Thank you to Texas Mutual for being the 2025 LEAD Summit’s presenting sponsor!
Join us at this year’s 8th Annual LEAD Summit, presented by Texas Mutual Insurance Company!
The LEAD Summit (Learn | Explore | Act | Develop) is the Austin Young Chamber’s annual leadership development conference for students, young professionals and business leaders. The Summit strengthens the pipeline of talent and leaders in Central Texas through education, community-building, and practical steps for engagement. Students, early career professionals, mid-to-senior managers, HR teams, individual contributors, small business owners, and community engagers are encouraged to attend.
May 1, 2025 – LEAD Summit Conference – 8:00 AM – 4:15 PM
UT Commons Conference Center
10100 Burnet Rd Building 137, Austin, TX 78758
2025 Sponsorship Opportunities Available
2025 LEAD Summit Sponsors
Event Sponsors
Maria Brown Spence, Hearts2Heal
Maria Brown-Spence is the founder and CEO of Hearts2Heal, a nonprofit focused on mental health and grief support. An Army Veteran and Public Affairs consultant, she specializes in sustainable business practices, communications, and strategic planning. Maria holds executive certifications from Harvard, Syracuse, and the University of Colorado Boulder.
This keynote is for professionals who are building careers, showing up with intention, and growing through real life circumstances. Maria Brown-Spence invites attendees into a candid and empowering conversation about what it truly means to live a legacy.
Keynote Overview
Drawing from her personal and professional journey across corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial spaces, Maria explores how we can find meaning in our everyday experiences. Whether navigating grief, burnout, or a career pivot, she shows how purpose and profession can align to create powerful impact.
Agenda and Sessions
Join us at 8am to check-in, network with other attendees and take advantage of free headshots sponsored by BoothEasy.
Join us for LEAD welcome remarks from Board Members Cat Duong-Valadez & Arielle Sadler, Jackie Sekiguchi from Texas Mutual Insurance Company, and an opening keynote. More details coming soon.
Track 1: The Future of Work: AI’s Role in Career Growth & Leadership
As AI continues to reshape industries, what does this mean for the future of work, career development, and leadership? This dynamic panel will explore how AI is transforming job roles, redefining skill sets, and creating new opportunities for professionals at all levels.
Join industry experts Nono Bokete (Data Sentinels), Waziri Garuba (iN Possibiliti), and Antonio F. Delgado (Latinitas) as they discuss the impact of AI on leadership, workforce trends, and the essential skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world. They will share insights on how AI is influencing decision-making, automation, and talent development—and how professionals can adapt to stay ahead.
Panel: Nono Bokete, Data Sentinels, Waziri Garuba, iN Possibiliti, Antonio Delgado, Latinitas, Michael Ward , Austin Urban Technology Movement (Moderator)
Track 2: Where We Live, Work and Move: The State of Austin
As young professionals, it’s easy to get caught up in the fast-paced demands of our careers, but how well do we truly know the city we call home? Over the past 12 years, Austin led the nation as the fastest-growing large metro area. However, recent estimates from the United States Census Bureau show that Austin and its surrounding communities have now slipped to second place between 2022 and 2023. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, this session will provide fresh perspectives on key topics such as transportation, housing, and the evolution of downtown. Join us to learn about the exciting growth happening throughout the city, and how it impacts both your personal and professional life. Come ready to engage, ask questions, and uncover the many opportunities and hidden gems Austin has to offer!
Panel: Ashika Ganguly, Transit Forward, Jenell Moffett , Downtown Austin Alliance and Frances Jordan, AECOM (Moderator)
Track 3: Thriving at Work and Beyond: Three Pillars of Well-being
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining overall wellness is key to long-term success and fulfillment—both professionally and personally. This session will explore the three pillars of well-being: mental health, financial wellness, and physical health, providing practical strategies to build resilience, manage stress, and create sustainable habits in the workplace and beyond.
Panel: Clarena Tobon , NAMI, Brad Wisdom, American Heart Association, Nolan Maloney, Collective Advisors and Cat Duong- Valadez (Moderator), H-E-B
Track 1: Level Up Your Workplace Relationships: How to Disagree Better
Tired of workplace disagreements turning into unproductive disputes? Would you like to feel more confident and relaxed when facing challenging conversations? In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies for turning disagreements into opportunities for growth and stronger team dynamics. Join us to discover how to approach challenging conversations with empathy, curiosity, and confidence and leave with a fresh perspective on building a more positive and collaborative work environment.
