate about building a better future. By partnering with leading institutions and organizations, we are scaling access to world-class training and creating new possibilities for learning and care.

Mei Ling Wong: Bio
I am a Career Mobility and Employment Resilience Strategist specializing in helping professionals, students, and employers navigate the evolving challenges of the modern workforce. My niche lies in career development, digital branding, and organizational retention strategies, focusing on practical solutions for job security, career growth, and employee engagement.

Ailemen Ohiorenoya: Bio
I’m Ohiorenoya Precious Ailemen, a dynamic blockchain expert deeply immersed in AI, VR, XR, NFTs, and Web3 gaming. With over 6 years of experience as an IT solution provider and a solid background in Information Technology, I excel in blending technical prowess with project management finesse.
I leverage cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation and deliver transformative solutions across diverse industries. My track record speaks for itself, as I’ve led successful projects that harness the power of blockchain, AI, and VR to create immersive experiences and fuel digital growth.
Let’s collaborate and pioneer the future of technology together. Connect with me to explore exciting opportunities and advance your projects!

Golden Johnson: Bio
She is recognized for her work at the intersection of GTM strategy, AI × human collaboration, and mindset frameworks, guiding early-stage and Series B founders to build credible, fundable, and future-proof businesses.
Her approach—anchored in clarity, confidence, and refinement—has helped founders across North America, Europe, and Africa turn raw ideas into scalable systems.
A published strategist and certified success and mindset coach, Golden J. Johnson has been featured in The Guardian, USA Wire, and Vanguard, and serves as a sought-after speaker on digital legacy, leadership psychology, and AI-powered growth.
Through House of Golde, she teaches entrepreneurs how to align vision with execution, build receipts that speak for themselves, and design systems that outlast trends.

James Welniak: Bio
James Welniak is a digital transformation expert, keynote speaker, and founder of KUP Advisory, with over 25 years of experience leading global organizations through the evolving challenges of technology, leadership, and human performance.
For 14 years at Deloitte, James guided clients through complex change, helping them embrace the rise of artificial intelligence while staying grounded in mindful productivity and human-centered innovation. He became known for his ability to balance strategic clarity with emotional intelligence—teaching teams how to thrive in ambiguity, not just execute in certainty.
But James’ most profound transformation came not in a boardroom—but in a hospital room. After years of digital overload, he experienced a 10-day hospitalization for suicidal thoughts—a breaking point brought on by digital addiction. A medical MRI, along with diagnoses of Tinnitus and TMJ, became the wake-up call he could no longer ignore.
Out of that crisis, James created the Mindful Relationship with Information (MRI) practice—a transformative framework of methods and tools designed to heal, restore, and empower the self in the age of AI. MRI is not just about managing information—it’s about protecting the mind, restoring the body, and reconnecting with the spirit in a world that never stops demanding more.
Through KUP Advisory, James now brings MRI to the world via keynotes, workshops, and the MRI Newsletter, helping individuals and organizations build healthier, more intentional relationships with information, technology, and themselves.
James’ story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. He is on a mission to help others reclaim their clarity, protect their attention, and lead with intention in a world of constant noise.

Angilie Kapoor: Bio
Angilie Kapoor, a Mindset Architect & Transformation Strategist, empowers women to unlock their potential, reclaim confidence, and create lives of purpose and fulfillment. Drawing on over 20 years of leadership experience, her mission is deeply rooted in her own transformational journey—overcoming chronic health challenges, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs.
An accomplished author of multiple books including the award winning, ‘Leader Mindset Activation’ and host of two inspiring podcasts, “Unveil Your Brilliance” and “Take The Lead: A Consciousness Movement,” Angilie blends mindset mastery with practical strategies to help women break through barriers, reframe their narratives, and thrive.
As the founder of Oversight Global, she leads a global movement to help women rise, heal, and design the impactful lives they deserve. Angilie’s life of resilience and clarity is a testament to the power of intentional transformation.

Santosh Kumar: Bio
Santosh Kumar is a Senior AI Leader at HCLTech, USA, with over 15 years of experience in Generative AI and Machine Learning. A Senior Member of IEEE, Full Member of Sigma Xi, and ACM Professional Member, he contributes to global AI ethics, authors books, engages in policy discourse, and champions humanity-first AI in healthcare and beyond.

Marian Villa: Bio
Marian Villa es Diseñadora Senior Full-Stack. Fellow de la Real Academia de Ingeniería de Londres. Mentora de Google Launchpad, pertenece al programa de Google Developers Experts en Desarrollo Web, y es embajadora de Women Techmakers a nivel global y forma parte del equipo de la Fundación Interledger fortaleciendo la relación con desarrolladores.

Pambana Masame: Bio
Pambana Masame is transformational leader, who served in various Leadership positions in Organizations, focusing on Employee Harmonious working relations, and employment fairness. A Human Resource and Industrial Relations Practitioner. He participated in adjudication of industrial relations disputes, contributing to the factual side of the dispute, as an industrial court assessor. A corporate trainer and personal development adviser of repute. Dr. Masame has been a workplace learner who studied through Tele Education, Distance Learning and self-sponsored trainings. He holds a Bachelor of Science in ICT, Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial Relations and Huma Resources, a Masters in Finance, a Master in Business Administration and a Doctorate in Management Studies. He speaks on the Changing face of leadership: Implementing the whole person approach to workplace learning. He authored a book on Leadership, titled On Being a Leader

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.

