GatherVerse XREvolve Summit 2025
Meet the speakers
June 24-25, 2025 (8:00 AM PST)
Dr. Muhsinah Morris: Bio
Metaversity Director. XR/AI Expert. Innovator. Chemist. Educator. Speaker. Autism Advocate. Author. Wife. Mom.
Full Bio:
Meet the first ever Metaversity Director, Dr. Muhsinah Lateefah Morris. She is Director of Metaverse Programs and Professor of the Practice at Morehouse College. Dr. Morris is a proud member of the inaugural HBCU IP Futures Collaborative: Powered by Michelson IP and inaugural HBCU Faculty Fellow for the Propel Center funded by Southern Company and Apple.
A B.S. chemistry graduate of the HBCU Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Morris earned her M.S. and Ph.D. in Biomolecular Chemistry from Emory University—known as the Harvard of the South. Since Spring 2021, she has been leading Morehouse’s pioneering Metaversity project.
She’s a multi-award-winning educator and technologist recognized for her innovative leadership, including:
Teaching Excellence Award (Morehouse College)
Emerging Technology & Innovation (CBRE)
First Place – T-Mobile Unconventional Innovation
Educator of the Year 2022 (STEM Women Atlanta)
2023 Top 100 Women of the Future
2023 Atlanta Technology Professional Innovator of the Year
2024 XR Women Global Trailblazer of the Year
2024 Woman in Tech-Woman of the Year
2025 Leading Woman in AI by ASU-GSV
Residing in McDonough, GA with her husband and five sons—including one with autism—Dr. Morris advocates deeply for the autism community as part of the Community Advisory Council and Advocacy Ambassadors for Autism Speaks.
Affectionately known as Dr. M.O.M. (Molder of Minds), she is a VR pioneer transforming learning on a global scale. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and serves on the XR Advisory Council for the XR Association and the Futurist Council for Jobs for the Future (JFF).
Dr. Morris currently trains pre-service and in-service educators to create and optimize their own institutional Metaverse Cultures. Through her company, Metaverse United, LLC, she empowers people to find where they belong in the embodiment of the internet—the Metaverse.
🔗 Learn more at UniteTheMetaverse.com
Michael Chaves: Bio
Michael Chaves is an Experience Design Technologist specializing in innovative XR and voice-driven AI interfaces that champion accessibility and inclusion. Currently completing his Master of Design in Experience Design at San Jose State University, Michael’s thesis explores voice-activated mixed reality solutions specifically designed for individuals with low muscle tone. With a diverse background spanning UX/UI design, frontend engineering, creative technology, and AI/ML advocacy, Michael has contributed impactful solutions to global brands such as Starbucks and Ford. His projects, ranging from accessible AR prototypes to AI-driven immersive experiences, showcase his commitment to human-centered design and inclusive technology.
A passionate advocate for accessible XR and AI/ML, Michael actively participates in community-driven initiatives, sharing insights and forward-thinking strategies to shape an inclusive and innovative future in extended reality.
Dominique Wu: Bio
I’m Dominique Wu, a creator at the crossroads of product design, spatial computing, and immersive storytelling. With over a decade of experience in XR and product design, I’ve had the privilege of working with visionary teams at Meta and Walmart’s Store No. 8, leading innovative projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible. I’ve spoken at premier industry stages like AWE and XR Women, hosted over 500 XR speaker events, hosted the ShapesXR Hackathon, and authored Spatial Design: Breaking the 2D Paradigm—a book capturing insights from pioneers shaping the immersive future. Currently, I serve as an AI Fellow for the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and teach XR as an adjunct professor at Cañada College, where I guide the next generation of creative technologists. Whether it’s building worlds or breaking paradigms, I’m here to help you bring your ideas to life—one immersive experience at a time.
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.
Alison Morano: Bio
I’m a political strategist turned tech innovator, blending years of experience in civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and policy advocacy with a deep dive into immersive technologies, generative AI, and narrative design. My work sits at the intersection of public good and emerging tech—building tools, virtual worlds, and AI agents that simplify complexity, empower users, and drive meaningful connection.
From designing Wonderland-themed XR experiences to developing AI-powered civic tools and campaign platforms, I’ve focused on making technology more accessible, purposeful, and people-centered. I also founded the Metaverse Chamber of Commerce, a virtual hub designed to support Web3 entrepreneurs, immersive creators, and digital small businesses through networking, storefront showcases, and collaboration zones—because the future of innovation should be inclusive, connected, and built for impact.
