Chicago Emerging Leader Profiles

Name	Country	Expertise	Professional Track	Sub-track	Title / Company	Current Focus	Goals
Name:Carole Nassreddine	Country:Lebanon	Expertise: Engineering and Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Renewable Energy	Professional Track: Green Technology and Sustainability	Sub-track: Renewable Energy	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Graduate Research Assistant, American University of Beirut Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Beirut, Lebanon Dates: February 1, 2024 – Responsibilities: Conduct research on environmental remediation and pharmaceutical pollutants in water systems; Support Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for sustainability projects; analyze data related to the water-energy-food nexus and contribute to project reports Skills: Environmental research and data analysis; Impact assessment methodologies; Interdisciplinary collaboration	Current Focus: Energy, renewable technology or green technology Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline Technical project and program manager	Goals: How to scale clean energy solutions for communities. Learn how to integrate circular economy into engineering projects. Hone strategic leadership skills in sustainability innovation.
Name:Diana Waithanji	Country:Kenya	Expertise: Computer Science Computer Security Engineering, Software	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Cybersecurity	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Cybersecurity Engineer, SAP Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Berlin, Germany Dates: June 1, 2021 – Responsibilities: Secure engineering requirements for SAP Cloud Infrastructure; conduct security operations; manage cloud security projects Skills: Secure software engineering; threat modeling; security documentation	Current Focus: Computer operations and/or security Software engineer	Goals: Scaling security engineering practices in fast-moving environments Developing leadership skills to drive security strategy and influence business outcomes Influencing cybersecurity policy and shaping the broader tech ecosystem
Name:Farangis Muqumova	Country:Tajikistan	Expertise: Educational Technology and E-Learning Information Systems Management Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Leadership in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Finance/HR Manager, Branch of GOPA mbH in the Republic of Tajikistan Direct Reports: 5 Type: Full-time Location: Dushanbe, Tajikistan Dates: January 2, 2019 – Responsibilities: Coordinate with key ministries and organizations, including MoHSPP, MoFA, MoLME, KfW, GIZ, and GOPA branch office to ensure smooth project operations and compliance with local and donor requirements; Manage financial and accounting tasks, including preparing monthly accounting documents, calculating travel allowances, per diems and salaries, and ensuring compliance with internal and donor procedures; Lead HR services for specific employee groups, including preparing employment contracts and amendments, and managing employee life-cycle documentation in accordance with local labor laws and international best practices. Skills: Financial management and accounting, ensuring compliance with project budgets and donor requirements; HR management, including policy implementation, employee lifecycle management and maintaining HR documentation; Strong coordination and communication skills, ensuring effective collaboration with ministries, donors and project teams.	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Leader who is in charge of managing technical employees Technical project and program manager	Goals: Designing scalable models for social impact Applying AI and fintech tools in e-learning Building leadership in comprehensive education
Name:Farzona Sanginova	Country:Tajikistan	Expertise:	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Financial Technology	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Chief Risk Officer, OJSC Alif Bank Direct Reports: 4 Type: Full-time Location: Dushanbe, Tajikistan Dates: August 20, 2020 – Responsibilities: Develop and implement a comprehensive risk management framework; oversee the identification, assessment, and mitigation of credit, market, operational and liquidity risks across the bank; prepare and present regular risk reports to senior management and regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and guidelines Skills: Proficient in risk assessment methodologies and the development of mitigation strategies; skilled in analytics and the use of risk management tools; strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with stakeholders and regulatory authorities	Current Focus:	Goals: Gain skills in ERM and sustainable finance in banking. How to leverage AI in risk management and sustainable finance. Increase skills related to leadership and conflict resolution.
Name:Fatima Ahmad	Country:Pakistan	Expertise: Computer Science Engineering, Telecommunications Information Systems Management	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Leadership in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Manager, Growth, PMCL Jazz Direct Reports: 1 Type: Full-time Location: Islamabad, Pakistan Dates: November 14, 2022 – Responsibilities: Lead the complete product roadmap for SIMOSA, the largest homegrown platform of Pakistan, with a focus on growth-driven features; enhance the user experience and journey for 21 million users; measure and improve key product metrics, such as platform's stickiness Skills: Stakeholder management to align cross-functional teams and drive consensus across business, tech and design; end-to-end product development and delivery, from concept to launch and continuous iteration based on user feedback and data; drive user-centered design by incorporating UX research and feedback to create intuitive, engaging digital experiences	Current Focus: Technical product manager	Goals: Develop global best practices in product management and innovation. Scale all-encompassing tech across different global markets. Lead cross-cultural tech teams.