Brandon Gaydorus: Bio
Brandon is a 5x Author and Founded Warm Heart Life. He’s passionate about bringing personal development to his town of Stamford, CT, through events like A to B Con (2022-25), TEDxStamford (2024-25), Map Your Way to Financial Freedom (2021), and a combination of both In-Person and Virtual Speaker Schools. After being the youngest voted on Golf Digest’s Top 50 Trainers in America List in 2019-20. Brandon decided to shift his focus from Fitness to Personal Development with the intention of growing with as many people as possible. Through his speaking schools, mentorship programs, comedy shows, and guest speaking engagements, Brandon has completed over 400 speaking gigs!

Maria Dervenco: Bio
Maria Dervenco is a two-time co-founder, former COO in tech, and strategic advisor for solopreneurs and SME founders navigating AI adoption with clarity and confidence. With over 15 years of experience leading operations and business transformation across Romania, the UK, and the Middle East, she now helps small teams and startups turn overwhelm into structure through ethical AI integration, honest audits, and business systems that amplify human strengths. Maria is also a certified career counsellor, a mentor for underrepresented professionals, and a passionate advocate for building work cultures rooted in empathy, community, and creative resilience.

Sebastian Grube: Bio
Sebastian Grube is the Founder of .beyondcomms, a communications and marketing consultancy that empowers founders and owners to center purpose. Sebastian’s interdisciplinary experience in business, theater, and music allows him to apply artistic sensibilities to brand strategy and communication. He has worked in a variety of industries, including technology, art & culture, hospitality, and legal services, and has collaborated with non-profits like the Irish Baroque Orchestra as well as multimillion-dollar companies like Vancis Capital. Sebastian’s approach unearths deep insights and ideas that leaders never knew they had. He is passionate about working with impact-led founders to build holistic communication approaches that inspire positive action.
Sebastian has worked across several cultures and countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, Ireland, and the United States. He champions emotionally intelligent communication and marketing practices. His methodology draws from artistic practices that disrupt the traditional pattern of consultancy work.
One of his career milestones was working with The NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery and later Vancis Capital, both organisations in the Middle East through which he has been able to work with international audiences, creating different approaches to ensure a connection across cultures. His work with the Art Gallery focused on bringing local audiences into contemporary exhibitions. Sebastian supports Vancis Capital as a fractional CMO, building a B2C brand that appeals to high-net-worth individuals across the globe.

Monet Wright: Bio
Monet Wright is a multifaceted professional with expertise as a career coach, business consultant, web developer, web designer, and digital marketing strategist. With a passion for helping individuals and organizations reach their fullest potential, Monet specializes in crafting tailored solutions that drive career advancement and business growth.
As a career coach, Monet empowers jobseekers to identify and communicate their transferable skills, pivot into new roles or industries, and achieve their professional goals with confidence. Her consulting work focuses on streamlining operations, designing innovative systems, and building brands that resonate in today’s competitive market.
Monet’s technical skills as a web developer and designer complement her ability to create impactful digital marketing strategies, ensuring her clients stand out online. Whether designing intuitive websites, building digital products, or leading career development workshops, Monet’s dedication to excellence and creativity shines through.
She is passionate about inspiring others, particularly Black women, to embrace their strengths, navigate transitions, and succeed in their personal and professional lives. For more information, visit letmeaskmonet.com

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, which explores the intersections of humanity and technology while serving as an innovation-driven communication platform drawing on emerging technology to future proof social impact.
As a member of the Governing Council for Catalyst Now, she facilitates collaborations that accelerate social innovation and equity-driven change. Known for her ability to navigate complex systems, Kamilah’s mission is to connect disparate groups and amplify the voices of marginalized communities for real world impact.

