Speakers

Carmelle M. Cadet is the Founder and CEO of EMTECH, a technology company working with central banks around the world to make their financial infrastructures inclusive and resilient
by design. At EMTECH, Carmelle leads the vision of developing the next generation central banking infrastructure to drive financial inclusion, economic development and modernization of regulatory environments. From Digital Regulatory Sandbox to Digital Cash Platform (Central Bank Digital Currency), Carmelle and her highly experienced team of former regulators and experienced engineers, present groundbreaking and actionable
tech solutions to solve current economic challenges.

A thought leader and public speaker in fintech and regulatory innovation, Carmelle also advises other women, minority fintech entrepreneurs. She has won and has been nominated for several awards for her leadership and trailblazing work.

In her previous life, Carmelle was the Deputy CFO for IBM Blockchain where she spearheaded the global product commercialization and financial management strategy. With clients like
Walmart, JPM Chase, Softbank, Carmelle oversaw the launch of several groundbreaking technologies that drove better food safety, strong cybersecurity and supply chain digitization.
She joined the company as a Financial Analyst, and when Carmelle took over as Product CFO she helped lead a highly successful product launch that created 200+ jobs while driving strong
revenue growth to over $100M in 3 years.

Carmelle earned her Executive .M.B.A. from the New York University Stern School of Business with specializations in Leadership and Global Business, and her B.A. from Florida Atlantic
University. She is originally from Haiti, but now lives in NYC with her husband and son.

Nneka Etoniru is EVP of Global Brand Strategy at Avenue Z, a media and technology company helping fintech founders and investors elevate their reputation and increase their revenue through communications, media and content. Avenue Z clients include Easterly Asset Management, Tassat, Arca Labs, Better.com, Athena Capital, Muse Capital, Core Scientific, Prometeo, Empify and more. She was previously a Senior Director at FTI Consulting working with Mastercard, Kraken, Tribe Capital & Voyager Space. Nneka previously led comms & PR at fintech startups IMTC and Bond.One and was a financial journalist covering emerging markets for several years.

Brevard Nelson is the Co-Founder & Director of Caribbean Ideas Ltd the parent company of Synapse, Academy and Influence and is also Managing Director of Synapse, the subsidiary dedicated to helping Caribbean brands and businesses become more globally successful and influential, through the power of technology and modern marketing techniques.

He has over 25 years of experience in balancing Left-brain activities (Digital solutions, Coding, Data analysis, Fintech) & Right-brain activities (Music, dancing, the Creative Arts & Storytelling). Brevard’s experience includes working in a FinServ group for 10+ years, providing digital solutions for a leading commercial bank for 8+ years and serving on the board of a regional financial Institution for 2+ years.

Brevard completed an Executive Education Programme at the Harvard Business School in 2012 and holds Master’s Degrees in Management, International Marketing Communications, and also completed Fintech and AI certifications from the Wharton Business School.

• Storytelling: Help Solution Providers with telling a clear and memorable story that is outcome-focused and starts with WHY?
• Trusted Advisor: Support Financial Services executives with defining outcomes they are looking to achieve through partnering with Solution Providers
• Qualified Introductions: Make qualified introductions matching desired outcomes with vetted solutions

Manolo Alvarez is a seasoned systems engineer and technology entrepreneur with extensive experience in product development and people management. As a Founder and CGO at Reach Tools, he has been instrumental in defining innovative business models and spearheading technology projects that leverage emerging trends, particularly in the mobile and social commerce industries. His expertise lies in bridging the gap between business needs and development stakeholders, ensuring seamless integration of business requirements into ground breaking technological solutions.

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Manolo is a passionate writer, motivational speaker, consultant, and executive coach. He shares his insights on personal development, entrepreneurship, education technology, and coaching through his blog, manoloalvarez.blog, and his podcast, Conceptos. His dedication to inspiring others is further demonstrated by his commitment to coaching and consulting.

Neil Appalsamy is a seasoned fintech leader and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in financial services and technology. As the CEO and Co-Founder of 4PAY INC., he and his co-founders drive the company’s mission to transform financial ecosystems through its Collaborative Finance (Co-Fi) platform, which bridges financial institutions, fintechs, and underserved communities to create innovative and inclusive financial solutions. He frequently shares insights on digital transformation, inclusive innovation, and the future of financial systems at global conferences and industry events. Beyond his professional endeavors, Neil is passionate about mentoring emerging talent and fostering partnerships that drive long-term community impact.

