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"To me, Black Lives Matter is more than just a hashtag on a marketing piece-- it means lowering the barriers for inclusion and opportunity, and allowing people of all backgrounds to aspire to their greatest potential-- and Tech with all of its’ promise and aspirations-- has yet to achieve that!"
- Daryll Paiva, Founder, DEITECH Conference
LEARN THE STRATEGIES TO DRIVE DEI CHANGE IN JUST 3 DAYS
DEITECH Conference is a transformative, 3 day virtual event (+30 days on demand access), packed with powerful, immersive learning experiences and networking opportunities. Come engage with world-renowned thought leaders, sharing their knowledge and insights on race, diversity, equity, inclusion, intersectionality, and the impacts of each in today's environment. Learn real world, actionable strategies you can utilize in order to unleash the power of inclusion within your organization-- and your life.
KEYNOTES & SPEAKERS
We are proud to present over 30 world-renowned activists, educators, and thought leaders
JODI-ANN BUREY
Thought Leader, TEDx Speaker, Writer
Jodi-Ann Burey is a sought-after speaker and writer who works at the intersections of race, culture, and health equity. She is the creator and host of Black Cancer, a podcast about the lives of people of color through their cancer journeys. Her TEDx talk, “Why You Should Not Bring Your Authentic Self to Work,” embodies her disruption of traditional narratives about racism at work.
Jodi-Ann Burey is a sought-after speaker and writer who works at the intersections of race, culture, and health equity. She is the creator and host of Black Cancer, a podcast about the lives of people of color through their cancer journeys. Her TEDx talk, “Why You Should Not Bring Your Authentic Self to Work,” embodies her disruption of traditional narratives about racism at work.
CYNTHIA OWYOUNG
Robinhood- VP of Inclusion, Equity, and Belonging
Cynthia Owyoung is Robinhood’s Vice President of Inclusion, Equity and Belonging, partnering with business leaders, employee resource groups and the people experience team to support Robinhood’s mission to democratize finance for all.
Cynthia is also the Founder of Breaking Glass Forums, developing strategies to accelerate diverse leadership and inclusive organizations. She has established and led diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives for over 15 years as an executive at organizations in multiple industries, including Charles Schwab, GitHub, and Yahoo!. Cynthia is known for driving cultural transformations, integrating a diversity and inclusion lens into all aspects of a company from talent management to product development.
Prior to her calling in human resources, Cynthia launched a strategic planning consultancy, increasing the capabilities of nonprofit and for-profit organizations in organizational development, brand marketing, and business strategy. She also built a decade-long career as a Brand Strategist for leading global brands and advertising agencies, developing campaigns for Microsoft, Levi Strauss, and Apple.
Cynthia currently serves on the Board of Directors for AbilityPath, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering people with special needs to achieve their full potential. She earned an MBA in organizational behavior from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, a bachelor’s in marketing and finance from UC Berkeley’s Haas Business School, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, also from UC Berkeley.
Cynthia Owyoung is Robinhood’s Vice President of Inclusion, Equity and Belonging, partnering with business leaders, employee resource groups and the people experience team to support Robinhood’s mission to democratize finance for all.
Cynthia is also the Founder of Breaking Glass Forums, developing strategies to accelerate diverse leadership and inclusive organizations. She has established and led diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives for over 15 years as an executive at organizations in multiple industries, including Charles Schwab, GitHub, and Yahoo!. Cynthia is known for driving cultural transformations, integrating a diversity and inclusion lens into all aspects of a company from talent management to product development.
Prior to her calling in human resources, Cynthia launched a strategic planning consultancy, increasing the capabilities of nonprofit and for-profit organizations in organizational development, brand marketing, and business strategy. She also built a decade-long career as a Brand Strategist for leading global brands and advertising agencies, developing campaigns for Microsoft, Levi Strauss, and Apple.
Cynthia currently serves on the Board of Directors for AbilityPath, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering people with special needs to achieve their full potential. She earned an MBA in organizational behavior from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, a bachelor’s in marketing and finance from UC Berkeley’s Haas Business School, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, also from UC Berkeley.
VICTOR SCOTTI
Netflix- Global Emerging Talent Program Manager
Victor Anthony Scotti, Jr. is a Black student advocate, talent developer, entrepreneur, and Global Emerging Talent Program Manager at Netflix. He has over a decade of global expertise in crafting community-specific strategies that integrate employee experience and belonging with business needs. Victor’s niche is in creating courageous spaces in the workplace so employees feel comfortable, supported, and encouraged to be as bold, brave and authentic as they wish in bringing their best selves to the workplace. Additionally, Victor is the Founder and Chief Inspiration Officer of Moving Mountains LLC, an accelerator for Black college men to equip them for personal and professional alignment in Corporate America’s Fortune 500 companies.
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, Victor graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Sociology, Urban Education, and Africana Studies and holds a certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Loyola University Chicago’s Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise & Responsibility. Victor is a proud financially-active life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Iota Delta Lambda Chapter and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Raymond Pace Alexander Scholarship Foundation, Inc. through his chapter of initiation, Psi. Additionally, he is the Head of Career Coaching for re:work Training, whose mission is to provide workforce training for overlooked communities in Chicago. Victor also loves mentoring and is a “Big Brother” to his Little, Nahzeer.
Victor is an avid reader, writer, traveler, and Black children’s book collector. He regularly moderates and speaks on panels and webinars, and his writing coalesces around workplace inclusion and the Black male experience in The Black in HR Magazine, Huffington Post, Jopwell’s The Well, Abernathy, and Mused. He is most passionate about helping Black men and boys bolster their agency and self-efficacy in the workplace.
Victor Anthony Scotti, Jr. is a Black student advocate, talent developer, entrepreneur, and Global Emerging Talent Program Manager at Netflix. He has over a decade of global expertise in crafting community-specific strategies that integrate employee experience and belonging with business needs. Victor’s niche is in creating courageous spaces in the workplace so employees feel comfortable, supported, and encouraged to be as bold, brave and authentic as they wish in bringing their best selves to the workplace. Additionally, Victor is the Founder and Chief Inspiration Officer of Moving Mountains LLC, an accelerator for Black college men to equip them for personal and professional alignment in Corporate America’s Fortune 500 companies.
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, Victor graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Sociology, Urban Education, and Africana Studies and holds a certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Loyola University Chicago’s Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise & Responsibility. Victor is a proud financially-active life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Iota Delta Lambda Chapter and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Raymond Pace Alexander Scholarship Foundation, Inc. through his chapter of initiation, Psi. Additionally, he is the Head of Career Coaching for re:work Training, whose mission is to provide workforce training for overlooked communities in Chicago. Victor also loves mentoring and is a “Big Brother” to his Little, Nahzeer.
Victor is an avid reader, writer, traveler, and Black children’s book collector. He regularly moderates and speaks on panels and webinars, and his writing coalesces around workplace inclusion and the Black male experience in The Black in HR Magazine, Huffington Post, Jopwell’s The Well, Abernathy, and Mused. He is most passionate about helping Black men and boys bolster their agency and self-efficacy in the workplace.
ELIZABETH LEIBA
Professor, Founder, LinkedIn Top Voice, Co-host The EdUp
Experience
College Professor with more than ten years experience teaching American literature and history at several colleges and universities including Broward College, Miami-Dade College, Florida State College-Jacksonville, and Keiser University.
Instructional Design Manager with seven years experience developing and deploying online college courses.
Founder and course developer for Black History & Culture Academy a subscription-based, unlimited access, e-learning platform with 20+ self-paced courses on African history and literature, African-American history and literature, and Diversity, Equity, and inclusion
LinkedIn Top Voice, Education - October 2020
Social Justice Advocate with CNN Op-Ed piece published November 2020, featured interview published in NY Times October 2020, and Forbes Magazine interview published December 2020
Podcast Co-host for The EdUp Experience podcast with more than 140 episodes and 30,000 downloads in the past year
Experience
College Professor with more than ten years experience teaching American literature and history at several colleges and universities including Broward College, Miami-Dade College, Florida State College-Jacksonville, and Keiser University.
Instructional Design Manager with seven years experience developing and deploying online college courses.
