GatherVerse Safety Summit
Speakers
Vyoma Gajjar: Bio
Vyoma Gajjar is a prominent voice in the fields of AI Governance and Generative AI, dedicated to ensuring that emerging technologies are developed and implemented ethically. As an AI Technical Solution Architect and Generative AI advocate, she has led the creation of innovative AI models and governance frameworks that have helped global organizations streamline processes, reduce costs, and safeguard ethical standards in AI.
She is also a thought leader on AI ethics, advocating for transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI technologies. Vyoma frequently speaks at international conferences, on topics ranging from AI ethics to generative AI best practices.
In addition to her technical achievements, she holds a patent in AI and continues to mentor aspiring AI professionals, shaping the future of AI through her work in research, education, and advocacy.
Umang Varma: Bio
Umang has more than 20 years of experience in technology consulting for business transformation in large global enterprises using AI, Web 3, Blockchain, IoT, cloud, analytics & big data He currently leads a cloud engineering team for Oracle APAC which acts as a trusted CXO advisor to enterprise clients.
He’s a LinkedIn Top Voice and ranked among the top 1% of global experts in Business Intelligence on LinkedIn.
Umang is a prolific blogger on emerging tech & writes for industry publications.
He is a regular panelist & speaker at global forums where he shares his insights on AI, Web 3, big data & cloud computing.
Elisabetta Rotolo: Bio
Elisabetta is a business strategist and brand management executive, creative & executive producer, art director, interior architect and keynote speaker, with international experience in XR, AI, spatial computing, virtual worlds, immersive arts and storytelling, Web3 and Metaverse strategies.
She is CEO and founder of MIAT Multiverse Institute For Arts and Technology and created the first creative and educational hub for immersive arts and emerging technologies integrating an Immersive Academy to train the talents of the future to create immersive contents, new languages, experiences, AI writing, visual storytelling, Corporates trained AI, and worldbuilding, and Web3/ Metaverse strategies, with an Immersive Studio conceiving and producing high-end research- based immersive, art and cinematic experiences, with XR, photorealistic GCI, Web3, Metaverse, interactive real time experiences, AI video presenters, AI-powered and interactive worldbuilding.
She is leading international award winning artists, creatives, scientists, immersive creators and filmmakers, directors. XR developers, creative technologists, immersive sound designers, AI artists and prompt engineers, digital curators and created the first digital artworks/NFT in the high-end jewelry for Bulgari and the first international immersive art exhibition opening Le Théâtre des Lumières – Seoul.
She has over 20 years of experience as Global Chief Marketing, Brand, Communication, Innovation & Change Officer, and Business Strategic Consultant for international organisations such as the State of New York, Omnicom Group, Walt Disney, Mattel, Heinz, Plasmon, Italian Railways, the Olympic Games.
She is a sought-after speaker. She has spoken at the Immersive Global Summit, Bocconi University, Police Academy, Italian Army, Immerse Global Metaverse Summit, Stereopsia, AWE, Artissima, Gatheverse Global Summit, ITTV global Festival, Venice Biennale, We Make Future, View Conference and many other venues.
She is a contributor to Artribune, member of OnLive Campus with Piedmont Foundation, board member and Italian representative of Euromersive, Advisor of Fondazione Cariplo for the Art and Cultural sector and expert on the ethical board for emerging technologies and AI for the city of Turin.
She graduated in Interior Architecture and holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool and was awarded worldwide Student of the Year in 2016-2017.
She is leading trainings for international creators, visual artists, C-Levels, Directors, Professors, to create with AI using an ethical and human-centric approach.
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.
Navya Krishna Alapati: Bio
Navya Alapati, a Senior Software Engineer at VISA USA, INC is celebrated for her innovative contributions to data processing with a robust background in designing, developing, maintaining and optimizing database solutions that drive business success.
With a deep understanding of SQL Server’s capabilities, Navya Alapati has spearheaded numerous projects, delivering high-performance databases that support complex applications and large-scale data processing.
Beyond technical prowess, Navya is passionate about leveraging data for strategic decision-making and innovation. An advocate for continuous learning and community engagement, Navya frequently shares her knowledge through workshops, webinars, and conferences.
