SPEAKERS

We’re thrilled to unveil our initial line-up of distinguished speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to F3F.

This is just the beginning, our line-up is continuously expanding as we curate a diverse array of industry leaders, innovators, and thinkers. We’re dedicated to providing an enriching experience that fosters learning, inspiration, and networking. We’ll be announcing more exceptional speakers and thought leaders soon, keep checking this space to discover who else will be taking the F3F stage.

Dr. George C. Fraser

The godfather of Black networking, is a Cleveland-based author of numerous books including the classic “Success Runs in Our Race”, he’s a serial entrepreneur and powerful speaker whose primary focuses are fostering relationships for collaboration, stimulating economic empowerment and advocating for diversity and inclusion.

Matthew Chavira

CEO of Prophets of AI & Business Development Manager at Hanson Robotics

Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks

Celebrity Makeup Artist & CEO of Ashunta Sheriff Beauty

Soyini Chang

Co-Founder & CEO at Quantum Power Skills

Branden Thompson

aka Sir Trilli, President of NoCode SET & Back at Zero Foundation

Kay Y. Wallace

Founder and Managing Director of Seedkite

Branson Wright

President and founder of Be Right Ventures media company.

Tamara Powell

Singer/Songwriter & Entrepreneur

Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek

Founder of Clarity AI and Women in Voice

John Pasmore

Latimer Founder and CEO

Dr. Marlon ‘Doc’ Fuller

Philanthropist | CEO | Creative @CoolKidsFund

Noelle Russell

Founder and Chief AI Officer of AI Leadership Institute

Gilda Alvarez

Founder and CEO
Waveform Data Solutions

Brian Flaccus

Co-founder of The Knights Young Productions

Dr. Karen Baptiste

CEO, Founder & Film Director of Preschool to Prison, LLC

Tiffani Gay

Student at Orlando Science Middle High Charter and Founder & CEO of Future Discovery

Anatola Araba

Acclaimed filmmaker, futurist, and founder of Reimagine Story Lab.

Prof. Timothy E. Bates

The ‘Godfather of Tech,” a pioneering professor for Innovation and Tech at University of Michigan.

Erin Reddick

AI Developer and Founder of ChatBlackGPT.

Nadia Hionides

Founder of The Foundation Academy.

Sandra Howard-Simmons

Leader in Urban Education systems.

Robert Reddy

Award-winning director, producer, and  editor.

Dr. Garrick Beauliere

Co-Founder, Psych Me Out

Shawn Ray White

General Counsel & Strategist, Family Offices and Foundations

Dorian Hollingsworth, Jr.

Founder & Executive Director, Teen Care Network

Brianna Baker

Founder & Executive Director, Justice for Black Girls 

Kemia Bridgewater

Founder of First Generation Gems

Aaliyah Thompson

Founder of Beauty Bar

Dr. Cherisa Jerez

Co-Founder & VP of Ashire Technologies & Services

Raechel Canipe

Founder & CEO of Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship, VP of Marketing and Sales at RevStar

Lindse Murphy

Chief Relationship Officer & Manager of the Altamonte Global Innovation Lab & Co-Chair of the WTE Orlando Chapter

Jessica Sudler

Operations Director of Rogue Mobile & Chair of WTE Programming and Curriculum

Denise Acosta Musselwhite

Founder & CEO, Tech & Thrive, Board Secretary, Women in Tech + Entrepreneurship (WTE)



Jessica Sudler

Operations Director of Rogue Mobile & Chair of WTE Programming and Curriculum

Denise Acosta Musselwhite

Founder & CEO, Tech & Thrive, Board Secretary, Women in Tech + Entrepreneurship (WTE)



Candace Croughwell

Director of Operations at Thazen & Co-Chair of the WTE Orlando Chapter

Marques Martin

Co-Founder and Partner, FVLCRUM Funds

David Adelson

CEO, Innovate Orlando

Candace Croughwell

Director of Operations at Thazen & Co-Chair of the WTE Orlando Chapter

Scroll to Top

Matthew Chavira

Matthew Chavira is a resourceful leader with a deep passion for the field of artificial intelligence. As the founder of Prophets of AI, a representation agency for individuals who have made significant contributions in the AI and robotics fields, Matthew has curated a diverse lineup of industry-leading experts and government leaders who are shaping the future of AI development. This platform aims to be a world-leading resource for knowledge and inspiration in connection to AI’s artistic and ethical development and represents individuals featured in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential in AI (Stephanie Dinkins and Sougwen Chung)

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Matthew holds an executive position at Hanson Robotics, the company behind the world-famous Sophia the Robot, where he oversees all of Sophia’s live appearances, orchestrating impactful performances that explore the potential of AI and the interactions between humans and machines.