Facilitator: Chris Nieto, Leadership Austin
Track 2: Level Up Your Networking
Ready to build meaningful connections that propel your career? In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies to confidently network, make lasting impressions, and expand your professional circle. Discover how to approach conversations with ease, foster genuine relationships, and leverage networking opportunities for career growth. Whether you’re new to the workforce or looking to enhance your skills, this session will equip you with the tools to network like a pro.
Facilitator: Patricia Hayes, PVH Consulting Group LLC
Track 3: Next-Level Vision: Turning Dreams into Goals with Vision Boarding
Got big dreams but not sure where to start? This fun, hands-on session will help you get clear on what you really want and turn those ideas into real goals. You’ll create your own vision board to keep you focused and motivated—whether it’s for your career, personal life, or big life moves.
Facilitator: Austin Young Chamber Board Member
Track 1: Bridging Communities: A Hands-On Leadership Workshop for Young Professionals
Discover how to become a leader who drives meaningful change by connecting people, ideas, and purpose. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore key leadership principles such as strategic decision-making, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptability.
Through engaging group activities, you’ll learn how to design impactful community engagement plans and incorporate sustainability into your leadership strategy. Leave with practical tools and actionable insights to create inclusive, community-centered projects that make a difference. Ideal for early to mid-career professionals passionate about leadership, community impact, and sustainable growth.
Speaker: Gabriella Bermea
Track 2: Your Civic Engagement Toolkit: Get Involved and Make a Difference
Want to engage with your local leaders at both the city and state level but not sure where to start? Do you not know what a biennium is and are too afraid to ask? Then come join us for this workshop to learn more about the structure of your state and local government and the best strategies to engage and get involved. This workshop will be led by longtime capitol staffer and City of Austin Commissioner Brittany Sharkey, who also serves as the chair of the Civic Affairs Committee for the Austin Young Chamber.
Speaker: Brittany Sharkey
Track 3: Developing Your Mental Health Playbook
Ever wonder how to help remove the stigma around the topic of mental health and wellness in the workplace, at school, or in your personal life? Trying to figure out how to know what a mental health challenge may look or sound like? In this presentation, we’ll cover signs and symptoms of mental illness, discuss coping strategies and self care and as well as knowing when and how to seek help when needed.
Speaker: Amelia Floyd and Kathleen Hassenfratz, LPC
Wrap up the LEAD Summit with a closing Keynote: Embracing Your Authentic Self in the Workplace with Daniel Hinojosa
Read more about our 2025 LEAD Summit speakers below!
Amelia Floyd, Engage and Heal
Amelia Floyd is changing the narrative around mental health in Austin area communities and schools. As Co-Founder and President of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Engage and Heal Foundation, Floyd is an innovative trailblazer who works tirelessly to establish partnerships to save lives and fortify a healthier community for students, teachers, and parents.
@engageandheal
Antonio F Delgado, Latinitas
Antonio F. Delgado is Executive in Residence at Latinitas, leading an AI assistant that harnesses real-time data insights, and Chief Technologist at Answers Infinite, empowering SMBs with automation. A songwriter in his spare time, he champions the intersection of arts and technology, where imagination comes to life.
Ashika Ganguly, Transit Forward
Ashika Ganguly is a public policy leader, former Austin ISD STEM teacher, and former City Council candidate dedicated to community-driven solutions. She has worked in legislative policy, student affairs, and research, and now serves as Executive Director of Transit Forward, advocating for better public transit, housing, education, and economic opportunity in Austin.
Brad Wisdom, American Heart Association
Brad is a dynamic nonprofit leader passionate about driving impact, building strategic partnerships, and inspiring teams. As the Executive Director at the American Heart Association, he leads innovative fundraising initiatives and community programs to advance health equity and save lives.
Brittany Sharkey, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
Brittany Sharkey is the executive director of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical
Examiners. She has served as a past president of both YWA and Austin Symphony
Orchestra BATS. She additionally serves as a Commissioner on the city’s Ethics Review
Commission, board member of AYC, member of Impact Austin and a member of the
Ballet Austin Guild.
Cat Duong- Valadez, H-E-B
Cat Duong is an HR Strategic Project Manager for H-E-B’s Manufacturing, Warehouse, and Transportation Division. She began her H-E-B career in 2003 as a cashier while attending UT, where she earned degrees in Advertising and Public Affairs. Passionate about inclusion and community, she serves on several H-E-B councils and the Urban Roots Board. A 2017 Diversity Champion Award recipient, Cat enjoys volunteering with her husband Anival and traveling—especially to Disney World.