Name:Gharibmamadova Shabnam	Country:Tajikistan	Expertise: Computer Science Educational Technology and E-Learning Mathematics	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Education Technology	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Mathematics Teacher, Lycee for Gifted Students Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Khorog, Tajikistan Dates: February 1, 2013 – Responsibilities: Design and deliver engaging mathematics lessons tailored to students' skill levels; prepare students for national math Olympiads and provide extra academic support; mentor teenage girls to build confidence in STEM and support their personal development Skills: Strong subject knowledge in mathematics and problem-solving; effective communication to explain complex concepts clearly; adaptability to meet the emotional and academic needs of diverse learners	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning HCI/UX/UI IT systems and/or data analysis	Goals: Build confidence in public speaking and team leadership. How to develop and promote an app. Gain hands-on experience in problem-solving.
Name:Hadeel Balasmeh	Country:Jordan	Expertise: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning AR/VR Architecture	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Computer Programming	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Founder, Business developer & Senior technical artisit, Manzel technologies Direct Reports: 5 Type: Full-time Location: Amman, Jordan Dates: January 1, 2023 – Responsibilities: Lead product strategy and development; Manage cross-functional teams including design, tech, and marketing; Build partnerships with universities and edtech stakeholders. Skills: Strategic thinking and roadmap planning for scalable platforms; Technical product design using game engines and AI tools; Cross-cultural communication and leadership in multidisciplinary teams.	Current Focus: Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline Solutions architect Technical product manager	Goals: Leading technical innovation in startups Commercializing marketing building simulation games for global markets that would benefit universities Building scalable AI-integrated tools related to architecture and game industry
Name:Jackie Moraa	Country:Kenya	Expertise: Computer Science	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Software	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Software Engineer, Living Goods Direct Reports: 2 Type: Full-time Location: Nairobi, Kenya Dates: July 10, 2019 – Responsibilities: Contribute to the design, development and maintenance of new features for the digital health software; lead task planning and delegation based on stakeholder needs and project priorities; collaborate with QA engineers to ensure quality through validation and verification testing Skills: Cross-platform application development; agile project management; stakeholder communication and translating requirements into technical solutions	Current Focus: HCI/UX/UI Software engineer	Goals: Building and deploying secure, scalable cross platform applications. How to apply AI in learning or health systems. Enhancing technical leadership and confidence.
Name:Jinane Tannous	Country:Lebanon	Expertise: Physics Renewable Energy Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Green Technology and Sustainability	Sub-track: Sustainablility	Title / Company:	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Energy, renewable technology or green technology Individual contributor leading innovation	Goals: New technologies used in experimental physics. Energy sustainability and the valorization and preservation of natural resources. Pitching and communication skills for scalability and funding.
Name:Josephine Adeti	Country:Kenya	Expertise: Agriculture Engineering, Telecommunications Information Systems Management	Professional Track: Green Technology and Sustainability	Sub-track: Agriculture	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Chief Technology Officer, Radava Mercantile Direct Reports: 3 Type: Full-time Location: Nairobi, Kenya Dates: November 1, 2021 – Responsibilities: Lead the design and deployment of digital tools for smallholder farmers; oversee product development, technical teams, and data systems at Radava Mercantile; manage strategic partnerships and innovation projects for post-harvest support and market access Skills: Systems thinking for inclusive agritech solutions; manage projects and engage stakeholders; apply technical expertise in telecommunications and software development	Current Focus: Leader who is in charge of overseeing the delivery of technology products and processes Technical product design Technical product marketing	Goals: Utilize AI tools in fintech and incorporate AI assistance in daily workflows. Design inclusive agri-tech platforms that are scalable. Learn how to leverage data-driven decision making.
Name:Josephine Wanjiku	Country:Kenya	Expertise: Engineering and Science, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Renewable Energy	Professional Track: Green Technology and Sustainability	Sub-track: Renewable Energy	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Application Engineer, Water Division, Blackwood Hodge Kenya LTD Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Nairobi, Kenya Dates: February 2, 2025 – Responsibilities: Design and customize water systems to meet client needs; provide technical support, troubleshooting and on-site equipment integration; deliver client and team training on system use and maintenance Skills: Technical problem-solving and system diagnostics; client-facing communication and product demonstrations; clear communication for technical training and client support	Current Focus: Civil, water or environmental specialist Energy, renewable technology or green technology Technical sales	Goals: How to scale sustainable water and energy solutions. Growing data-informed leadership skills in sustainability. Strategies for advocating for women in STEM.
