Kassem Saleh received his BSc, MSc, and PhD in Computer Science from the University of Ottawa, Canada. From 1984 to 1991, Kassem was a Software Design Engineer at Northern Telecom and a Computer Systems Specialist at Bell Canada. Kassem was at Concordia University in 1992, Kuwait University from 1992 to 2000, and the American University of Sharjah from 2000-2007. Since 2007, he is Professor in Information Sciences at Kuwait University. His research interests include software engineering, information security, project and risk management, quality engineering and ethics and professionalism. Dr. Saleh has published about 130 journal and conference papers and one textbook on Software Engineering and has presented tutorials, lectures and invited talks at many conferences and universities. The Journal of Systems and Software has ranked Kassem among the top ten scholars in systems and software engineering in eight annual assessments published from 1996-2003. Kassem was involved in various university and program accreditation and assessment activities in Kuwait and UAE. Kassem holds professional certifications in software engineering (IEEE-PSEM), information systems security (ISC2-CISSP), project (PMI-PMP) and risk management (PMIRMP), quality engineering (ASQ-CQE, ASQ-CSQE), and business analysis (PMI-PBA). Kassem is also a Certified ISO 31000 Senior Lead Risk Manager and a certified PECB trainer for ISO 31000. Kassem is the chair of the Research Ethics Committee at the College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University.

Dr. Evgenii Vinogradov, PhD has a tremendous experience in Diverse roles: from software developer to data engineer, from software architect to data scientist; Diverse mamagerial experience: Team leader, Deputy chief. His interests are focused on Fintech and Data sectors, formerly Web Development and CAD. His Contributions: Program Committee member for technical conferences in development and analytics; Academic experience and educational projects in Data Science and Engineering; Company representative at w3c: Payment Standards development; Run Data Governance projects integrating technology with data management best practices.

Dr. Nader Ghazal is a renowned expert in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, with a remarkable track record of achievements: Chairman, African-Asian Council for AI and Cybersecurity, Member, Global AI Forum Advisory Board, Lecturer, Khalifa University. Dr. Nader completed Ph.D. in AI from the U.S. (1991), Certified in AI and Digital Transformation Platform Strategies (MIT), Certified in Digital and Online Education (University of New South Wales). He is Member, Dubai AI Week Championship Jury (2025), Member, Global Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) for Universities ranking. With over three decades of experience in higher education, business, and IT consulting, Dr. Ghazal is a highly respected thought leader in his field.

Nader is an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Strategy Consultant. With over 25+ years of experience, Nader translates business goals into actionable AI use cases and initiatives by building tailored strategies across various domains. Nader has delivered digital transformation projects and consultancies for public and private sectors in the Middle East, Europe, North America, South Asia, and Australia.

Mohamed Quafafou is a Professor of Computer Science at Aix-Marseille University. His research focuses on both the foundations and applications of Data Science. For more than 25 years, he has conducted extensive research on data science problems involving multimodal, heterogeneous data, particularly data extracted from the web and other complex information sources. A significant part of his work has also addressed human-generated data, especially from social networks. He has contributed to machine learning by extending rough set theory through the development of α-rough sets and by generalizing version space theory into approximate version spaces, enabling the design of robust learning algorithms capable of handling ill-defined and ambiguous concepts. He led the development of the first French web mining system dedicated to the discovery of emerging web communities. In collaboration with the French Agency for Artificial Intelligence, he proposed the research theme “Human–Machine Interaction in Machine Learning” and coordinated a national research group on this topic for five years. He has also carried out extensive research in Artificial Intelligence in Education, proposing methods for modeling human learning strategies, developing intelligent computer-aided education systems, and adapting tutoring interactions to evolving learner interests. More recently, he introduced oSets (observer-dependent sets), a novel formal framework that bridges set theory with theories of perception from epistemology. This work aims to account for the diversity of human perceptions of reality and to support the development of more physically grounded and human-aligned AI systems. His current research centers on perception in Human–AI symbiosis, with applications in education, health and medicine, project management, and urban mobility, emphasizing the impact of human–AI interaction and collaboration.

