Virtual Conference Speakers

Mark Coleman

‍MMA Legend

Fremont, OH

Mark Coleman is an American mixed martial artist, professional wrestler, and former collegiate wrestler, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of MMA. Born on December 20, 1964, in Fremont, Ohio, Coleman earned the nickname “The Hammer” for his powerful wrestling and relentless ground-and-pound style.

A former NCAA Division I wrestling champion at Ohio State University, he transitioned to MMA in the 1990s, becoming the first UFC Heavyweight Champion and later winning the 2000 PRIDE Grand Prix in Japan. Coleman’s aggressive approach and dominance on the mat helped define early MMA and earned him a place in the UFC Hall of Fame.

Big Heff‍

Music Executive

Cleveland, OH

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Quincy “Big Heff” Taylor is a veteran music executive known for elevating artists and brands across the Midwest and beyond. Starting in promotions in 2001, he went on to work with Shady Records, launch ITW Marketing, and support global campaigns for artists like Jim Jones, Slim Thug, Obie Trice, and DJ Khaled.

He later became VP of Nerve DJs, co-founded the Ohio Hip Hop Awards, and created the Big Heff Industry Tour to develop emerging talent. Quincy has built media platforms including the Big Heff Radio Show and Midwest Connext TV, authored two industry books, and launched Capital Structure Ent., signing rising artists through partnerships with Equity Distribution, RCA Records, and more.

Beyond entertainment, Quincy leads community programs focused on youth empowerment, STEAM education, and anti-violence initiatives. A proven connector, strategist, and culture builder, he continues to drive growth and opportunity throughout the music industry.

Teja Urankar‍

Founder and CEO of Butter Be Kind

New York City Metropolitan Area

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Teja Urankar is the founder and CEO of Butter Be Kind, a biotech-powered natural skincare brand. Starting in Europe, she has scaled the company into the U.S. market, launching in SoHo, New York and securing partnerships with some major retailers. Her journey reflects the challenges and wins of building a global brand from scratch, combining vision, resilience, and innovation. Teja is passionate about inspiring other entrepreneurs to take bold steps and turn ideas into thriving businesses.

Sarah Wilkes‍

Design Thinking Consultant

‍Columbus, OH

A graduate of The Ohio State University and the PerScholas Women in Software Engineering program, Sarah now leverages her diverse background to assist small businesses in harnessing the power of technology as the founder of Goal X. This AI-interactive roadmap platform is at the forefront of the Future of Work ecosystem, turning entrepreneurs into successful CEOs who, in turn, create opportunities for job seekers and students. In addition to her professional pursuits, Sarah dedicates her time to connecting people with local resources, teaching high school students how to build no-code mobile applications, and volunteering with Treats 4 The Streets, a non-profit organization that feeds the homeless population of Columbus, Ohio.

Terry Green‍

Founder and CEO of Think Make Live Youth

Columbus, OH

Terry Green is the Founder and CEO of Think Make Live Youth non-profit,
Lead Consultant of Breaking Statistics LLC, a social justice consulting firm and the
Founder of the Social Justice Awards, a celebration event dedicated to honoring
outstanding professional and community leadership.

Terry has over 13 years of experience in public speaking, 9 years of nonprofit executive leadership and provided over 200+ presentations in more than 14 cities throughout the United States.
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Terry is a founding member of the National YouthCreate Pilot Site Implementation Council. He serves with six other leaders of local non-profits from around the country who are collaborating to empower low-income youth from urban, rural, and tribal communities to create significant community improvement projects of their own design.

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Felicia (FDZ) Dunson‍

Visual Artist & Muralist

Columbus, Ohio

Felicia Dunson, known as FDZ Graffiti, is a self-made visual artist and graffiti specialist whose bold murals and mixed-media works blend street art, fashion, and spoken word to tell stories of culture and resilience. Born in Columbus, Ohio, she rose to prominence as the official graffiti artist for the Hip-Hop Expo, using her craft to bridge community and creativity. During the 2020 pandemic and social justice movements, her art became a force for activism, amplifying messages of unity and empowerment through large-scale public murals. Now an internationally recognized artist, educator, and environmental advocate, Felicia continues to redefine contemporary street art through her eco-conscious “DEADCANZ” series and global outreach, proving that graffiti is not a crime—it’s the music you can see.

Idan Meir‍

Co-Founder & CEO of RightHear

Rockville, Maryland

Idan Meir is a visionary entrepreneur and Co-Founder & CEO of RightHear, the category leader in audio format signage and orientation solutions. Based in Rockville, Maryland, he has been recognized by Forbes, FastCompany, and HackerNews for driving innovation that empowers people with visual and orientation challenges to move independently.

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A Techstars founder and member of the MindShare CEO Forum, Idan previously built Hubanana, one of Israel’s most successful startup hubs. A former commander in the IDF’s elite Sayeret Nahal unit, he blends discipline, creativity, and impact-driven leadership to scale companies that change lives.

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Khalil El-Amin‍

CRO Nichefire Inc

Cincinnati, Ohio

Khalil El-Amin is one of the visionary entrepreneurs behind Nichefire, a Predictive Cultural Insights Technology company dedicated to revolutionizing the business landscape through the prism of consumer and competitive brand insights. At the helm of this groundbreaking AI-powered media intelligence company, he is leading a dynamic team in harnessing the vast expanse of online data, unraveling millions of data points, and utilizing advanced algorithms to unveil previously undiscovered insights that inform strategic decision-making.