Liam Broza: Bio
Liam Broza is an engineer and multi exit founder in AI and XR. Notable projects include Ethereal Engine, BitScoop Labs, LifeScope and Laguna Labs.
Companion Intelligence originated from project LifeScope in 2015 with the goal of building an open platform for anyone to personal digital memory database.
In 2019, the LifeScope Time Machine was released to give anyone access to global travel into their history through AR and VR.
In 2020 Laguna Labs founded Ethereal Engine with a core community of WebXR engineers building the most powerful 3D web engine. After exiting Ethereal Engine to Infinite Reality in 2024.
Liam restarted the dream of Companion Intelligence and is now offering CI Private Servers allowing individuals and businesses to use personal private agents with confidence, trust, and control.
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.
Thomas Bedenk: Bio
Thomas Bedenk is interim Professor Creative Producing and Digital Strategies for XR at Hochschule Darmstadt and freelance advisor / manager with over 28 years of experience in digital productions. He is also Co-Host of the Spatial Realities podcast. His focus areas are Strategy, UX, Innovation and Emerging Technologies (XR/AI) across industries. He is a keynote speaker and founding member of XRBB and the German Game Association. From 2015 until 2024 he was VP Extended Reality at Endava and Director Immersive Media at Exozet. 2008 he founded game studio Brightside Games. He has degrees in Media Design and Human Factors. Prior, he was interactive designer and developer since 1996, when he published his first games and websites online.
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.
Lynn Gitau: Bio
Lynn Gitau is a distinguished figure in the technology sector, recognised for her innovative contributions and leadership in advancing digital interaction and communication.
As a key organiser in the tech community, Lynn has significantly contributed to bringing together thousands of enthusiasts and experts in a more subdued but impactful manner.
Her initiatives have laid a broad foundation for tech innovation beyond just XR, contributing to a substantial shift in the region’s technical landscape.
She is an emerging technologies explorer, national speaker, communications director for GatherVerse, founding member of the African Meta Club, and passionate about Social Impact XR and Web3.
Casey Jensen: Bio
With over 15 years of experience leading digital transformation, Casey has helped top brands like Apple, Hilton, Google, Walmart, and American Airlines turn emerging technologies into unforgettable brand moments. He specializes in translating complex tech—XR, AI, immersive media, and virtual production—into strategies that drive business impact and audience engagement. From guiding enterprise partnerships to advising on creative technology and leading business development, he thrives on building meaningful relationships and bringing bold ideas to life. As a passionate educator and frequent industry speaker, Casey is dedicated to making innovation approachable, exciting, and actionable. He now serves as Head of Client Partnerships for North America at Zebrar, where they deliver next-gen interactive experiences, digital activations, and immersive content for some of the world’s most iconic brands.
Trina L. Hill: Bio
With over 25 years of experience driving transformation and managing risk at Fortune 100 and 200 companies—including IBM, Fiserv, GE, Georgia Pacific, etc, Trina L. Hill is a leading voice in technology, business transformation, AI strategy, cybersecurity, risk management, and governance.
She received numerous awards including Women In Technology Woman To Watch award. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems from the University of Georgia and an MBA in Leadership and Business Administration.
Additionally, she is certified in disaster recovery, business continuity, program management, agile methodologies, Six Sigma, ITIL, and professional coaching.
As the Founder and CEO of TLH Consulting Enterprises, Trina advises corporations, government agencies, and industry leaders on leveraging AI responsibly, driving digital and business transformation, while implementing governance frameworks that mitigate risk.
Her expertise spans AI strategy, enterprise risk management, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, and resilient business models—helping organizations navigate the complexities of today’s digital economy while ensuring operational integrity and security.
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.
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.
Teacher Paul Simon Waiyaki: Bio
Founder, Africa VR Campus and Center. First African in the Metaverse. Facilitator and Teacher, XR Girls Africa. Host, Tales from Africa weekly Metaverse events. Champion, Engage XR professional metaverse. Holder of VR Excellence Award. Facilitator, United Nations Metaverse for SDGs Program. Member, Human Space Program. Alumnus, SpaceKind. Alumnus, University of Georgia Africa Civil Engagement Academy. Alumnus, Mandela Washington Fellowship. Catholic Theologian and Liturgist. Member and Chairman, Kikuyu Tribe Council of Elders. Founder and Chairman, VOFCIN. (Volunteers for Children in Need)
Carmen Milagro: Bio
Carmen Milagro is a dynamic speaker and multi-faceted “entrepren-artist” dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations worldwide. With her engaging storytelling, insightful expertise and infectious energy, Carmen leaves audiences inspired and poised to act. As a life coach who empowers and motivates she is passionate about supporting youth as well as women over 50, offering a unique blend of wisdom and experience. As the host of her livestream Wellness 360 with Carmen Milagro series, now in its 4th season on expandiTV, she approaches health and wellness from a holistic, 360-degree perspective.