Furthermore, Matthew is also the Global Director of AI Partnerships at the International Advertising Association (IAA), an 85-year-old institution that stands as the global compass for the marketing communications industry. In this role, Matthew connects companies that align with the IAA’s principles of building high-value brands with its thought leadership, educational programs, and world-class events.

With a deep belief in AI’s transformative power to make the world a better place, Matthew is dedicated to driving conversations and focus toward the developments shaping the future of this rapidly evolving field. Through each role, Matthew is committed to advancing AI and fostering collaboration among experts, artists, and enthusiasts.”

Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks

Two decades in the beauty industry has prepared Ashunta for a beautiful, new entrepreneurial journey. Renowned for her flawless makeup artistry, she has “beat” the faces of one-name level Hollywood A-listers like Rihanna, Taraji, Zendaya and more. So, in 2022 she launched her signature makeup line, Ashunta Sheriff Beauty and the young brand is already receiving notable acclaim and press because of Ashunta’s undeniable skill, mentorship and commitment to diversity both in beauty and in opportunity.

Soyini Chang

Soyini is a forward-thinking leader and visionary. She has partnered with numerous businesses improving client loyalty, employee retention, and employee satisfaction, resulting in increased revenue and market share including broadening a developmental pipeline into diverse markets, suppliers, and employees. She is a highly regarded trainer, workshop facilitator, and speaker who is focused on advancing the workplace through diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Branden Thompson

Branden Thompson is entrepreneur, cryptocurrency connoisseur, and rapper dedicated to educating and championing financial literacy and success. Branden started his career at The Boeing Company as an engineer, but soon found corporate life to be too restricting. As he became a successful cryptocurrency investor, he recruited his brother, Bryce Thompson, and together they created the Tradehouse Investment Group. Branden has created a platform where he educates people through inspirational speaking events and his songs, under his rap name’ Sir Trilli. His goal is to bring financial success to those struggling as he once was and to give back to his community in Houston, TX.

Kay Y. Wallace

As managing director of her innovative startup, SeedLink, Kay utilizes the same skill sets she honed for close to 25 years coaching C-Suite level Fortune 100 executives, to now benefit entry-level college students and their parents. The SeedLink program helps new college students navigate through their academic journeys and prepares senior students to successfully commence professional careers in an increasingly remote/hybrid, tech-reliant workforce.

Branson Wright

Wright has produced highly-acclaimed films including the HBO documentary “Women of Troy,” ESPN’s 30-for-30 “Believeland,” and Amazon Prime’s “King of the Block.”

An accomplished filmmaker, producer, writer, and director, Wright is also a nationally known sportswriter covering all genres of sports for nearly 30 years.

Tamara Powell

TBA

Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek

Ranked the#4 in Voice AI Influencer, Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek is the CEO of Clarity AI, Founder of Women in Voice, and Host of Your AI Roadmap. With a decade in software and AI, she has worked at Nuance and OneReach.ai in data, product, analysis, and innovation. A keynote speaker and Harvard Business Review contributor, she has a PhD and MA and is based in Seattle.

John Pasmore

John served as co-founder and CEO of the venture-backed, video-based travel platform VoyageTV which raised $10 million in an A-Round led by Syncom Venture Partners. It sold to Next 1 Interactive in 2013. He recently served as a partner at the Family Office, TRS Capital and is a partner at Movita Organics, an organic supplement company led by filmmaker Spike Lee’s wife, Tonya Lewis Lee. John sits on the Board of Directors of Outward Bound USA. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the State University of New York and a B.A. in Computer Science from Columbia University. He is married to Kobi Wu-Pasmore and they live in New York City with one child.

Dr. Marlon ‘Doc’ Fuller

Meet a multifaceted leader: philanthropist, inventor, entrepreneur, author, musician, director, and devoted father of four. Alongside his wife, Christina, they founded CoolKids.org, impacting 25,000+ lives with free financial literacy education. Driven by a mission to bridge the wealth gap, he pioneers innovative solutions like his album “The Syllabus” and the JAR TV app, while inspiring audiences worldwide.

