the SPEAKERS line up
Our speakers are at the forefront of creating a world where every action is driven by a profound sense of purpose. They are leading voices who envision and build frameworks for sustainable development, ensuring global prosperity for generations to come.
Armen Sarkissian
FORMER PRESIDENT OF ARMENIA
A distinguished statesman, scientist, and entrepreneur, recognized for his leadership in politics, academia, and international affairs. He served as the President of Armenia from 2018 to 2022 and previously as Prime Minister in 1996. A trained physicist with a focus on complex systems and artificial intelligence, Dr. Sarkissian held academic positions at the University of Cambridge and has authored several influential books. His works include "The Other Side of the Mountain", "The Road to Nowhere", "The Small States Club", and "The Theory of Quantum Politics". These books explore themes of global transformation, the role of small states in international relations, and a novel approach to understanding politics through quantum theory. Beyond academia and public service, Dr. Sarkissian has advised global organizations and multinational corporations, focusing on innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
Ken Goldman
FORMER PRESIDENT OF HILLSPIRE AND YAHOO CFO
Ken Goldman is a veteran financial executive with over 40 years of experience leading finance operations in the technology industry. He served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Yahoo! from 2012 to 2017, where he played a pivotal role in restructuring and transforming the company. Currently, he is the President of Hillspire LLC, a family office in Palo Alto. Goldman has held CFO roles at Fortinet, Siebel Systems, and Excite@Home and serves on the boards of major firms, including NXP Semiconductors and RingCentral. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Cornell and an MBA from Harvard Business School. "Entrepreneurship is about transforming ideas into impact. It’s about creating value that drives positive change in the world." "The future belongs to those who dare to innovate and build solutions that address the world's most pressing challenges
Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles
CHAIR OF THE BRITISH-CHINA BUSINESS COUNCIL
Distinguished British diplomat and author, renowned for his extensive service in the British Diplomatic Service over a 30-year career. He has held prominent positions, including British Ambassador Saudi Arabia. Following his diplomatic career, he served as as Senior Adviser to the Group Chairman and Chief Executive at HSBC Holdings. He is currently the Chair of the China-Britain Business Council, promoting trade relations between China and the UK. Additionally, Sir Sherard is an Honorary Fellow of Hertford College, Oxford, and serves as President of the Jane Austen Society. He is the author of two books: "Cables from Kabul" and "Ever the Diplomat.
Bruno Roche
FOUNDER OF ECONOMICS OF MUTUALITY AND FORMER CHIEF ECONOMIST AT MARS.INC
Roche's work centers around creating economic models that align business success with societal good. He is renowned for his innovative approach to integrating mutual benefit into business practices, often expressing: "The true measure of business success is not just profit, but the positive impact it creates for society and the environment."
Stacey Lawson
VICE-CHAIRWOMAN AND CEO YGREEN FUND
Lawson's career is defined by her commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector. Her leadership philosophy is reflected in her impactful statements: "To drive meaningful change, we must invest in solutions that empower communities and protect our environment."
Marc Buckley
FOUNDER OF ALOHAS FOUNDATION
Marc Bukley is the founder of the ALOHAS Regenerative Foundation and a prominent Ecological Economist, Regenerative Futurist, and Solarpunk advocate. A leading figure in climate activism, Marc has dedicated his life to addressing global environmental challenges and advancing regenerative futures. He has worked extensively with organizations like the United Nations, World Economic Forum, and UNFCCC, shaping sustainability agendas and advising on global policies such as the Resilient Development Goals (2030-2050). Marc is a member of several influential bodies, including the EU ESG Taxonomy PSF Commission, and serves as a Board Member of the Dubai Future Foundation and a UN Ambassador for UN HS4A. He is also a champion of regenerative agriculture and sustainable food systems, consulting globally on food reform and renewable transitions. Through his work, Marc strives to empower global citizens to live sustainably within the Earth's boundaries and contribute to a more resilient, equitable future.