As the Visionary, Founder & Chair of the DIVINA WORLD Foundation’s Indigenous & World Music Hall of Fame Project, Carmen champions InterGenerational and MultiCultural connections, fostering growth, resilience and an international community in the Metaverse.
Athena Demos: Bio
Athena Demos is co-founder and CEO of Big Rock Creative (BRC), an award-winning XR experience company creating groundbreaking experiences for global clients. Big Rock Creative won the Producer’s Guild Award for Innovation, the Aurea Award for creativity, the No Proscenium award for Best VR experience of 2020, the Hermes’ Platinum Award, the Auggie Award for Best Societal Impact of 2022 and the Global LiveWire Creative Innovators of the Year for 22/23, Auggie for Best Indie Creator 2023, XR Women’s Trailblazer award, and most recently the Gold Telly for Best Branded Immersive Content and named in the Top 50 Business & Marketing Visionaries by Adello magazine.
With over 20 years of experience producing iconic events, like the LA Burning Man Decompression Arts and Music Celebration, as well as the Art of Change Inaugural Ball for President Obama in LA, she transitioned to the metaverse to produce BRCvr presents BurnerSphere. BurnerSphere is an official virtual Burning Man Experience whose scope is unprecedented in the VR space. Athena produced internationally recognized social impact projects such as Breonna’s Garden which premiered at SXSW 2022 and Pride has no borders which was a finalist in the VR Awards. She has developed a philosophical approach to guiding humanity to build a foundational fabric for creative collaboration in the metaverse. As a result, she has been quoted in leading books, articles, delivered key notes, and spoken at leading industry events and universities across the globe.
In August of 2022-25,, Athena and the BRCvr team went to Burning Man in the Black Rock Desert to film the community, art, event, and ethos in 360 and 180 3D formats to combine with the VR worlds and models they cultivated the past two years. Currently in post production, she plans to deliver a new format for storytelling that brings them all together into one participatory experience called BRCvr presents BurnerSphere.
She spent 8+ years as the PM of two time Academy Award-winning documentary film company, Moriah Films.
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.
Vikki Jones: Bio
Vikki Jones, a standout business leader whose dynamic vision has propelled VMH Publishing, and its esteemed publications, VMH Magazine, VMH Sports Magazine, and over 200 book titles, and authors to the forefront of the publishing industry.
With a focus on innovation and AI technology integration, Vikki Jones continues to redefine top standards in the realm of content creation and dissemination.
Through her visionary approach, she has cultivated an environment of innovation, growth, and empowerment within her ventures, setting the stage for remarkable achievements and sustained business excellence.
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.
William Jackson: Bio
William Jackson has a Masters of Education in Technology earned from Webster University in 2004.
Graduating with honors with a degree in Educational Technology and STEAM, William is engaged in global collaborations and partnerships in multiple ecosystems. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, moved to sunny Florida after graduating from South Carolina State University with a Bachelors in Science and entered into teaching as a Physical Education and Health education teacher. After 15 years William transitioned to being a STEAM Educator in the elementary and in higher education for 33 years and retired in 2022.
CEO My Quest To Teach https://myquesttoteach.com/ and MetaverseWP https://metaversewp.com/
William is the World Metaverse Council, Metaverse Education Program Director, located in Slovenia, Eastern Europe, working globally to form partnerships, collaborations in the key areas of business and blending of diverse and immersive technologies. He is on the Board of Directors with One Africa Forum located in Johannesburg South Africa. William is the Technology Education Program Director and participates in global initiatives addressing immersive technologies, writing, and content creation.
William is also a member of the ED3 DAO and contributes in global engagements, projects and teaching experiences for students and educators. A career of 33 years teaching in public and higher education, dedicated to empowering students from elementary to higher education through Educational Technology, STEAM+M Initiatives, and other technologies. William has become a notable figure in both the academic and digital realms. Creating two businesses My Quest To Teach, and MetaverseWP, he has been a member of the WordPress community since 2010 and has been a global advocate for the community and collaborations of cooperation across colors and cultures.