Founder and course developer for Black History & Culture Academy a subscription-based, unlimited access, e-learning platform with 20+ self-paced courses on African history and literature, African-American history and literature, and Diversity, Equity, and inclusion
LinkedIn Top Voice, Education - October 2020
Social Justice Advocate with CNN Op-Ed piece published November 2020, featured interview published in NY Times October 2020, and Forbes Magazine interview published December 2020
Podcast Co-host for The EdUp Experience podcast with more than 140 episodes and 30,000 downloads in the past year
KIMBERLY JONES
CEO- Kelton Legend/ Senior Director, UC Irvine
Kimberly Jones is a native of Columbus, OH and is fortunate to have lived and worked across the country. She is a proud graduate of Wilberforce University and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Management. The entirety of her professional career has been spent in Human Resources, specifically Talent Acquisition, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She has worked for some of the most globally recognized corporate brands including Nationwide Insurance Company, Honda, Raytheon, GE Aviation, Northrop Grumman, and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Kimberly has managed talent acquisition teams dedicated to the pursuit of talent in a multitude of career disciplines: Accounting, Actuary, Engineering, Science, and Operations. Reflective of these career disciplines, Kimberly proudly boasts that she has staffed positions on all 7 continents. Most notable of her accomplishments is the successful completion of a 6-week deployment to Antarctica, including 3 days at South Pole. Additionally, she previously held a Top Secret Security Clearance.
Kimberly has always been a fearless advocate for diversity and has managed programs in support of INROADS, Tom Joyner Foundation, Hispanic Scholarship Fund, United Negro College Fund, National Black MBA, Society of Women Engineers, Reaching out MBA, National Society of Hispanic MBAs, National Society of Black Engineers, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and American Indian Scientist and Engineering Society.
After having spent 20+ years as a member of corporate teams Kimberly founded Kelton Legend in February 2017. Kelton Legend is a multi-dimensional talent acquisition consulting organization focused in the areas of talent acquisition strategy, process, resource management, diversity, career coaching, and HR technology. Kelton Legend is partnered with a number of technology companies across the talent acquisition space. Kimberly has spoken at numerous industry conferences such as National Diversity Council, ERE, Smart Recruiters, and Human Capital Institute.
In an effort to expand her career Kimberly joined University of California, Irvine November 2017 as an Instructor in the Department of Continuing Education teaching a course on Technology Applications in Talent Management. She was selected for a new appointment and joined the Human Resources Division full time July 2020 and now serves as Senior Director, Enterprise Talent Strategy, which includes the UCI campus, hospital, and medical college.
Kimberly Jones is a native of Columbus, OH and is fortunate to have lived and worked across the country. She is a proud graduate of Wilberforce University and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Management. The entirety of her professional career has been spent in Human Resources, specifically Talent Acquisition, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She has worked for some of the most globally recognized corporate brands including Nationwide Insurance Company, Honda, Raytheon, GE Aviation, Northrop Grumman, and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Kimberly has managed talent acquisition teams dedicated to the pursuit of talent in a multitude of career disciplines: Accounting, Actuary, Engineering, Science, and Operations. Reflective of these career disciplines, Kimberly proudly boasts that she has staffed positions on all 7 continents. Most notable of her accomplishments is the successful completion of a 6-week deployment to Antarctica, including 3 days at South Pole. Additionally, she previously held a Top Secret Security Clearance.
Kimberly has always been a fearless advocate for diversity and has managed programs in support of INROADS, Tom Joyner Foundation, Hispanic Scholarship Fund, United Negro College Fund, National Black MBA, Society of Women Engineers, Reaching out MBA, National Society of Hispanic MBAs, National Society of Black Engineers, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and American Indian Scientist and Engineering Society.
After having spent 20+ years as a member of corporate teams Kimberly founded Kelton Legend in February 2017. Kelton Legend is a multi-dimensional talent acquisition consulting organization focused in the areas of talent acquisition strategy, process, resource management, diversity, career coaching, and HR technology. Kelton Legend is partnered with a number of technology companies across the talent acquisition space. Kimberly has spoken at numerous industry conferences such as National Diversity Council, ERE, Smart Recruiters, and Human Capital Institute.
In an effort to expand her career Kimberly joined University of California, Irvine November 2017 as an Instructor in the Department of Continuing Education teaching a course on Technology Applications in Talent Management. She was selected for a new appointment and joined the Human Resources Division full time July 2020 and now serves as Senior Director, Enterprise Talent Strategy, which includes the UCI campus, hospital, and medical college.
KAREN PERHAM-LIPPMAN
Lumen Technologies- Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Program Manager
Oversees Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging programs for Lumen, a Fortune 200 leader in the technology sector. An award winning, distinguished community leader, national public speaker, scholar, and practitioner, Ms. Perham-Lippman is a mission-driven business strategist with over ten years of demonstrated strategic and processing thinking results in diversity, equity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility, community outreach and employee engagement.
With an expertise stemming from scholarly and practitioner based consultative experience with nonprofit, business, state government and municipal clients, Karen prioritizes relationship-building and service in order to design effective strategies for integrating DEI principles into organizational practices.
Formerly, serving in a governor appointed role as Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). Ms. Perham-Lippman oversaw a wide range of subject matter including liquor control, drug control, legal gaming, foods and standards, and product safety, where she bridged interdepartmental and interagency employees and teams and worked across all divisions to oversee human resources DEI strategies, operations, and the implementation of continuous improvement strategies for both the employee and consumer experience. She also provided leadership on the Governor’s statewide process improvement steering committee, Marketing, Public Relations, and Communications Subcommittees.
Prior to DCP, she was the Manager of Community Investment for Comcast’s Western New England Region, where she served as a corporate liaison to the community, local government and regulatory authorities, shareholders, and employees, developing and managing regional investment strategies. Under her leadership, employee engagement grew by 43% reaching nearly 100% expanding non-profit partnerships across five states delivering programs serving marginalized communities. She directed impacting programs generating $20M for community partners meeting diversity and inclusion metrics and program initiatives and provided guidance and support for the development and execution of regional employee resource groups (ERGs); Veterans, Womens and Young Professionals Networks; including the development of an internal employee mentoring program and community impact projects to support underserved communities.
Prior to joining Comcast, Ms. Perham-Lippman served as the Corporate Social Responsibility Focal at Bombardier Aerospace implementing educational, environmental, and entrepreneurial initiatives; including the “Inspiring Future Aviators,” program she designed to provide aviation education, history, and technology topics, creating pipeline for middle and high school girls in STEM in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Ms. Perham-Lippman also served on Bombardier’s international “Passion for Flight” committee assisting in developing a global aviation educational module with Discovery for secondary education students.
Ms. Perham-Lippman, holds a Diversity and Inclusion Professional Certification from Cornell University ILR School. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut and received her Master’s in Science Business Management and Organizational Leadership at Albertus Magnus, receiving Honors distinction as well as the 2017 Albertus Magnus College Leadership Excellence Award. Ms. Perham-Lippman is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Eastern University and resides in Northglenn, Colorado with her three sons.
Awards & Recognition
United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, Dr. Frederick G. Adams Community Service Award, 2018
National ALICE Forum, for dedication to serving youth and families in poverty, National Press Club, 2018
United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, Campaign Coordinator of the Year, 2016
Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, Sister of the Year, 2015
New Britain Board of Education & Superintendent of Schools, Friend of the School (Lincoln Elementary), 2015
United Way of Greater New Haven, Volunteer of the Year, 2015
Women in Cable Television - New England, Volunteer of the Year Award, 2014 & Emerging Leader Management, 2013
Connecticut Parent Information & Resource Center and SERC, Parental Involvement Recognition Award, 2013
.
Boards & Volunteer Service
Mile High United Way, Denver, Colorado, Women United Executive Leadership Council (2019 – Present)
United Way National ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) Poverty Project,
ALICE Legislative Forum Committee and National Speaker, (2018 – Present)
Women United Leadership Council & Campaign Cabinet Member (2018 – 2020)
Regional Advisory Board Member, New Britain & Berlin (2013-2017)
Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut,
Board of Trustees Member (2017-2018), Big Sister, (2012 – 2019)
Easter Seals Capital Region and Eastern Connecticut,
Board of Trustees Member (2013-Present), Chairwoman (2016-2017), Vice Chairwoman (2014-2016)
Hartford Public Schools,
Chairwoman (2018 – 2019), Student Governance Council (2014 – 2017)
Women in Cable Television, New England, Executive Board Member, (2014-2017)
Connecticut Women’s Council, Board Member, (2016-2017)
YMCA of Greater Hartford, Executive Board Member & Chair of Finance Committee, (2014-2016)
Oversees Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging programs for Lumen, a Fortune 200 leader in the technology sector. An award winning, distinguished community leader, national public speaker, scholar, and practitioner, Ms. Perham-Lippman is a mission-driven business strategist with over ten years of demonstrated strategic and processing thinking results in diversity, equity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility, community outreach and employee engagement.