Sateesh Kumar Rongali: Bio
By Dr. Sateesh Kumar Rongali Introduction Leadership, vision, and ethical stewardship are more important today because technological advances around artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data-driven decision-making are changing all aspects of our world. As challenges related to healthcare, education, climate change, and the impact of misinformation continue to grow, technologists must not only focus on developing systems or code but on envisioning equitable futures, developing policies, and ensuring value-based innovation. In this context, I, Dr. Sateesh Kumar Rongali, submit this justification request for my membership. For the past 10 years, I have built a career that mediates enterprise architecture, applied machine learning, cloud integration, and public impact. I held many roles and led projects across the healthcare sector, education technology, finance, and insurance, but I always promoted ethical solutions that could scale. My academic background has prepared me to solve complicated interdisciplinary problems, including a Doctorate in Computer Science, a Master of Science in Computer Science, and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Article my experience in the industry keeps me connected to the reality of implementation and long-term sustainability. This document provides a coherent and credible rationale for my belief that I am a qualified candidate for membership. It is structured into thematic pillars that map with your organizational framework: Academic and Technical Experience, Research Involvement and Research Recognition with Peers, Professional Experience across Sectors, Innovation and Global Impact, Mentorship and Leadership, Vision of Ethical Stance. I will demonstrate sustained commitment to best practice, integrity, and meaningful contributions through each lens. My career work is driven by a commitment to address real-world problems leveraging technology. My experience implementing AI systems into healthcare systems has enabled early detection of diseases and improved patient outcomes. My design of cloud-native architectures has provided resilient infrastructure to financial institutions. My EdTech work focused on adaptive learning platforms that address institutional inequities in education. In every one of these, I drew on the context of the humans we are trying to help, and I don’t believe we give enough attention to humans and ethics in our work. Also, I have consistently gone beyond simply executing the technical aspects of my role to adopting the role of thought leader and community builder. I have served as a peer reviewer for over 20 international conferences, presented keynote presentations on AI ethics and innovation, published impactful works such as “The AI Horizon: How Artificial Intelligence Will Reshape Humanity by 2050,” and received honors such as the best PhD thesis award, ICDAM 2025, and a member of Forbes AI visionaries, which attests to both impact in academia and the public sphere. This is of interest to me, not simply as an opportunity to belong to an esteemed organization, as I want to be part of the community of clinicians and colleagues to harness the potential of technology for the betterment of humankind. I believe working within a community at a high level will amplify so that you can have a bigger impact as an individual and a community. As a social entrepreneur and an advocate for ethical innovation and inclusivity, I want to foster responsible leadership and recognize an opportunity to engage in conversations that matter, engage in initiatives that matter, and participate in shaping the future of our digital ecosystem. This justification represents my journey, principles, and ambitions. More importantly, I hope to have demonstrated my technical credentials and willingness to contribute to a fairer, smarter, and more connected world. The depth and breadth of my experience, coupled with my pursuits of lifelong learning and global service, align well with the mission and vision of your institution. Academic and Technical Expertise My academic training is the foundation for my professional accomplishments and contributions to knowledge. I have an EdD in Computer Science from Judson University (2024), a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Central Missouri (2016), and a Bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from JNTU Kakinada (2014). This degree progression was intentional as I’ve pursued knowledge in the core disciplines that comprise the areas of computing, electronics, machine learning, and systems design. More importantly, studies established a general attitude of questioning, innovation, and rigor. All along my academic pathway, I focused on an applied context. In my doctoral research, I studied AI applications for sustainable agricultural practices and health diagnostics in underserved communities. My thesis, which was awarded the Best PhD Thesis at ICDAM 2025, was focused on developing intelligent models for crop yield prediction and remote diagnostics using satellite data and artificial intelligence algorithms. It brought several disciplines together, applying geospatial analytics, machine learning, and public health informatics. As a result, I received awards for the applicability of the research in low-income environments and for providing ways for responsible AI to contribute to humanity. I have over a decade of industry experience designing, developing, and deploying enterprise-level .NET, MuleSoft Anypoint Platform, and cloud-based solutions (Azure, AWS). My experience includes using ASP.NET Core, Web APIs, Microservices architecture, and Entity Framework. I have led several major integration projects where we leveraged API Gateways, Security Policies, and container orchestration using Docker. In terms of specific domains, I have deep expertise in healthcare interoperability, cloud-native development, and intelligent automation. I have deployed learning models to predict, stratify, and detect anomalies using Python, Scikit-learn, and TensorFlow. These models have been used in real-time clinical decision support systems and by teams supporting claim analytics. I also hold multiple professional certifications, including: • MuleSoft Certified Developer – Level 1 • MuleSoft Certified Integration Architect • MuleSoft Certified Platform Architect These credentials validate my technical expertise and reflect a continuous learning ethos. My active use of Agile methodologies, DevOps practices, and CI/CD pipelines further enhances my ability to deliver resilient, scalable, and secure systems in dynamic enterprise environments. My academic and technical journey demonstrates a lifelong commitment to excellence, innovation, and impactful problem-solving traits I would bring to your esteemed membership community. Research Contributions and Peer Recognition My research trajectory has been profoundly intertwined with real-world challenges and how artificial intelligence (AI) can be transformative. I have made considerable contributions to AI, healthcare informatics, education technology, and systems interoperability, for which I have received numerous peer-reviewed publications, formal academic engagement, and global recognition. I am committed to developing AI solutions that are technically sound, ethically appropriate, and socially valid so that we can start addressing real-world problems. Much of my research outputs are focused on researching healthcare on an operational level, so I have developed several AI-assisted interventions. I have conducted various research projects related to disease prediction, patient risk stratification, and intelligent automation of workflows in healthcare, and I have published and presented at various world conferences. For example, my paper “Smart AI Diagnostics: Transforming Healthcare through Early Intervention,” which I presented at the 6th International Conference on Data Analytics and Management (ICDAM 2025), was on AI algorithms that could assert early warning signals regarding chronic disease through patient-generated health data. This work aimed to assess how NLP and predictive modeling could be applied in primary care, and it generated a lot of attention as an academic output. The deployment of AI in agriculture, the theme of my PhD thesis, has also been a rich area for contributions. My doctoral thesis was recognized internationally, with a multi-faceted AI framework that utilized satellite information, climate data, and crop health indices to provide actionable knowledge for smallholder farmers in developing countries. This work won the Best PhD Thesis Award, ICDAM 2025, from thousands of participants across over 30 countries based on the assessment of an international panel of reviewers. I have researched in EdTech using AI to personalize learning and, more broadly, improve student outcomes and disparities in