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Aydin Malikov
founder, CEO, and Entrepreneur in Dubai
Aydin Malikov
founder, CEO, and Entrepreneur in Dubai
Founder & CEO of AquaStore | Entrepreneur | B2B Marketplace Executive
Aydin Malikov is the Founder and CEO of AquaStore, a Dubai-based global B2B marketplace serving the pool, spa, wellness, water treatment, filtration, and irrigation industries.
Through Aquamarket FZCO, he is developing a digital ecosystem that connects manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, contractors, service providers, and professional buyers worldwide. AquaStore is designed to simplify supplier discovery, product sourcing, RFQ management, and cross-border business development.
With practical experience in wholesale distribution, international trade, and market expansion, Aydin focuses on building scalable technology-driven businesses and creating stronger commercial connections across the UAE, the MENA region, and global markets.
Gregory Michael Bieze
Film TV Podcast Producer, Wine & Foods, and Business & Property Developing in Oregon Washington Wisconsin & Illinois
Gregory Michael Bieze, aka Dr GM Bieze PhD, stands as a distinguished figure at the intersection of agricultural heritage and modern entertainment innovation.
The grandson of Alden “Al” Bieze & Helen “Heidi” Ernesti-Bieze, Gregory was entrusted with stewardship of the Bieze family legacy and assets since his birth in 1970 in Chicago. His mother is Patricia Bieze. His father is Marengo high school basketball star “Jerry” Bieze (Class of 1962).
Bieze and related family interests dating back to Prohibition Era Cicero Illinois under Greg's great-grandfather Theodore Bieze Sr, and including Alden, Robert, Rolland, and Theodore Jr were assigned to Gregory's control at birth. (Also Roland Jr, Holland, Dennis, David, Warren, Lawrence, Kevin, Christian, Ronald, Toby, Lauretta, Lorraine, and others)
It was realized by his grandparents that by acknowledging Gregory as the steward of the generational real estate, finances, businesses, investments, and other assets, the Bieze family could avoid the confusion and liability of identity issues surrounding the 1949 death of Al's son with Lauretta Pierzynski Bieze - Dennis Alden Bieze.
Interests date back to Bieze Brothers Catering, Marengo Ridge Golf Club & Marengo Ridge Estates, and the Bieze Family Dairy Operations in Wisconsin & Illinois, and now extend nationwide - with many Bieze companies based out of a corporate owned estate in Lake Oswego Oregon.
Dedicated to Education & Innovation
An alumni of Hopewell Elementary School, Catlin Gabel School, West Tualatin View grade school, Cedar Park Junior High, and Sunset High School in Oregon, before obtaining advanced degrees in studies in the Midwest, Greg Bieze has successfully balanced the weight of a multi-generational legacy with a trailblazing professional career.
Gregory has become a symbol of resilience, transforming a storied family name into a modern powerhouse of marketing and media.
Family & Community Focused
Gregory is a loving father and community pillar who has navigated complex family truths with transparency.
The Marengo Community High School class of 1962 still fondly recall Greg's dad Jerry's dazzling talents on the basketball court - a passion he shared with his son. This inspired Gregory to his later affiliations with NBA legends.
In addition to his love of basketball, Gregory is accomplished is areas of entertainment and business.
He was a “child star” in Portland Oregon on stage and on television. He was the endearing Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol on television and then helped establish the success of Artist's Repertory Theater alongside Vana O'Brien - a frequent collaborator of director Gus Van Sant (My Own Private Idaho).
He was a protege of Paul Douroumis of Miss America Pageant and Portland Civic Theater fame. Later he collaborated extensively with Jerry Goldman of Paramount Studios. This inspired Greg's work behind the scenes as an adult, sometimes under creative monikers developed by his father.
Catlin Gabel alumni Josh Crawley of Everclear, civil rights attorney Jossi Davidson (Silverton Law), literary expert Max Mower and philosophy professor Seth Tichenor delight in sharing their stories about Gregory, his sister Jori, and their mom & dad on the family farm.
Professional Career
Gregory career accomplishments include high level marketing, spokesperson and film and TV production roles. Notable affiliations:
- GMB Celebrity Brands
- Bieze Wines
- Paramount Studios
- Axiotron
- (Chief Marketing Executive)
- Other World Computing
- (Executive Spokesperson)
- Empire Today
- (Head of Image and Branding)
- Plotweaver A.I. (Partner, Marketing)
- NVIDIA Inception Program
- Lola Wireless (Sr Executive VP)
- Theodore Bieze Bootlegger Brands
- Red Light Entertainment
- (Marketing Executive)
Roger Nwatsok
FORENSIC GOVERNANCE EXPERT, Project Manager, and Consultant in Los Angeles California
What’s up, I’m Roger. I’m a FORENSIC GOVERNANCE EXPERT living in Los Angeles California . I am a fan of technology, entrepreneurship, and writing. I’m also interested in reading and movies. You can hire me with a click on the button above.
Roger Nwatsok is the creator of the Invisible Bleed® Framework, a governance methodology designed to help organizations identify and eliminate hidden operational leakage that silently erodes profitability, resilience, and enterprise value.
Drawing upon expertise in governance, risk management, technology infrastructure, and operational performance, Roger's work focuses on the intersection of enterprise systems, vendor ecosystems, and institutional infrastructure. Through the Invisible Bleed® Framework, he demonstrates how governance gaps, commercial drift, and institutional memory loss create significant but often invisible threats to EBITDA and long-term organizational performance.
Roger is the Founder of ASCENDANTSTRATEGICADVISORS, where he advises organizations on infrastructure intelligence, operational governance, and enterprise value protection. His research integrates principles from risk management, information systems, project governance, and emerging AI-enabled operational technologies.
He holds an MBA in Management Information Systems (MIS) and maintains several internationally recognized professional certifications, including:
• MBA (Management Information Systems)
• CISA – Certified Information Systems Auditor
• CISM – Certified Information Security Manager
• CRISC – Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
• PMP – Project Management Professional
• AWS Certified AI Practitioner
The Invisible Bleed® is his first book and introduces a practical framework for transforming operational visibility into governance resilience and long-term enterprise value protection.
first book
Mauricio Juarez
Conferencista Público / Public Speaker, Entrenador Personal / Personal Trainer, and Coach de Vida / Life Coach in Santa Mónica, California
Mauricio Juarez
Conferencista Público / Public Speaker, Entrenador Personal / Personal Trainer, and Coach de Vida / Life Coach in Santa Mónica, California
I'm a Conferencista Público / Public Speaker, Entrenador Personal / Personal Trainer, and Coach de Vida / Life Coach based in Santa Mónica, California.