Dr. Neda Maria Kaizumi is a Norwegian AI leader and Head of AI at Advania Norway. She helps organizations identify high-impact AI use cases and develop them responsibly, combining strategic insight with hands-on experience. With a background in AI governance and ethical design, she bridges the gap between innovation and accountability. Dr. Kaizumi has studied Data Science and Business Analytics at Harvard Business School and contributes to international AI standardization andEuropean AI Act. Her work empowers businesses to adopt trustworthy AI systems that drive sustainable value in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Ahmed M. Sheikh is a seasoned Research and Development Specialist in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics with over 22 years of professional experience across diverse industries, including technology innovation, smart cities, strategic business transformation, and advanced digital solutions. His career reflects a rare blend of deep technical understanding, strategic leadership, and business acumen. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the American College, which has strongly shaped his ability to align emerging technologies with organizational strategy, economic growth, and long-term sustainability goals. This foundation has enabled him to bridge the gap between complex technological innovation and practical, scalable business implementation. Throughout his career, Ahmed has played a significant role in advancing smart city initiatives by designing and integrating AI- and robotics-driven applications into urban development frameworks. His work focuses on creating intelligent, data-driven ecosystems that enhance operational efficiency, resilience, and sustainability in modern cities. Currently, Ahmed serves as Business Head and Chief Technology Strategist at Wetterbond LLC, Sharjah, U.A.E. In this role, he leads innovation strategy, oversees the development of scalable technology solutions, and supports sustainable urban development through applied artificial intelligence and robotics. His leadership emphasizes responsible AI deployment, system interoperability, and long-term value creation at scale. Today, Ahmed stands at the forefront of developing unique and intellectual ideas that integrate artificial intelligence and robotics to solve real-world challenges. His work goes beyond conventional innovation, focusing on original, forward-thinking concepts that combine technological intelligence with human-centered design and strategic foresight. Ahmed is a strong advocate for the responsible adoption of AI and robotics, believing that these technologies are no longer future concepts but foundational tools for building smarter, more sustainable cities and economies. He consistently emphasizes the importance of deploying advanced technologies ethically, at scale, and in alignment with long-term urban, environmental, and economic objectives. Widely recognized for his ability to combine deep technical expertise with strategic business insight, Ahmed contributes meaningful, practical perspectives to global discussions on artificial intelligence, robotics, smart cities, and sustainable innovation.

Karin Immenroth is an experienced data strategist specializing in the design and implementation of innovative, AI-powered solutions that enable data-driven decisions and sustainable competitive advantage. With deep expertise in analytics, she develops approaches for personalized marketing and media transformation. Before returning to Mediaplus as Global Chief Data Officer, Karin shaped the digital transformation of RTL Deutschland as CDO, integrating data-driven processes into strategic business goals. As Managing Director at Bertelsmann, she built the company’s central data platform, establishing the foundation for efficiency gains and innovation. At GroupM, she was responsible for a global data ecosystem that positioned data-driven strategies at the core of its business. Her career began at Mediaplus as a media researcher. Today, she combines strategic vision with operational excellence to drive one of the most ambitious data and AI transformations in the international agency landscape.