education systems locally and in developing countries. To date, I have published multiple papers in leading journals and conferences. My Google Scholar profile reflects my growing citation count and academic footprint. I am actively involved in peer-reviewing for international conferences, completing 21 peer reviews. I have contributed as a reviewer for: • AIMV 2025: 2nd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Vision • ICACCP: 5th International Conference on Advanced Computational and Communication Paradigms • ICRTCIS 2025: 6th International Conference on Recent Trends in Communication & Intelligent Systems These engagements not only highlight my expertise but also underscore the trust placed in me by the academic community to uphold standards of scholarly rigor and intellectual integrity. In recognition of my contributions, I have received several notable awards, including: • Best Paper Award at an international AI symposium • Global AI Award – EdTech Disruptor of the Year • World Changing Idea Award – Global Leader in AI & ML for EdTech • Best Industrial Innovation Award for excellence in AI-driven EdTech innovation These awards highlight the originality, societal impact, and cutting-edge technology depicted in my work. Additionally, being featured in a Forbes article called “Visionaries Shaping the Future of AI” speaks volumes to my ramifications as an actor within the global AI landscape, ultimately exemplifying my practice as among a small and select group of thought leaders leading the way with AI for humanity. My ongoing book project titled “AI in Humanity” is an arm of this vision. It seeks to explore AI systems’ ethics, policies, and human-centered design while proposing approaches to support inclusive innovation. It follows my first book, “The AI Horizon: How Artificial Intelligence Will Shape Humanity by 2050, ” available on Amazon. It has garnered worldwide research relevance and readership for its foresight AND clarity. My research record is characterized by scholarly productivity and its tendency to align with the values of social responsibility, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global engagement. Professional Experience across Industries In the last ten years, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in or lead several innovative initiatives in various industries, which include healthcare, finance, insurance, and public services. Each experience I’ve secured has required technical skills, proficiency in a technical area, leadership, and strategic thinking. I have taken my experiences very seriously and have integrated them into my skill set. The experience and insight I’ve gained have established a solid grounding in all aspects of enterprise systems, working through regulatory constraints and user-centered product design. My current role is Lead Software Engineer with HCSC in Woodbridge, New Jersey. I develop an architectural design for robust server backend services in both Python and .NET, design scalable SQL Server Databases, and deploy secure and performant APIs via MuleSoft to various enterprise platforms such as Salesforce, SAP, and internal databases to provide seamless integration for workflows in CRM, billing, and clinical systems. I’ve automated manual QA work, reduced QA effort by over 50%, and improved throughput by over 30 by performing work to optimize our application systems through automation fully. As needed, I also manage API gateway policies, enforce security through coordinate business acceptance testing in agile environments to confirm solutions and work products meet technical and regulatory requirements. Before working at HCSC, I was at The Health Plan in Trenton, NJ, responsible for designing enterprise applications that managed encounter data submission to the Medicare Advantage Encounter Data Processing System (EDPS). Utilizing .Net Core, with web APIs and SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), I was able to comply with CMS guidelines, ANSI X12 requirements, and HIPAA rules and regulations. I also devised lazy-loading schemes and data-pipeline improvements that considerably improved application efficiency and lowered latency. At Samaritan Health Plan in Delaware, I was focused on EDI transaction management and integration with claims. I developed ASP.Net core APIs, automated the ETL workflows, and led the effort to migrate data from DB2 and MS Access databases into Oracle databases. My efforts supported accurate Medicaid/Medicare claims submissions and faster turnaround times on prior authorizations. Lastly, I integrated IBM Cognos into the backend systems to provide stakeholders with actionable analytics for informed decision-making. My time at Bank of America was pivotal in my professional career. As an Application Architect, I architected MuleSoft integration designs across cloud and on-premise environments. I created the API contracts using RAML, enforced OAuth2.0, enforced policies to utilize the client ID, and created Rust SDK enhancements for Flex Gateway. I took on the task of integrating third-party services such as Salesforce and SAP with the client’s enterprise business capabilities. At the same time, I utilized the deployment pipelines in Jenkins and Ansible. My work contributed to the enterprise having an environment conducive to secure, high-speed data transmissions across their globally reduced enterprise environment. At CVS Health and CareSource, I led projects to digitize and modernize legacy systems. I modernized their BizTalk applications into MuleSoft flows, established AI-based data pre-processing strategies, tested the use of event streaming with Kafka for developing real-time analytics capabilities, built UI components that considered the user’s experience using Angular and React as well as compliance for users of all ability levels, and helped the clients create custom reports using SSRS. Crystal Reports to provide business intelligence for care management, billing, and claims processing. Earlier in my career, I contributed to projects for organizations such as IEHP and similar organizations. I developed scalable SSIS packages for the import/export of data, data-optimized relational schemas, and single-page applications built with Angular. My work and experience facilitated the claims process, group and member management, and billing for healthcare providers across multiple states. What makes my career journey different is the consistent high-impact outcomes I have delivered in various roles in various industries. Most projects I worked on supported regulatory compliance, performance, and user experience. Being able to execute large data transformation projects, migrate systems to cloud-native, and automate data protection through encryption, role-based access, and audit logging have been the focus of carrying out such projects successfully. Many of these projects demonstrate my technical expertise and that I’m collaborative, empathetic, and a strategic thinker. I work and mentor junior engineers, manage interfaces and projects, work with unintended stakeholders, and facilitate sprint planning activities to drive projects. Delivering products in complex architecture formats is often noted as my strength due to my ability to drive cross-functional teams through impact-driven and easily digestible deliverables. Through this extensive and rich professional knowledge, I have established a complete, systems-oriented mindset that equips me to contribute meaningfully to your notable institution. I have reliably applied ethical judgment, rigorous quality standards, and a promise of superiority that mirrors your membership prospects. Innovation and Global Impact Innovation has always been an overarching theme for me, professionally and in my research. I have always aimed to push traditionalism’s edges, think tech potential, and provide positive disruption through design and responsible innovation. Based on one premise, I have achieved scalable systems, real-world problem-solving, patent-potential products, and worldwide recognition to leverage technology for positive outcomes for people and organizations. I think one of the greatest demonstrations of my innovative capabilities is the award of two UK design patents, one of which is titled Autonomous Device for Pre-processing Data Management for Artificial Intelligence Software Design, which details a method for the automation and simplification of preparing massive, heterogeneous datasets for machine learning models. This tool significantly reduces time, complexity, and resource costs for traditional data wrangling and directly applies to healthcare diagnostics, clinical trials, and insurance fraud detection. The second patent, titled “Cloud-Enhanced Network Monitoring Device for Predictive Analytics and Fault Detection,” addresses the need for a proactive monitoring process that leverages the flexibility of cloud infrastructure with