Neil’s work spans global markets, including impactful deployments across Africa and the Caribbean. From advancing digital banking initiatives to enabling community-focused financial products, his leadership emphasizes sustainable innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and financial inclusion. A strong advocate for regulatory compliance and cybersecurity, Neil ensures 4PAY’s platforms meet the highest standards of regulatory adherence and data protection, creating secure and trustworthy solutions for all stakeholders.

Neil’s global perspective has been enriched by years of professional expatriate experience, allowing him to navigate diverse markets with a nuanced understanding of local challenges and opportunities. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from York University and has completed executive education at Harvard Business School. Additionally, Neil served in the Canadian Armed Forces as part of the Armoured Corps.

Neil lives in Canada with his family and is an avid scuba diver, embracing the opportunity to explore the depths of the ocean as a reflection of his curiosity and drive for discovery.

Elson Auquel is the Founder and CEO of Sendi. Born and raised in Haiti, he has over five years of experience in the banking industry. Elson is currently pursuing a degree in User Experience Design at Full Sail University, combining his expertise in finance with his passion for creating intuitive and user-friendly digital experiences.

Martin Kwame Awagah is an experienced Digital Economy Specialist and FinTech Expert with expertise in economic research, governance, public policy, financial inclusion, international development, and project management. He is recognized for his contributions to the advancement of financial technologies (fintechs) and digital/mobile payment institutions in Ghana. Martin holds key leadership positions and plays a pivotal role in promoting financial technology innovation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building within the fintech ecosystem. 

He is presently a Board Member of the Africa FinTech Network (AFN), a continental platform that unites Africa fintech leaders, organizations and stakeholders through their country associations to exchange information and ideas, promote and support creation of innovative technologies and deployment across and beyond Africa.

The Network also serve as a platform for advocacy and coordinated regulatory interactions. Additionally, he serves as the President of the Ghana FinTech and Payments Association, the official advocacy and mouthpiece institution of fintech and digital payments fraternity in Ghana, championing the regulatory landscape and innovative solutions across the country.

Ife Badejo is a visionary speaker, business pioneer, and founder of Islandpreneur International. She empowers island-based entrepreneurs to innovate, scale, and thrive while showcasing islands as hubs of innovation to the world. Known for moderating high-profile events and delivering transformative keynotes, Ife can be found inspiring youth, coaching high-achieving women, and equipping corporate and government leaders with bold ideas and actionable strategies that drive meaningful impact.

As Senior Director of Products and Innovation for the Caribbean and Central America, Vivien Bendeck specializes in the development of payment products and solutions designed to meet the needs of both banked and unbanked segments.

From the implementation of payments to receive remittances through digital credentials, the launch of the debit portfolio for the affluent segment, and the ideation of specialized products for the new generations (Millennial and Genzers), Vivien focuses on implementing innovative value propositions that facilitate the interaction of different segments with payment methods.

Prior to her current position at Visa, Vivien led consumer products in multiple Latin American sub regions such as Andean, Southern Cone, Caribbean, and Central America with special emphasis on optimizing consumer portfolios.

Vivien has over 20 years of experience in the payment industry and has been working for Visa for 15 years. She graduated in Finance and International Relations from the Universidad Externado de Colombia. She also has an MBA from the Florida International University. She holds certifications in Innovation from universities such as MIT, Harvard, and the University of Miami.