She is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge and ideas are freely exchanged. Navya’s commitment to innovation extends beyond immediate projects.
As a speaker, Navya brings a wealth of practical experience and a passion for data-driven innovation. She aims to inspire and educate audiences on the latest advancements in SQL Server, data processing, and the transformative power of inclusive practices in technology.
Devin Baldwin: Bio
Devin Baldwin, a seasoned WebXR developer, educator, and innovative 3D content creator, brings a unique blend of technical proficiency and creative acumen to the digital realm.
Specializing in harnessing technology to manifest creative visions, his work primarily focuses on redefining user experiences.
Devin’s impressive career trajectory includes pivotal roles at industry titans like Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Samsung Research of America, Intel, and Meta, leading groundbreaking projects that have left indelible marks on the tech industry.
As an Educator, he empowers 6th to 12th-grade students with knowledge of emerging technologies like AR, VR, and MR.
His enlightening presentations inspire future developers by interweaving technology, creativity, and education.
Passionate about bridging the digital divide, Devin is committed to addressing disparities within the Black and Brown Community, fostering an inclusive future for technology.
An inquisitive, fast learner, Devin seeks opportunities to grow alongside exceptional teams while contributing to their success.
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.
A dedicated philanthropist, Kee’s commitment to serving others is evident in all her endeavors. She took the helm as the past president of the Optimist Club in Fort Knox, Kentucky, demonstrating her devotion to enhancing the quality of life for children in the community.
Continuing to be a catalyst for service, Kee remains steadfast in her commitment to effective leadership across multiple domains, including technology, healthcare, education, community service, and trauma recovery. Her focus on empowering girls to be future leaders and helping women overcome trauma is a central theme throughout her various roles and initiatives.
“Empowerment through Education and Healing”
Jemima Joy Joseph: Bio
Jemima Joy is a seasoned expert with over 13 years of experience in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Machine Learning.
As the Director of Artificial Intelligence at ProV International, she oversees projects in Generative AI, Conversational AI, Cognitive AI, Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Quantum AI.
She holds an MBA in Technology Management from Anna University and a certification in Data Science, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning from NIIT Kurukshetra.
Jemima has held senior roles at Philips and Accenture, where she led data science teams and spearheaded advanced analytics solutions.
Her strategic vision and leadership have significantly enhanced operational efficiencies, while her expertise in stakeholder management has driven business growth.
Jemima is recognized for her visionary approach and commitment to building strong relationships, making significant contributions to the data science community.
I have spoken at WiDS on Responsible AI, emphasizing ethical AI development. At the Global Engineering Expo (Zista Events), I discussed preparing students for future AI/ML careers.
At the GatherVerse AI Evolve Summit, I explored AI-Guided Learning and the future of education without physical schools.
Iuliana Moje: Bio
EdTech Founder and Promoter of using Virtual Reality to help us augment our personal and professional development. Advocate of a humanity-first future by using technology to keep our human-side alive. Philosophical Counsellor focused on Logic-Based Therapy method to improve critical thinking by delivering trainings and conducting workshops and counselling sessions.
At Smart Synergy I am introducing VR within wellbeing programs to help corporate employees to reduce stress and avoid burnout phases with 15 minutes sessions of meditation in VR or fitness practice in VR encouraging them to dissconect from stressfull job activity. I am continuously looking for out-of-the-box usage of VR technology and AI in order to share the perspective on using technology to keep us humans.
Luis Martins: Bio
Luis Bravo Martins is Vice-President at XR Safety Intelligence – Europe, a standards development organization fostering safety and privacy in virtual environments.
He is co-author of “Metaversed – See Beyond the Hype” (Wiley, 2023), a CMO and an advisor to several private organizations on XR and technological convergence.
Sabrina ‘Princessa’ Wang: Bio
Sabrina ‘Princessa’ Wang from Singapore 🇸🇬 is an award-winning serial entrepreneur, Amazon No. 1 best-selling author, and advocate in media, marketing, and technology. Featured in The Straits Times, The Business Times, Vulcan Post, e27, and more, Sabrina is a dreamer, otaku, and proud mom to 🐈⬛ Toothless.