the immediacy of edge computing. As mentioned above, the patent is especially relevant to smart healthcare systems, financial networks, and critical infrastructure systems that benefit from pre-contact fault detection and higher pre-contact resiliency. The patents represent applications that have clear technical value and also show the ability to predict future challenges better and develop positive solutions. Aside from technical patents, I have also contributed to the discussion of global innovation through thought leadership. I wrote and self-published a relevant book titled “The AI Horizon: How Artificial Intelligence will Shape Humanity by 2050” on Amazon. The book is a 21-chapter deep dive into the socio-technical transformations we will see from AI in the decades to come. The book includes case studies, policy advisories, and ethical considerations for AI’s use/acceptance in agriculture, health, education, and public governance. Educators, technologists, and policy-makers have well reviewed it. My next book, “AI in Humanity,” expands on this work by examining the connection between artificial intelligence and human values. This book covers inclusive design, algorithmic fairness, and governance models, encouraging human-centered innovation and global equality in access to AI. Overall, I hope to enact change in how societies roll out new technologies based on dignity, diversity, and democracy. My innovation footprint extends to real-world applications beyond publications and inventions through the projects I drive. At CVS Health, I created predictive models that helped pharmacists engage effectively with high-risk patients likely to be non-adherent to medications based on claims data and behavioral profiles. Modeling medication adherence helped reduce hospitalization rates and improve outcomes amongst some of the highest-risk patients. At HCSC, I led the implementation of AI-based automation in identifying anomalies in billing and reimbursement systems for fraud prevention and cost savings. In addition, I led innovation in healthcare interoperability, applying legacy mapping from HL7 to FHIR and introducing an AI expansion technique that will translate existing legacy mapping architectures to modern APIs instead. A portion of the initiatives from this work was able to reduce 40% of integration processing overhead and enable quicker time-to-value business cases for new healthcare partners. This initiative became a best-practice model throughout several payer-provider ecosystems. My work in education technology is similarly impactful. I was involved in developing adaptive learning platforms that use AI to design and deliver content to learners based on learner profiles, engagement levels, and real-time feedback. I was a part of projects piloted and tested these innovations in poor-resourced schools that showed a 25% improvement in learning outcomes. I have been acknowledged for this work with a Global AI Award – EdTech Disruptor of the Year and the World Changing Idea Award – Global Leader in AI & ML for EdTech, both recognizing breakthrough innovations with the potential for globalization. I have been invited to speak and be a panelist at conferences, webinars, and workshops worldwide. My presentations usually cover the intersections of AI, cybersecurity, ethics, and sustainability, and I support a responsible innovation agenda that includes diverse voices and transparent practices and avoids unintended consequences. Additionally, I have been profiled by Forbes as a part of their Venus Series under the title “Visionaries Shaping the Future of AI.” It indicates that I am not just an innovator but someone who focuses on inspiring and creating communities for positive change through technology. It affirms that I am a globally respected innovator whose work meets the highest standards of quality and relevance – but that also influences people to meaningfully and sustainably transform their communities. Mentorship, Leadership, and Community Service During my professional and academic career, I have always emphasized mentoring up-and-coming talent, leading with integrity, and paying it forward. Leadership is defined by what we accomplish in life and how we encourage, inspire, elevate, and foster growth in others. I have mentored junior professional colleagues, supervised graduate research students, participated in knowledge-sharing and mentorship efforts, and supported the local and international communities in their efforts to leverage digital literacy and advance responsible AI use. In my multiple professional roles, I have been responsible for leading interdisciplinary and cross-functional teams, often in time-sensitive, frontline, mission-critical environments. I have managed agile sprints, performed appraisals, led retrospectives, and ensured alignment between technical teams and business stakeholders on HCSC and The Health Plan projects. I also contributed to translating strategic directions into technical deliverables, troubleshooting cross-functional communication problems, and improving accountability and opportunities for continuous improvement. As a team lead and mentor, I have worked with many junior engineers to develop their technical skills, adopt DevOps, and follow the best software development and data security practices. Regularly, I have conducted code reviews, given internal tech talks, and run hands-on sessions on emerging technology such as Kubernetes, Ansible, and advanced configurations using .Net and MuleSoft. My mentorship has been an important factor in getting engineers’ on boarded faster, reducing employee attrition, and leading to improved projects. In addition to corporate settings, I have brought my leadership to academia and international research. I have been a peer reviewer for over 20 international conference proceedings to ensure that published research is valid and reliable. My designation as a reviewer for many events like AIMV 2025 and ICRTCIS 2025 allowed me to give constructive feedback to scholars across several sectors, contributing to a culture of excellence in academic collaboration. In furtherance of my mission to eliminate the digital divide, I have supported outreach efforts on community engagement and developing digital literacy, especially in traditionally underserved communities. I’ve collaborated with educational NGOs to hold workshops on introducing the fundamentals of AI, safe internet use, and coding for beginners. The intent is to create a culture of demystifying technology and inspire young learners to think of ICT careers in STEM disciplines. I also do thought leadership through conference presentations and public speaking. I often participate as a panelist or presenter and speak to issues like ethical AI, responsible governance of data, and inclusive innovation. I promote collaborative ecosystems that bring together academic, industry, and civil society communities to tackle common challenges. I have elevated international dialogues regarding the social ramifications of technology through my presence on international platforms. Leadership also encapsulates ethical stewardship. I am always mindful of fairness, transparency, and accountability in all projects I lead. For example, in implementing machine learning models in healthcare, I am conscientious about data bias, explainability of model decisions, and patient privacy. These considerations and greater organizations form the basis for trustworthy AI deployment. Another important part of my leadership philosophy is inclusion. I am a supporter of diverse teams and inclusive work environments. In some instances with my clients, I have advocated for inclusive hiring, mentorship opportunities for women in technology, and training on cultural competence. I practice a style of leadership that is collaborative, values-driven, and imbued with empathy. As an experienced technologist, I am responsible for helping shape the next generation of professionals. Whether through established mentorships or informal peer guidance, I am constantly creating opportunities for others to develop. My feedback consistently has three themes: I am patient, communicate clearly, and have an unwavering focus on excellence. Leadership and community service are not an add-on to my role. These are the essence of me as a professional and as a person. Mentorship is an opportunity to support others in developing their skills and experiences and join a broader movement of ethical, inclusive, and impactful technology leadership. These align with your organization’s values, and I will positively impact your community. Ethical Leadership and Vision Alignment In the dynamic realm of technology, ethical leadership is not just important but a professional requisite. As artificial intelligence, automation, and cloud-based solutions grow exponentially in relevance for our personal, professional, and civic lives, the burden on