Noelle Russell

Noelle Russell is a multi-award-winning technologist with an entrepreneurial spirit who specializes in helping companies with data, cloud, conversational AI, Generative AI, and LLMs. She has led teams at NPR, Microsoft, IBM, AWS and Amazon Alexa, and is a consistent champion for Data and AI literacy and is the founder of the “I ❤️ AI” Community teaching responsible AI for everyone.

She is the founder of the AI Leadership Institute and empowers business owners to grow and scale with AI. In the last year, she was awarded the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) award for Artificial Intelligence (for the 3rd year) as well as VentureBeat’s Women in AI Responsibility and Ethics award.

Gilda Alvarez

Gilda stands as an inspiring model for Latinas in Data technologies, holding degrees in MIS and Computer Science from the University of Central Florida. With over two
decades of impactful leadership in Enterprise Information Technology for Fortune 500 companies. Gilda’s expertise spans security audits, database health checks,
capacity planning, and migrations for distinguished organizations like IBM, Disney, IRS, Deloitte, Leidos, etc. Currently leading as the CEO of Waveform Data Solutions,
Gilda also champions initiatives that empower Latinas in the tech space, founding Latinas in Data—a mentoring and educational non-profit.

Brian Flaccus

Co-founder of The Knights Young Productions, Brian is a filmmaking multi-hyphenate having written and produced four feature films and a dozen shorts, garnering over 60 festival awards, an NAACP Image Award nomination and qualifying for the Academy Awards twice. His focus is in creative storytelling that fosters cross cultural understanding.

Karen Baptiste

Karen “Dr. K” Baptiste is the film director of the nine time award-winning documentary, Preschool to Prison, and the founder of Preschool to Prison, LLC. Unapologetic in her mission, she supports schools and businesses to dismantle racist systems and policies by replacing it with education and equity that lead to economic power and agency for Black people and people of color that transforms their life.

Tiffani Gay

Tiffani Gay is a junior in High School dedicated to driving global change with technology. She has pursued research for over five years and has presented her work internationally at a variety of events. She received grand awards at ISEF, the Taiwan International Science Fair, the Tunisian International Festival of Engineering Science and Technology, and the International Symposium on Systems Engineering. She is passionate about improving access to science education in marginalized communities and is the Founder and CEO of Future Discovery. She has advocated for equality in STEM through her blog TheMixedResearcher and local initiative GirlsWhoCode. Gay plays violin recreationally and paints in her free time.

Anatola Araba

Anatola is an acclaimed filmmaker, futurist, and founder of Reimagine Story Lab, where she pushes the boundaries of storytelling by fusing art and technology. Her films and immersive experiences have exhibited at the MoMA in NYC, Lincoln Center, Art Basel, and recently made history upon being sent to space in NASA’s first Moon mission since 1972. As an AI visionary, Anatola has spoken at the United Nations, Afrotech, and leading Universities. She has partnered with tech giants like Snapchat and Mozilla to tell innovative stories. Her writing has been published in ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. Raised in the heart of New York City, Anatola graduated from the prestigious New York University, Tisch School of the Arts. She is on a mission to reimagine the future, one story at a time.

Professor Timothy E. Bates

The “Godfather of Tech,” is a renowned expert in AI, Blockchain, and Immersive Tech. He is currently a pioneering professor for Innovation and Tech at University of Michigan and holds multiple roles as a Fractional CTO for cutting-edge startups. With a background as CTO of Lenovo and Chief Immersive Tech Strategist at General Motors, his expertise is sought by heavyweights like NVIDIA, Deloitte, PwC, and the US Marine Corps.

Erin Reddick

AI Developer and Founder of ChatBlackGPT, has carved a notable path in the technology industry. Her career encompasses significant roles at major tech companies including Meta, Microsoft, and AWS. Reddick’s most impactful contribution to the field is the creation of ChatBlackGPT, an AI software providing perspectives from the Black and African American communities. This innovation reflects her commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in technology. Reddick’s journey in tech, marked by her identity as a Black woman, involves addressing the racial biases present in AI. Her dedication led her to become a certified ChatGPT Expert and Prompt Engineer, culminating in the development of ChatBlackGPT. This platform aims to offer a safe, inclusive space for exploring AI, specifically tailored to the Black American experience. ChatBlackGPT, under Reddick’s guidance, ensures a response style that is culturally aware and respectful. Reddick’s work is pivotal in diversifying AI, promoting technology that is equitable and representative of diverse experiences. Her efforts are a testament to the importance of inclusive technology development, inspiring further advancements in the field.