His proficiency extends to leveraging social metrics for uncovering concealed truths, executing Brand Tactics Analysis, gauging Consumer Sentiment, delivering comprehensive Reporting, and seamlessly integrating with diverse platforms through APIs. The bedrock of Khalil’s approach lies in the deployment of Customized AI solutions, meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of each client. In his role as the Chief Revenue Officer, he cultivates meaningful relationships with key personnel at major brands like Walmart, Kraft Heinz, Nestlè, and others. Guiding his dedicated team, he harnesses the intelligence derived from these partnerships and cutting-edge AI technology to achieve extraordinary results for Nichefire’s clients.

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Kenneth “Kenny” Groom‍

Founder of Beyond Normal Media

Charlotte, NC

Kenneth “Kenny” Groom is a revenue leader and media entrepreneur who connects technology, storytelling, and community impact. As the Founder of Beyond Normal Media, a Charlotte-based creative agency, Kenny helps organizations and founders turn their stories into measurable business growth through podcasts, branded content, and digital strategy.

With experience across Fintech, Edtech, and SaaS, Kenny has guided enterprise and public sector clients in using data to improve retention, product adoption, and customer value. He has also implemented data-driven financing strategies for major brands including Walmart, Lowe’s, and Chevron, aligning customer engagement with measurable revenue outcomes.

Through Beyond Normal Media, Kenny partners with founders, nonprofits, and creative organizations to amplify underrepresented voices and build scalable storytelling systems. His work blends strategy and creativity to help brands communicate authentically and drive results.

Kenny continues to shape how technology and creativity work together to empower communities and the next generation of entrepreneurs.

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Kyle Overmyer
Co-founder of Ko Addiction

Columbus, OH

Kyle Overmyer is a nationally recognized advocate for addiction recovery and mental health awareness. Once one of Ohio’s youngest sheriff-elects, his life took a transformative turn following his personal battle with opioid addiction. His journey through law enforcement, legal challenges, and recovery has become the foundation of his mission to empower others facing similar struggles.

As co-founder of KO Addiction, LLC, Overmyer works to break down stigma and inspire change through speaking engagements across the country. His presentations emphasize resilience, recovery, and mental wellness, drawing deeply from his own lived experiences.

Overmyer holds an Associate Degree in Police Science from Terra State Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Tiffin University. He is also a Certified Event Interventionist (CEI). In addition, he serves as Director of Business Development at Complete Healthcare, one of Ohio’s leading centers for addiction treatment and rehabilitation.

His leadership extends beyond his professional role. Overmyer is an active advisory board member for One Brother One Sister, and he contributes his expertise to the Ex-Offender Reentry Coalition as well as the Mental Health Committee of the African American Male Wellness Agency.

Kyle Overmyer’s story of redemption and advocacy stands as a powerful testament to the hope of recovery and the impact of dedicated service in the fields of addiction treatment and mental health.

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Jayswifa‍

Artist

Columbus, OH

Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Jayswifa is the ultimate wildcard. As the creative force behind Fly Union and Mnkeywrench, he’s carved out a lane all his own with boundary-pushing production and an unapologetic flow. With over 16 projects under his belt, Jayswifa has earned the respect of hip-hop heavyweights like Big Sean, Curren$y, and Pusha T. Always evolving, always authentic — keep your eyes on Jayswifa.

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Trevon Bruch‍

Founder and CEO of Safewave

Cincinnati, OH

Trevon Bruch is the Founder and CEO of Safewave, a wearable technology company creating an open-network haptic ecosystem that connects people to the world through touch. By transforming alerts from everyday devices into powerful vibrations, Trevon’s vision extends beyond accessibility—toward building a global platform where homes, hospitals, and workplaces all communicate seamlessly through the language of vibration.

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Chris Davis‍

Tech Startup Executive & Venture Partner

Atlanta, GA

Chris is a seasoned tech startup operator, founder, and executive with a proven track record of driving innovation and growth across diverse industries. With over 13 years
of experience in the startup ecosystem, he has become a valuable asset to early-stage
companies navigating critical phases of development.

Anthony Regalado

Executive Director of the Hispanic Chamber

Columbus, OH

Anthony Regalado is the Executive Director of the Hispanic Chamber of Columbus and a tech startup founder. At the Chamber, he leads initiatives to connect the Columbus business ecosystem to the local Hispanic workforce. Through his startup, Anarco, he champions a nomadic, international, cross-functional expert community that leverages technology and AI to empower small businesses rebels in need of innovation. With a commitment to forward-thinking change, he fosters Latino entrepreneurship to enhance the relevance and growth of Hispanic businesses in Central Ohio’s business landscape.

Donte' Cook

Founder/CEO of Inner City Studios LLC.

Columbus, OH

Growing up in Columbus Ohio had its advantages. One of them was being able to play outside all day. Thats where my passion for urban sports grew.

In 2019 I decided to launch a gaming studio. To focus on the most popular urban street games & transform them into the virtual world. My true focus is that our urban communities experiences don't get left behind. Im a self motivated game developer in this field, just a lot of heart & passion that goes into each game. Go play CurbBall Game Today!