Dr. Chris Abraham is currently the CEO & Head - Dubai campus and Director – Executive Education. He is a globally recognized thought reader in the areas of Innovation, Design Thinking, AI &. The Future of Work, AI and Leadership, AI & Strategy, Neuroscience of Leadership & Decision Making, AI & The Future of Education, Science of Happiness, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, ESG, Marketing & Strategy. He started his career spanning 39 years as a strategy consultant and has worked on exciting projects including Titan Watches, Moods Condoms, National Family Welfare Program and assignments with The Governments of India, Singapore, UAE, Nigeria, and Kenya. His global clients include The World Bank, The Executive Council (Govt. of Dubai), Emirates Airlines, SEWA (Government of Sharjah), Aramex, DHL, P &G, LG, Reckitt & Benckiser, AW Rostamani (Nissan Auto), Landmark Group, Norgold Russia, Lulu International, Metso, Redington, Terraco, Axis Bank, Simpsons & many others.Dr. Chris is a 3 times TEDx and international keynote speaker. He has successfully presented in numerous global forums and has also conducted many consulting and executive development assignments for global organizations.He has been recognized with numerous international awards including twice Awarded “Best CEO in the World” in 2018 & 2019, by Indo – UAE Business & Social Forum, twice winner of Academic Leadership Award. Academic Advisory Boad Member – CMO Council, USA. He has been conferred as the Prestigious Knight of Parte Guelfa, Italy for Ecology, Sustainability & Environment. He holds numerous board adviserships: as Honorary Fellow – Leaders Excellence at Harvard Square, US, Advisor – RTA Innovation Lab, Government of Dubai, Global Advisory Board Member - World CMO Council, US, Member of the Board – The Abrahamic Business Circle, Advisory Board Member – CEO Clubs Worldwide Senior Advisory Board Member –WASME World Association of SMEs (An UNESCO Initiative), Senior Advisory Board Member – World Sustainable Business Forum, UK, Director – Rekhi - S P Jain Centre of Excellence for the Science of Happiness , Member of the Governing Board – Gulf Marketing Association, Executive Board Member – CIVITAS DEI Institute of History and Archaeology of Jerusalem, Israel, Member of the Board – Joblio, US. Member of the Academic Board – World Masters Academy, Italy, Member of the Advisory Board – Economic Times HR World (ETHR World), Member of the CII-Elite Group (SCM) – Confederation of Indian Industry – CII, Advisory Board Member – Humanistic Management Network, Advisory Board Member – University of Central Paris. Advisory Board Member – International Women’s Board of Directors. He’s a regular columnist and writer in leading media and newspaper like Gulf News, Khaleej Times, including The National, Times of India, Economic Times, The Hindu, Mumbai Mirror, regularly interviewed in leading TV & Media Channels like CNBC, Dubai Eye, Dubai TV, etc. Dr. Chris is also an adjunct professor at many leading universities in Australia, USA, Canada, Singapore, and UK. Earlier in Dubai, he headed the Executive MBA Program of XLRI, Jamshedpur, one of Asia’s top business schools. Mentor – S P Jain Center of Excellence for Sustainability & S P Jain Center for the Science of Happiness

Dr. Sushma Hans is a dedicated academic professional with over 11 years of teaching and research experience in Computer Science and Information Technology. She is currently serving as a Lecturer at Murdoch University Dubai, where she delivers courses in Business Intelligence, Database Management Systems, Operating systems, Artificial Intelligence, and ICT research methods. Her teaching style is student-centered, emphasizing clarity, real-world application, and fostering curiosity through hands-on projects and collaborative learning. Dr. Hans has previously held academic positions across a number of prestigious institutions, including Heriot-Watt University, Amity University, Curtin University, SZABIST, Manipal University Dubai, and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Delhi. Her rich teaching portfolio covers a wide range of subjects such as Machine Learning, Data Structures, Software Project Management, Compiler Construction, Theory of Automata, Python, C/C++, Neural Networks, and Business Intelligence. She holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology, Delhi University, where her research focused on enhancing the quality of e-learning systems. Dr. Hans is known for her exceptional presentation skills, ability to simplify complex topics, and commitment to academic excellence. She is AFHEA-certified and actively contributes to academic community engagement through organizing lectures, workshops, and student mentoring initiatives.