Nadia Hionides

Principal, and founder of The Foundation Academy circa 1988, and The Jacksonville Science Festival, Circa 2013.  Current educator and principal of a private school that serves a diverse student group socially, economically, neurotypical, and Nuro-nontypical students, learning in a Project Inquiry Based format. in Jacksonville, Fl. The school is a collaborative experience for students in multi-age classrooms. Teachers collaborate in Micro and Macro thinking that includes visual, and performing arts. Technology and life skills are entrenched for a strong foundation in the skills needed for life success in the 21st Century.  The Foundation Academy supports the whole child by including daily Bible study, Ti Chi,  farming, health and wellness through sports. Nadia is a lifelong advocate for people in systemic poverty and inclusion. She knows that a life is inspired by knowing that God has a plan and purpose for each one of us, making you invaluable to your community now and in the future service of work and other chosen endeavors.

Sandra Howard-Simmons

A retired Leader in Urban Education systems; is a Jacksonville, Fl. based Pastoral Care provider for The FoundationAcademy (tFA) , k-12 Christian school. She is a lifelong literacy education advocate, who provides professional development in administration(leadership certification support), special education (inclusion of diverse learners), and instruction (diagnostic/prescriptive approach).

God First In everything is Mon Dear’s personal and professional mantra.


Robert Reddy

Robbie Reddy is an award-winning director, producer, editor and showrunner known for his visually captivating storytelling and versatility across various genres. His work has spanned all the major UK networks, and ranges from helming the popular online dating series “Catfish” for MTV LA, to BBC documentaries, like ‘Black British Style’ for BBC2. 

In Music Entertainment, Robbie has produced high-profile televised events such as ‘Emporio Armani Red – For One Night Only’, headlined by Beyoncé and Giorgio Armani for Channel 4. His expertise in live broadcasts of major events includes The Isle of Wight Music Festival on Sky, The MOBO Awards featuring John Legend and Lauryn Hill for BBC 1, and The Secret Concert for Telemundo US. 
Robbie has worked across the globe interviewing luminaries like Celine Dion, David Bowie, Coldplay, and Victoria Beckham to name only a few, and has also directed the Mercury Music Awards, Glastonbury Music Festival specials. He recently collaborated with legendary music producers Jam and Lewis, creating animated music videos for two of their tracks featuring Toni Braxton and Mary J. Blige. 

Dr. Garrick Beauliere

Dr. Garrick I. Beauliere has a PsyD in clinical psychology and has experience at child guidance clinics, inpatient forensic psychiatric hospitals, Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, and private practices. In addition to his clinical work, he is the current president of the DC chapter of the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi). Dr. Beauliere was selected as one of the 2023 Mc Donald’s Black and Positively Golden Change Leaders and was recognized on stage at the 2023 BET Awards for the impact he has made in the Black community as a mental health expert. BET also invited Dr. Beauliere to have a 1 on 1 interview with hip-hop artist, G Herbo, about mental health and hip hop from a Black male perspective. In addition to his 1 on 1 interview, he was featured on BET’s website highlighting his work in the mental health field and was interviewed by Revolt TV for “revolutionizing mental health advocacy in the Black community.” Dr. Beauliere is also the co-founder of the mental health organization called Psych Me Out. Lastly, Dr. Beauliere is a lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated crossing at Montclair State University in Fall 2014.

Shawn ray white

Coming soon

Dorian hollingsworth, jr.

Dorian Hollingsworth Jr, 22, is the Founder and Executive Director of Teen Care Network, a passionate and driven leader dedicated to supporting his community and empowering youth to prioritize mental health. Known for his commitment to normalizing mental health conversations in communities of color, Dorian embodies the ethos of a ‘Love Revolutionary,’ believing in the transformative power of respect and love for all. Through Teen Care Network, Dorian bridges the gap between care and community by offering free mental health resources to teens and fostering positive discussions about mental health. Central to the organization’s mission are Teen Care Advocates, volunteers who create safe spaces and provide support through active listening, collaborative problem-solving, and resource connections. Recognized as an Invested Faith Fellow, recipient of Hope Center Harlem’s Hope In Action Award, and a 2023 McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Change Leader, Dorian now serves on the Board of Trustees for The Accountability Initiative, continuing his impactful advocacy for mental health and community empowerment.

brianna baker

Coming soon

kemia bridgewater

Coming soon

aaliyah thompson

Aaliyah Thompson is a resilient entrepreneur, proudly thriving with autism. As the dynamic owner of a nail school, beauty school, and hair business, she faces challenges head-on and emerges victorious. Aaliyah is on a mission to redefine perceptions about autism, demonstrating that it doesn’t constrain her potential; rather, it ignites her creativity and determination. Her passion lies in empowering individuals and dismantling societal stigmas. Follow Aaliyah for an inspiring journey, beauty insights, and a firsthand look into the life of a triumphant autistic business leader dedicated to making a meaningful impact! 

