Registration Open for the 9th Annual LEAD Summit!
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 8, 2026 – LEAD Summit Conference – 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Optional Happy Hour Mixer from 4:00PM-5:00PM)
UT Commons Conference Center
10100 Burnet Rd Building 137, Austin, TX 78758
2026 Sponsorship Opportunities Available
2026 LEAD Summit Sponsors
Event Sponsors
Dr. Syd Young, OutWellness
Dr. Syd Young brings extensive expertise to their practice, with a focus on providing inclusive and compassionate care to the queer community. With a strong foundation in physical therapy, Syd has specialized training in running rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and dry needling, making them a versatile practitioner capable of addressing a wide range of wellness needs.
Keynote Overview
Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, Waterloo Greenway
Dr. Burnette previously served in Austin as the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University. During her transformative tenure, the university’s endowment increased by more than 55%, student enrollment grew, and the institution successfully received a ten-year reaffirmation of its reaccreditation with no findings. Also under her leadership, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, an MBA program, and partnerships with the Texas State Department of Parks and Wildlife, Apple, and Army Futures Command were established.
Keynote Overview
Agenda and Sessions
Check out the 2026 Tracks (Sessions coming soon!):
Track 1: AI IRL (Technology & AI)
AI is transforming how we work, create, and make decisions. AI IRL will explore the real-world applications of AI—from practical tools professionals can use today to the ethical and societal implications shaping the future of work.
Track 2: Leadership Lab (Leadership & Career Mastery)
Designed for young professionals looking to sharpen their leadership skills, Leadership Lab will feature sessions focused on career growth, communication, decision-making, and leading with confidence in today’s evolving workplace.
Track 3: The Pulse of Austin (Community, Civics & Austin Now)
Austin is constantly evolving. The Pulse of Austin track will explore the issues shaping our city—from civic engagement and community leadership to policy conversations and the trends influencing Austin’s future.
The LEAD Summit is Austin Young Chamber’s signature professional development event, offering meaningful conversations, practical takeaways, and opportunities to connect with leaders from across Greater Austin.
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 AI Operating System: Identity, Authority, and Future-Proofing
In an era where AI is becoming the “new operating system” for professional visibility, the traditional resume is no longer enough. This session explores how leaders must evolve to remain unmissable by cultivating tech-enabled, multifaceted personal brands. We will discuss the “New OS of Trust,” the power of multidimensional branding, and how to transition from “doing nothing” to active engagement with the tools that define modern career longevity.
Panel: Trisha Beher, Trey Reynolds
Track 2: Orienting Your Professional Compass
The focus of this session is the raw, real journey of navigating a career. We are moving past the “resume version” of success to discuss the skills, confidence, and hurdles it takes to lead effectively. We will explore the “uphill battles” and the moments where a leader must recalibrate their direction.
Panel: Isabel Spariel, Megan Fanale, Kris Cano
Track 3: Austin in Motion: What’s Changing & How to Jump in
Austin is evolving at a rapid pace, from transformative downtown developments and major tourism initiatives to airport expansion and the future of regional transit. But with so much change happening, where do you fit in?
Join leaders from the Downtown Austin Alliance, Visit Austin, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Transit Forward as they share an inside look at the projects, priorities, and partnerships shaping Austin’s next chapter. This dynamic panel will explore what’s on the horizon for our city, and more importantly, how you can be part of it.
Attendees will walk away with a clearer understanding of Austin’s growth trajectory and practical ways to stay informed, whether through advocacy, civic engagement, or volunteerism. If you’re passionate about the future of Austin and want to play a role in shaping it, this session is for you.
Panel: Davon Barbour (Downtown Austin Alliance), Tiffany Kerr (Visit Austin), Ashika Ganguly (Transit Forward)
Track 1: Prompting Like a Pro: How to Talk to AI to Get Better Results
Coming soon!
Facilitator: TBD
Track 2: Your Brain Optimizes, Your Career Should Too Sponsored by PathFinder Career Prep
With a simple, elegant principle of neuropsychology as our guide, this session will cover what your brain teaches us about how to approach our work. All of our jobs may seem different, but the PathFinder team will highlight three main pillars that exist across all fields and disciplines to optimize your time and efforts. We’ll explore a streamlined problem-solving method, a tried-and-true emotional intelligence framework, and best practices of workplace communication to help you focus on the things that matter while you cut the things that don’t.
Facilitator: TBD
Track 3: KUT ATXplained: Behind the Scenes
Ever wondered how a simple question turns into a compelling story that helps thousands of Austinites better understand their city? Go behind the curtain with KUT and its beloved series, ATXplained, to see exactly how it happens.
In this Level-Up session, Matt Largey with KUT will share the evolution and process of ATXplained, from sourcing community-driven questions to storytelling. You’ll gain insight into how curiosity and community input come together to create impactful local journalism. Hear from Austin History Center Association, Austin Common, and KUT as they share concrete examples of how accessible information can drive engagement and action.