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David Turner

Filmmaker

Austin, TX

David Turner is a former technology architect turned Oscar-shortlisted, Emmy-nominated creative producer known for LAST FLIGHT HOME, COMING CLEAN, and VICELAND’s JUNGLETOWN. His award-winning films have played at festivals including Sundance, Telluride, SXSW, and DOC NYC. Today, he’s channeling years of experience into StorySense, a platform built to streamline story structure and accelerate rough cuts, while keeping creative teams at the center.

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Speakers TBA

Aaron Westbrook

Founder & CEO of Form5 Prosthetics
Columbus, Ohio

Aaron Westbrook, Founder & CEO of Form5 Prosthetics, emerged as a pioneer in prosthetics in 2015. Born with only one hand, his journey into prosthetics began as a freshman at New Albany High School, after personally encountering the limitations and gaps in upper limb prostheses. Undeterred, Aaron at age 14 embarked on a do-it-yourself mission to create his own device using a 3D printer.

Aaron's determination extended beyond personal triumph. Having connected with the limb difference community through his "Alive With Five" blog, he aspired to make this technology accessible to others. Inspired by his vision, a successful Kickstarter campaign enabled him to purchase a 3D printer, leading to the establishment of Form5 Prosthetics as a 501(c)3 non-profit in 2017. While growing Form5 Aaron completed rigorous coursework at The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business and received his undergraduate degree in 2022.

As CEO, Aaron has propelled Form5 along a remarkable trajectory, guided by its strategic pillars of Community, Research & Development, Education, and Manufacturing. The organization has consistently realized its vision — a world where individuals with limb differences possess the confidence, resources, and support to achieve their dreams.

Aaron Westbrook's transformative journey exemplifies the power of one person's determination to make a positive impact, and Form5 stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for those with limb differences.

Kai Deveraux Lawson

Ad Age A-List | Adweek 50 | Marketing Storyteller of the Year
New York, New York

Lauded as one of Media, Marketing & Tech's 50 "Most Indispensable Behind The Scenes Stars", Kai Deveraux Lawson is a thought leader, innovator, and advocate for truth-telling in marketing. With over 13 years experience in the industry, she’s helped shape strategies for Advertising's most recognizable agencies and brands.

Her experience led her to launch the culturally focused platforms, Mixed Company Podcast and her blog, Mylifeofkai.com. On these platforms, she shares her first hand experiences in life, travel and career.

Kai's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her innovative approach to marketing, has garnered significant recognition throughout her career. In 2024, Kai was named the Ad Age A List & Creativity Awards Diversity & Inclusion Champion of the Year. Additional honors include The 2022 Adweek50 list and New York Moves Magazine’s 2023 Diversity Award, solidifying her status as a respected trailblazer in her field.

In January of 2024, Kai co-founded Valerie, a Hybrid Agency/Consultancy specializing in developing and executing strategy and creative for brands and businesses rooted in life experiences.

Alana Mediavilla

Founder of Campo Libre
Humacao, Puerto Rico

Alana Mediavilla is an award-winning filmmaker and the founder of Campo Libre, an independent film house redefining how films are made and shared. Today she is pioneering innovative distribution strategies and launching a producer fund to accelerate creative experimentation. Known for her visionary approach and ability to turn bold ideas into successful ventures, Alana is quickly becoming a rising force in the indie film space, earning a reputation as a producer who delivers impactful and profitable independent films.

Jason Malone

Investor & Advisor
Los Angeles, California

Born and raised in Carson, California, Jason Malone attended the University of New Mexico on a football scholarship and ultimately received his bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. After graduating from college, he moved to New York City to work on Wall Street at Merrill Lynch. While on Wall Street, Jason worked in various roles across investment banking. Prior to leaving, Jason was promoted to vice president of his division, one of the youngest at the firm. Seeking to amplify his business experience and pursue another industry, he eventually moved to Chicago to complete his MBA at the University of Chicago.

After graduating from business school, Jason co-founded Malone Greene Partners, an impact investment firm focused on scaling retail establishments in underserved communities in Chicago. Malone Greene ultimately acquired two franchise restaurants local to the Chicago market.

In 2014, Jason decided to move his family back to California to pursue opportunities in the tech industry. In 2016, after serving as an executive at TRUECar focused on digital marketing, he co-founded PlayMaker Network, an integrated sports and entertainment ad network. He also launched Clicks Media, a full-service agency to help businesses with e-commerce, marketing & capital needs.

Most recently, Jason has been operating as an investor & advisor. Jason also recently authored a book titled “Money Making Reseller BluePrint: Dominate eBay, Poshmark, Mercari & Others”.

Dr. Janice Gassam Asare

DEI Consultant | 2x TEDx Speaker
New York City Metropolitan Area

Janice Z. Gassam Asare, Ph.D. is the founder of BWG Business Solutions, an award-winning DEI consultancy designed to help organizations create cultures built on equity. Dr. Janice has had the opportunity to collaborate with Google, Amazon, Yale University, Nordstrom, H&M, and Paypal/Venmo among many others. She is the author of three best-selling books and is a senior contributing writer for Forbes having authored over 400 articles, a Harvard Business Review contributor and a LinkedIn Learning Instructor. In 2022, Dr. Janice was recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top Voices in Racial Equity. In 2023 she was recognized by Gusto as one of the 25 Top Workplace Experts to Follow. She is a 2-time TEDx speaker, the host of the Dirty Diversity podcast and an adjunct professor at Columbia University.