influential people to lead these technologies fairly, transparently, and accountable is significant. As a professional and academic, I have always accepted this burden, publicly advocating for ethical innovation while aligning my work with an aspirational vision of human dignity and societal progress. Ethical considerations are a core part of every system I develop and deploy. Whether in healthcare, finance, or education, I ensure that data privacy, consent, security, and inclusivity are available in the architecture of the solution. My AI and machine learning approach prioritizes explainability, mitigating bias, and outcome accountability. In some of my developments of risk stratification models for healthcare organizations, for example, I have insisted that data sets be diverse, fairness metrics included, and that data obtain validation for predictive accuracy across patients with alternate demographic identities from domain experts. These barriers serve a dual purpose: assisting health organizations in mitigating algorithmic harm and establishing and promoting trust among stakeholders. My doctoral research embodies my strong commitment to ethical innovation. The thesis considered AI applications in agriculture and public health for low-income populations but was designed with articulately defined parameters for equity, transparency, and environmental sustainability. I have considered the socio-economic implications of developing predictive models for underserved communities, and I developed the models with open-access frameworks for collaboration, reproducibility, and shared ownership. My emphasis on ethical AI was part of the reasoning for my work being selected for the Best Ph.D. As part of my broad vision alignment, I provide systematic support to equity-seeking policies, practices, and ethics that enhance inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. Within my work with education non-profits and government advisory boards, my responsibility included advocating for the responsible utilization of AI in schools, protecting student data, and facilitating the expansion of STEM education to historically marginalized groups. I believe it is important for technology to be democratized- by, for, and with diverse communities. I have actively facilitated growth in awareness of this through mentorship, hackathons, and public policy talks. Transparency is another tenet of my ethical approach. I prioritize documenting models and systems thoroughly, providing an audit trail of decision processes, and implementing user feedback loops. I collaborate closely with legal, compliance, and ethics officers to ensure that the software solutions I support are aligned with established industry standards, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the International organization for standardization (ISO) 9001 standards, and the AI Act. At the same time, I also construct my active contributions to open-source projects and ethical review committees that guarantee that peer participation and collective oversight inform my professional actions. In terms of vision alignment, I am inspired by organizations focused on impacting the world, interdisciplinary collaboration, and responsible leadership that I believe align with your institution. I believe that membership provides a perfect opportunity to contribute and to learn from others committed to creating a better, more equitable technological future. My contributions to conferences, research journals, and international think tanks align with this. I have actively engaged in discussions in global ethics, including workshops with interdisciplinary global bodies focused on ethics in AI and sustainability. In these talks, I advocate for a values-first model of system design where innovation is facilitated by empathy, foresight, and resilience. I also regularly publish blogs and white papers exploring ethical dilemmas in AI, supporting stakeholders to navigate complex choices with clarity and responsibility. Ethical leadership is based on an unstinting commitment to a life of reflective practice, humility, and bravery to challenge the status quo. It means ‘keeping watch’ for unintended consequences and improving those processes for the public good. I aspire to demonstrate this in every role, whether designing a secure health technology platform, working with a first-generation tech student, or participating in a cross-national AI policy. My professional practice is intrinsically tied to my principles and visionary ambitions. I do not doubt that these qualities align with your organization’s mission, and I look forward to an opportunity to contribute positively to your work to promote ethical, inclusive, and impactful technology leadership. Conclusion I provide this argument with the best intentions and look forward to it. It illustrated a deep dedication to building technologies that matter, developing systems that empower, and providing accountable contributions to communities emerging around the globe. This makes me a competent and qualified applicant to your esteemed organization. The foundation of my career has always been built on a philosophy of lifelong learning based on both rigor and relevance. I have embodied what it means to be a scholar-practitioner, from the EdD in Computer Science culminating in award-winning research to accessing vast personal certifications and discipline specializations. Additionally, my involvement in various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education technology, allowed me to be interdisciplinary and adaptive metrics I deem essential for making sense of a constantly evolving society and earth populated with seemingly endless complex problems. Still, it’s not just knowledge that sets apart this experience but the wisdom in using that knowledge ethically and meaningfully. When I developed solutions in healthcare, it was not just improving patient care and ensuring data was representative. When I developed solutions in education, it used a learning platform to help those who have historically been considered non-participants. When I developed solutions in finance and insurance, it created secure and scalable systems that reduced fraud opportunities and improved transparency. These contributions were more than providing technology – they are our values and impact on innovation. I also made a purposeful effort to build back the ecosystem that built me. From mentoring junior developers and students reviewing research papers and presenting at international conferences, I have shared my experience to elevate the common standard. I am proud to have created collegial, inclusive, high-performing teams across countries and cultures. We have learned that leadership is not about being in command but in service – enabling success, building diversity, and serving ethical outcomes. We find ourselves in an uncertain and increasingly interconnected future where the need for responsible technologists and visionary leaders has never been more important. I view my role as stewarding to protect the integrity of our disciplines but at the same time energizing them to stretch the boundaries of what is possible. This is why I believe it is critical to align with professional communities that advocate for excellence and impact, expertise and ethics, and reward results and responsibility. Your organization embodies these principles and values, and I would be proud to join you in fulfilling this mission. Membership is not a destination for me but a reciprocal partnership with me as a contributor and recipient. I do not expect to work only to share my experiences and expertise but to learn from my peers, participate in collaborative impact initiatives, and help shape the broader space for public discourse around emerging technology while leveraging spaces that advance inclusive, transparent, and equitable innovation. I bring a ton of personal and professional accomplishments, a willingness to collaborate, a teaching, and a commitment to pursue values in common. Further, I am keenly aware that membership entails recognition and responsibility. I am ready to adhere to the standards, participate in your activities, and promote your organization’s mission in all my spheres of influence, professional, and civic. Whether contributing to a research project, involvement in a policy roundtable, or mentoring a future leader, my engagement would be an opportunity to serve and elevate the field. I wrap up this rationale with a deep appreciation for the opportunity to present my candidacy. This document provides a clear, comprehensive, and compelling case for my qualifications and readiness to join your collection of impressive professionals and contribute to its continued growth and reach in any way I can. Thank you once again for your thoughtful consideration. Sincerely, Dr. Sateesh Kumar Rongali Email: [email protected] Phone: +1-913-406-9935