With an expertise stemming from scholarly and practitioner based consultative experience with nonprofit, business, state government and municipal clients, Karen prioritizes relationship-building and service in order to design effective strategies for integrating DEI principles into organizational practices.
Formerly, serving in a governor appointed role as Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). Ms. Perham-Lippman oversaw a wide range of subject matter including liquor control, drug control, legal gaming, foods and standards, and product safety, where she bridged interdepartmental and interagency employees and teams and worked across all divisions to oversee human resources DEI strategies, operations, and the implementation of continuous improvement strategies for both the employee and consumer experience. She also provided leadership on the Governor’s statewide process improvement steering committee, Marketing, Public Relations, and Communications Subcommittees.
Prior to DCP, she was the Manager of Community Investment for Comcast’s Western New England Region, where she served as a corporate liaison to the community, local government and regulatory authorities, shareholders, and employees, developing and managing regional investment strategies. Under her leadership, employee engagement grew by 43% reaching nearly 100% expanding non-profit partnerships across five states delivering programs serving marginalized communities. She directed impacting programs generating $20M for community partners meeting diversity and inclusion metrics and program initiatives and provided guidance and support for the development and execution of regional employee resource groups (ERGs); Veterans, Womens and Young Professionals Networks; including the development of an internal employee mentoring program and community impact projects to support underserved communities.
Prior to joining Comcast, Ms. Perham-Lippman served as the Corporate Social Responsibility Focal at Bombardier Aerospace implementing educational, environmental, and entrepreneurial initiatives; including the “Inspiring Future Aviators,” program she designed to provide aviation education, history, and technology topics, creating pipeline for middle and high school girls in STEM in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Ms. Perham-Lippman also served on Bombardier’s international “Passion for Flight” committee assisting in developing a global aviation educational module with Discovery for secondary education students.
Ms. Perham-Lippman, holds a Diversity and Inclusion Professional Certification from Cornell University ILR School. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut and received her Master’s in Science Business Management and Organizational Leadership at Albertus Magnus, receiving Honors distinction as well as the 2017 Albertus Magnus College Leadership Excellence Award. Ms. Perham-Lippman is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Eastern University and resides in Northglenn, Colorado with her three sons.
Awards & Recognition
United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, Dr. Frederick G. Adams Community Service Award, 2018
National ALICE Forum, for dedication to serving youth and families in poverty, National Press Club, 2018
United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, Campaign Coordinator of the Year, 2016
Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, Sister of the Year, 2015
New Britain Board of Education & Superintendent of Schools, Friend of the School (Lincoln Elementary), 2015
United Way of Greater New Haven, Volunteer of the Year, 2015
Women in Cable Television - New England, Volunteer of the Year Award, 2014 & Emerging Leader Management, 2013
Connecticut Parent Information & Resource Center and SERC, Parental Involvement Recognition Award, 2013
.
Boards & Volunteer Service
Mile High United Way, Denver, Colorado, Women United Executive Leadership Council (2019 – Present)
United Way National ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) Poverty Project,
ALICE Legislative Forum Committee and National Speaker, (2018 – Present)
Women United Leadership Council & Campaign Cabinet Member (2018 – 2020)
Regional Advisory Board Member, New Britain & Berlin (2013-2017)
Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut,
Board of Trustees Member (2017-2018), Big Sister, (2012 – 2019)
Easter Seals Capital Region and Eastern Connecticut,
Board of Trustees Member (2013-Present), Chairwoman (2016-2017), Vice Chairwoman (2014-2016)
Hartford Public Schools,
Chairwoman (2018 – 2019), Student Governance Council (2014 – 2017)
Women in Cable Television, New England, Executive Board Member, (2014-2017)
Connecticut Women’s Council, Board Member, (2016-2017)
YMCA of Greater Hartford, Executive Board Member & Chair of Finance Committee, (2014-2016)
DR. NIKA WHITE
Forbes Top10 D&I Trailblazer
Dr. Nika White is a national authority and fearless advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As an award-winning management and leadership consultant, keynote speaker, published author, and executive practitioner for DEI efforts across business, government, non-profit, and education, Dr. White helps organizations break barriers and integrate diversity into their business frameworks. Her work has led to designation by Forbes as a Top10 D&I Trailblazer.
Dr. Nika White is a national authority and fearless advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As an award-winning management and leadership consultant, keynote speaker, published author, and executive practitioner for DEI efforts across business, government, non-profit, and education, Dr. White helps organizations break barriers and integrate diversity into their business frameworks. Her work has led to designation by Forbes as a Top10 D&I Trailblazer.
LILY ZHENG
Author, Speaker, DEI Consultant and Executive Coach, Forbes D&I Trailblazer-
Lily Zheng (they/them, she/her) is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Consultant and Executive Coach who works with organizations around the world to create high-impact and sustainable change. With their clients, they leverage organizational design, strategy, and culture to find novel solutions to systemic inequalities. A dedicated change-maker and advocate recently named a Forbes D&I Trailblazer, Lily writes for publications including the Harvard Business Review, Berrett-Koehler, and HR Executive. They recently published their second book, The Ethical Sellout: Maintaining Your Integrity in the Age of Compromise.
Lily Zheng (they/them, she/her) is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Consultant and Executive Coach who works with organizations around the world to create high-impact and sustainable change. With their clients, they leverage organizational design, strategy, and culture to find novel solutions to systemic inequalities. A dedicated change-maker and advocate recently named a Forbes D&I Trailblazer, Lily writes for publications including the Harvard Business Review, Berrett-Koehler, and HR Executive. They recently published their second book, The Ethical Sellout: Maintaining Your Integrity in the Age of Compromise.
GARY L. DAVIS
Greenhouse Software- DE&I Advisory Director
Gary L. Davis (he/him), DE&I Advisory Director at Greenhouse Software, is a talent management and diversity leader with 10 years of expertise in strategy, engagement and program management in tech, nonprofit and education advocacy landscapes. He is passionate about integrating DE&I across the employee lifecycle to maximize engagement and organizational eectiveness.
Gary L. Davis (he/him), DE&I Advisory Director at Greenhouse Software, is a talent management and diversity leader with 10 years of expertise in strategy, engagement and program management in tech, nonprofit and education advocacy landscapes. He is passionate about integrating DE&I across the employee lifecycle to maximize engagement and organizational eectiveness.
FARZIN FARZAD
Owner and Principal
Critical Equity Consulting, LLC
Farzin Farzad is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practitioner with experience in higher education, local government and the private sector. Holding two master's degrees in international affairs and diplomacy as well as a certificate in conflict resolution skills, Farzin leverages his unique academic background, extensive travel experience, and experiential knowledge to provide comprehensive, thought-provoking local and global approaches to DEI work. Farzin has developed a number of trainings and facilitated dialogues across a wide range of subjects from Respectful Workplaces to Anti-Racism Fundamentals to Bias Mitigation.
Along with DEI training and education programs, Farzin is a seasoned DEI project manager with expertise in developing strategies that build equitable workplace environments, equitable government services, as well as Employee Resource Group events and programs. Currently, Farzin is the owner and principal of Critical Equity Consulting, LLC, a boutique DEI consulting firm focused on helping organizations rebuild with a primary focus on creating equitable outcomes.
In addition to his DEI work, Farzin serves on the Fairfax County Government Civil Service Commission and was recently appointed board member of Service Never Sleeps, a northern Virginia-based non-profit focused on social justice advocacy. A list of Farzin’s media engagements and articles can be found at criticalequity.com
Farzin’s experience includes:
5+ years working in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion area with a background in advocating for global minority rights;
Specialization in equity-focused workplace training programs (details below);
DEI project management with an emphasis on structural change, including:
Development of bottom-up DEI initiatives through employee resource group framework,
Development of diversity and inclusion committees, and
Equity audit of organizational practices.
Review of recruitment strategies targeting diversity in the workforce;
Experience building racial equity in local government;
Member of the Fairfax County Civil Service Commission; and
Recent graduate of Anti-Defamation League Glass Leadership Institute.