Named one of the “30 Entrepreneurs of the Year” by The Silicon Review, USA, and an honoree of the Spirit of Enterprise and Singapore SME 500 Award, she founded Royal Privileged and scaled People’s Inc. to 7-digit revenues. Sabrina also launched the Royal Visionary Society with its flagship Royal Launch School, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Her mission? To share her hard-won experience to help others thrive in today’s fast-paced business world.
Bhavin P. Kapadia: Bio
1. Trusted Advisor 10+ years strategizing high-value clients and top-tier companies with speed and reliability.
2. I am a sounding board and a source for: ideas, solutions, innovation, and growth.
3. Always engaged with the Principal/CEO Strategy; C-Suite; Board of Directors.
4. Previously, worked at Wall-Street banks providing immediate attention and responsiveness.
>> STRATEGY FINANCIAL SERVICES WITH AN OBJECTIVE PERSPECTIVE
AI-ML Artificial-Machine Intelligence MLSecOps LLM RAG Zero-Trust GenAI Agents Multimodal,
Cyber, Security Secure Encryption Layer 7 Prevention Risk Resilience Breach Data Protection DORA
Fraud Detection Adversarial Threat Identity Authentication KYC AML Vulnerability Vertex
Finance future foresight predictions trends
Governance Regulatory Audit Compliance Privacy Prudential
MetaData Ethics
>> INDUSTRY RECOGNITION
1. Invited Financial Services expert and futurist
2. Thought Leader Public Speaking Conferences in New York City and Washington D.C.
3. Quoted in media publications.
4. Ranked in the 1% LinkedIn SSI metric.
>> ADDITIONAL ADVISORY AREAS
Renewables Energy Grid Green Economy Carbon ESG Climate Finance Impact Sustainability Clean Power Utilities Net-Zero Decarbonization | Private Equity Capital Markets | Telemetry | Due Diligence RCSA Risk Assessment Internal Audit SWIFT Reg Z Payments Aggregation | Independent Consulting Decision Evaluations Engagement | Quantum Blockchain Emerging Disruptive Frontier Digital Assets Web3 Stablecoin Chain Solana Smart Contracts Protocol Solidity Crypto | Quantitative Math | Competitive Landscape | International Research Global Partner
>> TECHNICAL TECHNOLOGY
Capabilities | Usage Patterns | Linux Unix SQL DevSecOps CTO CISO Java Space Cloud Infrastructure Low-Latency database optimization real-time | Data Center | TensorFlow PyTorch Keras Hadoop Spark Deep Learning Bayesian NLP Neural Networks | Hyperscaler | Edge | GPU Storage | GoLang, Go, GraphQL, API, Rust, Python SaaS PaaS | Software Science Architecture Enterprise Engineering | ISO 27001, NIST, OWASP
>> BANKING, INSTITUTIONAL, & INVESTMENTS
Swaps SBSD FRTB Basel VaR Market Risk Structured Credit Derivatives Interest Rates Swaptions Equities Currencies Market-Making Algorithmic Electronic Delta-One Fixed-Income Bonds Futures Alternatives FX Exotics Options Gamma Stress Scenarios CCR Counterparty XVA SIMM UMR Margin | Front-Office Trading | Pre-Trade Modeling | TradFi OMS Platform | Hedge Funds
>> CONTACT
Business work e-mail
[email protected]
Direct phone
(714) 307 – 4663
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.
Richard Bukowski: Bio
Richard Bukowski is a visionary Futurist and digital marketing pioneer with over two decades of experience at the forefront of marketing and technological innovations.
As the founder of Digital Wheel of Fortune, LLC. in Queens, NY, Richard has established himself as a thought leader in forecasting trends and developing cutting-edge strategies across diverse industries. With a unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and technical acumen, Richard has been instrumental in driving the adoption of emerging technologies, from Web 1.0 to the current landscape of Industry 4.0.
His expertise spans AI/XAI, IoE, biometrics, blockchain, and immersive digital experiences, allowing him to bridge the gap between consumer behavior, market trends, and evolving communication channels.
Richard’s career is marked by a series of pioneering achievements in digital marketing, including early monetization of new technologies and the cultivation of strong client relationships. His forward-thinking approach has consistently positioned him ahead of the curve, enabling organizations to navigate the complexities of digital transformation and capitalize on future opportunities.