Name:Komal Masood	Country:Pakistan	Expertise: Educational Technology and E-Learning Engineering, Software Information Systems Management	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Education Technology	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: AVP, Learning & Development, Knowledge Streams Direct Reports: 3 Type: Full-time Location: Lahore, Pakistan Dates: December 1, 2022 – Responsibilities: Develop and execute training programs for both in-person and remote learning; onboard and mentor industry practitioners in instructor roles; partner and client relationship management in both academia and corporate settings Skills: Leadership and strategy; business and data analysis; design and innovation	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning IT systems and/or data analysis Technical training and/or learning specialist	Goals: Broaden leadership and strategic acumen in navigating complex global challenges. Build capacity to engage with and influence the global technology landscape. Acquire practical skills in developing impactful AI-driven programs.
Name:Mahum Qureshi	Country:Pakistan	Expertise: Data Mining and Analytics Digital Media Engineering, Software	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Product Manager, Marham Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Lahore, Pakistan Dates: May 2, 2023 – Responsibilities: Lead product discovery using qualitative research (user interviews) and quantitative data analysis to identify key user needs to improve user experience; design and run experiments following modern product management practices to validate hypotheses and inform product decisions; measure and calculate impact of features post-launch to optimize the product and prioritize next steps; Skills: Data analysis and experimentation for evidence-based decision-making; cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder communication; user research and qualitative interviewing for deep customer insights	Current Focus: Individual contributor leading innovation Leader who is in charge of overseeing the delivery of technology products and processes Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline	Goals: Best practices in AI-powered product management. Learn strategies for scaling free digital products. Digital media growth strategies for South Asian audiences.
Name:Makhosi Khoza	Country:South Africa	Expertise: Chemistry Engineering and Science, Environmental Renewable Energy	Professional Track: Green Technology and Sustainability	Sub-track: Waste Management	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Managing Director, uNotho Holdings (Pty) Ltd. Direct Reports: 8 Type: Full-time Location: Midrand, South Africa Dates: February 18, 2021 – Responsibilities: Manage and oversee all day-to-day company activities; define and drive overall company business objectives and operational strategy; client engagement and new business acquisition Skills: Strategic thinking and stakeholder management; innovative thinking and goal setting; crisis management and conflict management	Current Focus: Leader who is in charge of managing technical employees Technical sales	Goals: Gain exposure to businesses that have adopted latest testing technologies in waste. Engage with key policy makers in environmental compliance and sustainability. Learn effective project development and execution strategies.
Name:Mamoona Bashir	Country:Pakistan	Expertise: Educational Technology and E-Learning Information Systems Management Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Artificial Intelligence	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Manager Technology Projects – MENA Region, Ernst & Young Direct Reports: 5 Type: Full-time Location: Pakistan Dates: February 6, 2023 – Responsibilities: Manage cross-functional teams to deliver large-scale technology projects for MENA clients; Oversee project timelines; Manage budgets; Allocate resources to ensure successful project execution; Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align with client goals and project objectives. Skills: Project management; Process optimization; Allocate resources; Optimize operations; Communicate across cultures; Manage stakeholders	Current Focus: Leader who is in charge of managing technical employees Leader who is in charge of overseeing the delivery of technology products and processes Technical project and program manager	Goals: Develop AI governance frameworks and implement ethical practices in technology. Implement best practices for data management and ensure quality assurance in AI projects. Strengthen leadership skills for driving technology-driven social impact.
Name:Maryam Ahmad	Country:Pakistan	Expertise: Chemistry Engineering, Chemical Health Sciences and Technology	Professional Track: Biotechnology and Health	Sub-track: Biochemistry	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: CEO/Founder, EcoFoil Seal the Flavor Direct Reports: 10+ Type: Full-time Location: Lahore, Pakistan Dates: May 20, 2023 – Responsibilities: Lead product innovation in eco-friendly food packaging; manage operations and strategic partnerships; supervise and empower a team of 37 women Skills: Business development and market strategy; team leadership and mentoring; sustainable product design	Current Focus: Bio or medical technology Technical product design Technical product marketing	Goals: Learn global strategies for scientific commercialization. Develop cross-disciplinary leadership and innovation skills. Advance multifunctional material design for sustainability and health.