Attendees will leave with practical tools to better understand their city, ask more meaningful questions, and turn curiosity into connection – whether in their work, community involvement, or everyday conversations about Austin.
Facilitator: Matt Largey
Track 1: Engineering Human Readiness: Building Future-Ready Leaders in a Changing World
In an era where change is constant and technology continues to reshape the workplace, leadership must evolve from management to human engineering. This session explores how young professionals can develop the emotional intelligence, adaptability, and systems thinking required to lead transformation at every level.
Through her Human Engineering Framework, Nono introduces a practical approach to strengthening leadership readiness—helping attendees understand how to align people, purpose, and innovation in times of rapid change.
Participants will walk away with actionable tools for:
- Leading with empathy and confidence in uncertain times
- Building trust and psychological safety within teams
- Translating personal growth into collective organizational success
The session is designed to be engaging and interactive, combining reflection, real-world examples, and peer collaboration to empower Austin’s next generation of change-ready leaders.
Speaker: Brittany Parish
Track 2: From Awkward to Awesome: Your Coaching Cheat Sheet
Great leaders don’t just manage work – they grow people. This interactive workshop draws on practical tools from The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier to help participants coach others with confidence, address unhelpful behaviors, and turn challenging moments into opportunities for growth. Walk away ready to create a workplace your team is proud to be part of.
What participants will experience:
- Learn a coaching framework inspired by The Coaching Habit to guide 1:1 conversations and more
- Learn 7 powerful questions that unlock clarity and alignment
- Set a personal goal or “new habit” to implement immediately
By the end of the session, participants will leave with a practical “cheat sheet” for coaching like a pro.
Speaker: Jill Goodman
Track 3: Demystifying the Board Room
Nonprofit board service is a powerful way to make an impact—but getting started can feel overwhelming. In this panel, I Live Here I Give Here will break down the pathway to board service, from finding the right fit to preparing yourself as a strong candidate.
This panel will include young professionals and experienced board members, as well as nonprofit leaders, who will share their real experiences, lessons learned, and advice for making a meaningful impact in the boardroom. Attendees will uncover the accessibility of deepening volunteer involvement through board service.
Whether you’re just exploring or ready to get involved, you’ll leave with practical next steps and the confidence to take action.
Speaker: Larissa Davila – EGBI, Peter Baez – JP Morgan, Alli Reaves – Ascension Seton, Moderators: Charli Krause – ILHIGH, Jared Montes Slack – ILGH
Wrap up the LEAD Summit with a closing Keynote from Dr. Colette Burnette, Waterloo Greenway
2026 LEAD Summit speakers coming soon!
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
-
2026 Sponsorship Opportunities Available
2026 LEAD Summit Sponsors
Event Sponsors
- 2026 Keynote
-
Dr. Syd Young, OutWellness
Dr. Syd Young brings extensive expertise to their practice, with a focus on providing inclusive and compassionate care to the queer community. With a strong foundation in physical therapy, Syd has specialized training in running rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and dry needling, making them a versatile practitioner capable of addressing a wide range of wellness needs.
Keynote Overview
Coming soon!Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, Waterloo Greenway
Dr. Burnette previously served in Austin as the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University. During her transformative tenure, the university’s endowment increased by more than 55%, student enrollment grew, and the institution successfully received a ten-year reaffirmation of its reaccreditation with no findings. Also under her leadership, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, an MBA program, and partnerships with the Texas State Department of Parks and Wildlife, Apple, and Army Futures Command were established.
Keynote Overview
Coming soon!
- 2026 Sessions
-
Agenda and Sessions
Check out the 2026 Tracks (Sessions coming soon!):
Track 1: AI IRL (Technology & AI)
AI is transforming how we work, create, and make decisions. AI IRL will explore the real-world applications of AI—from practical tools professionals can use today to the ethical and societal implications shaping the future of work.Track 2: Leadership Lab (Leadership & Career Mastery)
Designed for young professionals looking to sharpen their leadership skills, Leadership Lab will feature sessions focused on career growth, communication, decision-making, and leading with confidence in today’s evolving workplace.Track 3: The Pulse of Austin (Community, Civics & Austin Now)
Austin is constantly evolving. The Pulse of Austin track will explore the issues shaping our city—from civic engagement and community leadership to policy conversations and the trends influencing Austin’s future.The LEAD Summit is Austin Young Chamber’s signature professional development event, offering meaningful conversations, practical takeaways, and opportunities to connect with leaders from across Greater Austin.
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 AI Operating System: Identity, Authority, and Future-Proofing
In an era where AI is becoming the “new operating system” for professional visibility, the traditional resume is no longer enough. This session explores how leaders must evolve to remain unmissable by cultivating tech-enabled, multifaceted personal brands. We will discuss the “New OS of Trust,” the power of multidimensional branding, and how to transition from “doing nothing” to active engagement with the tools that define modern career longevity.