Chris Nieto, Leadership Austin
Chris Nieto is a native Austinite with a 25+ year background cultivating leadership skills in individuals and organizations. Chris is dedicated to building strong relationships, building equity in the community, and empowering individuals to develop the skills, confidence, and vision necessary to make a positive impact in their communities.
Clarena Tobon, NAMI
Clarena Tobon is the Executive Director of NAMI Central Texas and a dedicated speaker on grief and resilience. After losing her mother to suicide, she became a fierce advocate for mental health equity, focusing on reducing stigma, expanding access to care, and empowering communities to navigate mental wellness.
Daniel Hinojosa, Lift ATX
Daniel Hinojosa is a proud Hispanic entrepreneur and owner of Lift ATX, a community-focused gym located in the heart of East Austin. Daniel is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of Hispanic entrepreneurs, showing by example that passion and hard work can turn dreams into reality. His vision and drive make Daniel a leader who is not only shaping the fitness industry but also making a meaningful impact on Austin’s cultural and social landscape.
@lift.atx
Frances Jordan, AECOM
Frances Leigh Jordan is a strategic communications manager at AECOM, working on various infrastructure projects with federal, state, and local agencies. After law school, she ventured down a nontraditional route to build a diverse background that lends to her unique ability to connect and forge common ground among people with differing interests. Frances is a recent 2023 Austin Under 40 winner in the Journalism, Marketing, and Public Relations category.
Gabriella Bermea, Perkins Eastman
Gabriella Bermea, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, is an architect and senior associate at Perkins Eastman, dedicated to creating inspiring, community-centered learning environments. Raised along the Texas-Mexico border, she champions public education through sustainable design and meaningful stakeholder engagement. An author and speaker, she advocates for STEM access and the power of community in education.
Jenell Moffett, Downtown Austin Alliance
Jenell Moffett is the Chief Impact Officer for the Downtown Austin Alliance, driving research, communication, and inclusive economic strategies. She pioneered the State of Downtown Austin report and co-led the Downtown Austin Space Activation program. She chairs Movability’s board and ULI’s DEI Steering Committee, fostering equitable urban development and mobility.
Jill Goodman
Jill Goodman is CEO for Leadership Austin. She envisions a community of leaders who create exponential impact across Central Texas (and the world). Jill’s career spans 20+ years in the civic space, journalism, and management consulting, most recently as Deputy Chief of Strategy & Innovation for the Austin airport. She loves discovering new coffee spots.
Kathleen Hassenfratz, Lake Travis Counseling
Kathleen is a licensed professional counselor with more than 30 years of experience in various roles: middle school teacher, middle school counselor, chemical abuse prevention counselor, ropes course manager, health and social programs coordinator, teen whisperer (and mom of two!). She has a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas at Austin and Master of Education in Counseling and Guidance from Texas State University.
Michael Ward, Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ)
Michael Ward Jr. is a social entrepreneur advancing STEAM education, workforce development, and economic advancement. He created AUTMHQ, co-founded TwoWards Solutions, and serves on several STEM and community boards. A Miami native and UNC alum, Michael’s passionate about tech equity, economic mobility, and good food made with love.
Nolan Maloney, Collective Advisors
Nolan is an Associate Wealth Advisor and VP of Operations who helps clients build intentional financial strategies rooted in both planning and emotional insight. With a background in neuroscience and psychology, he values genuine relationships and guidance beyond wealth. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, cheering on Austin FC, and exploring Austin’s food and music scene.
Nono Bokete, Data Sentinels
Nono Bokete is CEO of Data Sentinels and Chief Ambassador of Transformation Leader (T4L). She fuses tech, leadership, and bold storytelling to drive impact. Through real-world courses and The Shameless Podcast, she’s on a mission to empower 1 million lives by 2026. Disruptive. Strategic. Unapologetically
Patricia Hayes, PVH Consulting Group LLC
Patricia V. Hayes, J.D., is a licensed attorney who serves as an Executive Advisor, Empowerment Coach and Authentic Networking Strategist. Patricia owns PVH Consulting Group, LLC, a strategy consulting and leadership development firm where she guides professionals in developing empowered networks that are purposefully aligned with their career/business goals.