Khalil Simmons

Account Executive at Google
New York, New York

Khalil Simmons is a driven digital marketing professional who thrives on helping businesses achieve transformative growth. With a solid foundation in Business Administration and a passion for sales and customer development honed at the University of Missouri, Khalil embarked on his career journey at General Mills. There, he skillfully managed the convenience business in Florida, gaining invaluable experience in consumer markets. Fueled by a desire to make a greater impact in the tech world, Khalil transitioned to Google as an Account Strategist.

Over the past 5.5 years, he's partnered with countless advertisers, empowering them to develop strategic, data-driven approaches that scale their businesses and deliver exceptional results. Khalil's expertise lies in crafting innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations, leaving a lasting impact on their digital success.

Jeanine Suah

Founding Partner at Rezilyent Capital
New York, New York

Jeanine is a go-giving entrepreneur, and sociolinguist turned techie. Born to Jamaican parents, she prides herself on being a global citizen who speaks three languages, dances salsa and samba, and has shared meals with strangers in nearly 20 countries. Known as a super-connector, Jeanine lives by the credo, “Always give more in value than you receive in payment,” and trusts that genuine relationship-building and resilience are the keys to success.
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On a personal mission to increase access to capital by demystifying VC, Jeanine has impacted over 15,000 entrepreneurs in the last three years, and has been featured in Nasdaq, Business Insider, Cheddar TV, NBC, the Miami Herald, and on the cover of Entrepreneur Magazine. Jeanine is an avid community-builder and Miami tech advocate and has assumed those roles through her work as an Expert in Residence (XIR) at Stenn (a UK fintech unicorn), Founding Partner at Rezilyent Capital, and a VC Scout at Zeal Venture Partners & Florida Funders.

Judah Longgrear

Co Founder & CEO, North America - Kiwibot
San Francisco, California

Co-founder and CEO of Kiwibot North America and CEO & founder of Nickelytics is a Forbes NEXT 1000 Entrepreneur and active Techstars advisor on go-to-market strategies. He’s led multiple tech startups from concept to nine-figure exits.

Having transitioned from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, Judah leverages insights gained from his corporate experience, emphasizing metrics-informed decision-making to drive the growth, pivot, and scaling of his ventures. His success is underscored by the millions of dollars raised by prominent venture capital firms, including Bdev Ventures and Techstars.

As a member of the Forbes Technology, FastCompany, and Entrepreneur Leadership Councils, Judah remains authentic and true to himself, fostering connections with like-minded individuals to exchange value and advance a shared vision. In addition to his achievements, the recent acquisition has elevated Nickelytics to a T72 company, solidifying its position as a key player in the dynamic landscape of AdTech.

Bayadir Mohamed-Osman

Human Rights Advocate | Social Impact Consultant
New York, New York

Bayadir Mohamed-Osman is a Sudanese American social impact consultant, author, poet, public health professional, and community activist. She completed her Master's in Public Health at Johns Hopkins University in 2023. Racking in over a million views, Bayadir’s moving messages have been featured on multiple media platforms such as PBS, NowThis, AJ+, and The Washington Post. Her social justice-oriented poetry and activism have been showcased in dozens of cities throughout the USA. She currently consults and manages projects focused on humanitarian aid work for Sudan.

Jim Gibbs

CEO and Co-Founder of Meter Feeder
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Jim Gibbs is the CEO and Co-Founder of Meter Feeder, a company on a mission to revolutionize the way fleets operate by facilitating seamless payment for parking, parking tickets, and tolls. A native of Long Island, New York, Jim's interest in technology was ignited at an early age when he watched the movie TRON and decided he wanted to make video games. His parents nurtured this budding passion by enrolling him in a programming camp. Jim later attended Carnegie Mellon University but left early to venture into the entrepreneurial world, armed with business basics taught to him by his father, who ran his own house painting business.

Before founding Meter Feeder, Jim had already built a diverse portfolio of software projects, including medical and real estate software. Notably, he worked with American Eagle Outfitters to translate their website into 13 different languages, enabling shipping to 53 countries, and contributed to a platform that handled over 30% of all mobile retail sales in the U.S.

In addition to his role at Meter Feeder, Jim serves on the boards of Ascender, which helps entrepreneurs build their companies; Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting, a public media organization; and Eden's Farm, a non-profit focused on aiding survivors of human trafficking. He also sits on the Jack Heinz Advisory Board, which engages corporate and community leaders in Pittsburgh Symphony activities.

Jim's accomplishments have earned him considerable recognition. He has been featured in Rebecca Fannin's book "Silicon Heartland," as well as in Forbes, Black Enterprise, and TechCrunch. He is an alum of YCombinator and a recipient of Google's Black Founders Fund, among other accolades.

Guided by his philosophy of focusing on the goal while enjoying the journey, Jim brings a balanced approach to both his professional and personal life. Outside of his corporate responsibilities, he enjoys a range of hobbies including old-school b-boy dancing, playing the trumpet, and practicing Muay Thai. Family is at the core of his life, and he cherishes spending time with his five sons and finding moments to hug his wife.