Soy un Conferencista Público, Entrenador Personal y Coach de Vida con sede en Santa Mónica, California.
My interests include politics, writing, entrepreneurship, innovation, and education.
Mis intereses incluyen la política, la escritura, el emprendimiento, la innovación y la educación.
Jaey Turino
Founder & UHNW Strategic Advisor
Jaey Turino is a senior financial services professional, entrepreneur, and strategic adviser with more than two decades of international experience working with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, founder-led businesses, family offices, and high-performing professionals across Europe and Asia. His career has been built around helping successful individuals and organisations navigate complex financial, commercial, and strategic decisions with clarity, structure, and long-term perspective.
Throughout his career, Jaey has advised entrepreneurs, business owners, and private investors on matters ranging from capital allocation and liquidity planning to growth strategies, recapitalisations, and business transitions. Working alongside private equity investors, investment professionals, and specialist advisers, he has developed a reputation for combining analytical rigour with practical commercial judgement, helping clients make informed decisions in increasingly complex financial environments.
Alongside his advisory work, Jaey has led large-scale transformation and operational change programmes within global financial markets, overseeing multi-million-pound initiatives across front and middle office functions. His experience spans regulatory transformation, risk management, process automation, operational efficiency, and the successful delivery of complex cross-border projects involving diverse stakeholder groups and multiple jurisdictions. This unique combination of strategic advisory and operational leadership has given him a rare perspective on how robust systems and disciplined decision-making create sustainable long-term value.
Recognising that many high-income professionals face the same financial challenges as larger organisations – complexity, inefficiency, and a lack of structured processes – Jaey founded Clarity Wealth Systems. The business was established to bring institutional-quality financial thinking to personal wealth management, helping professionals create clear, practical systems for managing cash flow, allocating capital, and building long-term financial resilience. His philosophy is rooted in the belief that financial success is not simply about earning more, but about creating the right structures to make better decisions consistently over time.
Jaey’s approach combines commercial strategy with behavioural insight, emphasising simplicity over complexity, systems over short-term tactics, and disciplined execution over reactive decision-making. He believes that clarity creates confidence and that well-designed financial frameworks enable individuals to focus their energy on their careers, businesses, and families while building lasting wealth.
A math graduate of Imperial College London, Jaey combines strong quantitative expertise with extensive real-world commercial experience. He also holds internationally recognised professional qualifications in finance and programme management, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence.
Today, Jaey works at the intersection of wealth, strategy, and systems thinking, helping ambitious individuals and business owners simplify complexity, make better financial decisions, and create frameworks for sustainable growth and long-term success.
Sean Fagundes
vCIO in Atlanta, GA
Sean Fagundes
vCIO in Atlanta, GA
With 25 years of experience running Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and delivering cutting-edge technology solutions, I know exactly what it takes to make IT work for your business. Over two decades in the trenches taught me that true success lies in alignment, which is why I now specialize in high-impact vCIO services.
My mission is to bridge the gap between business strategy and IT execution while ensuring your technology providers are held fully accountable. I cut through the tech jargon to maximize your ROI, mitigate risk, and drive growth.
Let’s transform your technology from a headache into your ultimate competitive advantage.
Evan M Hamilton
Animal Rescue Awareness, Project Manager, and Personal development
Evan M Hamilton is a dedicated professional with a passion for animal rescue awareness, personal development, and meaningful impact.
Known for his bold energy and relentless drive, Evan channels focus and compassion into protecting animals and pushing limits in training and leadership. He looks sharp in a blazer and brings intensity to every challenge—whether mentoring teams, supporting rescue efforts, or exploring new horizons.
With interests in acting and travel, Evan enjoys capturing recent professional portraits and majestic outdoor moments. He is committed to purpose-driven work and building strength while helping others rise.
Guy Ngambeket
Senior Director and Board Member in Middle East and Africa
Hi, I'm Guy — a cybersecurity executive, board director, and proud ISC2 member. Over the past 17 years I've had the privilege of working with governments, global corporations, and public institutions across four continents, helping them navigate cybersecurity strategy, digital transformation, and governance. I currently serve as Senior Principal at FTI Consulting.
I hold eight professional certifications including CISSP and NACD.DC — which means I speak both the language of the technical practitioner and the one of the boardroom. I also write and speak regularly on cybersecurity topics, because I believe sharing knowledge is part of what we owe to this community.
From 2023 to 2025, I served on the ISC2 Board as Board Member and Secretary. I chaired the Succession Planning Committee, sat across six committees, and spent a good part of that mandate engaging directly with chapters in nine countries. Those conversations with members around the world were some of the most energising of my career — and they are a big part of why I am running again to continue serving our community.
The profession is changing fast. AI, quantum computing, and a widening global workforce gap are reshaping what it means to be a cybersecurity professional. ISC2 has a real opportunity to lead that conversation, and I want to be part of making that happen. If re-elected, I'll bring the same energy, commitment, and genuine love for this community that I showed in my first mandate
Dr. Elhanan Gazit
Keynote speaker, Advisor, and Entrepreneur
Creator of Gameful Intelligence™ for mastering the era of AI | Founder @ JuLoot | Visionary Strategist
AI is rewriting the rules of intelligence. Most leaders are still playing by the old rules. I coined Gameful Intelligence™ (GI), a compass and strategic approach for leaders who want to thrive in the era of AI.
Hi, I’m Dr. Elhanan Gazit, Founder of JuLoot, AI thought leader, senior consultant, keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and university lecturer. My work bridges 20+ years of academic research with hands-on innovation across AI, gaming, immersive experience design, and future strategy.
Mission:
Turn AI disruption into a strategic advantage.
On stage and in executive strategy rooms, I help leaders:
• Develop Mega Agency in AI-driven environments
• Master human–AI co-creation
• Identify hidden leverage points
• Redesign rules responsibly
Read the GI manifesto:
Meet Dr.GIA AI Agent Compass
Selected Work & Speaking:
https://www.juloot.com/dr-elhanan-gazit
Newsletter & Articles:
Podcast (Hebrew):
https://www.juloot.co.il/podcast
Ready to fulfill your potential in the era of AI?
Meta-Play Your Life.
Hayes kanyike
ceo and founder in Bergen County, NJ
Hayes kanyike
ceo and founder in Bergen County, NJ
I'm Hayes Kanyike, founder and CEO of Gains App — the first fitness platform where competition is a service you can summon. Creators host and judge fitness challenges to earn. Athletes compete live and earn performance based payouts when they win — all paid in real time. Launched on iOS and Android on April 28, 2026 under the tagline "Bank on Fitness." Bootstrapped, no external funding.
