High Tech Connect’s Post

G’Day Network!   I’ve somehow convinced the powers in charge of this event to select me to play futurist in a slide free oration that pitches my ‘top tech trend’ against a suite of actual top tech inventors and experts (hi Olga Hogan, Arnan Mitchell & Laura Bellino!). As the first architect in the mix at this surprisingly large and well patronised event, I must admit I am not particularly clear about the format, the competition, and the general vibe- so no expectations, which is a great starting point! That said, I do define my job as ‘helping people believe in things that don’t exist yet’ and also as ‘specialising in things I’ve never done before’ so this should be a heady mix of the two.   I’ve got 180 seconds to run a mellifluous and tight little package out to the crowd. I’ll try to minimise swearing and jam in a few jokes, and hopefully have something tangibly intangible enough to sway the hearts and minds of well versed and smarter people than me. If I am able to rouse the enthusiasm of the crowd to align with whatever it is that I imagine is going to be ‘big’ then I’d love to have your roars in there as familiar voices.   Let me know if you can come along, or don’t let me know, just grab a ticket! https://lnkd.in/gjc4rUaK #TechTrends #EmergingTech #Networking #Innovation #techcommunity #medtech Decibel Architecture

🚀 Innovation is Built on Diverse Perspectives! 🚀 Throughout history, men have played an integral role in shaping the world of technology and innovation. From groundbreaking discoveries to leading advancements in every sector, their contributions have driven us forward. But innovating responsibly in today’s world requires more than just individual brilliance—it requires diverse voices working together. Why? Because innovation thrives when it’s viewed through different lenses. Different perspectives lead to more inclusive, ethical, and forward-thinking solutions. It’s not just about creating something new; it’s about creating something that benefits everyone. 🌍 At Gents in Tech: Innovating Responsibly, we’re bringing together a dynamic panel of innovators and thought leaders who understand that responsibility in tech means more than innovation for innovation’s sake—it’s about creating tech that’s ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. Join us as we discuss how diverse teams—representing various genders, backgrounds, and experiences—are leading the way in responsible innovation. Our panelists will share their expertise and visions for a future where technology uplifts everyone. 🎤 Meet our Panelists: ⭐️ Brian Mckee ⭐️ Kyle Utley ⭐️ Bobby Morshed ⭐️ Sheldon Cuffie These leaders have made remarkable strides in their respective fields and are passionate about ensuring the next wave of tech progress is thoughtful, inclusive, and equitable. Don’t miss this chance to learn from them and engage in a powerful conversation about the future of innovation. 📅 Date: October 30th, 2024 📍 Location: Venue 3 🎟️ https://lnkd.in/gk_e7emu Together, we can build a future where innovation doesn’t just push boundaries—it uplifts society. Join us at Gents in Tech and be part of the conversation! Special Shoutout to our Sponsors and I am honored to host this event. 📣 Nick Dillon 📣 ISACA Milwaukee Chapter 📣 The Business Council Inc. 📣 Danni Pose Studios Inc. 📣 KOSS 📣 Milwaukee Bucks 📣 National Black MBA Association, Inc. -Milwaukee Chapter

💫 Impossible is not a fact or a declaration; it is a dare.🌟 The Nobellum team dared to put on an event so grand in scale and scope, that the brilliance behind our movement as black innovators in STEM could not be ignored. This event was 6 months in the making. We got the most inspiring venue, collaborated across international borders with the Web Summit team in Ireland and even brought in a Caribbean delegation. Our goal was two fold; First was to provide a platform to showcare the Innovators in the Nobellum Cohort of STEM Entreprneurs with ‘Dragon’s Den’ style pitches and a lively trade show - and to make sure there were LOTS of investors in the room to increase their likelihood of becoming well capitalized. Secondly, for all the attendees - ecosystem partners, sponsors, diverse tech professionals and aspiring founders, etc - to provide an inspiring and welcoming environment where they could foster connections, deepen understanding and gain from new relationships. The demand was overwhelming; we had over 2000 people register for the event and had to close the event registration early due to it being SOLD OUT! The event featured over 30 speakers, 15 pitches, speed networking, headshots, a robotics workshop and a lively tradeshow. We topped off the day with an Afro-Fashion Showdown VIP mixer celebrating Black creativity. Some of my favourite aspects of the day in no particular order: 🤣 The bongo drummers playing the startup founders out after the end of their 3 minutes for pitching!! Best way to keep time by far. 👑 The Women Investing in Women panel I moderated where we had some #realtalk with Suzanne Knight, MBA, MA Tastey Blackman, JP, MBA and Melissa Allen about Women Investing in Women and some of her recent wins and lots of laughs. ⚡️ The energy on the trade show floor! ❤️ The calm before the storm - the team getting together for breakfast at 7am before the chaos began! 🌍 The panel with the Katie Bolger & Casey Lau from Web Summit and Lisa Zarzeczny Founder of Elevate, discussing bringing these big tech conferences to global audiences and how to create community 🙏🏼 Keynotes from Minister Rechie Valdez and Frank Baylis 🚀 At least 5 people coming up to me and saying that this event CHANGED THE TRAJECTORY OF THEIR LIFE. The best part was pulling it all off with a (mostly) women-led team Melisa Ellis Kathryn Lawrence Malcolm Wright Rodas Sbhatleab. We showed that we have the ambition, grit and ability to pull off the “IMPOSSIBLE” through our collaborative approach. Together, we are working towards a future where economic inclusion and innovation thrive within our communities. We can’t wait to scale it even bigger next year! #nobellum #bissummit #startupfounders #blackexcellence #torontotech #startupaccelerator #steminnovation