As a sought-after consultant and speaker, Richard shares his insights on the intersections of technology, business, and society, helping leaders prepare for and shape the future.
His work continues to inspire and guide businesses in harnessing the power of emerging technologies to create innovative solutions and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly interconnected world.
Katherine Rice: Bio
Kylila has been in technology for the majority of her adult life, from working with Tesla, to competing at Hackathons at MIT, to starting and running a successful virtual reality company in Oklahoma, to even creating an online payment portal for the city of Geronimo, Kylila has the experience.
Her passions are musing technology to make life easier, to make utilities more efficient, and to make life less stressful.
Majiuzu Daniel Moses: Bio
Majiuzu Daniel Moses is driving research and innovation in the area of responsibly using tech and Artificial Intelligence for social good as well as bridging the inclusion gap for underrepresented and marginalized groups and communities by giving them a voice.
His advocacy is to foster global, regional, national and local collaborations in areas of Technology and Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development in the global south and global North.
He has served in various capacities in the field of AI such as Mentor at the All Tech is Human Centre in USA, Mentor at Deep Indaba Africa, Fellow at Emerging Tech for Emerging Markets(E4E).
He also was a contributor to the Global Digital Compact for the United Nations. He is an Alumni of Soliya, J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative(JCSVEI) as well as the U.S Department of State.
He belongs to several leading Tech and Artificial Intelligence Associations worldwide such as General member of the Digital Lawyers Association(DLA), Africa Law Tech Association(ALTA), International Future of Law Association(IFLA), International Association for Artificial Intelligence and Law(IAAIL), Internet Society(ISOC), Internet Society of Nigeria(ISOCN), Member Int’l Group of AI(IGAI), Responsible Artificial Intelligence Institute(RAII), Global AI hub(GAH) and Internet Society Netherlands.
He is also an accomplished author who has written extensively in the area of AI, Tech as well as law.
Elizabeth Aguado: Bio
I am an independent researcher and ed/tech freelancer who wants to spread AI literacy to many places and be part of co/creating spaces that make AI and GEN AI a positive technology to the world.
I am also very commited to mental health causes *I have a minor in Psychology.
I am originally from Lima, Peru and speak 4 languages.
Russell Bundy: Bio
Russell is a dynamic multidisciplinary entrepreneur with a proven track record of success across diverse industries, including radio, music, e-commerce, and blockchain.
Throughout his career and entrepreneurial ventures, Russell has consistently demonstrated a commitment to positive social impact. This dedication is evident in his radio business, where he strived to entertain listeners and foster a strong community, evidenced by the growth of his station to over 50,000 monthly unique listeners and a thriving 22,000-member Discord community in 2016.
Russell’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch a successful e-commerce business. This venture honed his strategic thinking and business management expertise, encompassing all aspects from operations to finance.
Notably, he achieved this success through bootstrapping, demonstrating his resourcefulness and financial acumen. The e-commerce world opened the door to the burgeoning landscape of Web3 technologies.
Recognizing the potential of NFTs, Metaverse, Crypto, DAO, AI and other emerging trends, Russell became an early adopter in 2020. He has since developed a deep understanding of these technologies and their strategic applications. Witnessing both the opportunities and challenges within this new space, Russell is passionate about leveraging Web3 for positive global change.
Driven by the belief that financial success can coexist with social impact, Russell is a passionate advocate for supporting women in the creative sector.
His first-hand experience from the radio industry, including ventures like MadBop, a platform dedicated to supporting and uplifting women, has provided him with deep insights into the challenges they face. This fuels his desire to champion their advancement and create a more equitable future, especially for his nieces pursuing creative endeavours.
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.
Kaylee Brown: Bio
Kaylee Brown is a leader in the field of XR and education, currently serving as part of Pearson Labs, an R&D and experimentation team that focuses on the application of emerging technologies in educational settings.
With a rich background in editing, assessments, qualifications, and project management, Kaylee has been working over the last several years to explore the intersection of emerging technologies like XR and AI with learning and education.
Kaylee’s expertise is primarily focused on spatial computing, as well as the future of assessments, qualifications, and virtual learning environments.
Mamadou Oury DIALLO: Bio
Lead Developer and Program Manager at Metafrik, with more than 7 years of experience in video game development, specializing in virtual and augmented reality.
