Plenary Speakers
Ayan Said
Ayan Said, a British-Somali professional, is a visionary CEO and educator with a passion for social transformation. With diverse experiences in biomedical science and teaching across continents, she advocates for intersectional solutions to societal challenges. Ayan holds a master’s degree in Gender, Education, and International Development from University College London, enriching her understanding of cultural complexities. In response to the pandemic, she founded Voicing Voices, a consultancy promoting intersectionality and inclusivity. Ayan’s mission is to catalyze sustainable change by emphasizing education, capacity building, and transformative multilevel approaches aligned with global frameworks like Agenda 2030 and ESG metrics.
Anas Ghanim
Anas Ghanim, Head of Programs at the CEO Office of Qatar Foundation, spearheads impactful initiatives for positive change. With prior roles at Qatar Foundation International and Doha Debates, he developed Youth Engagement programs in the US and Qatar. Anas is dedicated to youth development, focusing on service learning, cultural exchange, human rights, and comprehensive youth programs. He advocates for service-learning as an innovative educational approach that benefits individuals and communities alike. His passion for community service and education drives his commitment to these initiatives.
Shabarinath Gopinathan Nair
Shabari Nair is the Head of the Migration Management Unit and Senior Migration Management Officer at the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Qatar, bringing 15 years of international expertise from various UN agencies and governments. Previously, he served as a Migration and Multilateral Specialist at the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, New York, and New Delhi, focusing on South Asia. He also worked with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Government of Switzerland, managing programs across thirteen Asian countries and representing Switzerland in regional inter-governmental dialogues on migration. Shabari holds a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University and a Masters in International Relations from the Geneva School of Diplomacy, along with dual Bachelors degrees in Communications and Asian and International Studies from Griffith University, Australia.
Featured Presenters
Stacy Williams
With more than 14 years of experience in non-profit and education program management worldwide, Stacy brings a wealth of expertise to her role. As the co-founder of Archer Impact Consulting, Stacy is dedicated to assisting nonprofits and social enterprises in measuring their impact on the communities they serve. Her passion lies in creating a positive difference in the world. In her personal life, Stacy enjoys indulging in desserts and cycling, finding joy in simple pleasures outside of her professional pursuits. Her commitment to social change and her love for life’s sweet moments define her multifaceted approach to both work and leisure.
Alison Cortez
Alison is a dynamic multilingual leader with 15+ years of experience in global business and nonprofits, specializing in economic development. She holds an M.A. in International Economics and Geopolitical Studies and has a background in microfinance and disaster relief in the United States. As a P2P microlender, she’s deeply involved in development projects, financial inclusion, and fintech, particularly focusing on immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs. Her expertise spans the US, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Latin America, where she excels in cross-cultural communication and strategic team building. Co-founder of Archer Impact, Alison collaborates with clients on impact reports, marketing copy, web content, and digital publications in English and Spanish, demonstrating her commitment to positive change.
Phylicia French
Phylicia French, hailing from Galveston, Texas, is a multifaceted individual—an author, entrepreneur, international breakthrough coach, and podcast host. She is passionate about providing motivation and encouragement tailored to real-life challenges. With degrees in Sociology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Phylicia draws on her extensive background as a university academic advisor and coach spanning a decade. Despite facing emotional wounds and a fibromyalgia diagnosis upon her return from working abroad, Phylicia navigated her healing journey with the support of her loved ones, counseling, writing, and ultimately, resigning from her full-time job. Through her coaching and writing, she empowers others to break through barriers and embrace their true greatness.
Wael Anwar Nour
This bilingual professional excels in project management, data analysis, and financial expertise. Skilled in Microsoft packages and BI tools, they create impactful dashboards and reports, showcasing expertise in stakeholder management and data transformation. Currently a Data Analyst in the NHS England national Diagnostic team, their insights inform decision-making and support improvement initiatives. Notably, as Project Lead at Imperial College, they implemented innovative solutions in healthcare, reducing lost income and debt. Their exceptional communication and attention to detail drive success and make them a valuable asset in any role.
Gesu Antonio Baez
Gesù Antonio Baez is the Founder and Chief Political Advisor of Pax Tecum Global Consultancy in London, specializing in diplomatic mediation and impact assessments for companies in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. With over 10 years of international experience, he has led development and diplomatic programs and served as Champion Representative for UN Women. Baez is a renowned speaker at events like TEDx and a prolific foreign affairs writer, analyzing US foreign policy and the Middle East for various publications. Additionally, he advocates for the inclusion of mixed-race Italians and Italians of foreign origin in classrooms as a member of the Board of Directors for Teach for Italy, part of the Teach for All network.
Katherine Milton
Katherine, a passionate educator, advocates for global education reform rooted in compassion and personalized learning. With a background in modern and mediaeval languages from The University of Cambridge and a Masters in Education from the University of Manchester, she emphasizes language and cultural understanding for meaningful connections. Her teaching approach centers on adapting curricula to a self-paced mastery model, focusing on learners’ holistic well-being. Katherine, based in the UK, conducts international research, supports action research projects in schools, and serves as a governor for a Multi-Academy Trust school. She is also an author, TEDx speaker, and secondary teacher of French and Spanish.