Prof. Dr. Ali Mokdad
PROFESSOR OF HEALTH METRICS SCIENCES AT THE INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH METRICS AND EVALUATION (IHME) AND CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER FOR POPULATION HEALTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
He earned his BS in Biostatistics from the American University of Beirut and his PhD in Quantitative Epidemiology from Emory University. Dr. Mokdad's career includes 18 years at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he directed the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). At IHME, he has led significant research on local-level disease trends and health disparities, particularly in the United States and the Middle East. His contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the Global Health Achievement Award and the Department of Health and Human Services Honor Award.
Bolor-Erdene Battsengel
STRATEGIC ADVISOR TO SPACE X, FORMER VICE MINISTER OF DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MONGOLIA, AI POLICY MAKER
Battsengel has played a pivotal role in advancing Mongolia's digital infrastructure and fostering innovation. Her approach to technology and strategic advisory is captured in her influential statements: "Technology and innovation are key drivers of progress. They hold the power to transform societies and expand human potential."
PROF. DE KAI
PROFESSOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND AI AT HKUST AND UC BERKELEY
A renowned computer scientist, AI ethicist, and linguist, widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to artificial intelligence and machine learning. He is a professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and teaches at UC Berkeley, while also serving as a distinguished fellow at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. A founding figure in modern machine translation, Prof. De Kai developed some of the first multilingual AI systems, earning recognition as one of the Founding Fellows of the Association for Computational Linguistics. Beyond academia, he advises global organizations on the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, emphasizing cross-cultural understanding and societal impact.
ANGELO DALLI
FOUNDER AND CEO UMNAI
Angelo Dalli is a distinguished technology entrepreneur, artificial intelligence expert, and investor, renowned for his contributions to advancing innovation across multiple industries. Holding a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and with over two decades of experience, Dr. Dalli has founded and led several successful ventures, including Umnai, 5Works, Qvaro, and Bit8, pioneering transformative solutions in AI, fintech, and sustainable development. A recognized leader in the field, Dr. Dalli holds 52 patents in artificial intelligence, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement while promoting ethical AI practices. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, he actively mentors emerging startups and invests in pioneering innovations that shape the future of industries and societies alike.
Marcello Mari
FOUNDER AND CEO SINGULARITY DAO
Mari blends AI with decentralized finance. He was part of the founding team at SingularityNET and spent nearly five years there in various roles, focusing on public relations and communications. Under his leadership, Sophia the Robot became an international celebrity. He also coordinated the inaugural collaboration between artist Andrea Bonaceto and AI entity Sophia the Robot, resulting in the first-ever NFT artwork collaboration between a human and an AI.
JAN ARTEM HENRIKSSON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IDGS
Angelo Dalli is a distinguished technology entrepreneur, artificial intelligence expert, and investor, renowned for his contributions to advancing innovation across multiple industries. Holding a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and with over two decades of experience, Dr. Dalli has founded and led several successful ventures, including Umnai, 5Works, Qvaro, and Bit8, pioneering transformative solutions in AI, fintech, and sustainable development. A recognized leader in the field, Dr. Dalli holds 52 patents in artificial intelligence, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement while promoting ethical AI practices. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, he actively mentors emerging startups and invests in pioneering innovations that shape the future of industries and societies alike.
Mark Sanor
FOUNDER AND CEO 360 ONE FIRM
Mark runs a global community aligning interests on investing or connecting to capital, talent and partners.With a wealth of experience across various sectors, Sanor is renowned for his ability to develop comprehensive strategies that enhance organizational impact and foster strong relationships.