Dr. Oussama Hamid is an Assistant Professor in Computer Information Science at the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with over a decade of experience teaching Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Computing at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Between 2012 and 2018, he held positions as an Assistant Professor, initially in Kuwait and subsequently in Erbil, where he developed and delivered curricula in Computer Science and Mathematics, integrating modern AI tools and frameworks into coursework. In addition to his teaching expertise, he played a key role in leading research groups and scientific committees, mentoring faculty and postgraduate students in cutting-edge AI research. His research focuses on human-centered AI and Cognitive Computing, including Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Human-AI Interaction, Model-centric AI, Data-centric AI, Generative AI, and Large Language Models (LLMs). Previously, he contributed to several high-impact European research projects, including work on reinforcement learning, cognitive computing, and biomedical AI applications. As a responsible researcher and co-investigator in projects funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) (2003-2012), and the Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (2018-2019), he played a central role in developing machine learning algorithms, designing computational models inspired by neural mechanisms, and advancing AI-driven medical research. These projects spanned diverse domains, from analyzing drug-drug interactions and EEG/EMG coherence to implementing intelligent motion analysis systems for clinical applications. He published in reputable Q1 and Q2 Scopus-indexed journals and serve as a reviewer for leading publishers, including Springer, Elsevier, Taylor & Francis, IEEE, Wiley, and MDPI. From January 2023 to August 2024, he served as the System Course Team Leader (SCTL) for Web Technologies at the Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE, overseeing system-wide course coordination across all campuses. In this role, he led a team of approximately 40 faculty members, managing course delivery, content development, assessment design, and evaluation for an average of 1,200 students per semester. He worked with team members to ensure the course met institutional and accreditation standards.

Dr. Rachael Hutchings, JD, is the Executive Director of the Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute at Utah Valley University (UVU). She also serves as a Professional in Residence in the Strategic Management and Operations Department within UVU’s Woodbury School of Business. Rachael teaches courses on strategic AI in business, business strategy, strategic foresight, and doing business in the Middle East. In addition to her academic work, she consults as the AI Transformation Strategist for Clarion AI Partners, helping organizations leverage AI for strategic growth. Before working at UVU, Rachael was a small business owner, doing business consulting, project development and management for companies such as KitchenAid and 7-Eleven Holdings in Japan. While living in Tokyo, Japan, Rachael worked for the Japan Energy Law Institute, helping to research domestic and foreign legal issues related to nuclear energy. Prior to living in Japan she worked as a law clerk in the Chancery Court of Shelby County, TN. She holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphries School of Law, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in French from Brigham Young University.

Mr. Gowri Shankar Sivabala is an entrepreneur, AI consultant, engineer, academician, researcher and a sustainability advocate driving change across education, engineering, and innovation. With experience spanning 30+ roles in AI, engineering, education, journalism, art and social impact, he has mentored over 2,000 professionals and a multiple startups across 20+ countries. He is the founder of SpaceNXT Labs, Co-Founder of RecycleNXT, and founder of D.AI.C, one of Dubai’s leading AI communities. A member of the UN Innovations Network and AI in Education group at the University of Oxford, he speaks globally on responsible AI at events including AI Everything, Function1, GITEX, etc. He is also the Deputy Chair of the University of Bristol Alumni Association; he is a Guinness World Record holder and a finalist for the Study UK Alumni Award 2025 and GESS Global Education Award 2024. He currently researches AI in education at UCAM, Spain, and leads ITEF UAE and the AISGI Charter at GAFAI.

Dr. Isha Farha Quraishy, Oracle Cloud & AI Innovation Strategist with over 15 years in the tech industry. A former startup founder and CEO, she led IFQ Evotech in cutting-edge AI research. Dr. Isha has served global giants like HP, Dell EMC, and VMware, and shaped AI-driven education strategy at GEMS. Her mission is to make education accessible to every child through technology. Recognized by Forbes as the "Crowned Technopreneur - Where Tech Brilliance Meets Beauty Grace," She has also served as a Global Ambassador for Microsoft's Hevolous Innovationr,”Isha is a serial TEDx speaker, the Youngest Crowned Techno Genius in 2024, and International Genius Icon in 2023 , and a decorated social icon—holding titles like Mrs. Universe Solidarity 2019 and Mrs. UAE United Nations 2021. She was recognized among the Top 50 women in the UAE in 2022, as a Woman Icon Making Waves in the Arab World in 2023, and honored at the She Awards Global 2023 and Global Women Icon 2020 to name a few . She is Volunteer for Ministry of Community development UAE , and Certified from National Commission for Women Rights and National Commission for Human rights to support the Mankind and her Philanthropic journey. A true visionary blending tech brilliance with purpose