Breaking into the premier dancehall scene in the early 90s, Spragga Benz made his unforge;able debut by freestyling for the legendary Buju Banton, unleashing what would soon become a classic hit: “Love Mi Gun.” With this explosive entry, Spragga Benz embarked on a musical journey that would capture the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide. He swiIly became one of Jamaica’s most iconic and beloved DJs, known for his daring lyricism and a unique, sonorous voice that served as an essenNal bridge between Jamaican music and foreign genres such as hip-hop, R&B, and soca. Spragga’s charisma endeared him to the Jamaican people, but it was his relentless passion and talent that kept the hits coming. Hits like “Coulda Deal” and “Girls Hooray” followed his debut successes, solidifying his posiNon as a musical genius. In 1994, he unveiled his official debut album, “Jack It Up,” on the VP Record label, leaving audiences eagerly anNcipaNng its release. This classic album giIed the dancehall genre with some of its most cherished 90s hits, including “Hand Inna Di Air,” “Things A Gwaan,” and “Jump Up & Stare,” showcasing Spragga’s ability to tap into the Jamaican psyche and cultural zeitgeist through Nmeless music. The success of his debut album a;racted the a;enNon of label execuNves abroad, leading to the release of his sophomore album, “Uncommonly Smooth,” via America’s Capitol Records a year later. This album marked Spragga’s aspiraNons for crossover music while introducing unique Jamaican sounds to American audiences with hits like “A1 Lover” featuring R&B icon Chevelle Franklin and “Spanish Harlem” featuring Ben E. King. Tracks like “Gang Rival,” “Hardcore Lovin,” and “No Matey” conNnued to capNvate fans locally and abroad. Returning to Jamaica to reconnect with his roots, Spragga Benz collaborated with arNsts like Wyclef, KRS One, and Nas. Hits like “Dolly House” and “Machine Gun Kelly” sustained his dominance, but it was the joint album with the King of Dancehall, Beenie Man, Ntled “Two Badd DJs” in ’97 that produced numerous hits, sebng the stage for his 2000 album “Fully Loaded,” featuring the iconic track “She Nuh Ready Yet (Hype Up).” AddiNonal major hits included “Stoosh” featuring Foxy Brown and “Backshot” featuring Lady Saw. In 2002, Spragga Benz took on the role of ‘Wayne’ in the cult classic film “Sho;as,” alongside Kymani Marley, achieving instant success in both the American movie and music scenes. He conNnued to release albums like “Thug Nature” and “Live Good,” showcasing his versaNlity and providing a plahorm for emerging arNsts from his Red Square crew. However, it was his 2019 album, “Chiliagon,” that marked a triumphant return to form. Mixing the golden era dancehall aestheNc of the ’90s with contemporary sounds and themes, tracks like “Differ” showcased Spragga’s ability to keep his music fresh and relevant. His 2020 album, “The Journey Chosen,” conNnued in a similar vein, featuring collaboraNons with arNsts like Konshens, Wayne Wonder, and Kymani, exploring the rich synergy between hip-hop and dancehall.

Beyond music, Spragga Benz expanded his acNng career, starring in the 2022 American thriller film “Second Chance,” portraying a character far removed from his iconic ‘Wayne’ role in “Sho;as.” Spragga Benz conNnues to be a mulN-talented force in the world of entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on both music and film.

Annie is a Private Sector Development specialist and Financial Inclusion expert with a Harvard MBA and 20 years of management consulting, entrepreneurial, and volunteer experience in over 50 countries. After four years at IDB leading a multi-million portfolio to stimulate innovation and productivity in the Caribbean, she helped different regional organisations drive digital transformation and resilience in the region. She currently works for the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) on improving access to digital financial services for MSMEs. Annie was invited to present her research and engage policy makers at the SIDS Global Business Network Forum during the 4th International Conference on SIDS in Antigua. She began her career in 2001 at Deloitte Consulting in Montréal as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and immigrated to Barbados in 2006.

Michelle Beyo is the CEO and Founder of Finavator an award winning payments and future of finance consultancy. Michelle brings 20+ years of expertise from across multiple industries including Payments, Loyalty, Telco, Digital Identity and Open Data. Her leadership has help drive innovation in both retail and payments sectors, fostering strategic growth for numerous North American companies.

She is recognized as a global thought leader as was as TedX speaker and has spoken on stages worldwide, includingMoney20/20,Fintech Meet Up and Open Banking Expo with a passion to igniting discussions on the future of finance. She is a Money20/20 RiseUp alumni and mentor as well as serves as an Advisory Board Member to Tillo Rewards as well as VoPay. She is a Board Member and the President at Open Banking Network Canada OFNC, championing for data rights, transparency, and security in the financial landscape. She is also the creator and instructor for Finavator’s Future of Finance Master Class 

(https:/finavatorfuturefinancemasterclass.com/)

Michelle has been recognized for many awards including “Fintech Female Entrepreneur 2024 -North America” as well as  “Top 50 Women Leaders of Toronto 2023″and WXN CEDI 2023 Board Award for Canadian Equity, and Diversity. Michelle has also received a spot on the “Women in Fintech Global Power List” in 2021. Michelle is also a contributing author to the USA best seller “Habits of Success” by Leaders Press. 