About Critical Equity Consulting
Critical Equity Consulting, LLC, was developed with the goal of centering equity and justice in DEI. We are a boutique, Virginia-based consultancy that uses a systems-oriented approach to probe critically into daily operations in order to bring about revolutionary progress to your organization. Our approach is to focus on foundation, values, and structure, helping you rebuild into an institution that focuses on equitable outcomes for your workforce and the clients you serve. With the right framework and training, creating dynamic and inclusive working environments can blossom organically, allowing you to catalyze a more healthy and psychologically safe workplace. Once this solidarity is achieved, a mission-driven organization that centers employee well-being naturally translates to an institution that delivers the best outcomes for your clients.
Critical Equity Consulting, LLC
Farzin Farzad is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practitioner with experience in higher education, local government and the private sector. Holding two master's degrees in international affairs and diplomacy as well as a certificate in conflict resolution skills, Farzin leverages his unique academic background, extensive travel experience, and experiential knowledge to provide comprehensive, thought-provoking local and global approaches to DEI work. Farzin has developed a number of trainings and facilitated dialogues across a wide range of subjects from Respectful Workplaces to Anti-Racism Fundamentals to Bias Mitigation.
Along with DEI training and education programs, Farzin is a seasoned DEI project manager with expertise in developing strategies that build equitable workplace environments, equitable government services, as well as Employee Resource Group events and programs. Currently, Farzin is the owner and principal of Critical Equity Consulting, LLC, a boutique DEI consulting firm focused on helping organizations rebuild with a primary focus on creating equitable outcomes.
In addition to his DEI work, Farzin serves on the Fairfax County Government Civil Service Commission and was recently appointed board member of Service Never Sleeps, a northern Virginia-based non-profit focused on social justice advocacy. A list of Farzin’s media engagements and articles can be found at criticalequity.com
Farzin’s experience includes:
5+ years working in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion area with a background in advocating for global minority rights;
Specialization in equity-focused workplace training programs (details below);
DEI project management with an emphasis on structural change, including:
Development of bottom-up DEI initiatives through employee resource group framework,
Development of diversity and inclusion committees, and
Equity audit of organizational practices.
Review of recruitment strategies targeting diversity in the workforce;
Experience building racial equity in local government;
Member of the Fairfax County Civil Service Commission; and
Recent graduate of Anti-Defamation League Glass Leadership Institute.
About Critical Equity Consulting
Critical Equity Consulting, LLC, was developed with the goal of centering equity and justice in DEI. We are a boutique, Virginia-based consultancy that uses a systems-oriented approach to probe critically into daily operations in order to bring about revolutionary progress to your organization. Our approach is to focus on foundation, values, and structure, helping you rebuild into an institution that focuses on equitable outcomes for your workforce and the clients you serve. With the right framework and training, creating dynamic and inclusive working environments can blossom organically, allowing you to catalyze a more healthy and psychologically safe workplace. Once this solidarity is achieved, a mission-driven organization that centers employee well-being naturally translates to an institution that delivers the best outcomes for your clients.
SHANA SUMERS
HubSpot- Principal Marketing Manager, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Community Programs at HubSpot.
Shana is a black, queer womxn who is the Principal Marketing Manager, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Community Programs at HubSpot. Shana has experience launching diverse spaces and initiatives within online communities. Shana is also the creator and co-host for the podcast “Bad Queers” which discusses breaking stereotypes in the LGBTQ+ community, served with a big side of shade. Shana has had the opportunity to speak on multiple panels (as panelist and moderator), podcasts, private events and stages as both a speaker and keynote speaker. Shana has been recognized as a community leader by CMX and App Growth Summit.
Shana is a black, queer womxn who is the Principal Marketing Manager, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Community Programs at HubSpot. Shana has experience launching diverse spaces and initiatives within online communities. Shana is also the creator and co-host for the podcast “Bad Queers” which discusses breaking stereotypes in the LGBTQ+ community, served with a big side of shade. Shana has had the opportunity to speak on multiple panels (as panelist and moderator), podcasts, private events and stages as both a speaker and keynote speaker. Shana has been recognized as a community leader by CMX and App Growth Summit.
MADISON BUTLER
VP of People + Impact at GRAV and COO for Seapine
She is a New Englander at heart but moved to Austin in 2017. Her work is focused around creating equitable spaces, talent, people development and on-boarding. She is an outspoken advocate for diversity, belonging and the ability to be human at work.
She is a self-proclaimed start-up enthusiast and is passionate about building inclusive teams from the ground up with early stage companies. Madison is committed to helping change the narrative around what it looks like to be “human at work”, and hoping to help alleviate unconscious bias in corporate America.
She is a New Englander at heart but moved to Austin in 2017. Her work is focused around creating equitable spaces, talent, people development and on-boarding. She is an outspoken advocate for diversity, belonging and the ability to be human at work.
She is a self-proclaimed start-up enthusiast and is passionate about building inclusive teams from the ground up with early stage companies. Madison is committed to helping change the narrative around what it looks like to be “human at work”, and hoping to help alleviate unconscious bias in corporate America.
ZACH NUNN
CEO/Founder Living Corporate, “Big 4” DEI Consultant, Thought Leader
Based out of Houston, TX, Zach Nunn is a “Big 4” Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant and thought leader, with over 9 years of experience leading cultural and organizational transformation in a variety of industries. As the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, Zach amplifies and centers marginalized voices at work by interviewing Black and brown executives, activists, educators, elected officials and influencers which provides practical insight and that reaches over 25 thousand majority Black and brown Millennial and Generation-X listeners a month. Despite all this work, his biggest passions are his wife, Candis and daughter, Emory.
Based out of Houston, TX, Zach Nunn is a “Big 4” Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant and thought leader, with over 9 years of experience leading cultural and organizational transformation in a variety of industries. As the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, Zach amplifies and centers marginalized voices at work by interviewing Black and brown executives, activists, educators, elected officials and influencers which provides practical insight and that reaches over 25 thousand majority Black and brown Millennial and Generation-X listeners a month. Despite all this work, his biggest passions are his wife, Candis and daughter, Emory.
DR. OMEKONGO DIBINGA
John Maxwell Team “Top 30 speaker”- International speaker and author
Dr. Omékongo Dibinga is the UPstander. His life’s mission is to inspire all across the globe to take a stand when they witness an injustice, no matter how small or large. A John Maxwell Team “Top 30 speaker”, he is an international speaker, trilingual poet, TV talk show host, rapper, and professor of Inter-cultural Communication at American University, where he also serves as a faculty affiliate to the Antiracist Research & Policy Center. His Urban Music Award winning work has best been described by Nikki Giovanni as “outstanding, exciting, and new while being very old.” His book, From the Limbs of My Poetree was described by Essence Magazine as “a remarkable and insightful collection of exquisite poetry that touches sacred places within your spirit.” He was one of 5 international recipients out of 750,000 to win the first ever “CNN iReport Spirit Award.” He has received over 1,000,000 views on CNN.com.
Omékongo’s writings and performances have appeared in O Magazine, as well as on TV and radio from CNN, BET, and the BBC to NPR, Music Choice, and Voice of America in millions of homes in over 150 countries. He has also written songs for major motion pictures as well as organizations such as NASA and the Enough! Project. He has spoken before the United Nations, partners with the State Department to conduct leadership trainings overseas, and speaks to corporate, government, and educational organizations across the country on issues centered on leadership, antiracism, diversity, and inclusion.
Omékongo’s music and writings have appeared alongside artists such as Sheryl Crow, Angelina Jolie, Norah Jones, Damien Rice, Angelique Kidjo, Don Cheadle, and Yassine Bey. He has shared the stage with Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, Martin Sheen, OutKast, Sonia Sanchez, The Last Poets, and NFL great Aaron Rodgers. Internationally, he has shared his work in over 20 countries on 3 continents.
Omékongo has studied at Harvard, MIT, Princeton, Georgetown, Morehouse, and The Fletcher School, where he earned his M.A. in Law & Diplomacy. He earned his Ph.D. in International Education Policy at The University of Maryland (UMD) where his dissertation centered on the global hip-hop phenomenon and JAY-Z. A book based on the dissertation is in the works. At UMD, he also worked with the Southern Poverty Law Center’s “Teaching Diverse Students Initiative.” Across the country he has worked with school districts on culturally relevant instruction including Washington DC, Texas, New York, Ohio, Florida, Massachusetts, and California. He worked for four years as the lead Teaching Assistant to Dr. Michael Eric Dyson at Georgetown University. He provides leadership, educational and diversity empowerment as a consultant and motivational speaker for organizations, associations and institutions.