Raechel Canipe

As Founder and CEO of Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship, Raechel Canipe personally finances access to crucial tech resources for over 3,000 women across Florida. Raechel is also the Vice President of Marketing & Sales at RevStar, where she integrates corporate social responsibility into core business operations to uplift the next generation of tech leaders through programs like Operation Partnership and Girls Who Code. Previously, Raechel supported the evacuation of over 100 Afghans after the fall of Kabul as one of the founding officers of Project Afghan Relief Fund, a tech for good initiative. Raechel’s legacy of community impact is recognized with several honors and awards, including TBBJ Business Woman of the Year Nominee, DeAnne Dewey Roberts Emerging Leader Finalist, USF Distinguished Alumni Award, and Tampa Bay Inno Fire Award Recipient.

Lindse Murphy

Lindse Murphy, with her extensive background in psychology, business administration, and healthcare administration, now serves as the Chief Relationship Officer and Manager of the Altamonte Global Innovation Lab. A Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, Lindse has a rich clinical experience with diverse mental health challenges. She has held leadership roles in top healthcare systems, developing and managing behavioral health programs. Known for her advocacy in suicide awareness and public speaking across the country, Lindse is dedicated to integrating behavioral health insights into innovative tech solutions, enhancing both organizational and community wellbeing. Her leadership is marked by a deep commitment to mental health, resilience, and effective, compassionate innovation.

Jessica Sudler

Jessica is a dynamic startup operations professional with a rich background in education technology, focusing on educational programming, government compliance, and leadership of distributed teams. Currently, she directs operations at Rogue Mobile, helping to deliver technology and connectivity to low-income families across 26 states. With degrees in International Studies and Spanish, a Master’s in Project Management, and certifications as a ScrumMaster and PMP, Jessica excels in launching educational programs and livestream events that reach tens of thousands globally. Her passion for education, equality, and international studies drives her to work closely with entrepreneurs to build sustainable growth models.

Candace Croughwell

Candace Croughwell is now proudly serving as the new Co-Chair of the WTE Orlando Chapter. With a background enriched by her roles as a seasoned entrepreneur and Director of Operations at Thazen, Candace brings a dynamic blend of leadership and innovation to her role. Her tenure as an ambassador for WTE showcased her dedication to supporting and empowering women in technology, emphasizing her commitment to fostering inclusive growth and diversity within the tech community. Candace’s experience extends across competitive sports and business, infusing her approach with resilience and a drive for excellence. Her advocacy for work-life balance is inspired by her personal journey with her husband and their five children. Candace also actively contributes to the tech and local community as a board member of One Million Cups, where she leverages her strategic insight to support budding entrepreneurs. Join us in welcoming Candace Croughwell, as she leads the Orlando Chapter towards impactful initiatives and community success.

Marques Martin

Marques Martin is Partner at FVLCRUM. Prior to FLVCRUM, Marques was Co-Founder and Partner at The Inkwell Group. Previously, Marques was Senior Vice President leading small business product and strategy for Key Bank. He was instrumental in developing engaging commercial strategies to support business owners and the communities where they operate. Before his tenure at Key Bank, Marques spent several years in private equity and strategic management consulting at the Riverside Company, HIG Capital, and McKinsey & Co.  Marques holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Morehouse College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude and was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma and Phi Beta Kappa honor societies.

David Adelson

Accomplished C-level business leader, entrepreneur, and investor with expertise in brand development, customer acquisition, and relationship management. Pioneered groundbreaking Hospitality Guest Services technology, orchestrating a global paradigm shift and ensuring a prosperous future for a multinational enterprise. Drove consistent annual double-digit growth and oversaw multi-million-dollar expansion as CEO of an international firm. Proficient in integrating successful acquisitions and facilitating profitable exits. Demonstrated talent for navigating business-technology intersections and rallying diverse teams towards a shared mission. Proven history of establishing thriving enterprises and executing successful exits. At Innovate Orlando, a local non-profit established at the request of Orlando Mayor’s, Orlando Economic Partnership, and the business community, champions technology and innovation growth through collaborative efforts and technology education initiatives.