Senator Blackman is the Minister in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Investment of Barbados. With over twenty years of experience in international development, he possesses tremendous insight to the myriad of challenges and opportunities faced by countries in the Global South.

Minister Blackman previously served as a Consultant in Youth Development at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, as well as a Partner in St. Lucia-based law firm with a specialization in international trade and data protection law.

He served as Barbados’ Ambassador to the United Nations at Geneva, Vienna and Rome, as well as Ambassador to Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and Serbia. During his tenure, he served in various committees in the WTO, UNCTAD, including Chair of the Trade and Environment Committee, and Trade and Development Committee of the WTO, the President of the G77 and China in Geneva, as well as on the Global Board of the UN International Gender Champions.

He later joined the International Labour Organization (ILO) as Senior Advisor to the Director-General with responsibility in Cabinet for Latin America & The Caribbean, Africa and Arab States; External Relations; Legal Affairs, the ILO’s Tribunal and Corporate Services.

Minister Blackman has both the LLB Law and LLM International Trade Law from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom and is an Associate Member of the London-based Chartered Institute of Arbitrators

Kishelle Blaize-Cameron was appointed Deputy Director of the Specialised Supervision Unit of the Financial Services Commission in 2022. She is responsible for oversight of high-risk licensees, and those of systemic importance in the jurisdiction. This includes all banks, systemically important TCSPs, Insurance Companies and all high-risk Investment Businesses and Virtual Asset Service Providers. Mrs Blaize-Cameron leads the Commission’s FinTech Working Group and serves as the Deputy Chair of the Risk Monitoring Committee. In her previous capacity as the Deputy Director of the Investment Business Division, she gained experience in supervising high-risk financial entities. Mrs Blaize-Cameron holds a Master’s degree in Corporate Finance from EADA Business School and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Maryland.

Pia Bramwell is a digital business solutions specialist. As the Founder of Verified & True (V&T), she pioneers blockchain technology for origin verification and traceability in traditional commodity trading. Her versatile career spans educational technology, a range of entrepreneurial projects and a tenure as a Management Consultant in Denmark, where she guided over 150 companies through digital transformation initiatives. Bramwell’s career exemplifies her ability to merge traditional industries with digital innovation, particularly in agricultural commerce and supply chain traceability, where her expertise manifests through her directorship of Sherwood Forest Coffee Estate in Jamaica prestigious coffee industry. Pia maintains a steadfast commitment to Jamaica’s coffee and cocoa heritage who, along with other origin farmers around the world, will benefit from the V&T platform which finally creates financial inclusion for rural stakeholders.

Richie Campbell is one of the most relevant artists of the last decade on the national stage. Known as Portugal’s first internet musical phenomenon to succeed on a national and international scale, Richie has become one of the country’s biggest musical exports in the last decade, with his unique blend of R&B, Reggae, Dancehall and, Afrobeats.

In 2010 Richie released his first album “My Path” only available online for free. The album registered roughly 300,000 downloads to date, cementing Richie as Portugal’s first internet musical phenomenon and building a huge fan base that lead to a sold-out show in one of the biggest venues in Portugal – Campo Pequeno Bullring (over 6,000 people) – a unique achievement for an unsigned artist.

2012 witnessed the release of Richie Campbell’s second album “Focused”. The first single “That’s How We Roll” was awarded “Song of the Year” by the National Radio Awards and nominated for the Portuguese Golden Globes in 2013. The album was number 1 on the National Top Charts for 6 weeks, confirming his status as one of the biggest and most successful artists in Portugal. By the end of the “Focused Tour”, his return to Campo Pequeno Bullring resulted in the acclaimed Richie CampbellLive at Campo PequenoCD/DVD, licensed by Sony Music.

For his third album in 2015, Richie Campbell did a surprise release of the album “In the 876” and in less than two hours the album reached nr 1 on the iTunes charts. This Album was recorded in Kingston, Jamaica and, Lisbon, Portugal. Its name is a reference to Jamaica’s telephone area code. “In the 876” features the likes of the Cape Verdian Sara Tavares and the Jamaicans – Agent Sasco, Toian and, Jesse Royal.