Jim Gibbs is more than just a CEO; he is a community leader, a tech visionary, and a family man, committed to making a meaningful impact in both his professional and personal communities.

Raj Mahalingam

Supply Chain Data science and Innovation at Intel
Seattle, Washington

Raj Mahalingam works as a Supply Chain Data Scientist at Intel Corporation in Global Supply Chain Operations. He has 8+ years of experience in solving challenging business problems supporting multiple business units including procurement, logistics, warehousing, inventory, and supply chain teams. In the past 5+ years He has taught professional development training curriculum and job readiness courses for new graduates in analytics and data science courses such as python, Structured Query Language (SQL), machine learning and Supply Chain/operations management. He has a Master of science degree in - Business analytics and project management from the University of Connecticut. In his current and previous roles, he has used problem solving and design thinking/ethnographic methodologies to refine business problems and to teach courses.

Raj is passionate about developing human capital and to bridge the gap in Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and data science between academic and Industry and about technologies for social good, especially those that have the potential to help underdeveloped communities climb the economic ladder.

Raj has been involved in a few leadership roles at various non-profit organizations. He volunteers his time to mentor new emerging talent in operations and supply chain domain. He has been an active member of INFORMS, Association of Supply chain Management and Council for supply chain management professionals (CSCMP). In that he is a committee member for Sustainable Supply Chain Committee at CSCMP. He was a Board member for the Young Professionals Board at American Heart Association (Columbus, OH Chapter) from 2016 until 2020. Outside of work, He is passionate about Ayurveda, CrossFit, yoga, and Anthropology.

Stephanie Florio

Co-Founder at Swob Inc.
Toronto, Canada

Stephanie co-founded Swob in 2017, aiming to simplify job searches and recruitment. Recognized for her innovation with the "Pitch To Rich" award by Virgin Mobile Canada, she actively mentors young entrepreneurs through the WE Incubation Hub Program. Her contributions have earned her a nomination for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award. Stephanie is also a featured guest on various media platforms including BNN Bloomberg and The Marilyn Denis Show.

Jorge Soto

Co-Founder at AssetMule
Miami, Florida

Jorge Soto a serial entrepreneur within the software industry. He’s currently Co-founder at AssetMule, a sales asset creation and management software startup. Before AssetMule he’s started multiple startups, worked at Twitter via the acquisition of MoPub, and has worked with hundreds of founders around the world.

Morgan Harper

Lawyer. Antitrust advocate.
Columbus, Ohio

Morgan is a lawyer, former congressional candidate, and was an elected delegate to the 2024 Democratic National Convention. She's the Director of Policy & Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project, an antitrust organization that advises federal, state, and local officials on competition policy. Previously, Morgan served as a Senior Advisor to the first Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Morgan also co-founded the grassroots organization, Columbus Stand Up, which facilitates political engagement among less consistent voting populations.

Anthony Regalado

Executive Director of the Hispanic Chamber
Columbus, Ohio

Carrie Aguilar

Founder/CEO at Innov8 Growth Partners
Cleveland, Ohio

A Cleveland boomerang, Carrie Aguilar built her career in Tech on the west coast- most recently spending the last 5 years as Head of Sales Training and Enablement at DoorDash. She now spends her time building her Sales Strategy business- Innov8 Growth Partners - with the goal of supporting female founded startups succeed in their growth and bridging the funding gap for women. She is the Cleveland head of the Women's movement Power to Pursue as well as co-host of the new Podcast In Her Land, a bi-weekly conversation with female leaders discussing all things not found on resumes.

Marc Alexander

Founder & CEO at Lite Raise
Detroit, Michigan

Marc Alexander is a dynamic and visionary leader with an impressive track record as a successful serial entrepreneur, currently leading Lite Raise. With over a decade of experience driving multi-million-dollar businesses to new heights, Marc has cultivated a reputation for strategic thinking, innovation, and transformative leadership. His approach to business is both bold and inclusive yet always with a focus on empowering others to pursue their dreams.
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In addition to his entrepreneurial success, Marc serves as a dedicated advocate for social impact. He is an active Board Member for multiple organizations, including FreeStar Financial, Envision Liberia, Kiwanis, Amour Women Foundation, and Lite Tuition Foundation. Through these roles, he contributes to diverse initiatives, from financial empowerment and global education to community leadership and the advancement of women. His deep commitment to these causes reflects his belief in creating lasting, positive change.
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A former School Board Trustee and GenNext Nominee for Fortune 100 companies, Marc's influence extends far beyond the business world. He is also an accomplished author, motivational speaker, and social entrepreneur who leverages technology to drive global innovation. Marc’s personal mission is to help others achieve success and happiness, a value that resonates in every aspect of his work. His relentless passion for using technology as a force for good fuels his vision to create transformative solutions that shape the future.
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Marc’s leadership is marked by his ability to connect with people, inspire action, and push boundaries. His enthusiasm and determination are contagious, making him not only a successful entrepreneur but a true agent of change in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors.

Gina Nacnac

Social Media Strategist + AI Integration
Las Vegas, Nevada

Gina Nacnac is a seasoned Social Media Strategist and AI Integration Specialist with a decade-long track record of elevating leaders in tech and media on social media and cultivating growth-oriented communities.