Come see us at booth 1601 to learn more about AllSTEM Connections and how we can add value to your recruitment strategies in 2024!

🏆And the Oscar goes to…Beth Briner and Marva Bailer! 😁 These accomplished leaders known for their networking acumen share why #WITConnect is the perfect setting for strengthening relationships and building your brand. Join us on May 2nd to connect for a cause! 💜 #AuthenticNetworking #WomeninTech #BusinessDevelopment #STEMeducation

Just submitted my talk to share more about what we are doing at Doro - hopefully it will be accepted and useful for many!

Knowledge is power

In an enlightening discussion on the Innovation Storytellers Show, I had the honor of hosting Leigh Higginbotham Butler, the inspirational Founder & CEO of Akina Technologies. Our conversation centered on a powerful idea: the transformative potential of sharing knowledge, especially for women of color. Leigh's vision for Akina Technologies is rooted in the belief that access to information equates to empowerment. Akina isn't just a platform; it's a beacon for those seeking guidance, connection, and advancement in critical areas such as entrepreneurship, career development, health care, and wellness. Beyond these, Akina aims to encompass essential life aspects like beauty, fashion, finance, and credit, recognizing the comprehensive needs of its community. The aspiration? To morph Akina into a nexus akin to "Google for black women," but with an added, invaluable twist—fostering genuine connections and relationships. This is about creating a space where information doesn't just reside but is actively shared and where support is offered and exchanged, empowering each individual to reach new heights in her personal and professional life. 🎧 Tune into our discussion to understand how Akina Technologies sets a new standard for networking and support among women of color. Discover the breadth of possibilities that emerge when we share our knowledge and uplift one another: Listen to the full episode. What does access to information and community mean to you? How can we foster an environment of empowerment and growth? Share your thoughts and join the movement towards inclusive advancement. https://zurl.co/5xjF

On this significant day of June 19th, we at OpenQQuantify honor Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. As we reflect on freedom and equality, we are reminded of the importance of ensuring that all communities, especially the Black community, have equal access to opportunities and resources and are given the same opportunities as everyone. Technology and electronics have the power to transform lives, driving innovation, education, and economic growth, if used maliciously, they have the power to control wreck chaos. At OpenQQuantify, we are committed to making sure that everyone, not just a select few, can take advantage of these transformative tools. We could NEVER see it another way! Community is more important then the likes of people that use technology to enforce control or their own agendas. Together we are strong; divided, we are weak. Our mission: To bridge the digital divide by providing accessible and affordable electronics and a platform the community can develop embedded systems and electronics on. To support STEM education in underserved communities, inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. To foster an inclusive environment where diversity thrives and every voice is heard. This Juneteenth, let's unite in our efforts to promote equality in technology. By empowering the underserved community with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in the digital age, we can build a future where opportunities are limitless and everyone can thrive. Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and our commitment to making technology a force for good in every community. Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive world. #Juneteenth #EqualityInTech #EmpowermentThroughElectronics #OpenQQuantify

Do you know someone who is making waves in the tech world? 🌊 Someone whose innovations are transforming industries and making real impact 🤩 Nominate them for the Tech Impact Awards now. How to nominate: 1️⃣ Click the link below to submit a nomination 2️⃣Share their story and tell us why they deserve to win 3️⃣ Spread the word and encourage others to nominate too! #TechImpactAwards #TechForGood #LondonTechWeek