Dr. Juliet Agocha: Bio
Dr. Juliet Agocha is the founder of Ultimate Tech, a company focused on providing innovative technology solutions. With her expertise and vision, she has led Ultimate Tech to make a positive impact in the tech industry. Dr. Agocha is passionate about supporting innovation and community initiatives. In her free time, she enjoys family time.

Anar Rasul: Bio
At the International Eurasia Press Fund, I led projects to success by developing strategic plans, ensuring clear communication, and engaging key stakeholders. Committed to global collaboration, I aligned initiatives with strategic goals and financial parameters.
As a Project Manager, I leveraged MS Project and data analytics to navigate risks and optimize resources with precision. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Management at the University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw, I am sharpening leadership and strategy skills to drive impactful outcomes.
Passionate about bridging international relations and project management, I thrive in dynamic, cross-cultural environments

Lorna McFarlane: Bio
Lorna E. McFarlane helps individuals and organizations break free from limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging patterns. Having overcome imposter syndrome and procrastination herself, she empowers others to transform fear into action through mindset shifts, forgiveness, and self-awareness. From inspiring incarcerated individuals to motivating professionals, Lorna brings clarity, accountability, and purpose to every stage she graces. With a master’s in business administration, she guides audiences toward resilience, productivity, and authentic leadership—helping them remove roadblocks, reframe thinking, and embrace transformation.