A true expert in branding, social media strategy, content marketing, influencer partnerships, and AI integrations, Gina is the go-to strategist for brands ready to scale and innovate. Known for her ability to build from the ground up, she has developed influencer programs, crafted impactful brand voices, and launched social channels and communities for Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups.

Gina provides Social Media Consulting tailored for tech and media companies aiming to scale their social channels, launch influencer initiatives, and streamline operations with AI-driven workflows. She also empowers founders and executives to establish and monetize their personal brands.

As a Content Creator, Gina shares educational videos covering social media strategy, personal branding, entrepreneurship, and AI tools. She’s currently developing custom GPT solutions to streamline branding and content creation for her clients.

Jariatu Mansaray

Product Strategist & Agile Coach
Columbus, Ohio

As a co-founder and Executive Director of Black Tech Columbus, she is on a mission to foster community and innovation in Central Ohio. When Jariatu isn't working, she volunteers on local boards and works with youth organizations to teach technology and design thinking to K-12 students.

‍With a background in chemical engineering and trauma-informed counseling, Jariatu began her career in technology focused on finding and implementing outside-of-the-box solutions for organizations of all sizes. As a people-focused product consultant she has a passion for empowering teams and driving results. From training small businesses in cloud technology to developing product strategy for Fortune 100 companies, Jariatu helps organizations align their product visions with business outcomes.

Jerrel Beamon

Comedian
Dayton, Ohio

Jerrel Beamon has been consistently performing stand up since he was 17 years old. He performs all over the Midwest with his witty stories and engaging crowd work. Jerrel is young in the game of stand up but has already hit milestones. Such as performing at the World Famous Apollo Theater at the age of 21, performing on Brew HaHa Comedy Festival, Columbus Comedy Festival, and Fresh Faces at the Laugh Factory in Chicago. He's currently producing Comedy for the People one of the hottest showcases in the Midwest at Brickys Comedy Club.

Amongst all these achievements one of Jerrel's favorite performances was in 2024 when he was invited out to Marion Correctional Institution to perform for the inmates. He has also opened for well known acts such as Hannibal Buress, Desi Banks, Sam Tallent, Faizon Love and Tim Meadows. You can also follow him on all social media platforms to get a good laugh from his stand up clips and crazy skits that he does with his dad!

Jordan Herbert

Founder & CEO of DealMate
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Jordan Herbert - Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Jordan Herbert is a dedicated husband and father of two, deeply rooted in his community. With over a decade of real estate experience, he has successfully managed transactions exceeding $16 million and built dynamic sales teams that drive results. Jordan is passionate about innovation and is recognized for his ability to solve complex real estate challenges while minimizing transaction friction.

As the founder of DealMate, Jordan is committed to transforming real estate transactions into a more accessible, straightforward, and peer-to-peer experience. His vision is to empower individuals in the real estate market and make transactions as easy as ordering takeout with DoorDash.

Mariah Howard

Managing Director at Made Marketing
Columbus, Ohio

Mariah Howard is a visionary leader and renowned as the Muva of Marketing, with over a decade of experience transforming industries through innovative marketing strategies, technology solutions, and venture capital initiatives. As the Project Director for the Liberia Library and Cultural Center, Mariah is leading a global project that promotes education, preserves cultural heritage, and strengthens communities. She is an advocate for economic equity, serving on the Council on Underserved Communities for the Small Business Administration and the Leadership Advisory Council for the National Small Business Association. Passionate about closing the wealth gap, Mariah empowers businesses by providing access to public and private funding. Featured in Forbes, Wonder Women Tech, and FOX, Mariah’s expertise spans federal procurement, blockchain technology, and global marketing, making her a force for change.

Tayo Adesanya

Founder & CEO of Lola Vision Systems
Los Angeles, California

Tayo Adesanya is the Founder & CEO of Lola Vision Systems, a fabless AI semiconductor chip company building computer vision and generative AI solutions for edge devices.

As a decorated national and global athlete, Tayo found his passion for athletics early.But despite being an NCAA Track & Field All-American and former Nigerian National HighJump Champion, Tayo Adesanya chose a different path, driven by an even deeper passion for technology.

Sterling Smith

Founder of RightMatch AI
Bentonville, Arkansas

Sterling Smith is the founder of RightMatch AI, a cutting-edge, multi-sensory AI-powered interview platform aimed at saving time and reducing bias in the hiring process. Previously an investor at Atento Capital, Sterling now focuses on building the future of work, leveraging AI and technology to streamline hiring, and writing on topics such as future work trends, angel investing, and street photography.

Sarah Wilkes

Design Thinking Consultant
Columbus, Ohio

Sarah Wilkes began her professional journey as a graphic designer, honing her skills in creating visually compelling and user-friendly designs. Her career evolved as she transitioned into a business consultant role, where she applied her design thinking principles to help companies develop effective strategies and improve their operations. This blend of creativity and business acumen naturally led her to tech entrepreneurship.
A graduate of The Ohio State University and the PerScholas Women in Software Engineering program, Sarah now leverages her diverse background to assist small businesses in harnessing the power of technology as the founder of Goal X. This AI-interactive roadmap platform is at the forefront of the Future of Work ecosystem, turning entrepreneurs into successful CEOs who, in turn, create opportunities for job seekers and students. In addition to her professional pursuits, Sarah dedicates her time to connecting people with local resources, teaching high school students how to build no-code mobile applications, and volunteering with Treats 4 The Streets, a non-profit organization that feeds the homeless population of Columbus, Ohio.