William started speaking, teaching, organizing, mentoring, supporting, and sponsoring globally from 2017 to the present. He and his wife Aida have helped to sponsor youth and teen camps globally with success at global technology conferences. They have sponsored over 500 youth and teens to tech conferences in Canada, Africa, Europe, Central America, and the United States.
William is the first Black metaverse creator building WordCamp conferences with metaverse sites to address accessibility, the importance of indigenous cultures to integrate the metaverse to preserve historical information and content.
Eli Boahen: Bio
A cross-disciplinary collaborator & analyst, Eli Boahen is a researcher in design, data, ethics, and autonomy. She believes our techno-future is already here, and that questions need to be asked so we can discuss our uncomfortable answers.
In 2024, Eli completed their master’s degree in Data Analytics and Computational Social Science ( DACSS ) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. At UMass, their work focused on technology policy and techno-literacy as a means of power and its impact on our understanding of the world around us, thus our ability to consent or self-advocate. Their theories intersect with ethnography, A.I., biomedicine, education, robotics, and Society 5.0. Mostly recently, Eli led an project analyzing sentiments towards what they call the “technological-other”.
Eli is a strong believer in our combined awesome, and is excited to connect with you.
Class of 2020 Smithie | Posse Alum | HEAF Alum | SDXD board | UMass RTC
Stefan Youngblood: Bio
Stefan Youngblood is a distinguished Founder, CEO, and entrepreneur, expertly melding DEI, innovation, and AI for social impact. With a storied 40-year history in global connection, he stands as a foremost authority in creative digital networking architecture. Stefan is more than just a technologist; he’s a bridge-builder, ardently working to close socioeconomic divides with a mix of compassion, faith, and forward-thinking.
Earning recognition as a leading “Metafluencer” – a term denoting influential figures in the digital realm – Stefan’s expertise breaks conventional confines. His global leadership spans from Myanmar and Tunisia to Ukraine, Haiti, and Nepal. Stefan’s profound insights into AI have adorned numerous publications, sparking rich discussions about the challenges and promises AI holds for contemporary society.
As the visionary Founder and CEO of HireBlack.com, in collaboration with [corrected name/Veritone], Stefan ardently advocates for unbiased partnerships, linking companies with candidates through more than 200,000 daily career opportunities. His other ventures, such as HBCU AI and DataSpy™ – a unique data and privacy platform – further emphasize his dedication to fostering cooperative and educational minority-owned businesses.
A proud father of three, an enthusiastic explorer and hiker, and the honored recipient of the Shenandoah University Presidential Award, Stefan frequently graces stages as a keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness in tech. Stefan Youngblood shines in his efforts to integrate marginalized communities into the AI realm, always championing the principled and community-centric progression of ideas.
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.
Kuldeep Singh: Bio
Kuldeep, a seasoned technology professional with nearly two decades of experience, has excelled in diverse roles, including software development, technology director, product manager, and practice head.
As a trailblazer, he has pioneered Centers of Excellence for emerging technologies like IoT, XR, and Web3, overseeing data projects and crafting scalable enterprise solutions.
In addition to his technical expertise, Kuldeep is a prolific writer and speaker who actively contributes to society through mentoring and nonprofit initiatives, positively impacting over 50,000 individuals worldwide.
With an unwavering passion for empowerment and innovation, Kuldeep stands as a distinguished thought leader in the emerging technology space.
He authored a book “Exploring the Metaverse: Redefining reality in the digital age”, and hold patents in emerging technologies space.
Mikeldi Rodriguez: Bio
Professional with over 20 years of experience in creative direction, product management, and immersive experience development, specializing in the design and leadership of projects for the Metaverse, XR, and virtual worlds. I have coordinated multidisciplinary teams to conceptualize, develop, and launch innovative digital products, covering everything from strategy and roadmap definition to creative execution and optimization based on data and user feedback. My approach combines creativity, strategic vision, and technical expertise to transform ideas into high-impact immersive experiences, integrating technologies such as extended reality, artificial intelligence, and 3D environments. Additionally, I bring solid experience in the creation and personalization of digital avatars, understanding their key role in identity and social interaction within virtual worlds. I am passionate about driving innovation in the sector, leading teams and projects that redefine digital interaction and user experience in the Metaverse and new extended realities.