Name:Matebogo Mangaba	Country:South Africa	Expertise: Data Mining and Analytics Information Systems Management Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Leadership in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Operations Analytics Manager, Allan Gray Direct Reports: 10+ Type: Full-time Location: Cape Town, South Africa Dates: September 1, 2023 – Responsibilities: Lead strategic projects focused on AI, data and digital transformation in financial operations; oversee a multidisciplinary team of business analysts, data analysts and developers; drive process improvement and operational risk management across complex systems Skills: Translating business needs into data and automation strategies; stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration; strategic problem solving in a highly regulated environments	Current Focus: Leader who is in charge of overseeing the delivery of technology products and processes Technical product marketing Technical project and program manager	Goals: Increase public speaking and storytelling for impact skills. How to using GenAI to build agentic workflows. Hone skills in designing business data strategy and scalable teams.
Name:Nasiba Sharifova	Country:Tajikistan	Expertise: Educational Technology and E-Learning Engineering, Software Information Systems Management	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Education Technology	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Director of IBT Academy, International Bank of Tajikistan Direct Reports: 1 Type: Full-time Location: Dushanbe, Tajikistan Dates: April 1, 2025 – Responsibilities: Lead the strategic development and operational management of the Academy; manage end-to-end project execution; oversee the implementation of innovative learning environments and technologies; Skills: Strategic planning and problem-solving; coordinate and lead cross-functional teams; apply technical expertise in software systems and infrastructure	Current Focus: Technical project and program manager	Goals: Design and implement AI-powered learning platforms Build intelligent systems for data-driven decision-making Develop scalable strategies for fintech solutions integration
Name:Ninette Kamel	Country:Lebanon	Expertise: Digital Media Educational Technology and E-Learning Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Science and Engineering	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in Science and Engineering	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Instructional designer, ACT College Direct Reports: 3 Type: Full-time Location: Beirut, Lebanon Dates: June 1, 2019 – Responsibilities: Update the ICT and innovation curriculum; Train teachers on applying the curriculum; Managing the procedure of designing and finalizing the books. Skills: ICT tools; Time management; Leadership	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Individual contributor leading innovation Technical project and program manager	Goals: Understand how AI tools and models are developed and applied in education by exploring the processes of data collection, training and deployment, and examining their use in adaptive learning, automated assessment and personalized feedback systems. Explore how digital media enhances teaching and learning by enabling the creation of interactive, multimedia-rich content that supports varied learning styles, improves engagement and facilitates clearer communication of complex concepts. Explore how emerging educational technologies are transforming teaching methods by enabling more interactive, student-centered and flexible learning experiences across both physical and digital classrooms.
Name:Nonjabulo Gumede	Country:South Africa	Expertise: Educational Technology and E-Learning Engineering, Mechanical Mechatronics	Professional Track: Science and Engineering	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in Science and Engineering	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Managing Director, Maichatron Direct Reports: 5 Type: Full-time Location: Richardsbay, South Africa Dates: February 1, 2018 – Responsibilities: Source new clients through pitching; delegate company objectives and do regular site visits to offer support and supervision; monitor employee and client relations; support staff and oversea operations Skills: Project management; design and implementation of business strategy; human-centered systems thinking	Current Focus: Electronics or telecommunications Leader who is in charge of managing technical employees Mechanical or aerospace specialist	Goals: Gain insight into usage of IOT & other smart technologies in reliability, maintenance and HVAC systems. Expand network with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Establish a network that will be fertile ground for business opportunities/deals.
Name:Orasta Mirdadoeva	Country:Tajikistan	Expertise: Computer Science Engineering, Software Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Computer Programming	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Junior Software Developer, Silk Road Professionals Direct Reports: 10+ Type: Full-time Location: Dehmoy, Tajikistan Dates: November 14, 2022 – Responsibilities: Develop and maintain backend APIs and services to support web and mobile applications; Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement software solutions; Debug, test and optimize code for performance and scalability. Skills: Proficient in C# and .NET framework for backend development; Strong problem-solving and debugging abilities; Effective communication for coordinating with team members and stakeholders	Current Focus: Computer operations and/or security Database/systems/networks Software engineer	Goals: Develop skills to teach tech clearly. Improve public speaking and communication. Learn advanced AI tools and methods.