Omékongo he has featured/lectured nationwide in venues from TEDx and Harvard to Russell Simmons’ Hip-Hop Summit and the Nuyorican Poets Café. His rap mixtape series “Bootleg”
promotes positive hip-hop with remixes of songs by Tupac, Notorious BIG, JAY-Z, Nas, 50 Cent, and others. His 1,000,000 Youth Campaign has directly impacted over 750,000 youth across the globe to date. He has also partnered with Intel on its campaign to make their computer processors free of minerals that come from the war in the Congo.
Omékongo has published and produced 7 books, 8-fusion music and motivational CDs, and one independent DVD. His motivational book G.R.O.W. Towards Your Greatness! 10 Steps to Living Your Best Life has received praise from great motivational speakers such as Les Brown and Willie Jolley. His most recent book “The UPstander’s Guide to an Outstanding Life” is a life balance book for students.
Dr. Omékongo Dibinga is the UPstander. His life’s mission is to inspire all across the globe to take a stand when they witness an injustice, no matter how small or large. A John Maxwell Team “Top 30 speaker”, he is an international speaker, trilingual poet, TV talk show host, rapper, and professor of Inter-cultural Communication at American University, where he also serves as a faculty affiliate to the Antiracist Research & Policy Center. His Urban Music Award winning work has best been described by Nikki Giovanni as “outstanding, exciting, and new while being very old.” His book, From the Limbs of My Poetree was described by Essence Magazine as “a remarkable and insightful collection of exquisite poetry that touches sacred places within your spirit.” He was one of 5 international recipients out of 750,000 to win the first ever “CNN iReport Spirit Award.” He has received over 1,000,000 views on CNN.com.
Omékongo’s writings and performances have appeared in O Magazine, as well as on TV and radio from CNN, BET, and the BBC to NPR, Music Choice, and Voice of America in millions of homes in over 150 countries. He has also written songs for major motion pictures as well as organizations such as NASA and the Enough! Project. He has spoken before the United Nations, partners with the State Department to conduct leadership trainings overseas, and speaks to corporate, government, and educational organizations across the country on issues centered on leadership, antiracism, diversity, and inclusion.
Omékongo’s music and writings have appeared alongside artists such as Sheryl Crow, Angelina Jolie, Norah Jones, Damien Rice, Angelique Kidjo, Don Cheadle, and Yassine Bey. He has shared the stage with Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, Martin Sheen, OutKast, Sonia Sanchez, The Last Poets, and NFL great Aaron Rodgers. Internationally, he has shared his work in over 20 countries on 3 continents.
Omékongo has studied at Harvard, MIT, Princeton, Georgetown, Morehouse, and The Fletcher School, where he earned his M.A. in Law & Diplomacy. He earned his Ph.D. in International Education Policy at The University of Maryland (UMD) where his dissertation centered on the global hip-hop phenomenon and JAY-Z. A book based on the dissertation is in the works. At UMD, he also worked with the Southern Poverty Law Center’s “Teaching Diverse Students Initiative.” Across the country he has worked with school districts on culturally relevant instruction including Washington DC, Texas, New York, Ohio, Florida, Massachusetts, and California. He worked for four years as the lead Teaching Assistant to Dr. Michael Eric Dyson at Georgetown University. He provides leadership, educational and diversity empowerment as a consultant and motivational speaker for organizations, associations and institutions.
Omékongo he has featured/lectured nationwide in venues from TEDx and Harvard to Russell Simmons’ Hip-Hop Summit and the Nuyorican Poets Café. His rap mixtape series “Bootleg”
promotes positive hip-hop with remixes of songs by Tupac, Notorious BIG, JAY-Z, Nas, 50 Cent, and others. His 1,000,000 Youth Campaign has directly impacted over 750,000 youth across the globe to date. He has also partnered with Intel on its campaign to make their computer processors free of minerals that come from the war in the Congo.
Omékongo has published and produced 7 books, 8-fusion music and motivational CDs, and one independent DVD. His motivational book G.R.O.W. Towards Your Greatness! 10 Steps to Living Your Best Life has received praise from great motivational speakers such as Les Brown and Willie Jolley. His most recent book “The UPstander’s Guide to an Outstanding Life” is a life balance book for students.
L. MICHELLE SMITH
CEO/Founder No Silos Communications, LLC.
L. Michelle Smith is the CEO/founder of no silos communications llc, the parent company for six media, content, talent development and strategic communications consulting brands, all fueled by tech. She has more than 25 years of experience as an elite, award-winning communicator and integrated marketer at global agencies, her own boutique agencies and a Fortune 10 technology, telecom and media company. She is a certified executive and business coach, principal of NSC Coaching, a professional private practice. She has worked with executives at American Express, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, AT&T, Lenovo, Zapier, Mary Kay, Warner Media, CNN and more.
She is also the lead trainer at NSC eLearning, a knowledge platform which houses online courses and other digital content for e-learning centered on leadership. Recently an official contributor to Black Enterprise, LMS is also the author of the recently released No Thanks, I’ll Just Include Myself: A Guide to Rockstar Leadership for Women of Color in the Workplace, available on Amazon. She is also the creator, executive producer and host of The Culture Soup Podcast® which is heard in 38 countries and has been consistently at the top of the rankings on Apple Podcasts in the Business/Business News and Business/Entrepreneurship categories. Black Enterprise editors named it one of the top 35 podcasts for 2019, and the show’s episode “The Coaching Corner” has also been added to LinkedIn LIVE, Facebook Watch, Twitter/Periscope and YouTube Live Events.
Previously, she raced to the officer ranks in no time in her career, making vice president before the age of 30. Then she “fell” into entrepreneurship, marking her agency’s million-dollar milestone in year 5. She’s held officer-level positions for about half her career, but most recently answered the call at Fortune 10 company AT&T to build their D&I corporate communications capability from scratch. She did that in two years, then built another innovative, award-winning business model to compliment it, inclusion marketing.
She is one of the most-sought after contemporary keynote speakers, facilitators, panelists and hosts on topics surrounding technology, business and culture, and has been featured across the country on some of the most important stages across multiple industries. She is an adjunct professor of strategic communications at the Texas Christian University Bob Schieffer College of Communications where she also sits on the Board of Visitors. She is also a member of the International Coaching
L. Michelle Smith is the CEO/founder of no silos communications llc, the parent company for six media, content, talent development and strategic communications consulting brands, all fueled by tech. She has more than 25 years of experience as an elite, award-winning communicator and integrated marketer at global agencies, her own boutique agencies and a Fortune 10 technology, telecom and media company. She is a certified executive and business coach, principal of NSC Coaching, a professional private practice. She has worked with executives at American Express, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, AT&T, Lenovo, Zapier, Mary Kay, Warner Media, CNN and more.
She is also the lead trainer at NSC eLearning, a knowledge platform which houses online courses and other digital content for e-learning centered on leadership. Recently an official contributor to Black Enterprise, LMS is also the author of the recently released No Thanks, I’ll Just Include Myself: A Guide to Rockstar Leadership for Women of Color in the Workplace, available on Amazon. She is also the creator, executive producer and host of The Culture Soup Podcast® which is heard in 38 countries and has been consistently at the top of the rankings on Apple Podcasts in the Business/Business News and Business/Entrepreneurship categories. Black Enterprise editors named it one of the top 35 podcasts for 2019, and the show’s episode “The Coaching Corner” has also been added to LinkedIn LIVE, Facebook Watch, Twitter/Periscope and YouTube Live Events.
Previously, she raced to the officer ranks in no time in her career, making vice president before the age of 30. Then she “fell” into entrepreneurship, marking her agency’s million-dollar milestone in year 5. She’s held officer-level positions for about half her career, but most recently answered the call at Fortune 10 company AT&T to build their D&I corporate communications capability from scratch. She did that in two years, then built another innovative, award-winning business model to compliment it, inclusion marketing.