Jamee Damron-Larsen: Bio
Jamee is a dynamic speaker, coach, and comedian who loves inspiring people. Her journey has been deeply shaped by personal loss, but instead of letting it define her, she transformed it into a source of strength and entrepreneurial drive. Inspired by the sudden passing of her childhood best friend, Jamee pursued degrees in psychology and sociology, leading to a career as a counselor in a psychiatric hospital in Maryland. The tragic death of her mother marked a pivotal moment in her life. Embracing change, she left her job, sold her car, and moved to New York City, where she thrived in the performing arts, including stand-up comedy.
In 2021, the loss of her sister to cancer spurred another significant transformation. Having navigated the grief of losing her mother, sister, and best friend, Jamee shifted her focus from performing to public speaking. Drawing on twenty years of stage experience, she launched her own company, using her insights and humor to empower others as she speaks nationally on resiliency and leadership.
Jamee has enhanced her expertise with a certified coaching degree and is currently penning her first book. She recently spoke at the Head Start Annual Conference and is set to return for another engagement, followed by a Women’s Empowerment Symposium in New Mexico. Since she began speaking on loss and leadership in 2021, she has witnessed an extraordinary, almost indescribable hunger for this message. In just six months, Jamee was sharing this approach on a national stage, helping audiences transform their experiences of loss and adversity into strengths that deepen their leadership, build unbeatable teams, and enrich their lives.
Edward Prentice: Bio
The LORD enabled me to go from sleeping in my car to building a multi-million-dollar training company, then to start all over from ZERO on a Mission- www.yepnation.com – to honor a fallen female friend that I could not save long ago due to the lack of resources. This organization is now a part of YEPNATION – www.bbgirl.org and the members will be learning AI and Immersive Tecnologies to develop within our platform. This is the info: Our mission is to engage aspiring women and move them from negative trajectories in life to positive ones. Our training programs equip these women with knowledge and skillsets to prepare them for emerging careers in the AI and 3D virtual industries. When you partner with YEP Nation, you provide these women real work opportunities, so you’re not only going to the next level in how you conduct business; you’re making a real difference for others!
Martha Krejci: Bio
from tech executive to… helping the local business owner.
Martha Krejci, once a successful tech executive, traded corporate boardrooms for a mission to empower business owners at every level. After witnessing firsthand how traditional marketing models often fail to serve the needs of local businesses, she set out to create something different.
As Co-Founder and CEO of Sales-Driven Local, Martha leads a dynamic digital marketing agency that transforms both local businesses and online brands through her innovative approach to marketing and business development. Through the Martha Krejci Company, she provides comprehensive coaching and hosts monthly live and online events, guiding online businesses through systematic, realistic growth at every stage of their journey. Combining her sharp business acumen with a deep passion for community-driven success, Martha pioneered a revolutionary agency model that focuses on measurable results and genuine impact. Her entrepreneurial portfolio continues to expand with her role as Co-Founder of a thriving e-commerce venture.
Today, Martha helps business owners cut through the noise, connect with their communities, and achieve growth that lasts. Her journey from the tech world to serial entrepreneur and business growth expert is proof that innovation and heart can change the game.
Featured in Oprah Magazine, Fast Company, Cosmopolitan, Shape, and Huffington Post among other places, Martha’s intuitive marketing expertise has helped her make her first million in less than a year using this same model.
Richard Bukowski: Bio
A strategic foresight advisor and digital innovation pioneer helping organizations navigate the convergence of physical and digital experiences. With over two decades shaping digital transformation across media, advertising, and emerging technologies, I bring unique insights to the evolving landscape of Digital Realities – from AR/VR and IoT to immersive communities and quantum-enhanced experiences.
Sanjit Singh: Bio
Sanjit Singh is a founder, machine learning engineer, and XR technologist building frontier healthcare systems at the intersection of augmented reality, AI, and robotics. He is the founder of Valkyra Technologies, which is developing a real-time AR trauma care platform for medics and responders in austere environments. A two-time NSF I-Corps grant winner and former MIT Catalyst Fellow, Sanjit has worked with organizations including NASA, Mount Sinai, and the Mars Society. His work centers around creating inclusive, impact-driven tech that transforms how humans interact with complex information in high-stakes situations.
Catherine (Katy) Kavanaugh: Bio
Ruslan Kapustin: Bio
Ruslan Kapustin is the Immersive Technologies Practice Leader at Customertimes, a leading digital consultancy that empowers enterprises to harness XR, AI, mobile, web, and IT innovations to solve their most complex challenges.