Name:Rim Hamieh	Country:Lebanon	Expertise: Computer Networks Information Systems Management Computer Security	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Mentorship in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: IT Support Specialist, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Beirut, Lebanon Dates: February 4, 2025 – Responsibilities: Managing the IT infrastructure and onboarding of UNESCO staff; providing end user support, trainings and technical guidance on UNESCO projects; project implementation, coordination and digital transformation Skills: Technical troubleshooting and user support; project implementation, coordination and digital transformation; interpersonal communication skills	Current Focus: Computer operations and/or security IT support Technical training and/or learning specialist	Goals: Strengthen my capacity to lead scalable IT initiatives across UN agencies. Explore AI, digital learning solutions and mobile device management trends. Gain insights into best practices from leading tech companies.
Name:Rula Alrawashdeh	Country:Jordan	Expertise: Engineering, Electrical; Engineering, Software; Engineering, Telecommunications;	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Communications	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Associate Professor, Mutah University Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Alkarak, Jordan Dates: May 17, 2015 – Responsibilities: Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in electrical engineering; conducting research in antenna design, energy harvesting and wireless sensing systems; serving as counselor and mentor for IEEE and IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) student branches, guiding and supporting students' professional development; Skills: Advanced antenna and RF design using simulation tools and lab testing; strategic project management and interdisciplinary collaboration; mentoring, leadership and academic publishing;	Current Focus: Electronics or telecommunications Energy, renewable technology or green technology Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline	Goals: Earn best practices to plan, launch and manage a STEM academy for women in my community. Advance expertise in innovative antenna design for wireless systems. Gain skills to develop and grow technology-based startups in the STEM sector.
Name:Ruth Osukuku	Country:Kenya	Expertise: Computer Science Computer Security Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Cybersecurity	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Senior Cyber Security Engineer, SAFARICOM Direct Reports: 10+ Type: Full-time Location: Nairobi, Kenya Dates: January 5, 2021 – Responsibilities: Conduct security architecture reviews and vulnerability assessments for critical systems; Implement and monitor DevSecOps practices to ensure secure SDLC; Conduct red teaming exercises and manage the bug bounty program. Skills: Provide expertise in cybersecurity tools and techniques, including penetration testing and threat modelling; Exhibit strong analytical skills for interpreting security data and logs; Communicate effectively to train teams and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders	Current Focus: Computer operations and/or security Database/systems/networks QA and testing	Goals: Increase skills in AI/ML models security review. Learn advanced techniques for full-stack application security. Gain skills for leadership of global cybersecurity teams.
Name:Sahar Jaber	Country:Lebanon	Expertise: Architecture Engineering, Civil Mathematics	Professional Track: Science and Engineering	Sub-track: Civil Engineering	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Structural Civil Engineer, T&M architecture and engineering, affiliate of United Technology for Construction Co. (UTC) -Offshore Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Aley, Lebanon Dates: March 1, 2021 – Responsibilities: Conduct 3D structural modeling and design for RC buildings using ETABS, including seismic and wind analysis; design and check slabs and foundations using SAFE; prepare detailed calculation notes and design development drawings for both vertical and horizontal elements; Lead structural design and shop drawing production for large-scale reinforced concrete projects using AutoCAD, managing a team of engineers and ensuring timely delivery of drawings, bar bending schedules, and BOQs; Coordinate across disciplines and with site teams through meetings and collaboration with architects; review technical submissions and provide guidance to engineering teams. Skills: Proficient in engineering software (ETABS, SAFE, AutoCAD) with hands-on experience in modeling, load analysis, and detailing for RC structures; Strong technical writing skills for preparing calculation notes, and structural reports with attention to accuracy and clarity; Team leadership and mentoring abilities, guiding junior engineers and coordinating effectively across disciplines through clear communication and collaborative problem-solving.	Current Focus: Civil, water or environmental specialist Design or CAD	Goals: Expertise in structural analysis and design software for reinforced concrete buildings and foundations; advanced civil engineering technologies Project management, leadership, communication, and negotiation skills to lead engineering projects and community initiatives Entrepreneurial skills and global networking to scale my startups and launch innovative, impactful, sustainable initiatives
Name:Salam Abualhayja’a	Country:Jordan	Expertise: Engineering and Science, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Science and Engineering	Sub-track:	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Founder, Chief Executive Offer, MENA Engineering Education and Training Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Amman, Jordan Dates: June 1, 2024 – Responsibilities: Lead the strategic vision and daily operations of MENA Engineering Education and Training, promoting STEM and space education in Jordan; Manage and coordinate a team of 10+ employees and 150 volunteers across multiple projects and initiatives; Secure partnerships, sponsorships, and funding to support program growth and sustainability; Skills: Leadership and team management across diverse groups; Strategic planning and project execution, including marketing and event coordination; Building strong relationships with sponsors, government and educational partners;	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Mechanical or aerospace specialist Technical project and program manager	Goals: Learn mechanical design skills for space exploration technologies. Innovate sustainable engineering systems with environmental impact. Develop AI-driven tools to enhance STEM education.