She is one of the most-sought after contemporary keynote speakers, facilitators, panelists and hosts on topics surrounding technology, business and culture, and has been featured across the country on some of the most important stages across multiple industries. She is an adjunct professor of strategic communications at the Texas Christian University Bob Schieffer College of Communications where she also sits on the Board of Visitors. She is also a member of the International Coaching
LERON BARTON
International Speaker and Author
LeRon L. Barton is a writer from Kansas City, Missouri currently living in San Francisco, CA. A graduate of Paseo Academy of Fine Arts, LeRon is the author of two books, Straight Dope: A 360 degree look into American Drug Culture and All We Really Need Is Love: Stories of Dating, Relationships, Heartbreak, and Marriage. In addition to his books, LeRon is an essayist whose topics cover racism, mass incarceration, politics, gender, and dating. These works have appeared in Black Enterprise, Salon, Harvard Business Review, The Good Men Project, Your Tango, Media Diversity, Raconteur, Elephant Journal, East Bay Times, and MoAD. LeRon is an international speaker who has given multiple talks and appeared on TEDx, Al Jazeera, the University of San Francisco, Navis, Speakers Who Dare, Nas Dubai, Glide Memorial Church, The City of Cupertino, Los Altos Chamber of Commerce, Square, and Defy Ventures. In his spare time, LeRon enjoys mentoring African-American youth, teaching Creative Writing at the San Francisco County Jail, and backpacking around the world.
www.leronbarton.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leron-barton-cwna-2b700b1/
Facebook.com/LeRonLBarton
LeRon L. Barton is a writer from Kansas City, Missouri currently living in San Francisco, CA. A graduate of Paseo Academy of Fine Arts, LeRon is the author of two books, Straight Dope: A 360 degree look into American Drug Culture and All We Really Need Is Love: Stories of Dating, Relationships, Heartbreak, and Marriage. In addition to his books, LeRon is an essayist whose topics cover racism, mass incarceration, politics, gender, and dating. These works have appeared in Black Enterprise, Salon, Harvard Business Review, The Good Men Project, Your Tango, Media Diversity, Raconteur, Elephant Journal, East Bay Times, and MoAD. LeRon is an international speaker who has given multiple talks and appeared on TEDx, Al Jazeera, the University of San Francisco, Navis, Speakers Who Dare, Nas Dubai, Glide Memorial Church, The City of Cupertino, Los Altos Chamber of Commerce, Square, and Defy Ventures. In his spare time, LeRon enjoys mentoring African-American youth, teaching Creative Writing at the San Francisco County Jail, and backpacking around the world.
www.leronbarton.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leron-barton-cwna-2b700b1/
Facebook.com/LeRonLBarton
NICOLE TAY
Head of Marketing at Skynet Labs
Nicole Tay is the Head of Marketing at Skynet Labs, where she is helping build a new user-controlled decentralized internet. As a guiding principle, she leads with diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in maximizing the potential of decentralized technology to decentralize power.
Nicole is a graduate of Wellesley College and received her MPH from Columbia University in Epidemiology and the Social Determinants of Health. In her spare time, she writes and directs short films.
Nicole Tay is the Head of Marketing at Skynet Labs, where she is helping build a new user-controlled decentralized internet. As a guiding principle, she leads with diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in maximizing the potential of decentralized technology to decentralize power.
Nicole is a graduate of Wellesley College and received her MPH from Columbia University in Epidemiology and the Social Determinants of Health. In her spare time, she writes and directs short films.
PATRICE PALMER
Director of Social & Cultural Inclusion for the CSU College of Business, DEI Specialist for New Belgium Brewing Company
Patrice M. Palmer (they/them/theirs) hails from both the Sea Islands of South Carolina & Detroit, Michigan. Patrice is an award-winning DEI advocate, motivational speaker, and DEI strategist. Working in both academia as an adjunct professor of Organizational Leadership and the inaugural Director of Social & Cultural Inclusion for the College of Business, Patrice has also brought their talents to the U.S. craft beer industry where they are the inaugural DEI Specialist for New Belgium Brewing Company the 4th largest brewing company in the U.S. Voted as one of the Most Important Voices in craft beer by Hop Culture Magazine, Patrice has appeared on podcasts, panels, and other media speaking about intersectional leadership and workplace inclusion. As a United States Fellow of the RSA of London, Patrice’s passion has taken them internationally working with major agencies around the world in creating inclusive workplace cultures.
Patrice M. Palmer (they/them/theirs) hails from both the Sea Islands of South Carolina & Detroit, Michigan. Patrice is an award-winning DEI advocate, motivational speaker, and DEI strategist. Working in both academia as an adjunct professor of Organizational Leadership and the inaugural Director of Social & Cultural Inclusion for the College of Business, Patrice has also brought their talents to the U.S. craft beer industry where they are the inaugural DEI Specialist for New Belgium Brewing Company the 4th largest brewing company in the U.S. Voted as one of the Most Important Voices in craft beer by Hop Culture Magazine, Patrice has appeared on podcasts, panels, and other media speaking about intersectional leadership and workplace inclusion. As a United States Fellow of the RSA of London, Patrice’s passion has taken them internationally working with major agencies around the world in creating inclusive workplace cultures.
SACHA THOMPSON
Founder, The Equity Equation, LLC
Sacha Thompson is the founder of The Equity Equation, LLC, a diversity coaching and consulting firm based in the Washington, DC area. With nearly 20 years of experience within the education, non-profit, and tech industries, Sacha has seen the challenges faced by executives with good intentions struggling to make decisions around diversity; where executives are motivated to do the ‘right thing’ regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) but may be hindered by their own biases and fears. She’s also seen and experienced the damage endured by Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) employees when they feel they are not centered/valued in their company’s DEI efforts.
Sacha’s work is about removing barriers or providing support in order to get to a place of
equality. She helps executives and leaders have that meaningful dialogue and coach them to the necessary, long-term changes that develop institutional cultures of DEI.
Sacha is a Certified Professional Diversity Coach and 4 Stages of Psychological Safety Certified Coach. Sacha received her bachelor’s degree in Sociology, concentrating on Cultural Diversity & Ethnicity and a Master’s in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership from The College of William and Mary. She has also acquired her Masters of Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University, where she focused on
management and marketing.
Sacha Thompson is the founder of The Equity Equation, LLC, a diversity coaching and consulting firm based in the Washington, DC area. With nearly 20 years of experience within the education, non-profit, and tech industries, Sacha has seen the challenges faced by executives with good intentions struggling to make decisions around diversity; where executives are motivated to do the ‘right thing’ regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) but may be hindered by their own biases and fears. She’s also seen and experienced the damage endured by Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) employees when they feel they are not centered/valued in their company’s DEI efforts.
Sacha’s work is about removing barriers or providing support in order to get to a place of
equality. She helps executives and leaders have that meaningful dialogue and coach them to the necessary, long-term changes that develop institutional cultures of DEI.
Sacha is a Certified Professional Diversity Coach and 4 Stages of Psychological Safety Certified Coach. Sacha received her bachelor’s degree in Sociology, concentrating on Cultural Diversity & Ethnicity and a Master’s in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership from The College of William and Mary. She has also acquired her Masters of Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University, where she focused on
management and marketing.
STEVE JONES
Founder, CEO POCSTOCK
TARA ROBERTSON
Founder, Tara Robertson Consulting
Tara Robertson is an intersectional feminist who uses data and research to advocate for equality and inclusion. She brings over 12 years of experience leading change in open source technology communities, including 3 years leading Diversity and Inclusion at Mozilla. She now works with technology and engineering companies as a DEI consultant.
website: http://tararobertson.ca/
Twitter: @tararobertson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tararobertson/
Tara Robertson is an intersectional feminist who uses data and research to advocate for equality and inclusion. She brings over 12 years of experience leading change in open source technology communities, including 3 years leading Diversity and Inclusion at Mozilla. She now works with technology and engineering companies as a DEI consultant.
website: http://tararobertson.ca/
Twitter: @tararobertson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tararobertson/
ZOE MOORE
Co-founder, CADAZO Consulting Group
Honorably discharged from the United States.Army following 12 years of service, Chiriga Moore, affectionately known as Zoe (pronounced ZOH) completed an M.S. in Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism then started an event planning company in Oakland, CA. Learning that Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) were not prioritized in the meetings, events and tourism industry, she became an advocate to help improve dialogue and action in the areas of supplier diversity, organizational culture and diverse representation in leadership.
Initially, spearheading the formation of an Inclusion & Diversity committee with MPI’s Northern California Chapter, she decided to become a Certified Diversity Practitioner (CDP) to deepen her knowledge. Having dissolved her company, LB Alliance due to COVID 19, she became the co-founder of CADAZO Consulting Group, a women owned business that is evolving the hospitality industry through training, workshops and consulting.
As an Inclusive Event Strategist & Consultant she is helping leaders of organizations define their strategic commitment to EDI through her speaking, writing and serving on committees.
The outgoing co-chair for MPIs Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Committee, Zoe is committed to holding industry leaders accountable and ensuring that change is both measurable and sustainable.