Max Ringelheim

Founder, When Going Viral
Miami, Florida

Max Ringelheim is a passionate tech entrepreneur from New York and as of September 2020 has been living happily in Miami, Florida. Max was most famously responsible for co-founding 2015's viral Hoverboard Fad through his popular brand PhunkeeDuck. Yes the Hoverboard devices that were literally and figuratively blowing up back in 2015. Max’s current entrepreneurial venture is growing his media company "When Going Viral"originally inspired by his Hoverboard story, which is on a mission to become the leading storyteller behind different viral business phenomenons. Over the last 8 years Max has taken a strong interest in the educational technology industry especially in finding innovative ways to equip students with 21st century skills. This interest in education technology started with Max's first corporate america roles doing full time sales and marketing at popular edtech companies littleBits and Flatiron School. In Spring 2020 Max went back to his entrepreneurial roots doing sales and marketing consulting, and he currently acts as a fractional Director of US Operations for 2 European edtech companies called Infento Electric Vehicles and Riders Robotics and is the Head of Partnerships for the nonprofit . Max is a big tennis player, golfer, meditator, salsa dancer and enjoys going to the beach, learning Spanish, and reviewing bagels from around the world.

Ibrahim Mohmed

Founder of CourtSide Media
Cleveland, Ohio

Ibrahim Mohmed is the founder of CourtSide Media, a digital media agency for influencers between 1 million to 75 million followers across all platforms. Some of his clients include Kevin Garnett and Lauren Fitzmaurice. Ibrahim works with his clients to organically boost their views. Ibrahim recently co-founded Taja AI, a tool for YouTubers to package and optimize their content in 8 minutes or less.

He also founded Nile Nights, an organization that curates events and donates the funds to those impacted by the Sudan war.

Nina Archie

Innovation Advisor, Consultant
Washington DC-Baltimore Area

Nina Archie is a professional with extensive experience in dual-use technology and intellectual property. She founded Innovator Connector, a consultancy focused on aiding startups and small businesses in technology commercialization, securing non-dilutive funding, and guidance to small business/startup programs and resources. With a background that includes roles in the Government as a Program Manager (contractor) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office as a Patent Examiner, Nina has a robust track record in facilitating and actively participating in the innovation ecosystem.

Nina holds an Intellectual Property certificate from the World Intellectual Property Office and a Technology Transfer certificate from the National Institutes of Health. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a Master of Science in Bioinformatics. Ms. Archie is also a Small Business Innovation Research Reviewer at the National Science Foundation.

Justin Howell

Business & Brand Strategist
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Justin is a seasoned expert in program management, business and brand strategy, social media growth, and partnership development. As associate Director of Partnerships at a leading nonprofit in Southeastern Wisconsin, he drives transformative growth by creating partnerships that empower local entrepreneurs to scale, and uplift communities.In the digital world, his expertise shines through.

By consulting and managing operations, Justin propelled a family social media account which soared to over 1 million followers in under a year—a testament to his motivational strategies, mentorship techniques, and the effectiveness of his proven growth strategies.With a remarkable ability to create valuable connections and a sharp focus on expanding his professional network, Justin is known endearingly by friends and colleagues as “The NetWorker.” He represents myriad resources; any answer he does not have, he knows someone that does.

Dom Shamblee

CEO of GardenIQ
‍Mason, Ohio

Dom had the fortunate opportunity to work on tech innovation across a variety of industries, including automotive, health & pharma, real estate, film & TV, consumer packaged goods and more. Companies and brands in his portfolio include Ford, Lincoln, JD Power, Dell, IBM Watson, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, P&G, and DICK’S Sporting Goods, among many others. His focus on people and advocating for the user has produced a track record of developing best-in-class products. Learn more about GardenIQ.

Erica Ho

Founder and CEO of Map Happy
New York, New York

Erica Ho is the founder and CEO of Map Happy, a digital media company that has provided more than eight million travelers with the tools they need to thrive to and through their destination. The site has received the highest levels of industry recognition, winning the Society of American Travel Writers' Lowell Thomas Awards bronze for Best Travel Journalism Website.

She also has spoken at premier industry events and institutions such as The New York Times Travel Show, Consumer Electronics Show, and Columbia Journalism School, on the business of media, and the role and importance of diversity in media.

Gabriel Cepeda

Founder and CEO of Vecino
New York, New York

Gabriel Cepeda is the Founder and CEO of Vecino, the pioneer of Flash Mob Logistics. With a unique blend of creativity, resilience, and community-focused innovation, Vecino has reimagined logistics as a platform for authentic connections, turning routine deliveries into opportunities for storytelling and engagement. His journey began in 2020, exploring inefficiencies in logistics and supply chains, and has evolved into a mission-driven approach to make commerce more equitable, sustainable, and community-centered. Inspired by his grandmother’s entrepreneurial spirit during the “Tupperware Era,” Gabriel is passionate about creating economic opportunities through Vecino’s foot-based, hyperlocal delivery model. With Vecino, he is building a future where logistics not only move goods but also foster trust, drive revenue, and connect brands with the communities they serve.