Born in Kampala, Uganda, I came to the U.S. as a refugee at age 11. I earned my personal trainer certification in 2010 and built boutique fitness studios in New York through the 2010s.
Andy Lack
Journalist, Producer, and Media Executive in New York, NY
Hi, I’m Andy. I’ve spent my career in journalism and media, from producing at 60 Minutes to leading NBC News, Bloomberg Media, and Sony Music. I’ve helped create award-winning programs and documentaries alongside talented reporters and storytellers. Today, I serve as Executive Producer of the Emmy-nominated PBS series Breaking the Deadlock and focus on strengthening local, nonprofit news through Deep South Today, parent company of Pulitzer Prize–winning Mississippi Today, The Current, serving Lafayette and southern Louisana, andVerite Newsthat captures news from the historically under-represented.
I’m passionate about mentoring emerging journalists and supporting independent, fact-based journalism that keeps communities informed and engaged.
In the News
MS NOW: The 11th Hour Nightcap
The Dominion Post: Lack issues challenge to strengthen local journalism’s future
West Virginia University: WVU News Interview with Journalist Andy Lack
AJC: He led NBC News. Now he’s pouring millions into nonprofit news in the South.
American Crisis: $7M Gift Expands Investigative Reporting
Editor & Publisher Magazine: Major Funding Boost for Deep South Today
Andy Lack backs local nonprofit journalism with new funding
2026 Emmy Awards – News and Documentary
Read more about Andy Lack at
Awards, Honors and Industry Legacy
My work has been widely recognized across journalism, broadcasting, and entertainment, including 16 Emmy Awards and four Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Awards. My documentary credits include The Boat People, The Defense of the United States, and Inside Afghanistan, along with honors such as Peabody, George Polk, and Clarion Awards. These recognitions reflect a career grounded in storytelling integrity, and public service, including being named Electronic Media’s “Most Powerful Person in Television News” for four consecutive years.
Emmy Awards
16 Emmy Awards for excellence in television production and journalism
Selected Emmy-Winning Productions
“The Boat People” (1980)
- Category: Outstanding Program Achievement
- Role: Producer
“
David Husson
Family Protection Insurance & Benefits Specialist in Fort Lauderdale, Fl
Since 2002, I have partnered with companies nationwide to optimize their corporate benefits and safeguard their workforce.
Operating out of Fort Lauderdale, FL, as a Family Protection Insurance and Profit Improvement Specialist, I help businesses navigate the complexities of rising healthcare costs without sacrificing quality of care.
My approach bridges the gap between innovative technology and strategic wellness initiatives.
By streamlining administration, we significantly reduce financial exposure for both employers and their employees.
Beyond the boardroom, my work is driven by a deep personal interest in entrepreneurship, education, and healthcare innovation.
I know firsthand that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution. That’s why our partnerships begin with a comprehensive, transparent benefits audit—this is where we truly earn your business.
My promise to you is simple: if we cannot measurably improve your payroll or benefits margins, I will advise you to stay exactly where you are.
Ready to protect your margins and attract top-tier talent? Click the link above to visit my website and learn how a tailored benefits strategy can secure a stronger, more profitable future for your company.
Peter Kellogg Bertine
Founder of ReachToRise
Greetings. I’m Pete. I’m based in The Hudson Valley region of New York State, my office is in Rhinebeck, NY.
When I was younger, my father and I, through our business accelerator Kellogg International, Co-Founded: Finepoint Technologies - finepoint.com
Finepoint provided signup software to ‘Independent Internet Service Providers‘ that allowed them to market themselves to new customers with CD-ROM’s that could be custom branded to the ISP.
The CEO/CTO of Finepoint, John O’ Keefe, later distributed WinPoet and MacPoet to help end users access broadband internet in the later 1990’s.
In 1999 I created ThinkTank56 to incubate new technology companies and empower the arts.
Kellogg and ThinkTank raised money for The Wooster Group: thewoostergroup.org and we supported their premiere of the film, “American Psycho”
I am still passionate about technology, but now I focus my time on restoring Historic Sailboats and Buildings, gardening; and, supporting the elderly community and wounded veterans.
I rebuild and tinker with interesting things and encourage people to join me.
Come meet me and pick up a wrench and get your hands dirty. You’ll walk away knowing more about one of my passions - like solar power… and you’ll learn to be more present in the moment.
I am primarily a volunteer who supports causes that do good work. And I give Technology away through: ReachToRise.org
Natalee Clement
Founder, Trusted Advisor, and Business Leader
Natalee Clement
Founder, Trusted Advisor, and Business Leader
I believe resilience comes before choice because in my story—it did.
As co-founder of Clement Construction, I've spent more than 20 years wearing many hats and navigating the realities of business ownership, family life, leadership, identity, uncertainty, and growth.
My biggest takeaway from over two decades in business and the trades? Some of life's most important lessons don't come from textbooks, boardrooms, or perfectly executed plans. They come from living through the hard stuff, finding your footing when the path isn't clear, and discovering that resilience is often built alongside the people willing to walk through it with you.
Today, much of my thinking is focused on resilience, leadership, motherhood, meaningful connection, and the ways people experience life's challenges and transitions. These ideas continue to shape both my work and the projects I'm passionately exploring for the future.
People often come to me when they're facing a decision, navigating change, feeling stuck, trying to make sense of what's next, or simply need connection. Not because I have all the answers, but because I'm not afraid of honest, raw conversation. I bring perspective, practical wisdom, and the ability to find a silver lining without pretending the struggle isn't real.
I believe clarity often begins with perspective, capacity is worth protecting, and better questions lead to better choices. I also believe in challenging outdated labels that no longer serve our identity, behavior, or potential.
ghazwan Al-Qurayshi- غزوان القريشي
Project Manager, Consultant, and Social Media Manager in baggdad
ghazwan Al-Qurayshi- غزوان القريشي
Project Manager, Consultant, and Social Media Manager in baggdad
Ghazwan Al-Quraishi
Sales Manager | Professional Marketer | Project Manager | Advertising Designer
📍 Baghdad, Al-Saydiya, Iraq
📞 +964 771 002 26122
📧 [email protected]
🌍 Nationality: Iraqi
🎂 Date of Birth: 23/06/1993
📍 Place of Birth: Al-Nu'maniyah, Wasit Governorate, Iraq
Professional Profile
I am Ghazwan Al-Quraishi, a specialist in sales, marketing, and project management with practical experience dating back to 2009. My expertise includes business development, sales team leadership, strategic marketing, and advertising design. Throughout my career, I have worked with several companies and organizations across Iraq, steadily advancing through professional roles and gaining extensive experience in commercial project management, brand development, and distribution network expansion.