A contributing writer to The Meeting Professional and Meetings Today. Zoe Moore resides in Marietta, GA with her 16 year old son, Jourden Moore. She loves homemade chocolate chip cookies, photography and travelling.
Honorably discharged from the United States.Army following 12 years of service, Chiriga Moore, affectionately known as Zoe (pronounced ZOH) completed an M.S. in Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism then started an event planning company in Oakland, CA. Learning that Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) were not prioritized in the meetings, events and tourism industry, she became an advocate to help improve dialogue and action in the areas of supplier diversity, organizational culture and diverse representation in leadership.
Initially, spearheading the formation of an Inclusion & Diversity committee with MPI’s Northern California Chapter, she decided to become a Certified Diversity Practitioner (CDP) to deepen her knowledge. Having dissolved her company, LB Alliance due to COVID 19, she became the co-founder of CADAZO Consulting Group, a women owned business that is evolving the hospitality industry through training, workshops and consulting.
As an Inclusive Event Strategist & Consultant she is helping leaders of organizations define their strategic commitment to EDI through her speaking, writing and serving on committees.
The outgoing co-chair for MPIs Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Committee, Zoe is committed to holding industry leaders accountable and ensuring that change is both measurable and sustainable.
A contributing writer to The Meeting Professional and Meetings Today. Zoe Moore resides in Marietta, GA with her 16 year old son, Jourden Moore. She loves homemade chocolate chip cookies, photography and travelling.
BRITTANY JANAY HARRIS
Creator, Liberated Love Notes™ and Vice-President, Learning & Innovation, The Winters Group
A mother (#BraxtonsMom), a sister, a truth-teller and justice advocate, and the creator of Liberated Love Notes: Critical Self-Reflections and Affirmations For The Culture. I facilitate spaces and design tools that support Black folks in growing in our own critical consciousness, as individuals and in community. Put differently, I want us to not only #staywoke, but also stay whole as we exist in (and get free from) white systems.
I am from … Loretta & Corey -- two teenage parents who made it their business to interrupt generational curses and raise my brother and I on love. I am from… Lucille and Elmer, Lula Bea and Louis… their wildest dream, which I don't take that lightly.
By day, I am Vice-President of Learning & Innovation, at The Winters Group, Inc. a Black-woman owned and led diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting firm. In my role, I design and facilitate learning experiences that shift perspectives and ultimately lead to action in service of equity, justice and inclusion. I recognize my role and work with The Winters Group and our clients as a critical component within our broader social change ecosystem. I have come to understand it as necessary harm-reduction work, a means to an end, as we make strides towards liberation. You can learn more about my work with The Winters Group .
I am a graduate of Howard University, where I received my degree in Broadcast Journalism, and Georgetown University where I received my Masters in Human Resources Management with a concentration in diversity and inclusion.
I have enjoyed the pleasure of serving on the leadership teams for The Greater Baltimore Leadership Association and Pinellas County Urban League Young Professionals. More recently I served on the curriculum advisory board for Baltimore City Public Schools’ BeMORE Me Initiative, and have previously served on boards for The Florida Diversity Council and Women in Cable Telecommunications Florida.
I am currently based back home, in the Baltimore area.
A mother (#BraxtonsMom), a sister, a truth-teller and justice advocate, and the creator of Liberated Love Notes: Critical Self-Reflections and Affirmations For The Culture. I facilitate spaces and design tools that support Black folks in growing in our own critical consciousness, as individuals and in community. Put differently, I want us to not only #staywoke, but also stay whole as we exist in (and get free from) white systems.
I am from … Loretta & Corey -- two teenage parents who made it their business to interrupt generational curses and raise my brother and I on love. I am from… Lucille and Elmer, Lula Bea and Louis… their wildest dream, which I don't take that lightly.
By day, I am Vice-President of Learning & Innovation, at The Winters Group, Inc. a Black-woman owned and led diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting firm. In my role, I design and facilitate learning experiences that shift perspectives and ultimately lead to action in service of equity, justice and inclusion. I recognize my role and work with The Winters Group and our clients as a critical component within our broader social change ecosystem. I have come to understand it as necessary harm-reduction work, a means to an end, as we make strides towards liberation. You can learn more about my work with The Winters Group .
I am a graduate of Howard University, where I received my degree in Broadcast Journalism, and Georgetown University where I received my Masters in Human Resources Management with a concentration in diversity and inclusion.
I have enjoyed the pleasure of serving on the leadership teams for The Greater Baltimore Leadership Association and Pinellas County Urban League Young Professionals. More recently I served on the curriculum advisory board for Baltimore City Public Schools’ BeMORE Me Initiative, and have previously served on boards for The Florida Diversity Council and Women in Cable Telecommunications Florida.
I am currently based back home, in the Baltimore area.
CHANDRA HARDY
Coming Soon
CHRIS ARMSTRONG - VINCE BRANTLEY
Co-Owners of Veritas Culture.
Among their multitude of past positions and accomplishments, Vince and Chris are both former Culture Executives for large (10,000+) federal agencies. Over the past 9-years, their combined culture facilitation and assessment experience has amounted to over 5,000 culture sessions across more than 190 federal and private industry spaces. This includes the Charlottesville Race Riots, the aftermath of the Kavanaugh confirmation, the aftermath of the George Floyd murder, and several other high-profile culture challenges.
They are highly sought after for their ability to assess highly complicated and nuanced situations, specifically around culture and diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging.
Additionally, they train and certify Culture and Diversity-to-Belonging Facilitators who are adept at exploring, understanding, and resolving sensitive workplace and societal matters.
Credentials:
Certified Diversity Executive (IDC)
Certified Master Facilitator (INIFAC)
Certified Emotional Intelligence Practitioner (OKA)
Certified Coach (ICF)
Among their multitude of past positions and accomplishments, Vince and Chris are both former Culture Executives for large (10,000+) federal agencies. Over the past 9-years, their combined culture facilitation and assessment experience has amounted to over 5,000 culture sessions across more than 190 federal and private industry spaces. This includes the Charlottesville Race Riots, the aftermath of the Kavanaugh confirmation, the aftermath of the George Floyd murder, and several other high-profile culture challenges.
They are highly sought after for their ability to assess highly complicated and nuanced situations, specifically around culture and diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging.
Additionally, they train and certify Culture and Diversity-to-Belonging Facilitators who are adept at exploring, understanding, and resolving sensitive workplace and societal matters.
Credentials:
Certified Diversity Executive (IDC)
Certified Master Facilitator (INIFAC)
Certified Emotional Intelligence Practitioner (OKA)
Certified Coach (ICF)
SUEZETTE YASMIN ROBOTHAM
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Practitioner
Suezette Yasmin Robotham is a DEI practitioner, speaker, connector, coach, and a leading “Black Woman in Tech.”
She has more than a decade of leadership experience, with expertise in talent acquisition, diversity & inclusion initiatives, leadership development, strategic planning and relationship building across various industry sectors. Over her career, she has contributed her work to large urban school districts, such as Atlanta Public Schools and Metro Nashville Public Schools, as well as education reform organizations that include Teach For America, The New Teacher Project and The Achievement Network.
She previously served as the lead Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Program Manager on the Google Search & Assistant team; and currently leads Diversity Programs on the Global Product & Software Engineering Recruiting team at Facebook.
Suezette also founded a platform created to amplify the voices of Black Women in Tech and beyond, called #BlackTechBeauty in 2020.
Suezette has been tapped as a speaker by a number of organizations across the U.S. and Canada for her thought leadership in authenticity in the workplace and diversity and inclusion, and she has been a featured TEDx Speaker (TEDxBeaconStreet 2015).
Suezette is passionate about the power that can be realized in spaces where vulnerability, empathy and authenticity are encouraged, and she is devoted to using her talents to connect others – whether individuals or organizations – to the people, opportunities and resources that will help them realize, access and achieve their highest potential. Suezette is also a TNJ 40 Under Forty 2019 Honoree.
An alumna of the University of Florida and the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University, Suezette currently lives, works, and plays in Brooklyn. Her words to live by: “You were brave before you were born.”-Her Mommy
Suezette Yasmin Robotham is a DEI practitioner, speaker, connector, coach, and a leading “Black Woman in Tech.”
She has more than a decade of leadership experience, with expertise in talent acquisition, diversity & inclusion initiatives, leadership development, strategic planning and relationship building across various industry sectors. Over her career, she has contributed her work to large urban school districts, such as Atlanta Public Schools and Metro Nashville Public Schools, as well as education reform organizations that include Teach For America, The New Teacher Project and The Achievement Network.