With more than a decade in technology, Ruslan blends deep R&D expertise with strategic vision to guide high‑performing teams and deliver transformative outcomes. He shapes the strategy and full lifecycle of Customertimes’ Immersive Technologies portfolio, spearheading innovation in AI‑powered agents, large‑language‑model solutions, intelligent automation systems, and industrial Metaverse platforms.
As head of the Immersive Technologies Practice, Ruslan concentrates on two pillars:
Enterprise‑grade XR/AR/VR solutions for immersive workforce training, spatial‑computing interfaces, and scalable digital‑twin ecosystems.
AI‑driven cognitive tools that enhance enterprise decision‑making and automation.
His work enables Fortune 500 organisations to deploy virtual assistants, XR training platforms, and mixed‑reality collaboration tools—each initiative anchored in measurable ROI and business value.
Driven by a mission to pioneer “experience‑first innovation for tomorrow’s world,” Ruslan fuses generative AI with creative design and applied research. The result is solutions that redefine how businesses engage with emerging technologies, from AI‑augmented educational programmes to adaptive XR training systems recognised for their cross‑industry impact.
Helen Lundström Erwin: Bio
Helen is a historical novelist and a trailblazer in XR, and in the literary world, being the first novelist in the world to have created a Virtual Reality space inspired by one of the settings in her own novel. Her VR space, The Foremothers Café, not only pays homage to her novel Sour Milk in Sheep’s Wool and the café within its storyline but also serves as a thriving cultural center in VR.
Helen’s historical fiction novels are set during pivotal times in history. Readers are taken back to the activism and debates of the early reproductive rights, suffrage, and abolitionist movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as to the harsh reality of the Sorcery Trials in Sweden during the 17th and 18th centuries. Grounded in scholarly research, Helen’s novels portray history in vivid detail, with unforgettable characters and relationships that stay with readers long after the last page is turned.
Dot Cannon: Bio
Dot Cannon is an independent reporter, public speaker, workshop host and the President of Long Beach, California-based media company Two Maverix® Multimedia. She is producer and host of the long-running Over Coffee® podcast, which explores creativity at the intersection of art and science. A fledgling worldbuilder, Dot is currently planning some new virtual presentations in the metaverse.
Grigore (Greg) Burdea PhD: Bio
Grigore (Greg) Burdea PhD is an inventor, entrepreneur, author, and CTO at Bright Cloud International, a Rutgers University spin-off he founded. Burdea is known for pioneering work on haptics, virtual rehabilitation and remote therapy. He is a Fellow of the IEEE Virtual Reality Academy, recipient of the IEEE Virtual Reality Career Award and Founder of the International Society on Virtual Rehabilitation. He wrote “Virtual Reality Technology,” known as the “Bible of VR.”
Caroline Hill: Bio
Caroline’s work is rooted in more than 20 years of experience in public education, education innovation, management consulting, and engineering. She has lived the life cycle of school creation and transformation as a teacher, mentor, coach, founding principal, and investor in innovative school models. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia, a Master of Education in Learning and Teaching from Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Master of Science in Administration through New Leaders for New Schools, a principal training fellowship.
Caroline founded 228 Accelerator with the intent to redesign the relationships that normalize oppression and to accelerate the journey toward a more inclusive society. She explores innovative organizations and learning models that optimize the role of relationships, leverage technologies, and engage people as agents in their own transformation.
Caroline is also the Capstone Co-Director at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Entrepreneurship Program and a certified yoga instructor.
Tom Zerega: Bio
Tom’s roots are in broadcast where he worked for nearly 20 years as an actor with major networks such as CBS, NBC and ABC/Disney under the stage name Tommy Michaels. He spent nearly a decade playing the role of “Tim Dillon” on All My Children where he was nominated for an Emmy Award. As a child actor he played the role of Gavroche on Broadway, appeared in many TV commercials, made-for-TV movies and primetime shows including “Third Watch”, and “Law and Order”. Tom graduated from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts for Film & Television and launched Magnetic Media as a Digital Signage business in 2004 winning both the Mall of America and Pyramid Management Group 17 properties for their initial deployments.
Seeking creative solutions that provided clients with even greater engagement and utility, Magnetic Media successfully exited the 2D digital signage space and launched as the 3D Pro AV and Digital Signage brand “Magnetic 3D” in late 2006.
Mr. Zerega’s vision for the products stems from a fascination with Hollywood’s ability to make the impossible feel real through state-of-the-art visual effects. Aiming make this type of movie magic a reality and bring it to consumers at home, Tom and the team at Magnetic 3D began shaping a “holographic” 3D display product line to mimic the effects depicted in science fictions films and cult classics such as Avatar, or Back-to-the-Future. Magnetic 3D’s products were launched as an HD solution and have recently been upgraded to 4K.