I am distinguished by my ability to lead teams, analyze markets, and develop effective sales and marketing strategies that contribute to business growth and increased market share.
Professional Experience
Al-Ittihad Al-Dhahabi Global Oil Trading Company
Sales & Business Development Manager
Managed sales operations and market development activities.
Developed strategic sales and marketing plans.
Strengthened brand presence and expanded market share across Iraq.
Led sales teams and monitored performance to achieve business objectives.
Al-Faraj Detergent Manufacturing Factory
Founder & Project Manager
Established the factory and managed daily operations.
Developed products, marketing strategies, and distribution plans.
Led teams and achieved growth and expansion targets.
Ard Al-Taawun Company
Founder & Business Development Manager
Founded the company and developed business strategies.
Managed commercial and marketing operations.
Built strategic partnerships and strengthened business relationships.
Al-Awsat Company
Key Accounts Representative
Managed major customer accounts.
Conducted negotiations with key clients and business partners.
Increased sales performance and achieved revenue targets.
Al-Awsat Company
Sales Representative
Expanded the customer base and market coverage.
Implemented sales and marketing plans effectively.
Jawharat Dubai Company
Sales & Business Development Officer
Managed customer relationships and client satisfaction.
Supported sales and marketing activities.
Pepsi Baghdad
Sales & Distribution Department
Monitored market activities and customer requirements.
Supported distribution operations and sales objectives.
Al-Qimmah Al-Masiyah Company
Sales Representative – Personal Care Division
Promoted personal care products.
Managed customer accounts and increased sales performance.
Al-Qimmah Al-Masiyah Company
Driver
Began my professional career, gaining practical experience, discipline, and a strong work ethic.
Skills
Sales Management
Strategic Marketing
Project Management
Business Development
Negotiation & Business Relationship Management
Brand Building & Development
Digital Marketing
Team Leadership
Market & Competitor Analysis
Advertising & Graphic Design
Marketing Content Creation
Strategic Planning
Customer Service & Key Account Management
Languages
Arabic: Native
English: Good
Career Objective
To contribute to business growth and brand development by applying modern sales, marketing, and project management strategies, while supporting organizations in achieving sustainable growth and strengthening their competitiveness in local and regional markets.
Donna Cathey
Senior Escrow Officer in Phoenix, Arizona
Donna Cathey
Senior Escrow Officer in Phoenix, Arizona
I’m Donna Cathey, a Senior Escrow Officer in Phoenix, Arizona, supporting residential, refinance, probate, and commercial closings statewide across Arizona. I help buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders get to the closing table with clear communication, proactive updates, and a strong focus on accuracy and wire-fraud prevention.
I’ve worked in real estate since 1993, and I’m known for calm leadership and dependable execution—especially on detailed, time-sensitive transactions.
Reliability Minute: simple, close-ready tips to help you feel confident from open to close.
Outside of work, I love live music and festivals—and I’ll never say no to a beach trip.
Grace Kemper
Social Media Manager and Photographer in St. Augustine
I'm a social media manager, and photographer based in St. Augustine. My work is driven by curiosity, creativity, and a passion for building connections. As a social media manager, i craft engaging content and foster authentic online communities. My experience through taking photos helps me tell compelling stories visually, while my background as a student in business keeps me focused on strategy and growth. I thrive in dynamic environments where i can use my creativity and communication skills to help brands and organizations make meaningful impacts. Let's work together to bring your vision to life!
Joshua E. Bishop
Communicator in Daytona Beach, FL, United States
Joshua E. Bishop is a husband, father, and leader whose work has crossed manufacturing, startup technology, and ministry for more than twenty years. He has helped build teams, develop people, and lead through seasons of growth, change, pressure, and purpose.
His book Treasure Hunting: The Search for Eternal Riches invites readers to stop chasing what fades and begin seeking the lasting treasure found in Christ.
Tasha (TC) Cooper
Tasha (TC) Cooper
AI Governance Advisor | Tech Founder | Former Chief Privacy Officer | Executive Coach
Boards and executive teams are navigating a defining question. How do we govern artificial intelligence in a way that strengthens, rather than erodes, the human intelligence inside our organizations?
Building solutions to answer this question powers my life's work.
I am a tech founder, AI governance advisor, attorney, and former Chief Privacy Officer. For two decades, my career has lived at the intersection of human intelligence, artificial intelligence, and emerging technology. The pattern is consistent. I see technology inflection points early, and I build the frameworks that help leaders and organizations move through them with clarity.
Seeing the First Inflection Point
In 2006, I was serving as in-house counsel and assistant secretary at a publicly traded company when social media and online automation began reshaping how professionals build their brands and grow their revenue. Having practiced at an Am Law 100 law firm and as a federal government attorney, I understood the uncertainty licensed professionals felt. They were eager to embrace new technology, yet unsure how to do so within professional and ethical requirements.
So I built the bridge. I founded UpwardAction® to equip attorneys and other professionals with the tools to leverage emerging technologies to expand their brands, automate parts of their marketing, and diversify their revenue streams. The work grew to include training leaders from NASA, the Council on Foreign Relations, the DC Bar, and law firms across the country.
Governance at the Highest Stakes
I later returned to federal service, ultimately serving as Chief Privacy Officer and Senior Agency Official for Privacy at a federal financial services regulator. With over 16 years of federal government experience, I built and led a privacy program to full federal compliance standards, served as Managing Associate General Counsel, and managed the agency's intellectual property portfolio.
This is governance work in its most demanding form. Data, emerging technology, regulatory accountability, and enterprise risk, all managed at scale and under scrutiny.
The AI Inflection Point
As artificial intelligence accelerated, I recognized another pivotal moment, this time for boards, regulated industries, and licensed professionals seeking to adopt innovation responsibly while navigating uncertainty and risk.
After choosing to leave federal service in early 2025, I traveled the world immersing myself in cultural experiences and global AI governance conversations, earned advanced AI governance (AIGP) and privacy management (CIPM) certifications through the International Association of Privacy Professionals, and focused my work on the governance of intelligent systems.
What I Build Today
Through UpwardAction Advisory, I advise organizations across the full AI governance lifecycle, from pre-vendor decisions through adoption, defense, and ongoing governance. I design and deliver AI literacy and AI governance training for boards, executives, and teams, because education is where transformation takes root.
I am also the creator of Human Intelligence Value Mapping™ and Unique Human Contribution™, proprietary frameworks that help organizations identify the human intelligence that drives their value, decide what belongs to people and what belongs to machines, and activate AI-native, human-first leadership.