Gabriel’s work has been recognized for its innovative approach to merging logistics with marketing, and his perspective on social commerce and community-driven innovation has reached the New York Times, Fox Business, Fox 5, CBS 2 News, and various international media outlets.

Tyler Cerny

International Award-Winning Speaker, Cerny Enterprises
Tampa, Florida

Tyler Cerny is the CEO and Founder of Cerny Enterprises, a brand consulting firm dedicated to empowering leaders to align with their purpose, amplifying their impact, influence, and income.He has consulted with the world's leading personal brands including Tony Robbins, Grant Cardone, Robert Kiyosaki, Gary V, and Daymond John influencing and producing millions worldwide.

Tyler's famously known for his viral TEDx talk, "How to Find Your Life's Purpose Instantly," has been awarded the Top 500 Most Watched TEDx Talks of All Time with over 2.5M views. Tyler travels around the world teaching students, athletes, young professionals, and business owners how to align themselves with their life's purpose and build purpose driven businesses.

His entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts have earned him the Presidential Ambassador of Global Entrepreneurship and solidified himself as a respected faith driven business leader for future generations.

Onyeka Akumah

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Treepz Inc
Toronto, Canada

Onyeka Akumah is a serial entrepreneur who has been recognized as a distinguished young CEO who has built high-impact ventures across diverse sectors in 5 different countries. He is currently the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Treepz - Africa’s leading corporate mobility startup with close to 6 million customers served across 5 countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Uganda with headquarters in Canada.

His journey began with academic excellence, graduating top of his class with a distinction in Applied Information Technology. This strong foundation set the stage for a career defined by innovation, strategic leadership, and a commitment to empowering others.

Onyeka Akumah's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his successful ventures, each addressing unique needs and challenges within the African market. He co-founded Treepz, the largest corporate mobility platform in Africa serving close to 6 million customers already. His earlier ventures, Farmcrowdy (agritech), RentSmallSmall (proptech) and Qwikgist (social media), further showcase his diverse interests and ability to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Oksana Matviichuk

CEO and Founder of OM Strategic Forecasting
Boston, Massachusetts

Oksana Matviichuk is a strategic business and marketing executive with 20 years of experience, including global leadership roles within renowned advertising networks such as Publicis and WPP. Over the last decade, she has partnered with Fortune 500 companies, translating complex business strategies into seamless marketing execution and driving impactful, scalable outcomes.

Driven by her passion for democratizing complex strategies, Oksana founded OM Strategic Forecasting, a consultancy empowering startups, midsize businesses, and enterprises to thrive in an ever-evolving market. Her flagship offering, OM Strategy as a Service, transforms business value by integrating AI, automation, and reputation management, ensuring scalability and sustainable growth.

Beyond her consultancy, Oksana is a USA Today best-selling author, a recognized thought leader, and an expert panelist regularly featured in Forbes. Honored as one of the Top Women Leaders of New York by Women We Admire in 2022, 2023, and 2024, she continues to inspire innovation and strategic excellence across industries.

Imanuel (Manny) Larcher

Co-founder Stopwatch Creative / Colaeb
Castries, Saint Lucia

Imanuel (Manny) Larcher is a lifelong learner who enjoys digging deep into new technologies and nourishing ideas. He is a first-generation St. Lucian American born in Columbus, Ohio. He played a role in a venture-backed telehealth startup (Ardina) acquisition from 2015 through 2017. In 2017, he co-founded Stopwatch Creative, a marketing and tech agency assisting startups, artists, professional athletes, and brands all over the world with various marketing services.

When the pandemic created unforeseen complications for entrepreneurs, Manny created Colaeb, a SaaS platform helping businesses grow affordably, now with thousands of brands supported all over the world.

RSVP Today

Colaeb Innovation Conference returns December 8-11, 2025

Virtual Conference Speakers

Mark Coleman

Big Heff‍

Teja Urankar‍

Sarah Wilkes‍

Terry Green‍

Felicia (FDZ) Dunson‍

Idan Meir‍

Khalil El-Amin‍

Kenneth “Kenny” Groom‍

Kyle OvermyerCo-founder of Ko Addiction

Jayswifa‍

Trevon Bruch‍

Chris Davis‍

Anthony Regalado

Donte' Cook

David Turner

Speakers TBA

Aaron Westbrook

Kai Deveraux Lawson

Alana Mediavilla

Jason Malone

Dr. Janice Gassam Asare

Khalil Simmons

Jeanine Suah

Judah Longgrear

Bayadir Mohamed-Osman

Jim Gibbs

Raj Mahalingam

Stephanie Florio

Jorge Soto

Morgan Harper

Anthony Regalado

Carrie Aguilar

Marc Alexander

Gina Nacnac

Jariatu Mansaray

Jerrel Beamon

Jordan Herbert

Mariah Howard

Tayo Adesanya

Sterling Smith

Sarah Wilkes

Max Ringelheim

Ibrahim Mohmed

Nina Archie

Justin Howell

Dom Shamblee

Erica Ho

Gabriel Cepeda

Tyler Cerny

Onyeka Akumah

Oksana Matviichuk

Imanuel (Manny) Larcher

Contact Us with Any Questions or Concerns

Kyle Overmyer
Co-founder of Ko Addiction