Waziri Garuba, Harlem Labs Advisory
Waziri Garuba is a strategic advisor and venture builder with over a decade of experience in management consulting and business development. He specializes in driving growth and enhancing brand recognition, and is committed to empowering business owners through tailored advisory services
- Sponsorships
-
2025 Sponsorship Opportunities Available
2025 LEAD Summit Sponsors
Event Sponsors
- 2025 Keynote
-
Maria Brown Spence, Hearts2Heal
Maria Brown-Spence is the founder and CEO of Hearts2Heal, a nonprofit focused on mental health and grief support. An Army Veteran and Public Affairs consultant, she specializes in sustainable business practices, communications, and strategic planning. Maria holds executive certifications from Harvard, Syracuse, and the University of Colorado Boulder.
This keynote is for professionals who are building careers, showing up with intention, and growing through real life circumstances. Maria Brown-Spence invites attendees into a candid and empowering conversation about what it truly means to live a legacy.
Keynote Overview
Drawing from her personal and professional journey across corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial spaces, Maria explores how we can find meaning in our everyday experiences. Whether navigating grief, burnout, or a career pivot, she shows how purpose and profession can align to create powerful impact.
Attendees will leave with strategies to honor their values, embrace transitions, and turn life’s unexpected moments into purposeful action.
- 2025 Sessions
-
Agenda and Sessions
Join us at 8am to check-in, network with other attendees and take advantage of free headshots sponsored by BoothEasy.
Join us for LEAD welcome remarks from Board Members Cat Duong-Valadez & Arielle Sadler, Jackie Sekiguchi from Texas Mutual Insurance Company, and an opening keynote. More details coming soon.
Track 1: The Future of Work: AI’s Role in Career Growth & Leadership
As AI continues to reshape industries, what does this mean for the future of work, career development, and leadership? This dynamic panel will explore how AI is transforming job roles, redefining skill sets, and creating new opportunities for professionals at all levels.
Join industry experts Nono Bokete (Data Sentinels), Waziri Garuba (iN Possibiliti), and Antonio F. Delgado (Latinitas) as they discuss the impact of AI on leadership, workforce trends, and the essential skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world. They will share insights on how AI is influencing decision-making, automation, and talent development—and how professionals can adapt to stay ahead.
Panel: Nono Bokete, Data Sentinels, Waziri Garuba, iN Possibiliti, Antonio Delgado, Latinitas, Michael Ward , Austin Urban Technology Movement (Moderator)
Track 2: Where We Live, Work and Move: The State of Austin
As young professionals, it’s easy to get caught up in the fast-paced demands of our careers, but how well do we truly know the city we call home? Over the past 12 years, Austin led the nation as the fastest-growing large metro area. However, recent estimates from the United States Census Bureau show that Austin and its surrounding communities have now slipped to second place between 2022 and 2023. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, this session will provide fresh perspectives on key topics such as transportation, housing, and the evolution of downtown. Join us to learn about the exciting growth happening throughout the city, and how it impacts both your personal and professional life. Come ready to engage, ask questions, and uncover the many opportunities and hidden gems Austin has to offer!
Panel: Ashika Ganguly, Transit Forward, Jenell Moffett , Downtown Austin Alliance and Frances Jordan, AECOM (Moderator)
Track 3: Thriving at Work and Beyond: Three Pillars of Well-being
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining overall wellness is key to long-term success and fulfillment—both professionally and personally. This session will explore the three pillars of well-being: mental health, financial wellness, and physical health, providing practical strategies to build resilience, manage stress, and create sustainable habits in the workplace and beyond.
Panel: Clarena Tobon , NAMI, Brad Wisdom, American Heart Association, Nolan Maloney, Collective Advisors and Cat Duong- Valadez (Moderator), H-E-B
Track 1: Level Up Your Workplace Relationships: How to Disagree Better
Tired of workplace disagreements turning into unproductive disputes? Would you like to feel more confident and relaxed when facing challenging conversations? In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies for turning disagreements into opportunities for growth and stronger team dynamics. Join us to discover how to approach challenging conversations with empathy, curiosity, and confidence and leave with a fresh perspective on building a more positive and collaborative work environment.
Facilitator: Chris Nieto, Leadership Austin
Track 2: Level Up Your Networking
Ready to build meaningful connections that propel your career? In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies to confidently network, make lasting impressions, and expand your professional circle. Discover how to approach conversations with ease, foster genuine relationships, and leverage networking opportunities for career growth. Whether you’re new to the workforce or looking to enhance your skills, this session will equip you with the tools to network like a pro.