I am passionate about innovation and mentoring, I manage technical teams and large-scale projects, while training future talents in the sector.
Tess McKinney: Bio
Tess McKinney serves as the visionary leader behind XRenegades, a subsidiary of Firework Media Studio, LLC. Renowned as an industry-leading consulting studio, XRenegades specializes in Immersive Virtual, Augmented & Mixed Reality (XR), 360 Degree Tour Design, Technology Training, and VR/AR/XR Reselling, particularly tailored for the education and healthcare sectors.
With an impressive two-decade tenure in the technology industry and a fervor for innovation, Tess has established herself as an expert in the field of immersive technology.
Her LinkedIn profile, available at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessmckinney/, showcases a rich tapestry of connections that span industry leaders, innovators, and thought leaders in XR/VR/AR/AI, healthcare, and education.
Tess leverages this extensive network to stay abreast of the latest trends, developments, and collaborative opportunities in these rapidly evolving domains. She is helping XR/AR/VR/AI businesses promote themselves through her vast connections.
Tess has also pioneered a groundbreaking platform that meticulously lists VR/AR/XR companies in the healthcare industry. This platform streamlines the process for educational institutions and businesses to explore and adopt these cutting-edge technologies, accessible at XRenegades’ website: https://xrenegades.com/arvrxr-healthcare-companies-list.
XRenegades boasts a track record of successfully guiding colleges and universities in the implementation of optimal immersive technologies for their students.
Tess has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Brazosport College, and the University of Texas at San Antonio College of Nursing.
Currently, she is actively involved in building XR simulation labs and implementing XR solutions for students and faculty at the University of Texas at San Antonio College of Nursing and College of Dentistry.
Furthermore, XRenegades plays a pivotal role in connecting educators with leading companies in the immersive technology field, fostering partnerships with notable entities like VictoryXR, SimX VR, UP360, VRPatients, ArborXR, Cleanbox Technologies, MACE Virtual Labs, Merge, Bodyswaps-VR Soft Skills Training, Darley, Xennial Digital, Reulay, PixoXR, HTC, AscentXR, MAI-Bodymaps, InceptionXR, Healthysimulation.com, Kaleidoscope XR, Near-Life, CurioXR, PsyTech VR, VR-Lab, Facilitate, Learning Time VR, among others.
Tess is also spearheading the development of an active shooter situational learning VR application for K-12+, scheduled for completion in Spring 2024 with the assistance of students from the University Of Nebraska at Lincoln Senior Design called XRSurvive.
Presently, Tess is engaging in consulting agreements with companies in the XR/AR/VR/AI industries, providing expertise and support for the training and implementation of innovative projects within the healthcare and education sectors. Previously, Tess served as a full-time Instructional Technologist for the University of Nebraska Medical Center Global Center for Health Security.
During her tenure, she demonstrated unwavering dedication to developing XR education and remote consultation services for small and rural healthcare facilities, aiding them in advancing their knowledge of Infection Prevention and Control Services in Sterile Processing.
Tess recently concluded this role, leaving behind a legacy of impactful contributions in the realm of instructional technology for healthcare education. Having contributed to the creation of commercialized virtual reality simulations (Rollover Ranch, Heart Health Escape Room, Nurse’s Escape) with a team from the University of Nebraska Medical Center- College of Nursing-Lincoln which are available on the XRenegades website.
Tess McKinney is actively involved in various professional groups, holding roles such as Committee Co-Chair for VRARA Healthcare, Board Member of Nebraska Distance Learning Association, Leader of “The Cool Kids Table,” Co- Leader/Outreach Coordinator for University of Nebraska: NeVRNER group, and Webmaster/Member with the College and Community Service Organization- Southeast Community College Chapter. Additionally, she serves as an Adjunct Technology Faculty at Southeast Community College-Nebraska.
For more information, visit XRenegades’ website: https://xrenegades.com/ At XRenegades, technology evolves, and so do we. Hire a Renegade
Sandeep Asokan: Bio
I am a data scientist having more than a decade of industry experience. I have lead and developed multiple AI/ML solutions for different domains such as insurance, healthcare, weather, banking etc.