Roberta Calarese
FOUNDER AND CEO GHAYA
Visionary leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for purpose-driven initiatives. As the creator of the World With Purpose Summit Series, she brings together global leaders, family businesses, and innovators to drive impactful collaborations for sustainable economic growth. Previously serving as Secretary General of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Roberta played a pivotal role in shaping the region's financial landscape, contributing to the development of capital markets and advancing Dubai’s position as a global financial hub. Roberta is also the founderand CEO of Ghaya, an organization dedicated to transform business as force for good and empower business leaders to lead from a place of purpose. Her work continues to shape platforms that inspire sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
Ayman Sejiny
ADVISOR
A highly experienced financial and management advisor, currently chairing one family office and serving as the CEO of another. He also advises two entities in the issuance of Sukuk through regulated entities. Since 2018, Ayman has served as the CEO of ICD (Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector), where he leads efforts to fund projects that foster competition, entrepreneurship, job creation, and export potential. Under his leadership, ICD has played a critical role in advancing Islamic finance, attracting co-financiers, and advising governments and private sector entities on developing and modernizing private enterprises and capital markets. Before joining ICD, Ayman held prominent CEO positions at Ibdar Bank and Alkhair Bank (formerly Unicorn Investment Bank), where he was responsible for strategic business areas, including corporate, investment, and private banking. Additionally, he served as CEO and Managing Director at Barclays Saudi Arabia from 2009 to 2014, where his leadership and innovative strategies significantly enhanced the bank's profitability and success
Nikola Jurisic
Founder of Transfiguration Advisory
A global leader in culture transformation, having successfully led projects for renowned organizations such as Saudi Telecom, Saudi Tourism Authority, and Emirates Global Aluminium, to name a few. Prior to founding Transfiguration Advisory, Nikola gained extensive experience as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he developed his strategic expertise. His work has helped numerous startups and established companies navigate complex markets, unlock growth opportunities, and implement transformational strategies that align with evolving business environments. With a deep commitment to innovation and organizational development, Nikola is recognized as a prominent figure in both the advisory and business transformation sectors.
KATHARINA OBINGER
PARTNER BCG
Katharina Obinger is a partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she specializes in advising family businesses on governance, strategic growth, and succession planning. Her deep expertise in navigating the unique challenges of family-run enterprises allows her to help organizations develop frameworks that ensure long-term success, preserve wealth, and foster collaboration across generations. In addition to her role at BCG, Katharina serves on several prominent advisory boards and has been actively involved in shaping strategies for multi-generational businesses globally. She works closely with family business owners, focusing on leadership development, wealth transition, and sustainable growth. Katharina’s comprehensive experience extends across various sectors, positioning her as a trusted advisor to family businesses seeking to thrive in an increasingly complex global market.
IHAB KHALIL
SENIOR PARTNER BCG
He specializes in driving business transformation and delivering strategic solutions across various industries. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainable growth, Ihab partners with organizations to navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities in dynamic markets. His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including financial services, technology, and consumer goods, where he works closely with senior executives to shape and execute strategies that drive performance, enhance competitiveness, and build long-term value. Ihab is known for his analytical rigor and collaborative approach, helping businesses make informed decisions and achieve sustainable success. Prior to founding Transfiguration Advisory, Nikola gained extensive experience as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he developed his strategic expertise. His work has helped numerous startups and established companies navigate complex markets, unlock growth opportunities, and implement transformational strategies that align with evolving business environments. With a deep commitment to innovation and organizational development, Nikola is recognized as a prominent figure in both the advisory and business transformation sectors.
the WOMEN WITH PURPOSE
SPEAKERS
Stacey Lawson
Vice- Chairwoman and CEO Ygreene Energy Fund
Lawson's career is defined by her commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector. Her leadership philosophy is reflected in her impactful statements: "To drive meaningful change, we must invest in solutions that empower communities and protect our environment."
Bolor-Erdene Battsengel
Strategic Advisor to Space X, former Vice Minister of Digital Development Mongolia, AI policy maker.
Battsengel has played a pivotal role in advancing Mongolia's digital infrastructure and fostering innovation. Her approach to technology and strategic advisory is captured in her influential statements: "Technology and innovation are key drivers of progress. They hold the power to transform societies and expand human potential."