Facilitator: Patricia Hayes, PVH Consulting Group LLC
Track 3: Next-Level Vision: Turning Dreams into Goals with Vision Boarding
Got big dreams but not sure where to start? This fun, hands-on session will help you get clear on what you really want and turn those ideas into real goals. You’ll create your own vision board to keep you focused and motivated—whether it’s for your career, personal life, or big life moves.
Facilitator: Austin Young Chamber Board Member
Track 1: Bridging Communities: A Hands-On Leadership Workshop for Young Professionals
Discover how to become a leader who drives meaningful change by connecting people, ideas, and purpose. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore key leadership principles such as strategic decision-making, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptability.
Through engaging group activities, you’ll learn how to design impactful community engagement plans and incorporate sustainability into your leadership strategy. Leave with practical tools and actionable insights to create inclusive, community-centered projects that make a difference. Ideal for early to mid-career professionals passionate about leadership, community impact, and sustainable growth.
Speaker: Gabriella Bermea
Track 2: Your Civic Engagement Toolkit: Get Involved and Make a Difference
Want to engage with your local leaders at both the city and state level but not sure where to start? Do you not know what a biennium is and are too afraid to ask? Then come join us for this workshop to learn more about the structure of your state and local government and the best strategies to engage and get involved. This workshop will be led by longtime capitol staffer and City of Austin Commissioner Brittany Sharkey, who also serves as the chair of the Civic Affairs Committee for the Austin Young Chamber.
Speaker: Brittany Sharkey
Track 3: Developing Your Mental Health Playbook
Ever wonder how to help remove the stigma around the topic of mental health and wellness in the workplace, at school, or in your personal life? Trying to figure out how to know what a mental health challenge may look or sound like? In this presentation, we’ll cover signs and symptoms of mental illness, discuss coping strategies and self care and as well as knowing when and how to seek help when needed.
Speaker: Amelia Floyd and Kathleen Hassenfratz, LPC
Wrap up the LEAD Summit with a closing Keynote: Embracing Your Authentic Self in the Workplace with Daniel Hinojosa
- 2025 Speakers
-
Read more about our 2025 LEAD Summit speakers below!
Amelia Floyd, Engage and Heal
Amelia Floyd is changing the narrative around mental health in Austin area communities and schools. As Co-Founder and President of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Engage and Heal Foundation, Floyd is an innovative trailblazer who works tirelessly to establish partnerships to save lives and fortify a healthier community for students, teachers, and parents.
@engageandheal
Antonio F Delgado, Latinitas
Antonio F. Delgado is Executive in Residence at Latinitas, leading an AI assistant that harnesses real-time data insights, and Chief Technologist at Answers Infinite, empowering SMBs with automation. A songwriter in his spare time, he champions the intersection of arts and technology, where imagination comes to life.
Ashika Ganguly, Transit Forward
Ashika Ganguly is a public policy leader, former Austin ISD STEM teacher, and former City Council candidate dedicated to community-driven solutions. She has worked in legislative policy, student affairs, and research, and now serves as Executive Director of Transit Forward, advocating for better public transit, housing, education, and economic opportunity in Austin.
Brad Wisdom, American Heart Association
Brad is a dynamic nonprofit leader passionate about driving impact, building strategic partnerships, and inspiring teams. As the Executive Director at the American Heart Association, he leads innovative fundraising initiatives and community programs to advance health equity and save lives.
Brittany Sharkey, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
Brittany Sharkey is the executive director of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical
Examiners. She has served as a past president of both YWA and Austin Symphony
Orchestra BATS. She additionally serves as a Commissioner on the city’s Ethics Review
Commission, board member of AYC, member of Impact Austin and a member of the
Ballet Austin Guild.Cat Duong- Valadez, H-E-B
Cat Duong is an HR Strategic Project Manager for H-E-B’s Manufacturing, Warehouse, and Transportation Division. She began her H-E-B career in 2003 as a cashier while attending UT, where she earned degrees in Advertising and Public Affairs. Passionate about inclusion and community, she serves on several H-E-B councils and the Urban Roots Board. A 2017 Diversity Champion Award recipient, Cat enjoys volunteering with her husband Anival and traveling—especially to Disney World.