Panel: Trisha Beher, Trey Reynolds
Track 2: Orienting Your Professional Compass
The focus of this session is the raw, real journey of navigating a career. We are moving past the “resume version” of success to discuss the skills, confidence, and hurdles it takes to lead effectively. We will explore the “uphill battles” and the moments where a leader must recalibrate their direction.
Panel: Isabel Spariel, Megan Fanale, Kris Cano
Track 3: Austin in Motion: What’s Changing & How to Jump in
Austin is evolving at a rapid pace, from transformative downtown developments and major tourism initiatives to airport expansion and the future of regional transit. But with so much change happening, where do you fit in?
Join leaders from the Downtown Austin Alliance, Visit Austin, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Transit Forward as they share an inside look at the projects, priorities, and partnerships shaping Austin’s next chapter. This dynamic panel will explore what’s on the horizon for our city, and more importantly, how you can be part of it.
Attendees will walk away with a clearer understanding of Austin’s growth trajectory and practical ways to stay informed, whether through advocacy, civic engagement, or volunteerism. If you’re passionate about the future of Austin and want to play a role in shaping it, this session is for you.
Panel: Davon Barbour (Downtown Austin Alliance), Tiffany Kerr (Visit Austin), Ashika Ganguly (Transit Forward)
Track 1: Prompting Like a Pro: How to Talk to AI to Get Better Results
Coming soon!
Facilitator: TBD
Track 2: Your Brain Optimizes, Your Career Should Too Sponsored by PathFinder Career Prep
With a simple, elegant principle of neuropsychology as our guide, this session will cover what your brain teaches us about how to approach our work. All of our jobs may seem different, but the PathFinder team will highlight three main pillars that exist across all fields and disciplines to optimize your time and efforts. We’ll explore a streamlined problem-solving method, a tried-and-true emotional intelligence framework, and best practices of workplace communication to help you focus on the things that matter while you cut the things that don’t.
Facilitator: TBD
Track 3: KUT ATXplained: Behind the Scenes
Ever wondered how a simple question turns into a compelling story that helps thousands of Austinites better understand their city? Go behind the curtain with KUT and its beloved series, ATXplained, to see exactly how it happens.
In this Level-Up session, Matt Largey with KUT will share the evolution and process of ATXplained, from sourcing community-driven questions to storytelling. You’ll gain insight into how curiosity and community input come together to create impactful local journalism. Hear from Austin History Center Association, Austin Common, and KUT as they share concrete examples of how accessible information can drive engagement and action.
Attendees will leave with practical tools to better understand their city, ask more meaningful questions, and turn curiosity into connection – whether in their work, community involvement, or everyday conversations about Austin.
Facilitator: Matt Largey
Track 1: Engineering Human Readiness: Building Future-Ready Leaders in a Changing World
In an era where change is constant and technology continues to reshape the workplace, leadership must evolve from management to human engineering. This session explores how young professionals can develop the emotional intelligence, adaptability, and systems thinking required to lead transformation at every level.
Through her Human Engineering Framework, Nono introduces a practical approach to strengthening leadership readiness—helping attendees understand how to align people, purpose, and innovation in times of rapid change.
Participants will walk away with actionable tools for:
- Leading with empathy and confidence in uncertain times
- Building trust and psychological safety within teams
- Translating personal growth into collective organizational success
The session is designed to be engaging and interactive, combining reflection, real-world examples, and peer collaboration to empower Austin’s next generation of change-ready leaders.
Speaker: Brittany Parish
Track 2: From Awkward to Awesome: Your Coaching Cheat Sheet
Great leaders don’t just manage work – they grow people. This interactive workshop draws on practical tools from The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier to help participants coach others with confidence, address unhelpful behaviors, and turn challenging moments into opportunities for growth. Walk away ready to create a workplace your team is proud to be part of.
What participants will experience:
- Learn a coaching framework inspired by The Coaching Habit to guide 1:1 conversations and more
- Learn 7 powerful questions that unlock clarity and alignment
- Set a personal goal or “new habit” to implement immediately
By the end of the session, participants will leave with a practical “cheat sheet” for coaching like a pro.
Speaker: Jill Goodman
Track 3: Demystifying the Board Room
Nonprofit board service is a powerful way to make an impact—but getting started can feel overwhelming. In this panel, I Live Here I Give Here will break down the pathway to board service, from finding the right fit to preparing yourself as a strong candidate.
This panel will include young professionals and experienced board members, as well as nonprofit leaders, who will share their real experiences, lessons learned, and advice for making a meaningful impact in the boardroom. Attendees will uncover the accessibility of deepening volunteer involvement through board service.
Whether you’re just exploring or ready to get involved, you’ll leave with practical next steps and the confidence to take action.
Speaker: Larissa Davila – EGBI, Peter Baez – JP Morgan, Alli Reaves – Ascension Seton, Moderators: Charli Krause – ILHIGH, Jared Montes Slack – ILGH
Wrap up the LEAD Summit with a closing Keynote from Dr. Colette Burnette, Waterloo Greenway
- Coming Soon: 2026 Speakers
-
2026 LEAD Summit speakers coming soon!
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