In the Boardroom
Institutional investors and proxy advisors now treat AI oversight as a core fiduciary responsibility, yet only a small fraction of boards include a director with AI governance expertise. I bring boards a rare combination of legal training, a regulator's discipline, a founder's operating judgment, and deep fluency in AI governance, privacy, and emerging technology. I help boards ask sharper questions, structure credible oversight, and connect AI strategy to the human intelligence that creates enterprise value.
Coaching Leaders Through Bringing the Future Into Their Present
Alongside my advisory and board work, I maintain an executive coaching practice for leaders navigating their own next chapter. As an ICF-trained coach, I work with executives and founders on purpose, positioning, and readiness, whether the next move is a board seat, a venture, or a reinvention. The same thinking that guides organizations through AI transformation guides individuals through personal transformation. Both begin with knowing your Unique Human Contribution™.
The future belongs to leaders who bring it into the present. My work helps them do exactly this.
Learn more at www.CoachTC.com.
Richard Davies
CEO, COMPANY DIRECTOR, and ENTREPRENEUR in Naples Fl
Richard Davies is CEO of Sláinte Brands International and Founder of Sláinte Irish Whiskey. A proven global brand developer, he has built, launched, and scaled premium beverage brands across international markets, combining entrepreneurial vision with deep industry experience.
Mark Fitzloff
Entrepreneur, Advertising Executive, and Founder in Portland, Oregon
Mark Fitzloff
Entrepreneur, Advertising Executive, and Founder in Portland, Oregon
Mark Fitzloff is a globally recognized advertising creative director and agency founder.
Mark spent twenty years at Wieden+Kennedy starting as a copywriter doing award-winning work for Nike. While working on Coca-Cola he found his true talent: breathing fresh life into iconic American brands and reminding us what we love about them. He extended that skill to Levis, Chrysler and Old Spice, creating a campaign that has gone on to be one of the funniest and most enduring in advertising.
In 2008, Mark was named executive creative director of Wieden’s global headquarters office, becoming the youngest partner in the firm soon after. Under Mark’s leadership, the Portland office earned its reputation as the world’s most creative ad agency, becoming the first independent to be named Cannes Agency of the Year. Along the way Mark served as Cannes titanium jury president and was consistently named one of the most creative people in advertising and the most awarded creative director in the world.
In 2013, Mark took charge as global CCO of Wieden+Kennedy, responsible for all creative work around the globe. In his final year at the helm, Mark led the agency to once again being named Creativity’s agency of the year, while ensuring it had its best financial year on record.
In 2017 Mark left WK to start his own agency, Opinionated. As CEO, Mark led Opinionated through nine consecutive years of growth, creating successful campaigns for adidas, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Panda Express. Under his leadership, Opinionated was recognized as one of AdAge’s Small Agencies of the Year eight times, and was named to the prestigious AdAge A-List in 2025. Mark then sold Opinionated in 2026, capping his first successful run at entrepreneurship.
Joel Willoughby
Construction Safety Professional in Nashville, Tn
Joel Willoughby
Construction Safety Professional in Nashville, Tn
Joel Willoughby
Construction Safety Professional, OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer, and Safety Advisor with experience supporting commercial construction, industrial facilities, data centers, and large-scale projects across the United States.
With a background in both construction safety and over 20 years in law enforcement, Joel brings a practical approach to hazard recognition, incident investigation, fall protection, regulatory compliance, and safety leadership. He has supported high-rise construction, manufacturing facilities, infrastructure projects, and nationwide safety inspection programs.
Credentials include OSHA 500, OSHA 510, OSHA Outreach Trainer authorization, NFPA 70E training, and 3M Competent Person Fall Protection certification. Joel is currently completing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health & Safety
Connect with Joel to discuss construction safety, OSHA compliance, workplace safety programs, safety leadership, and incident prevention.
Website: joelwilloughby.com
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/joel-willoughby-28b325403
Location: Tennessee, USA
Fallon McQuern
Human Resources, Small Business Owner, and Project Manager in West Lafayette, Indiana
I am an analytical and detail-oriented professional with more than 25 years of verifiable experience in Human Resources, Project Management, and Communication.
Known for my critical thinking skills and results-driven approach, I excel at managing complex projects, improving organizational processes, and delivering effective solutions.
I am a proud U.S. Air Force veteran and hold a Master of Science in Communication and Public Relations, a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Human Resources Management, along with a Certificate in Legal Administration.
My professional credentials include the CompTIA Project+ certification and Professional Crisis Management certification. I am also a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and a commissioned Notary Public in the State of Indiana.
My diverse educational background, military service, and extensive professional experience provide a unique combination of leadership, analytical expertise, organizational effectiveness, and client-focused problem-solving.
Jose Wermesson Barbosa Melo
Student, Psychologist, and Public Speaker in London
Hi, I’m José Wermesson Barbosa Melo.
I’m a psychology student, author, volunteer, and founder of the Escapologist® movement, based in London. Originally from Brazil, I moved to the UK in 2015 in pursuit of new opportunities, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of people and the human mind.
I’m passionate about psychology, neuropsychology, mental health, personal development, and helping others unlock their potential. Alongside my studies, I volunteer in mental health services and enjoy exploring ideas about resilience, self-awareness, and positive change.
I’m the author of The Escapologist: Breaking Free from the Invisible Prison of Your Mind, a book inspired by my own journey and my belief that everyone has the ability to overcome limitations and create a more meaningful life.
When I’m not studying or writing, you’ll usually find me spending time in nature, walking my Cocker, volunteering, reading, or working on new ideas that combine psychology, personal growth, and human potential.
Thanks for stopping by—I’m glad you’re here.
Esther Linda Nigiwan
Fintech Leader, Feminist, and Business Management Consultant in Kampala, Uganda
Esther Linda Nigiwan
Fintech Leader, Feminist, and Business Management Consultant in Kampala, Uganda
Esther Nigiwan is a General Management and Commercial Leader in fintech with 10+ years of experience building, scaling, and operating digital financial services across Sub-Saharan Africa. She leads regional strategy, P&L performance, market expansion, and execution across eight markets-driving rapid growth through regulatory entry, partner onboarding, and commercial scale. Esther is known for combining commercial rigor with operational discipline, translating data and customer insights into decisive action. She has led large cross-functional teams and delivered high-impact results through bank, regulator, fintech, and diaspora partnerships.
Farhat Bengdara
Executive in Libya
Farhat Bengdara is a banking, energy, and investment executive with over 30 years of experience across central banking, commercial finance, oil and gas, and institutional governance in the Arab world, Africa, and Europe.
He served as Governor of the Central Bank of Libya from 2006 to 2011, overseeing a period of significant financial reform including exchange rate stabilization, the elimination of the parallel foreign exchange market, and the modernization of Libya's national payments system. During this period he also held several regional appointments, including Chairman of the Association of African Central Banks, Chairman of the founding committee of the African Investment Bank, and Chairman of the Council of Arab Central Bank Governors.