Chris Nieto, Leadership Austin
Chris Nieto is a native Austinite with a 25+ year background cultivating leadership skills in individuals and organizations. Chris is dedicated to building strong relationships, building equity in the community, and empowering individuals to develop the skills, confidence, and vision necessary to make a positive impact in their communities.
Clarena Tobon, NAMI
Clarena Tobon is the Executive Director of NAMI Central Texas and a dedicated speaker on grief and resilience. After losing her mother to suicide, she became a fierce advocate for mental health equity, focusing on reducing stigma, expanding access to care, and empowering communities to navigate mental wellness.
Daniel Hinojosa, Lift ATX
Daniel Hinojosa is a proud Hispanic entrepreneur and owner of Lift ATX, a community-focused gym located in the heart of East Austin. Daniel is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of Hispanic entrepreneurs, showing by example that passion and hard work can turn dreams into reality. His vision and drive make Daniel a leader who is not only shaping the fitness industry but also making a meaningful impact on Austin’s cultural and social landscape.
@lift.atx
Frances Jordan, AECOM
Frances Leigh Jordan is a strategic communications manager at AECOM, working on various infrastructure projects with federal, state, and local agencies. After law school, she ventured down a nontraditional route to build a diverse background that lends to her unique ability to connect and forge common ground among people with differing interests. Frances is a recent 2023 Austin Under 40 winner in the Journalism, Marketing, and Public Relations category.
Gabriella Bermea, Perkins Eastman
Gabriella Bermea, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, is an architect and senior associate at Perkins Eastman, dedicated to creating inspiring, community-centered learning environments. Raised along the Texas-Mexico border, she champions public education through sustainable design and meaningful stakeholder engagement. An author and speaker, she advocates for STEM access and the power of community in education.
Jenell Moffett, Downtown Austin Alliance
Jenell Moffett is the Chief Impact Officer for the Downtown Austin Alliance, driving research, communication, and inclusive economic strategies. She pioneered the State of Downtown Austin report and co-led the Downtown Austin Space Activation program. She chairs Movability’s board and ULI’s DEI Steering Committee, fostering equitable urban development and mobility.
Jill Goodman
Jill Goodman is CEO for Leadership Austin. She envisions a community of leaders who create exponential impact across Central Texas (and the world). Jill’s career spans 20+ years in the civic space, journalism, and management consulting, most recently as Deputy Chief of Strategy & Innovation for the Austin airport. She loves discovering new coffee spots.
Kathleen Hassenfratz, Lake Travis Counseling
Kathleen is a licensed professional counselor with more than 30 years of experience in various roles: middle school teacher, middle school counselor, chemical abuse prevention counselor, ropes course manager, health and social programs coordinator, teen whisperer (and mom of two!). She has a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas at Austin and Master of Education in Counseling and Guidance from Texas State University.
Michael Ward, Austin Urban Technology Movement (AUTMHQ)
Michael Ward Jr. is a social entrepreneur advancing STEAM education, workforce development, and economic advancement. He created AUTMHQ, co-founded TwoWards Solutions, and serves on several STEM and community boards. A Miami native and UNC alum, Michael’s passionate about tech equity, economic mobility, and good food made with love.
Nolan Maloney, Collective Advisors
Nolan is an Associate Wealth Advisor and VP of Operations who helps clients build intentional financial strategies rooted in both planning and emotional insight. With a background in neuroscience and psychology, he values genuine relationships and guidance beyond wealth. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, cheering on Austin FC, and exploring Austin’s food and music scene.
Nono Bokete, Data Sentinels
Nono Bokete is CEO of Data Sentinels and Chief Ambassador of Transformation Leader (T4L). She fuses tech, leadership, and bold storytelling to drive impact. Through real-world courses and The Shameless Podcast, she’s on a mission to empower 1 million lives by 2026. Disruptive. Strategic. Unapologetically
Patricia Hayes, PVH Consulting Group LLC
Patricia V. Hayes, J.D., is a licensed attorney who serves as an Executive Advisor, Empowerment Coach and Authentic Networking Strategist. Patricia owns PVH Consulting Group, LLC, a strategy consulting and leadership development firm where she guides professionals in developing empowered networks that are purposefully aligned with their career/business goals.
Waziri Garuba, Harlem Labs Advisory
Waziri Garuba is a strategic advisor and venture builder with over a decade of experience in management consulting and business development. He specializes in driving growth and enhancing brand recognition, and is committed to empowering business owners through tailored advisory services
- 2024 LEAD Summit