Caleb Yang: Bio
Caleb is the founder of orphanage mentoring initiative. Orphanage Mentoring Intiative is a social enterprise that works with universities and companies to provides orphans in education, career and entrepreneurship guidance before they leave the orphanage. He is also a experienced software developer with experiences working in python and C#. He sees public speaking as a platform to share his perspective and experiences to his audience.

Jen Fry: Bio
Dr. Jen Fry (she/her) is a Sports Geographer, tech founder, TEDx speaker, and sought-after speaker and educator. She owns JenFryTalks, an organizational change firm that sits at the intersection of conflict and culture. It specializes in transforming organizational dynamics by addressing how conflict and culture shape leadership and overall business outcomes.
We work with leaders and teams to navigate and resolve conflicts that arise from differences, promoting an environment where diverse perspectives are harnessed as a source of innovation and growth. By combining cutting-edge leadership strategies with a deep understanding of humans and trauma, JenFryTalks helps organizations build resilient, adaptive leadership models that thrive in today’s complex world. Through facilitating conversation, skill-building, tailored coaching, workshops, and strategic advisory services, the team members understand how to engage, speak, listen, hear, interpret, and respond constructively, making them and their teams more likely to leverage conflict rather than be leveled by it. She received her PhD in Sports Geography from Michigan State University (GO GREEN!).
She is a veteran coach with over 15 years of experience at the collegiate level, over 200 speaking engagements, and a TedxDuke talk.

Dr Venu GR: Bio
CEO | Independent Director | BOARD DIRECTOR | NED – SNEL Strategy, SPACE | AI | DRONE | ROBOTICS Technology Strategy
APAC , AMEN , EUROPE & US
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Dr VenuGR is a business-oriented strategist & AIM Conference Speaker – AI, who focuses on helping organizations across a range of industries tackle their strategic IT management issues. With more than two decades of industry and consulting experience, he specializes in working with senior stakeholders to set technology strategic direction, assess technology organizations, and mobilize multi-year programs of change. Venu is based in INDIA.
AI – IoT: Changing Face of Technology

Asantianna Austin: Bio

Patrick Chang: Bio
I’m a Family Wealth Coach specializing in helping successful families design a vibrant Protirement—a chapter of life filled with purpose, clarity, and emotional peace. My guidance is built on the 6Ps foundation, ensuring a smooth transition from a primary career to a life of continued impact and fulfillment.
Beyond financial planning, I act as a CFP® and an ICF-credentialed coach to help you architect a legacy where your wealth unites, rather than divides. By aligning your financial strategy with your core values, we can ensure your life’s achievements become a cornerstone of unity and your family stays connected for generations.

Anita Roach: Bio
Anita Roach is a consultant, speaker, coach, and founder of the Safe & Sound Workplace Alliance. She is the author of Safe & Sound: Cultivating a Whole-human, Trauma-informed Approach for Employee and Employer Well-being.
Anita has over 30 years of experience working for and consulting with professional services firms throughout the United States. She has guided teams in creating environments and processes where both people and profits flourish.
Her work has included facilitating over $20 billion in project wins, leading successful brand transformations, and developing innovative approaches that prioritize both results and well-being.
Anita’s passion for fostering whole-human, trauma-informed workplaces stems from her deep personal understanding of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. This lived experience, combined with her professional expertise and background in psychology, global leadership, and wellness, informs the research, frameworks, and strategies she shares to help organizations create Safe & Sound Workplaces.

Joanna Wong: Bio
Am a strategic planner and seasoned marketer, focused strongly on corporate branding and comprehensive communications. With a proven track record of building successful brands, I have seamlessly integrated the ancient wisdom of herbal nutrition with modern lifestyles, curating immersive dining experiences that promote health and well-being. Leveraging a deep expertise in branding and communications, I also creates and speaks at events, delivering insightful and engaging sessions that educate, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.




