In the private sector, Bengdara has held board-level roles at a number of financial institutions, including Vice Chairman of UniCredit Group, Chairman of Arab Banking Corporation International Bank in London, and currently Non-Executive Deputy Chairman at Bank Al Masraf in the UAE. Between 2022 and 2024, he served as Chairman of the National Oil Corporation of Libya.
He is also the founder of Sohoul Agriculture, an integrated agricultural venture with a focus on olive cultivation and environmentally conscious farming practices in Libya.
Bengdara holds a Master's Degree in Monetary Economics and Banking from the University of Sheffield and a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Garyounis University, Libya.
Pam Parish
Writer, Mother, and Public Speaker in Atlanta, GA
Pam Parish
Writer, Mother, and Public Speaker in Atlanta, GA
Pam Parish is an author, speaker, and founder of Connections Homes and the Don’t Go Alone movement, where she has spent more than a decade helping vulnerable young adults find belonging through enduring, healthy connection. As the creator of the Redemptive Connection Framework™, Pam equips families, churches, nonprofits, and leaders to better understand trauma, resilience, self-efficacy, and the transformative power of safe relationships.
Drawing from both professional leadership and deeply personal experience as a mother, foster parent, adoptive parent, and mentor, Pam writes and speaks with honesty, warmth, and practical wisdom. Her work has impacted youth, mentoring families, and communities across the country, always centered around one conviction: people heal and thrive when they are deeply known, safely connected, and never forced to walk alone.
Bryce Almus
Entrepreneur, Commercial Pilot, and Investor in Estes Park, CO
Bryce Almus
Entrepreneur, Commercial Pilot, and Investor in Estes Park, CO
Bryce Almus is an entrepreneur, investor, and commercial pilot based in Estes Park, Colorado.
He works across business, aviation, photography, and travel, with a focus on building ideas, exploring new places, and capturing moments along the way.
This page is a central place to learn more, connect, and follow his work online.
Justin Voccola
Small Business Owner in Miami / Naples, FL
Justin Voccola
Small Business Owner in Miami / Naples, FL
I’m Justin Voccola — well-established and accomplished professional in the live event ticketing industry. Recognizing the strong and growing demand within the personalized jewelry space, I also launched a brand called Aurelia Atelier. With the support of a talented team, the brand has been scaling exceptionally well and continues to show strong long-term potential. What began as a passion-driven venture is evolving into a significant ancillary business, with projections reaching the mid-seven to eight-figure range over the next five years.
Daniel Jellinek
Founder & CEO in Hungary
Daniel Jellinek
Founder & CEO in Hungary
Dániel Jellinek is the founder and CEO of Indotek Group, a European real estate investment and asset management firm he has led since its inception. With over 30 years of experience navigating complex markets across Europe, Dániel has built Indotek into a resilient, diversified portfolio by doing what few others will, finding opportunity in underperforming assets Dániel Jellinek and seeing potential where others see risk. Trained in economics and shaped by decades of hands-on investment experience, his approach blends rigorous capital discipline with a genuine curiosity for new markets. He believes the best real estate investments are built, through patience, local knowledge, and a long-term vision that outlasts market cycles.
Lewis Jones
Senior Portfolio Manager in Dubai, UAE
I'm a Senior Portfolio Manager at Millennium living in Dubai, UAE.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-jones-874a65112/
I also invest in early-stage companies solving hard problems across all forms of technology:
Fuel Ventures
(VC fund, OpCo equity)
TSP Ventures
(VC fund, OpCo equity)
Chosen
(Gaming focused investment company)
HiiROC
(Clean hydrogen production)
Byohm
(Wastewater treatment and fuel production)
Hiyrd
(Professional networking platform)
Promethean Particles
https://prometheanparticles.co.uk/
(Advanced materials manufacturing)
Descycle
(Circular economy and recycling technology)
Abingdon Software
(Diversified Software Company)
Velocity
(Stablecoin powered payment platform)
Healf
(Wellbeing brand)
Nanomox
(Nanotechnology applications)
Black Bull Biochar
https://www.blackbullbiochar.com/
(Carbon sequestration and biochar)
PES Technologies
(Agricultural testing technology)
Taisan
(Battery technology)
Damisa
(Stablecoin based payment technology)
Perceptual Robotics
https://www.perceptual-robotics.com/
(Drone technology)
Jeremy Pichon
New Orleans Personal Injury Lawyer, Pichon Law Firm, and Retired US Army Major in New Orleans
Jeremy J. Pichon is the founder of Pichon Law Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana — a top-rated personal injury law firm that has recovered over $100 million for accident victims across Louisiana. A retired U.S. Army Major with 25 years of service in the JAG Corps and a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Jeremy brings military-grade preparation and discipline to every case he tries. Named a Super Lawyer every year from 2020–2026, a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 honoree, and featured in the Times-Picayune and Inside New Orleans Magazine, Jeremy is one of Louisiana's most recognized personal injury attorneys. Licensed in all Louisiana courts, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and Military Courts. No fee unless we win.
Vanessa Getty
Model and Event Coordinator in San Francisco, California
Vanessa Getty
Model and Event Coordinator in San Francisco, California
Vanessa Getty's Fashionable Legacy
Vanessa Getty has been one of San Francisco's most recognized style figures for more than two decades — not because she chases recognition, but because she doesn't. Her approach to dressing is built around a philosophy she has articulated simply and stuck to consistently: the most stylish people are never driven by trends. Personal style rises above that. You find what works, and you commit to it.
That commitment has earned her a place on Vanity Fair's International Best-Dressed List, recognition in Harper's Bazaar, and sustained coverage across San Francisco's leading fashion and society outlets spanning nearly 20 years. Her aesthetic — what she has described as modern glamour — draws from vintage designer gowns, considered accessories, and an Old Hollywood sensibility that feels deliberate rather than nostalgic. It is a point of view, not a wardrobe strategy.
Her relationships with the fashion world's most significant houses are genuine ones, built across years of real engagement rather than managed appearances. She has maintained long-standing connections with Chanel, Valentino, and Burberry, among others, and was among the early subjects of Narciso Rodriguez's custom commission work — a biographical detail that places her within one of the more consequential chapters of contemporary American fashion. Rodriguez's early commissions, defined by precision and a design philosophy entirely in service of the wearer, suited Getty's approach to dressing exactly.
More recently, she wore a custom hand-embellished silver gown by Alessandro Francalanci to the Vanity Fair Oscar Party — a choice that reflected both her longstanding engagement with the red-carpet circuit and her instinct for supporting designers whose work is built on craft rather than commercial momentum.