Tom spear-headed R&D efforts and worked on the display optics for the product line. He has overseen quality control, licensing, display and content production, software development, vendor relations, and is involved in business development, sales, marketing, and fund raising for the Company.
Though an entrepreneur, angel investor, media personality, and inventor, Tom is currently most recognized in the public spotlight today as expert on holographic and glasses-free 3D technology. He currently resides in South Florida with his wife Denise, and loves spending time with his daughters Carliana and Alessandra.
About Magnetic 3D
Magnetic 3D’s Glasses-Free 3D products are the latest in display technology providing Holographic Experiences and Immersive 3D Digital Signage anywhere with captivating off-screen “pop” and depth. The Company’s products offer the ability to see around objects with motion parallax and feature wide viewing angles to support multiple viewers at the same time. The industry-leading product line of proprietary 3D display solutions ranges from handheld devices to 100” 3D monitors and large 3D video walls. Available in both landscape and portrait format, the unique combination of hardware, software, and content, enable incredible 3D image and video capabilities that can be visualized without 3D Glasses or VR/AR Headgear. For more information on Magnetic 3D’s products and services go to https://magnetic3d.com/ or email [email protected].
Magnetic 3D’s enterprise 3D platform delivers unparalleled engagement that has been shown to exceed 2000% more attention and engagement than print or 2D display equivalents. This transformative tech is the ideal solution for increasing brand awareness and generating greater sales lift across retail, hospitality, theme parks, healthcare, events, and many other customer-facing environments where capturing consumer attention is paramount. For more information visit https://magnetic3d.com/ or email [email protected].
Nico Fara: Bio
Nico Fara is a product leader, strategist, marketer, and engineer with a robust global network of over 16,000 professionals spanning technology, retail, entertainment, and the creator industry. With deep expertise in product strategy and storytelling, Nico has successfully built and led innovative ventures, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), extended reality (XR), and gaming to solve complex retail and customer experience challenges. Her entrepreneurial journey has empowered brands to enhance consumer engagement, optimize operations, and deliver transformative experiences.
Nico hosts “The Immergence,” a live weekly show spotlighting emerging technologies and immersive experiences by engaging industry leaders and professionals in informative, entertaining, and interactive conversations.
Ian Harrison: Bio
Ian Harrison. Head Innovation Dude @ SNEAKAR.IO
Creative disruptor and anthropologist transforming how brands connect with culture through immersive XR experiences. With 15+ years bridging Web3, AR/XR, and cultural integration, Ian specializes in “People, Process, Product” approach that turns authentic storytelling into moving brand experiences.
Co-founder of SNEAKAR’s patented Walking Billboard™ technology – where footwear becomes the gateway to AR-powered brand engagement and Web3 community building. Known as a “cultural translator” who blends technical innovation with emotional relevance, creating platforms that don’t just advertise but truly connect.
Austin-raised, globally-minded. Augmenting expectations, one step at a time.
Billie Whitehouse: Bio
Billie Whitehouse is the CEO, designer and director of Wearable X. Billie specializes in the unique combination of hardware, software and apparel for wearable technology products. Known for her development of Nadi X, state-of-the-art technology to optimize your yoga. Billie is invigorating the fashion industry and transforming it into a business focused on improving the quality of our lives.
Billie is an aesthetic specialist with a naturally inquisitive nature towards technology and innovation. As a garment engineer she strongly believes people should not have to look like the technology that they have grown to love and depend on. Billie’s designs are sharp, experimental, naturally confident and subtly feminine in appearance integrated with the latest technology.
In 2021, Billie & Wearable X were featured in the Venice Biennale & Musée de l’Homme, Limits of Humanity Exhibition in Paris. Business Insider recently named Billie as one of the 30 most important women under 30 in tech and she was named in the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company. A recent highlight was winning The Fashion Group International, Design Technology Award and being named one of the Most Innovative Companies in Fitness by Fast Co.In 2016 she was the winner of The Wearable Award in Paris at Show Room Privé as well as being featured on The Jimmy Fallon Show. Forbes recently compared Billie to Steve Jobs and Jerry Seinfeld because of an anthropological look at human centric design with humor.