Name:Shahed Nabeel Mohammad Al-khateeb	Country:Jordan	Expertise: Agriculture Engineering and Science, Environmental Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Artificial Intelligence	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Founder and AI developer, The world of plants for artificial intelligence solutions Direct Reports: 3 Type: Full-time Location: Irbid, Jordan Dates: October 1, 2022 – Responsibilities: Lead AI solution development for agriculture and environmental sustainability; oversee team operations, project timelines and product delivery; manage strategic partnerships and investment planning Skills: AI programming and model development (e.g., computer vision, NLP); xcientific research and academic publishing; team leadership, communication and investor engagement	Current Focus: Energy, renewable technology or green technology IT systems and/or data analysis Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline	Goals: AI application in smart agriculture and integrating AI with sensors and IoT. Patent registration and commercialization. Exploring AI investment and startup strategies.
Name:Somayya Kasasbeh	Country:Jordan	Expertise: Biotechnology Educational Technology and E-Learning Health Sciences and Technology	Professional Track: Biotechnology and Health	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in Biotechnology	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Freelance CPD Trainer – Medical Laboratory Sciences, Self-employed / in collaboration with the Jordan Medical Council Direct Reports: Type: Part-time Location: Amman, Jordan Dates: March 1, 2023 – Responsibilities: Deliver CPD-accredited courses across Jordan on clinical and reproductive laboratory procedures; collaborate with the Jordan Medical Council to develop and accredit advanced training modules; conduct hands-on workshops in semen analysis per WHO guidelines Skills: Curriculum development & scientific instruction; strategic collaboration; laboratory expertise, technical communication & scientific instruction	Current Focus: Bio or medical technology Educational Technology and E-learning Scientist and researcher in technical science and/or engineering discipline	Goals: Receive direct mentorship to strengthen my leadership, technical communication, and innovation skills, especially in preparing my digital platform for future scale-up and funding opportunities Learn best practices in managing interdisciplinary teams, especially in the context of leading digital health platforms that integrate fertility education, mental wellness, and patient engagement Explore how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to enhance the functionality of a digital platform in the reproductive health field including personalized content recommendations, smart fertility tracking, virtual consultations, and data-driven decision support with the goal of improving user experience, engagement, and outcomes in reproductive and fertility care
Name:Talita Boodhram	Country:South Africa	Expertise: Digital Media Educational Technology and E-Learning	Professional Track: Science and Engineering	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in Science and Engineering	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Founder and Chief Impact Officer, MiDesk Global Direct Reports: 10+ Type: Full-time Location: Pretoria, South Africa Dates: November 1, 2022 – Responsibilities: Lead strategic growth and global partnerships to scale MiDesk's impact; oversee design, production and distribution of MiDesks across underserved communities; manage stakeholder engagement, including donor relations, grant writing and impact reporting Skills: Strategic planning and cross-sector collaboration; public speaking and storytelling to advocate for education equity; monitoring and evaluation of social impact metrics across programs	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Individual contributor leading innovation Technical product marketing	Goals: Build global networks to scale MiDesk's impact across emerging markets. Learn effective strategies for fundraising. Strengthen leadership skills in tech-driven social enterprises.
Name:Tshegofatso Isaac	Country:South Africa	Expertise: Computer Science Educational Technology and E-Learning Engineering, Software	Professional Track: Information Technology (IT) and Communications	Sub-track: Entrepreneurship in IT	Title / Company: Current/Most Recent Job Title and Company: Technical Team Lead, Zulzi Direct Reports: Type: Full-time Location: Johannesburg, South Africa Dates: October 1, 2021 – Responsibilities: Lead a software development team; manage coding education programs at EaziCode; support team members and students; Skills: Software development and problem-solving; clear communication with learners and stakeholders; project coordination;	Current Focus: Educational Technology and E-learning Software engineer	Goals: Scaling tech education programs for greater impact. Best practices in software architecture and development. Public speaking and team leadership.

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