Katharina Moser
Chief Experience Officer for the Inner Development Goals Designer of meaningful connections
Designer of meaningful connections. She is on the board of Bürgerforum Europa; the Austrian Society for European Politics, a founding member of Alliance4Europe, and a member of the BMW Responsible Leaders Network.
Vera Futorjanski
Founder and CEO Veritas Ventures
Login co-founded the tech unicorn Outfit7, creating the Talking Tom mobile gaming franchise which would go on to collect over 18 billion downloads and become one of the most downloaded app franchises of all time. From the very conception of Outfit7, Iza Sia’s $1 billion-dollar exit had a greater purpose than profit and had been manifested with the intention to power her present-day philanthropic megaprojects.
Marine Tanguy
Founder of MT Art Agency
Marine Tanguy is the founder and CEO of MTArt Agency, a leading agency dedicated to promoting emerging artists and integrating art with global branding and technology. Known for her innovative approach to the art industry, Marine has established herself as a key figure in empowering artists to expand their reach and connect with global markets. She is an advocate for diversity and sustainability in the arts, and her work has been featured in numerous prestigious outlets. Marine is also a sought-after speaker at international conferences, where she shares her insights on the intersection of art, business, and technology.
Sophia Swire
Founder GEDI and Future Brilliance
Sophia Swire is a prominent entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable business practices. As the founder of Swire Consulting, she works to drive change in the corporate sector by helping organizations adopt sustainable and responsible practices. With a passion for social impact, Sophia has been recognized for her contributions to environmental and ethical business practices, particularly in the areas of social enterprise and sustainable development.
Dr Sarah Ghaleb
CO-FOUNDER KEYSS PROJECT
Dr. Sarah Ghaleb is the KEYSS Project Cofounder and the Head of Business Incubation and Training Programs at the Saudi Aramco Entrepreneurship Center (Wa’ed), with a decade-long career in entrepreneurship, innovation and social enterprises.Her work emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership in navigating complex global
Roberta Calarese
Founder and CEO of GHAYA, serial entrepreneur, lawyer, executive coach, creator of World with Purpose
With a visionary approach to leadership, Calarese has been instrumental in driving changes in the business sector of the Middle East to deliver long term value beyond profitability starting from purpose. Deeply passionate about the role of women and youth in co-creating an empowered future for all.
Paula Schwarz
CEO Cosmopolis
Paula Schwarz is a German-Greek entrepreneur and philanthropist, renowned for her innovative approaches to humanitarian challenges. She is the founder of Startup Boat, a mobile think tank launched in 2015 to develop entrepreneurial solutions for the refugee crisis in Europe. Schwarz also established Cosmopolis in 2023, a digital platform designed to connect refugees with supporters worldwide, facilitating aid and employment opportunities. Her contributions have been recognized by Forbes, which named her among the 30 Under 30 social entrepreneurs in 2016. Currently, she serves as a Partner at Allocator One, focusing on making opportunities and wealth more accessible. Schwarz's work emphasizes leveraging technology and entrepreneurship to address complex societal issues, particularly in the context of migration and social integration. His work emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership in navigating complex global
Nadine Ben Ghaffar
Founder of Desertech Ventures
Nadine Benchaffai is the Venture Builder Director at Desert Ventures, managing the innovation pipeline and strategy for the cohort of desert tech startups in collaboration with design partners and corporate sponsors. Nadine is a strategic marketeer, investor, and entrepreneur with over 20 years’ experience within the F&B verticals. Nadine started her career in the world of FMCG at the likes of Kraft Foods, Nestle Purina and Yoplait. During that time, she covered a variety of roles from brand management, to strategy development and innovation. In 2006, she co-founded Tortilla Mexican Grills which today has over 50 stores in the UK and listed on the AIM LSE market in 2021. In Dubai, she co-founded and launched Taqado Mexican Kitchen and went on to build a family of homegrown brands under Abfab Foods which she exited in 2022. More recently, Nadine’s focus has shifted focus to innovation in the agritech and foodtech sectors through advisory and investor roles in startups throughout the Middle East and Africa.