What sets Getty apart from most figures in the fashion world is what she does with her position in it. Her fashion-world standing has functioned, consistently and deliberately, as infrastructure for the causes she cares about. The PURR Sale, which she created in 2008, converted her network of designer relationships into a luxury resale fundraiser unlike anything San Francisco had seen: donations from Chanel, Christian Dior, Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta, Donna Karan, Jimmy Choo, and Nicole Kidman, priced at 30 to 70 percent below retail, with 100 percent of proceeds directed to the Peninsula Humane Society's mobile spay-neuter program. The first event raised approximately $150,000 in an hour. The second, in 2015, raised $350,000 in an afternoon.
She appeared in the Judith Leiber advertising campaign — covered by the New York Times — specifically to direct the proceeds to San Francisco Bay Humane Friends, the animal welfare organization she had founded. Trunk shows and brand events with Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, and Mulberry were structured as charitable occasions. Her amfAR event work brought fashion-world participants into a room organized around AIDS research funding.
Her recognition in the fashion world has also opened institutional doors. She served as honorary co-chair of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco's Mid-Winter Gala at the Legion of Honor, an event with Dior as its presenting sponsor, and was named an honorary co-chair of the Fine Arts Museums in 2015. These roles reflect the same orientation that has defined her fashion career: not simply participating in the cultural world, but contributing to its infrastructure.
San Francisco has always had a complicated relationship with fashion. The city values authenticity over trend-chasing, and its most interesting style figures tend to approach their wardrobes the way they approach their civic lives — with conviction, without performance. Getty is, in that sense, a distinctly San Franciscan fashion figure. Her style is an expression of who she is, not a projection of who she wants to be seen as.
Two decades of best-dressed recognition is the record. The work it made possible — more than 9,500 free veterinary surgeries, hundreds of thousands of dollars directed to arts institutions, AIDS research, and animal welfare — is the point.
Eshy Gazit
music manager, music industry executive, and Record Laebl Executive in New York, LA, Seoul
Eshy Gazit is an American music industry executive and artist manager whose career has been defined by bringing Korean and Asian music to the American mainstream.
From 2016 to 2018, he served as the U.S. managing partner for BTS, leading the campaign that broke the group into the American market — the "Mic Drop" remix with Steve Aoki hit #28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went Platinum, followed by performances on the AMAs, BBMAs, Ellen, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and James Corden.
Since 2018, he has managed Monsta X, who became the first K-pop act on the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour, the first K-pop act at the iHeartRadio Music Festival, and signed to Sony's Epic Records. The group's album All About Luv debuted at #5 on the Billboard 200; The Dreaming debuted at #3 on Billboard Top Album Sales.
In 2019, Gazit joined Maverick Management — the Live Nation–owned firm whose roster includes U2, Madonna, and Paul McCartney — as a Partner. In 2021, he founded Intertwine Records, a label dedicated to K-pop and Asian artists. He has been named a Billboard International Power Player in 2021 and 2022.
Before transitioning to management, Gazit came up through the music itself — a multi-instrumentalist, sound engineer, and producer at Manhattan's Cutting Room studios and as a house producer at KEXP Radio, working with artists including The Strokes, John Legend, Chrisette Michele, Estelle, Mos Def, and legendary producer Steve Lillywhite.
He works between New York, Los Angeles, and Seoul.
Taylor Pugh
Sober Companion and Mentor in Malibu, CA
Taylor is a 23-year-old recovery professional with over 3 years of experience working in treatment and behavioral health settings. Her experience includes working one-on-one with high-acuity clients requiring individualized support in substance abuse and mental health recovery environments.
As a woman in recovery herself, she brings compassion, empathy, accountability, and lived experience into the work she does. She understands the importance of creating a safe, supportive, and structured environment while helping clients navigate early recovery and life transitions.
Her background includes crisis intervention, emotional support, behavioral health assistance, and experience working with co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and clients with complex emotional needs across multiple levels of care.
She prides herself on being adaptable, dependable, and genuinely invested in client success. She approaches companion work with professionalism, discretion, consistency, and a strong commitment to helping clients build stability and long-term recovery.
EXPERIENCE & STRENGTHS
• RADT certified
• 3+ years in treatment and behavioral health settings
• One-on-one support for high-acuity clients
• Substance abuse and mental health support
• Crisis intervention and emotional regulation support
• Experience with co-occurring disorders and personality disorders
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Structured, compassionate, and adaptable care
CONTACT
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (Please contact via email for further information)
Location: Los Angeles, California
Please don‘t hesitate to reach out in any capacity if there is anything I can do to help you today. Much love! :)
Chuma X Ajufo
Consultant, Art Director, and Project Manager in Nigeria
Chuma X Ajufo
Consultant, Art Director, and Project Manager in Nigeria
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Chuma X: Redefining Africa’s Event & Entertainment Landscape
Chuma Night-Ajufo, popularly known as Chuma X, is a visionary entrepreneur and entertainment strategist whose work has reshaped the event culture in Nigeria and across the globe. As the founder of Xmedia Nigeria, he has engineered unforgettable experiences by merging creativity, branding, and cultural influence into events that resonate worldwide.
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A Journey from Music to Events Excellence
Born in Westminster, London, Chuma X began his career in the music industry, owning a record label that signed artists like Mr. Dil and Kween, the voice behind the acclaimed hit “Jebele Jebele.” This formative phase in artist management served as the launchpad for his transition into event production, branding, and consultancy—areas where he has since become a leading figure across Africa.
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Xmedia Nigeria – Where Ideas Become Movements
Through Xmedia Nigeria, Chuma X has created some of the most iconic shows on the continent. His signature approach—inspired by thematic branding and storytelling—sets him apart in an industry hungry for innovation.
Landmark productions include:
Diamond-Platinum Selling Ms. Lauryn Hill Live in Lagos—a high-profile cultural moment for Nigerian fans.
WIZ on the Beach, sponsored by Pepsi, featuring Wizkid.
Kranium Live at Landmark, blending Afrobeat and dancehall vibes.
Mayday Live at Eko Hotel, a major city-wide celebration.
Big N’ Bangin’ Concert, headlined by DJ Big N, drawing over 6,000 fans.
Naked Waters, hailed as one of Nigeria’s most immersive lifestyle-theme experiences.
Black Valentine with DJ Jimmy Jatt, created by Chuma X—a fusion of romance and rhythm.
Signature events for Kingfisher Africa, redefining luxury nightlife in the region.
Farewell Faro in Portimão, Portugal—an exclusive experience hosted during the festival weekend, tying global Afrobeat culture to an elevated farewell celebration.