Mrs. Anitha Senthilnathan is a Digital Solutions Architect and Leader with over 13+ years of experience in enterprise application development, cloud architecture, and AI-driven modernization. She currently leads the design and deployment of Agentic AI platforms across Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud, focusing on scalable, secure, and cost-efficient enterprise systems. Her work spans large-scale cloud migrations, intelligent automation, and AI integration with enterprise platforms such as SAP and CRM systems. Anitha is a multi-cloud certified architect, AWS Community Builder, and a frequent speaker at regional and international technology conferences, where she shares practical insights on applied AI, cloud modernization, and responsible AI adoption.

Kreisha Hilario is an immigrant and social justice advocate whose work is deeply informed by lived experience. She is a leader in the non-profit and research sectors, committed to empowering communities through innovative research, program development, and community-building. She currently serves as the manager at the Centre for Immigrant Research, where she oversees a diverse portfolio of community-based research projects, programs, and evaluations. With an academic background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Urban Studies, and Business Management, she applies data-driven and socio-spatial approaches to address challenges in the immigrant service sector.

My research focuses on discovering new cancer therapeutics and developing novel methodologies for computer-aided drug design and discovery. I have developed multiple drug candidates that directly target the human androgen receptor (AR) and co-regulatory sites (BF3, AF2) for drug-resistant prostate cancers, including splice variants. I have authored or co-authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and five book chapters, and during my 19-year tenure at UBC served as principal or co-applicant on successful grants totaling over $41 million. I have contributed to the formation of several spin-off companies, including Indel Therapeutics (est. 2008), focused on novel antimicrobial therapies and named among Canada’s Top 10 biotech companies in 2009, and APT Therapeutics Inc. (est. 2002, MO), a US-based company developing proteomics tools and therapeutics and recognized among the top biotech companies in the St. Louis area.

Anat Marcovitch is a Senior Architect and global leader in AI-Driven Urban Planning, with 26 years of pioneering experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and large-scale urban infrastructure modernization. She is an established Solution Architect specializing in modernizing complex, mission-critical government systems. Currently, as a Senior Project Manager at the Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality, Anat directs the development of a groundbreaking urban planning system where the GIS infrastructure and planning models are developed by AI alone, moving toward a "zero human intervention" core development process. This work involves leading the comprehensive re-engineering of the city's 20-year-old planning systems, integrating advanced AI and ML for regulatory compliance and predictive modeling. Her previous role as a GIS Delivery Manager & Solution Architect at the Ministry of Planning involved masterminding the platform that achieved the full digitalization of all national city building plans, ensuring public transparency and accessibility, and defining the strategic vision for municipal digital services.

A strategic leader with 20+ years across banking, finance, and technology combined, focused on helping organisations scale with confidence through transparent, ethical, and responsible AI adoption. Passionate about empowering leaders and teams with clear visibility into AI capabilities, building future-ready workforces, and driving real business outcomes. Throughout 2024, Anna has led AI implementation initiatives focusing on: Transparency and visibility in AI applications and their business impact Leadership enablement for confident AI technology-driven growth Workforce development to create AI-proficient teams across organisations Responsible and Ethical AI integrations Shadow AI and human-centric adoption strategies This work has provided valuable insights into common implementation challenges and effective strategies for responsible AI adoption. Anna also founded the Tech4Growth Australia initiative specifically focused on connecting remote and regional schools with organisations that can provide vital technology content and training. This program bridges the digital divide by facilitating partnerships that give students access to technology education, AI awareness programs, and cybersecurity fundamentals. By creating these connections, Tech4Growth ensures that children in remote and regional areas have the same opportunities to develop digital literacy and technology skills as their urban counterparts, while simultaneously raising awareness about responsible AI practices and cyber safety from an early age.