Billie is a renowned keynote speaker with presentations stretching from the The New Yorker Tech Fest, Fortune’s Elevate, Wired Retail UK, Fashion Futures 2021, Pi Apparel, Wearable Technologies 2021 Cannes Lions 2015/2016, Conde Nast Digital Russia 2016, India Fashion Forum 2016 and many more.
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!
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.
Jerry Price: Bio
Orestis Spyrou: Bio
Spyrou Orestis innovative researcher, leader with extensive experience in social creative technologies, NGI services, and XR-driven innovation. Proven ability in multidisciplinary collaborations, strategic partnerships, and impactful results across diverse domains, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and art. We believe in collaboration, transparency, and a shared passion for distruptives technologies.
Paige Dansinger: Bio
Rui Pereira: Bio
Rui P.G. Pereira is an award winning Creative and Technologist passionate about disembedding technology in peoples’ lives to make them better and happier.
In the past Rui has led Innovation Labs in Theaters and Ad agencies, consulted with Google’s thirsty clients on insight-driven innovation, rebuilt Classical Greek cities for Microsoft and collaborated with Meta’s Reality Labs Research on envisioning future XR interactions.
Rui has been fortunate to have seen his work and collaborations multiple awarded, including a 2015 Cannes Lion Bronze Award in the Creative Data and Innovation category with the campaign Moving Words for Mutual Liberty; two 2023 Core77 Awards, Interaction Winner and Notable Emergent Technologies, as well as, a Gold Anthem Award with the Tower of Faces AR Experience for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
He is also an educator, teaching both in the US (at the Interactive telecommunications Program-NYU) and internationally.
Rui is the founding member of humanos.xyz a Spatial Computing and Immersive design boutique living in between Brooklyn, NYC and Lisboa, Portugal.
In his free time Rui loves fixing and riding bikes everywhere and enjoying nature, art, cooking and good times with his family.
Chantelle Botha: Bio
Some people inspire. Chantelle ignites.
Known as The Catalyst, Chantelle Botha is not just another speaker – she’s a force of nature. With a nonconformist edge and unapologetic authenticity, she challenges audiences to strip away societal expectations, reclaim their power, and embrace the magnetic force of their true identity.
Having risen from the ashes of addiction and adversity, Chantelle doesn’t just talk transformation – she embodies it. Her lived experience, coupled with deep personal mastery, fuels her electrifying presence on stage. She dares her audience to step into their (se)X-Factor – that untamed, magnetic energy that fuels confidence, connection, and success.
Through her company Dragonfly, Chantelle has helped thousands break free from limiting narratives, redefine their purpose, and forge relationships that unlock limitless opportunities. As the author of Phoenix Rising and creator of Reclaim the Flame, she’s on a mission to awaken fierce authenticity and unstoppable self-belief in women worldwide.
A global speaker and finalist in multiple international entrepreneurial and speaking competitions, Chantelle sparks revolutions. If you’re ready to shatter the rules, amplify your impact, and own the room with unapologetic confidence, she’s the one to take you there.
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.
Thomas Zorbach: Bio
Thomas Zorbach is the organiser and curator of the IMMERSIVE X – The Next Reality Festival. Taking place from 11 to 13 November 2025, this groundbreaking event will unfold entirely in virtual reality, uniting a global community of innovators, creators, and changemakers who believe in the transformative power of XR.
Anusha Yella: Bio
Dishon J. M. Mwachia: Bio
As a visionary entrepreneur and founder of APICI Technologies, I am driven by a singular mission: to redefine how we experience the world through sensory innovation. My work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the art of sensation, creating experiences that immerse, engage, and entertain.
I am deeply passionate about exploring the science of perception, staying ahead of emerging trends in sensory stimulation, and ensuring ethical practices in the integration of sensory technologies. With a strong focus on personalization, psychological triggers, and cultural context, I aim to make APICI synonymous with the future of immersive design.
Meni Teknikio: Bio
Jayasri Sai Nikitha Guthula: Bio
Jayasri Sai Nikitha Guthula is an AR/VR researcher at the Emerging Analytics Center, University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Originally from Vijayawada, India, she holds a Master’s in Computer Science and researches on immersive systems, user telemetry, and privacy-preserving machine learning.
Her work focuses on building telemetry pipelines for XR environments, designing synthetic data systems to protect user identity, and analyzing gaze and behavioral patterns from devices like HoloLens and Apple Vision Pro. She has presented at IEEE VR and HCI venues. She actively contributes to the XR community through mentorship at MIT Reality Hack, volunteer work with SIGGRAPH and XR Access, and as Vice Chair of the ACM student chapter at UALR.