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Collaborations with Icons
Chuma X’s roster of collaborators reads like a who’s who of international and African music royalty: Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, Praiz, DJ Big N, DJ Obi, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Ja Rule & Ashanti, 2Baba, Eldee, Chante Moore, and Kranium. These partnerships have elevated African entertainment to global stages, cementing Chuma X’s reputation for visionary execution and cultural impact.
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Beyond Entertainment – Building Communities
Chuma X’s mission extends beyond entertainment. His philanthropic endeavors include supporting motherless babies’ homes, refurbishing underprivileged schools with books, study equipment, and food, and spearheading initiatives for the less fortunate.
He is also the owner of XXIST Unisex Salon, a unique lifestyle venture doubling as a reality TV concept that spotlight urban narratives. Crucially, proceeds from XXIST are channeled back into charitable causes—demonstrating that Chuma X’s ventures marry business acumen with social responsibility.
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A Global Outlook
With a firm gaze on youthful culture across the continent and diaspora, Chuma X is establishing Xmedia Nigeria as a global creative powerhouse. His work draws international audiences, brands, and investors—each attracted by the seamless blend of branding, music, and immersive lifestyle experiences. From Lagos to Portimão, Chuma X is helping shape Africa’s reputation as a premier hub for world-class events.
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The Future of Chuma Night-Ajufo
Looking ahead, Chuma Night-Ajufo is poised to elevate his legacy with even larger festivals, transcontinental partnerships, and brand collaborations that push the boundaries of African entertainment on the global stage. His trajectory—built on innovation, purpose, and influence—stands as a testament to how creative vision can transform communities and industries alike.
Nicole Burgers
Employee Enthusiast in East Bay Area, CA
Hello, I’m Nicole. For over 20 years I have partnered with business leaders in various industries to deliver excellence in human capital while providing an exceptional employee experience. Throughout my career, I have thrived in high-growth, high-intensity environments by acting as a collaborative problem-solver who bridges the gap between people strategy and organizational efficiency. Whether I am implementing innovative AI tools to reclaim administrative time or engineering centralized dashboards to resolve enterprise-wide data conflicts, my focus is always on creating clarity from chaos and optimizing the employee lifecycle for the modern workforce. I bring a sense of urgency to every initiative, ensuring that innovation translates into bottom-line revenue protection and streamlined operations. My leadership philosophy is rooted in building internal capability and fostering collaborative cultures where every team member has the opportunity to excel. I am passionate about developing talent through high-impact stretch assignments and strategic delegation, often leading cross-functional teams to integrate disparate systems into cohesive global frameworks by leveraging data-driven insights and a continuous improvement mindset rooted in simplification. I am drawn to environments that value forward-thinking leadership and are ready to embrace the change necessary to achieve long-term organizational success.
When I am not working, I enjoy time with my family and close friends, traveling, treating myself to self-care experiences, going to the movie theatre, and being of service to those in need.
Rhett Buttle
CEO and Founder in Washington DC
About Rhett Buttle
Founder & CEO, Public Private Strategies
Rhett Buttle is a national leader working at the intersection of business, the economy, and public policy. As Founder and CEO of Public Private Strategies (PPS) and President of the Public Private Strategies Institute, he partners with companies, nonprofits, philanthropy, and policymakers to advance entrepreneurship, expand economic opportunity, and strengthen cross-sector collaboration.
Under Rhett's leadership, PPS has launched and supported national initiatives shaping the future of American business, including Small Business for America's Future, the Small Business Roundtable, the Entrepreneurship Exchange, the Small Business Innovation Summit, and the Next Gen Chamber of Commerce.
Rhett has held senior roles shaping policy and economic engagement for the White House Business Council, a governor's office, and multiple presidential campaigns. He serves as a Senior Fellow at the Aspen Institute, where he helps shape programming on the future of work, economic mobility, and entrepreneurship as part of the founding team behind Aspen's economic forum.
A Forbes contributor on economic policy and small business, his commentary appears regularly in CNN, Fortune, Inc., and Fast Company.
Rhett splits his time between New York City and Washington, D.C. When he's not building coalitions, you can find him in a HIIT class, exploring a new city, or making the case that Taco Bell deserves its own food group.
NYC / D.C.
rhettbuttle.com | LinkedIn | Forbes
Monica Costa
Realtor in San Francisco, CA
Hi, I’m Monica Costa - Bay Area Realtor and Founder of Engel & Volkers Marin County. I’m a lifestyle enthusiast and when it comes to real estate, a true matchmaker: connecting people with homes that fit their vision and lifestyle.
I’m also a mindfulness seeker, car enthusiast, animal lover, and proud “bird lady of Marin.” When I’m not talking real estate, you’ll probably find me outdoors surrounded by nature and animals of all kinds.
Thinking about selling, investing, or finding your dream home? Let’s connect! Good things happen when the right people meet.
Todd Dean
angel investor in Nashville, Tennessee
Todd Dean is a distinguished professional with deep expertise in wealth creation and entrepreneurial investment. Recognized for his unwavering integrity, principled leadership, and unmatched dedication, Todd has built a career centered on empowering entrepreneurs, investors, and early-stage companies to achieve lasting success.
As a visionary leader in the entrepreneurial investment community, Todd has cultivated a dynamic, collaborative environment that connects business executives, angel investors, serial entrepreneurs, and early-stage ventures. His efforts have resulted in investments in over 125 companies, driving innovation and economic growth. A sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator, Todd brings valuable insights to help startups secure capital, scale operations, and maximize their market potential.
Committed to making a meaningful impact beyond business, Todd actively supports numerous regional charities and organizations. He serves as a board member for Junior Achievement, Montana Ambassadors, SCORE, the University of Washington, and Girls Giving Back, dedicating time and expertise to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Specialties & Expertise:
• Supporting entrepreneurs and investors in building and funding high-growth companies
• Helping business owners scale, expand, and drive revenue growth
• Structuring angel investments and capital strategies
• Serving on Boards of Directors and providing strategic guidance
• Delivering engaging keynote speeches on entrepreneurship, investment, and business growth
Passions & Focus Areas:
♦ Keynote Speaker | ♦ Startups | ♦ Investing in Startups | ♦ Angel Investing | ♦ Capital Structure | ♦ Board Leadership
Entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders looking to take their ventures to the next level, let’s connect and build something extraordinary.
Jean Parchewsky
Human Resources in Saskatoon
Jean Parchewsky
Human Resources in Saskatoon
Hi, When I am not tackling HR at Vendasta, you can find me at my Peony Farm in rural Saskatchewan. Corporate by day and Farmer by night!