A lot of my works are focused on research and development activities as well with respect to computer vision, usage of LLMs and their applications.
My team has developed the solution for identifying the age of rooftops from aerial images, first of its kind in the industry.
I always thinks and works for a better world by applying my skills in technology. When I am not analyzing the data, I might be watching movies!
Stephen Muasya: Bio
Stephen is a known Governance, Risk and Compliance expert specializing in Information Assurance, IT Risk, IT Strategy, Digital Transformation, Blockchain security, Technology Audits and Data Governance.
With over 9 years of professional experience, Stephen has a wide array of industry knowledge and experience including Finance/Banking, Technology services, Blockchain/Crypto and Fintechs.
He has held roles spanning from Technology Business Analyst, IT Audit Assistant manager to Global Cyber security GRC manager in a Fintech company with a presence in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Dubai and the United Kingdom overseeing the GRC arm of the Security and Infrastructure Department. Stephen is a global thought leader in frameworks such as COBIT, NIST, ISO 27001, CIS and SOC not forgetting Data Governance and Privacy.
Stephen speaks in Kenya and other Technology conferences and has had the opportunity to Train the Government of Kenya Ministry of ICT (ICTA) on Cybersecurity awareness via the ISACA Kenya chapter Training program. He is passionate about ensuring that Kenya onboards more Women in STEM and volunteers to such opportunities to empower society.
Stephen Holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from The University of Nairobi, He is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified GRC Analyst, Certified in Strategic Cybersecurity Management and Several other IT Certifications.
Sumaiya Noor: Bio
Sumaiya has 15+ years of experience in diverse leadership roles including Product Management and Growth, Digital Transformation and Talent Management. She has won many accolades throughout her career and has been honored as 40under40 by Business Elite. Sumaiya also sits on a Board of Directors for a global company. She also made it to the list of Top 20 global Product Leaders of 2023 and she is recognized as Top 100 most influential women of Canada.
She has been in multiple Product Development & Management, and Product Strategy roles throughout her career. Currently she is Chief Product Officer at a category defining AI and Web3.0 company. Prior to that she served as Chief Product Strategy Officer and earlier she was VP of HR & Digital Transformation. She has also worked with Telenor enabling them with their digital transformation. At IBM, she had 3 global roles and in her last role she led Technology M&A deals across 50+ countries in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa. Sumaiya has scaled companies to 5X valuation and 50X in revenue. As part of executive team, she has closed millions of dollars of funding for companies.
Sumaiya is also a graduate of IBM Leadership Development Program. She is a Startup Advisor, Fulbright scholar with MS/MBA from Purdue University, INSEAD certified Digital Strategy consultant, Certified PM and an Engineer with experience of managing cross-functional teams across 6 continents (being based in 4 continents) with Fortune100 multinationals and tech start-ups. She serves on Harvard Business Review (HBR) Advisory Council, World Economic Forum’s AI Council and is on Canadian Web3.0 Committee (Canadian Blockchain Consortium).
She speaks frequently at multiple forums globally. Sumaiya has spoken at US State Department with delegates from 47 countries including US Congress members. Also gave a talk at Grace Hopper Conference, attended by more than 30K technologists world-wide. Sumaiya has also been a Keynote speaker at University of Toronto and at several industry events including Google DevFest.
Outside work, Sumaiya is a staunch supporter of women and human rights, education and health for underprivileged individuals and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She loves travelling, learning new things especially technology and history, meeting people from diverse backgrounds and experiencing new cultures. She is also a practicing Naturopath and a singer for more than a decade.
Karl Lillrud: Bio
Karl Lillrud is a renowned global thought leader, celebrated for his transformative insights into artificial intelligence (AI) and digital commerce. With a career spanning over 28 years, Karl’s expertise has continually propelled him to the forefront of technological innovation and business strategy. As a revered speaker, moderator, and host, Karl is known from TEDx stages and the World Economic Forum in Davos, captivating audiences worldwide with his dynamic presentations and profound insights.
Recognized as a TOP 10 AI Thought Leader by Thinkers360 and ranked among the world’s TOP 30 speakers by Global Gurus, Karl’s accolades highlight his influential status in the AI domain. His role as an advisor to the Harvard Business Review and contributor to Forbes Magazine further underscores his authority and reach, making him a sought-after voice in the intersection of technology and business.