Evan Estrada
Evan Sulpizio Estrada, an 18-year-old global advocate, is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and peace through his passion for languages, travel, and storytelling. He hosts the podcast “Evan Worldwide: Global Youth Perspectives,” which features impactful interviews with young individuals worldwide. Recognized for his cultural contributions, Evan received the 2022 Anthem Silver Award for Young Leader of the Year and a Webby Nomination for his documentary “Refugee Food Festival.” As the First Youth Ambassador for The Peace Studio, he mobilizes young people globally to promote peace and positive change. Currently studying International Relations and Film/Media Studies at Tufts University, Evan continues his mission to create a more peaceful society through advocacy and leadership.
Pumla Maswanganyi
Pumla Maswanganyi is a versatile artist, designer, and sustainable development practitioner whose practice merges art, innovation, and underrepresented stories. With a global perspective shaped by living on five continents, she strives to create transformative experiences, particularly for marginalized communities. As the Founding Principal of MM+co, she leads a life-centered design agency and has held executive positions in organizations focusing on sustainable development and accessible EdTech for children in remote areas. Pumla collaborates with influential entities such as UN Women and the African Union, co-designing empathetic solutions in healthcare and future strategies. A respected speaker, she has shared her insights at prestigious venues like the Clinton Foundation and EU:Africa, discussing topics from African Creative Industries to Meaningful Inclusive Innovation. Pumla’s purpose is to foster a world where creativity, inclusivity, and humanity prevail, reflecting the diversity of the continent she represents.
Muataz Nour
Muataz is a dedicated social work professional with over seven years of experience. His passion for empowering individuals started in 2008 when he volunteered in a supplementary school, sparking his commitment to social justice. He has worked extensively with ex-offenders, guiding them towards societal reintegration and advocating for their rights. Muataz earned his bachelor’s degree in social work in 2017 and excels in establishing positive relationships with service users and their families. His expertise in Adult Social Care legislation, strong communication skills, and commitment to professional development make him adept at handling complex situations.
Kudzai Mukaratirwa
Kudzai is a seasoned development consultant with 7 years of experience at international organizations like the United Nations, NGOs, and Civil Society. His expertise lies in youth development, peace, justice, and security. Currently at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, he focuses on education programs for youth crime prevention and strengthening juvenile criminal justice systems in Eastern and Southern Africa. Kudzai is passionate about empowering young people, particularly those from vulnerable communities, and has a global perspective, having worked across Africa, the Middle East, and liaised with UN HQs in Europe and the USA. Outside work, he’s enthusiastic about languages and anthropology, exploring ways to foster mutual understanding, empathy, and respect among people.
Kristina Zittel
Kristina Zittel is a dedicated young professional passionate about addressing challenges related to youth and the environment. Currently working at UNICEF, she has been involved in scaling up initiatives like the Youth Agency Marketplace (Yoma) and Africa Drone and Data Academy (ADDA) since 2020. Prior to her role at UNICEF, she worked at the World Bank’s Agriculture and Food Global Practice and co-founded Harvest Malawi, an organization promoting sustainable agriculture practices in rural Malawi. Kristina holds a dual Master’s Degree from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service & the McCourt School of Public Policy (MSFS/MPP) and a B.A. in Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Austin.
Kishor Kumar Das
A Bangladeshi entrepreneur and corporate professional, now a charity leader residing in Peru, he possesses extensive experience in product and churn management in the telecommunications sector. He has held key roles, including Commercial Director at “Cloudware360 SAC” in Peru and Head of Marketing at “OLO del Peru S.A.C”. With a diverse background in various sectors both in Bangladesh and Latin America, his impact on business development has been significant. Over the past decade, he has been actively involved in social causes related to education, healthcare, shelter, refugees, migration, and capacity building. He is the founder and chairman of the “Bidyanondo Foundation,” a charitable organization recognized with Bangladesh’s second-highest civilian award, the “Ekushey Padak,” in 2023. Additionally, he was honored as a “Commonwealth Points of Light” by Queen Elizabeth-II in 2022 for his exceptional voluntary services.
Abu Hasanath
Mr. Abu Hasnath Dipu, a computer engineer turned humanitarian worker, has been dedicated to community development since 2016. As the Head of Project Management at Bidyanondo Foundation, he focuses on education, food distribution, women’s empowerment, and disaster relief. With a background in volunteering and club activities during his tertiary education, Dipu played a crucial role in the battle against COVID-19, managing relief distribution and ensuring the human rights of underprivileged children. He currently leads efforts to support individuals in becoming self-employed and self-sufficient, empowering families through various small businesses and trades. His work has transformed the lives of thousands, fostering self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Md Salman Khan
Md Salman Khan, currently the Head of Image and Communication at Bidyanondo Foundation, has dedicated himself to supporting underprivileged communities, starting his journey through volunteering and club activities during his tertiary education. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Salman actively contributed by providing medical care, food, and other essentials to those in need. His expertise extends to embedded system design for physically challenged individuals, and he serves on the advisory boards of various research communities in Bangladesh. Additionally, Salman excels in social content creation, public relations, and marketing. As a passionate advocate for human rights, particularly for underprivileged children, he will share his story as a young leader addressing inequality and disparity.