She previously served as the lead Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Program Manager on the Google Search & Assistant team; and currently leads Diversity Programs on the Global Product & Software Engineering Recruiting team at Facebook.
Suezette also founded a platform created to amplify the voices of Black Women in Tech and beyond, called #BlackTechBeauty in 2020.
Suezette has been tapped as a speaker by a number of organizations across the U.S. and Canada for her thought leadership in authenticity in the workplace and diversity and inclusion, and she has been a featured TEDx Speaker (TEDxBeaconStreet 2015).
Suezette is passionate about the power that can be realized in spaces where vulnerability, empathy and authenticity are encouraged, and she is devoted to using her talents to connect others – whether individuals or organizations – to the people, opportunities and resources that will help them realize, access and achieve their highest potential. Suezette is also a TNJ 40 Under Forty 2019 Honoree.
An alumna of the University of Florida and the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University, Suezette currently lives, works, and plays in Brooklyn. Her words to live by: “You were brave before you were born.”-Her Mommy
ASHANTI MARTIN
Writer, Podcast Host, Speaker, and Activist
Ashanti Martin is a veteran communications specialist whose work focuses on the intersection of communication, technology, and Black culture. In 2020, Ashanti wrote an article for the Sunday New York Times about LinkedIn that galvanized a movement to transform the workplace experience for Black and other marginalized communities. Her podcast, “EdUp Explained,” is centered on media literacy, critical thinking, and social justice. Ashanti is a native of Yonkers, N.Y., and holds a master’s degree in communication and media from the Rutgers School of Communication and Information. Over the course of her career, she has worked for The Record of Hackensack, N.J., Rutgers University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Wharton School.
Ashanti Martin is a veteran communications specialist whose work focuses on the intersection of communication, technology, and Black culture. In 2020, Ashanti wrote an article for the Sunday New York Times about LinkedIn that galvanized a movement to transform the workplace experience for Black and other marginalized communities. Her podcast, “EdUp Explained,” is centered on media literacy, critical thinking, and social justice. Ashanti is a native of Yonkers, N.Y., and holds a master’s degree in communication and media from the Rutgers School of Communication and Information. Over the course of her career, she has worked for The Record of Hackensack, N.J., Rutgers University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Wharton School.
Damian Lewis
Business Manager Xbox Gaming Ecosystem.
Damian is a Business Operations & Excellence professional at Microsoft. Currently he serves as Business Manager Xbox Gaming Ecosystem, supporting Gaming Executives within the Xbox Organization to meet xbox’s most critical business goals. Prior to his current role in tech, Damian focused on Business Architecture and process improvement for a leading insurance provider and was a former athlete. What really motivates Damian is creating space, mentorship, and being an example for people who come from where he comes from. He strongly believes in the Jay Z quote “Everybody in the world is born with genius-level talent. Apply yourself to whatever you’re genius at and you can do anything in the world”
Damian holds both an MBA and B.A from Aurora University. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc and is a member of the 100 Black Men of Central Illinois. He lives in Seattle Wa, with his wife Andrea and daughter Dallas.
Damian is a Business Operations & Excellence professional at Microsoft. Currently he serves as Business Manager Xbox Gaming Ecosystem, supporting Gaming Executives within the Xbox Organization to meet xbox’s most critical business goals. Prior to his current role in tech, Damian focused on Business Architecture and process improvement for a leading insurance provider and was a former athlete. What really motivates Damian is creating space, mentorship, and being an example for people who come from where he comes from. He strongly believes in the Jay Z quote “Everybody in the world is born with genius-level talent. Apply yourself to whatever you’re genius at and you can do anything in the world”
Damian holds both an MBA and B.A from Aurora University. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc and is a member of the 100 Black Men of Central Illinois. He lives in Seattle Wa, with his wife Andrea and daughter Dallas.
Rachel Kay
Google- Head of Product Localization Strategy
Talent Organizational, Operational Leader, Executive Coach
Rachel Kay is a talent, organizational, and operational leader at Google. Currently she serves as the Head of Product Localization Strategy, managing an operational budget of $53M and leading a team responsible for localizing 50+ Google products globally to ensure native user experiences. Prior to her current role, Rachel has led enterprise-wide executive talent management processes, served as the learning and development consultant for Google’s technical organizations and managed multiple cross-functional leadership programs for senior executives. What really makes Rachel tick is leveraging her background in learning and organizational development to drive equitable outcomes for all. Among Rachel’s proudest professional accomplishments is serving on the board of an internal organization with the goal of making the business unit a place where Black+ women thrive. In that role, her focus is on driving manager capability to create equitable and psychologically-safe teams for every employee.
Rachel holds an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A in Social Thought and Analysis and French from Washington University. She is a Hudson Institute certified executive coach and is currently pursuing her professional diversity coaching certification (via the Coach Diversity Institute in partnership with Howard University). Rachel lives in San Francisco with her husband and two children. When she’s not working on product localization or facilitating learning and coaching programs, you can find her baking challah with her kids, exercising, or reading with a cup of coffee in her hand while listening to some of her favorite jazz artists.
Talent Organizational, Operational Leader, Executive Coach
Rachel Kay is a talent, organizational, and operational leader at Google. Currently she serves as the Head of Product Localization Strategy, managing an operational budget of $53M and leading a team responsible for localizing 50+ Google products globally to ensure native user experiences. Prior to her current role, Rachel has led enterprise-wide executive talent management processes, served as the learning and development consultant for Google’s technical organizations and managed multiple cross-functional leadership programs for senior executives. What really makes Rachel tick is leveraging her background in learning and organizational development to drive equitable outcomes for all. Among Rachel’s proudest professional accomplishments is serving on the board of an internal organization with the goal of making the business unit a place where Black+ women thrive. In that role, her focus is on driving manager capability to create equitable and psychologically-safe teams for every employee.
Rachel holds an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A in Social Thought and Analysis and French from Washington University. She is a Hudson Institute certified executive coach and is currently pursuing her professional diversity coaching certification (via the Coach Diversity Institute in partnership with Howard University). Rachel lives in San Francisco with her husband and two children. When she’s not working on product localization or facilitating learning and coaching programs, you can find her baking challah with her kids, exercising, or reading with a cup of coffee in her hand while listening to some of her favorite jazz artists.
THE CONFERENCE
Three Days of Powerful Thought Leadership, Education, and Strategic Takeaways
THE PATHWAY TO INCLUSION STARTS HERE
ABOUT DEITECH CONFERENCE
WORLD'S MOST IMPACTFUL DEI EVENT TO HIT VIRTUAL FEATURING WORLD RENOWNED ACTIVISTS, EDUCATORS, THOUGHT LEADERS, AND INDUSTRY EXPERTS.
Past speakers have included names such as Jane Elliott, Minda Harts, Arlan Hamilton, and David Johns to name a few.
DEITECH will feature more than 30 renowned thought leaders and multiple learning tracks, giving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion education and insights from both a foundation and fundamental perspective as well as the perspective of leadership looking for strategies to advance DEI within their organization.
Whether you are a diversity, equity, and inclusion leader driving change, a professional in the industry, or just passionate about creating more diverse and equitable environments-- the training, education, and takeaways from DEITECH Conference will provide strategies and insights to increase the success of your initiatives.
LAST YEAR'S SPEAKERS AND PROGRAM
FEATURING
30+ Speakers
30+ world-renowned speakers, educators, and thought leaders providing both fundamental learning and advanced concepts for organizational DEI leadership.
20+ Sessions
Over 20 highly rated keynotes, panel discussions, interview style chats, and workshops, all designed to provide you with actionable strategies and takeaways to improve your DEI initiatives.
Networking
Join us for our pre-event watch party and virtual happy hour, and during any of our scheduled networking breaks. Create community and relationships by sharing experience, pain points, strategies, and knowledge with peers and other like minded attendees.
On-Demand Access
On-demand access to recorded content post live event. Re-watch your favorite speakers and presentation or catch a session you missed during the live presentation at your own leisure.
SCHEDULE
We are currently building our exciting program for 2021. Subscribe below for conference updates.
ATTENDEE TESTIMONIALS
Don’t just take our word for it… see what attendees had to say
"The speakers/content were outstanding. They all provided insight as well as practical take-aways to implement following the conference. I also liked the ability to engage the speakers as well as fellow participants in discussions. I made several new connections as a result… Thank you!"