Karl’s collaborative ventures with Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups showcase his versatile expertise and impact across various industries. His deep understanding of consumer behavior and strategic foresight has driven organizations like H&M, Volvo, and Spotify to new heights, demonstrating his ability to deliver actionable insights and foster a culture of innovation.
As a best-selling author, Karl’s ninth book, “AI, Your Second Brain: Evolve or Go Extinct,” demystifies AI and provides practical strategies for businesses to leverage technology effectively. His commitment to making complex concepts accessible and relatable sets him apart, ensuring that audiences leave empowered and ready to harness AI’s potential for transformative change.
Karl’s unique approach combines entertainment, education, and inspiration, ensuring that every speaking engagement is not just heard but felt and experienced. He excels in creating immersive experiences that engage audiences, bridging knowledge divides and delivering insights that resonate across diverse backgrounds.
Whether speaking at international conferences or mentoring future leaders, Karl Lillrud embodies the spirit of innovation and leadership, inspiring audiences to embrace the limitless possibilities of AI and digital commerce. With his unwavering dedication to driving growth and innovation, Karl continues to be a catalyst for change in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business.
In short: Awarded as top10 best speaker in the world by global gurus, top 10 ai thought leader by thinkers360, advisor for Harvard business review, tedx and world economic forum speaker and author of 10 books
Vamshidhar Reddy Vemula: Bio
Vamshidhar Reddy Vemula is a globally recognized cloud security architect and AI innovator with multiple international patents in AI-driven cloud security solutions.
He has collaborated with Fortune 500 companies and global enterprises, developing transformative technologies in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital forensics. His pioneering work in AI-powered threat detection and forensic analysis systems has earned him prestigious recognitions.
A prolific researcher, Vamshidhar has published numerous high-impact papers on AI, cloud security, and machine learning, which are widely cited by industry experts.
His thought leadership and frequent appearances at global tech conferences showcase his dedication to shaping the future of digital security.
Cheryl Strizelka: Bio
Cheryl Strizelka is a thought leader in the human resources field, and a neurodivergent mother and wife.
Drawing from her personal journey of overcoming self-limiting beliefs and rekindling her passions, Cheryl has become a powerful advocate for working women.
Her talks blend raw honesty with actionable insights, inspiring audiences to challenge imposter syndrome, prioritize self-care, and pursue authentic lives without apology.
With a unique perspective on the complexities of modern work-life integration, Cheryl empowers women to reclaim their identities and embrace their full potential.
Joshua Berglan: Bio
Visionary Creator and Social Empowerment Leader
Joshua T. Berglan, globally acclaimed as “The World’s Mayor,” is a trailblazing multimedia creator and social empowerment leader. As the innovative mind behind the World’s Mayor Experience OmniMedia platform , he is revolutionizing the intersection of media literacy, accessible education, and community empowerment.
Key Highlights
Award-winning producer and internationally bestselling author
Creator of The World’s Mayor Experience OmniMedia platform
Author of “Media Company in a Box: Independent Media in the 4th Industrial Revolution”
Advocate for underserved communities and marginalized voices
SCORE mentor providing pro-bono coaching to entrepreneurs and nonprofits
Berglan’s groundbreaking book, “Media Company in a Box,” offers a comprehensive guide to ethical media entrepreneurship in the age of AI and the metaverse. His memoir, “The Devil Inside Me,” courageously details his journey of overcoming addiction and trauma.
The World’s Mayor Experience, his innovative OmniMedia platform, delivers empowering content tailored for diverse audiences—including at-risk youth, mental health communities, formerly incarcerated individuals, abuse survivors, human trafficking victims, and people with disabilities.
As a passionate advocate from these backgrounds, Berglan is committed to amplifying unheard voices through media skills training and accessible business mentorship.
In a move to democratize knowledge, he has made “Media Company in a Box” freely available in public libraries worldwide. His global impact extends through immersive virtual experiences, online academies, published works, advocacy initiatives, and an upcoming worldwide touring show.
Joshua T. Berglan, The World’s Mayor, is igniting a people-powered renaissance—equipping a global community of ethical storytellers and digitally literate changemakers to reshape societal narratives for a better future.