Tatiana Antonelli Abella
Partner
Tatiana Antonelli Abella is GHAYA’s Societal Transformation Partner responsible for guiding organisations to foster cultures of social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Tatiana is also the Founder and Managing Director of Goumbook, a Social Enterprise established in 2009, leading sustainability, environmental practices, and social impact in the UAE and beyond. During her 17 years in the UAE, Tatiana has garnered a strong reputation and she is actively involved in the green arena. In 2021 she was nominated by LinkedIn as a UAE Top Voice in Sustainability and was elected as regional ambassador of the Nature Needs Heroes international campaign by Timberland. In June 2022 she was awarded the Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice and Environmental Sustainability under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
Elisabeth Ross Holmstrom
Evolutionary speaker and writer
Elizabeth is the co-founder of the Portland CC Chapter and the CEO/Founder of Mindful Employer. She works with founders and CEOs on their conscious journey. Providing leaders with collaborative circles for sharing and growth, and supporting companies with tools to facilitate stakeholder relationship-building and evolution. Elizabeth’s experience includes over twenty years of collaborative leadership training, stakeholder partnership development, employee engagement turnarounds, and wellbeing strategy. Previous roles have ranged from VP Employee Health and Wellbeing at a Global Fortune 500 company to founding a small tech and service company. Mindful Employer’s mission is to improve the human experience at work while helping businesses thrive.
Areej Al Turki
Evolutionary speaker and writer
Areej Al Turki is the founder and a leading expert in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the MENA region, specializing in investments, stakeholder management, and strategic project planning. With a deep understanding of regional dynamics and a proven track record in driving business growth, Areej has played a pivotal role in facilitating key investments and partnerships within the region.
Rehab Fayed
The importance of passion in business
ELIZABETH VAZQUEZ
CEO and Co-Founder WEconnect International
With over 20 years of experience in business development and international trade, Elizabeth has played a key role in advancing the inclusion of women entrepreneurs in global supply chains. She serves on several prestigious boards and advisory committees, including the Board of Directors for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership, the Advisory Board of the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN)**, and the **Steering Committee for the United Nations Global Compact**. Elizabeth is also a member of the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles Leadership Group and the Women’s Economic Empowerment Group. Elizabeth is widely recognized for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion and is a frequent speaker at global forums, including the World Economic Forum and **UN Women. --- Let me know if this works!
DR. DANIJELA DEBELIC
GLOBAL HEART ANESTHESIOLOGIST
Physician, organizer of teams and conferences, international lecturer and speaker, peak health personal and corporate coach, scientist, a proud parent, loving nature, music and the truthDr. Danijela Debelic has been working in the medical field since 2000, specializing in general and cardiac anesthesiology and postoperative cardiac intensive care. Born in Rijeka, Croatia, and raised on the Adriatic island of Pag, she developed a deep respect for nature, which has influenced her approach to medicine. Throughout her career, Dr. Debelic has worked in hospitals across Croatia, the Netherlands, Austria, and Saudi Arabia. She is the USbcd.org heart ultrasound international course director, chief instructor, and co-founder of the Focus Assessed Transthoracic Echocardiography (FATE) schools in Croatia and Austria. While mastering invasive medical treatments, she has come to believe that true healing also involves balancing the mind and body through both modern and ancient techniques. Dr. Debelic is a board member of the Saudi Wellness Association, where she contributes her expertise to advancing health and wellness initiatives.
DR DANIJELA DEBELIC
With over 20 years of experience in business development and international trade, Elizabeth has played a key role in advancing the inclusion of women entrepreneurs in global supply chains. She serves on several prestigious boards and advisory committees, including the Board of Directors for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership, the Advisory Board of the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN)**, and the **Steering Committee for the United Nations Global Compact**. Elizabeth is also a member of the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles Leadership Group and the Women’s Economic Empowerment Group. Elizabeth is widely recognized for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion and is a frequent speaker at global forums, including the World Economic Forum and **UN Women. --- Let me know if this works!