2017 marked the release of Richie Campbell’s most pivotal solo album, “Lisboa” which brought a new and more mature sound to Richie’s repertoire and which was critically acclaimed, garnering over 40 million streams and over 100 million views on YouTube. And ultimately resulted in a show in Portugal’s biggest concert venue Altice Arena (around 18,000 people).

In 2023, Richie’s long awaited fifth album “Heartbreak & Other Stories” brought a new line of influences for the artist as well as the second sold-out show under his name in Altice Arena. With the success of the singles Tsunami with Gson, Let You Go, Floating and Love Again as well as collaborations with Bella Shmurda, Jah Vinci and producers Kel-P, Richie Campbell has his sights set on the next step in his international music journey. 

Born and raised in Seattle, Chris Cochran began his professional career as an on-air radio talent. Recognizing a need for leadership training, he transitioned to working with students and adults in churches and schools in Idaho and Washington.

In 2005, Cochran launched a daily podcast called “The Car Cast,” which was among the first 10,000 podcasts on the internet. He leveraged his experience in radio and podcasting to create a new media consulting company, later shifting to IT consulting, where he spent over 15 years, including roles as an executive in the consulting industry.

In 2015, Chris co-founded the economic development company Innovation Collective and relocated to North Idaho.

In 2021, Chris left IC to start his own consulting firm, Cochran Advisors, where he worked with municipalities, tribes, chambers of commerce, and startups. Chris is currently the Executive Director of Entrepreneurs Across Borders.

Matthew Cumberbatch is a highly experienced business leader and the visionary CEO and Founder of DheltGroup. With a rich background in ownership and operations across multiple industries, Cumberbatch has a keen eye for identifying gaps and opportunities in the market. He saw the need for a transformative approach in the digital marketing, SaaS and AI industry, and this led to the establishment of DheltGroup.

As a leader, Matthew is deeply invested in the success of his clients’ brands and takes a holistic approach to business development. He represents WeAdSocial, MyLoyalWallet and DheltLabs in an executive capacity and provides specific oversight to the team players, clients, and brand development. His passion for understanding what drives successful brands is evident in his hands-on leadership style and strategic decision-making.

Before founding DheltGroup, Matthew successfully designed, built, and operated the first digital coalition loyalty program and payment platform in Barbados and St. Lucia from 2014 to 2019 by the name of EasySave Rewards. This experience provided him with a unique perspective on the potential for technology to transform traditional business models and drive growth and innovation. Matthew is also deeply committed to empowering people to achieve their full potential. He believes in creating opportunities for individuals to pursue new career paths and business opportunities, and his leadership is focused on driving positive change and personal fulfillment for his team and clients alike.

Mr. Deambrosi joined Infocorp in 2014, and his current position is Head of Sales Latam with key commercial responsibilities focused on developing new strategic alliances and generating new Customers in the banking sector in more than 20 countries (Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean). Devoted builder of synergic interpersonal relations, coaching and competitive advantages. Fluent in English, German, Spanish and Portuguese.

Jason Dear is an accomplished entrepreneur and financial technology pioneer, recognized for his innovative leadership in transforming Jamaica’s financial and real estate landscape. As the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Link2Lenders (Jamaica) Ltd., Jason has been at the forefront of integrating technology into traditional financial service and real estate offering consumers hassle-free access to multiple lenders and insurance providers. Under his leadership, Link2Lenders has positioned itself as a trailblazer in real estate technology (Prop-Tech) and software solutions, revolutionizing loan processing and approval systems for banks and private lenders. Jason’s extensive career spans over two decades, with significant contributions to the Caribbean and North American financial sectors. As Assistant Finance Director at Auto Loan Solutions in Toronto, Canada, he honed his expertise in financial technology, vehicle financing, and lender relations. His earlier roles include serving as Executive Consultant for Grace Kennedy, where he drove innovation in areas such as mobile payments and retail transformation, and as Equity Trading Manager at First Global Financial Services Ltd., managing portfolios exceeding $10 billion JMD. Complementing his professional achievements, Jason has actively contributed to national and industry development as a Council Member of the Bank of Jamaica’s National Financial Inclusion Council and a Board Member of organizations like the Jamaica Manufacturers Association and the Finance Committee at JAMPRO. Jason’s dedication to excellence is reflected in his academic background, holding a BBA in Marketing and Finance from Northwood University and an Associate Degree in Marketing Administration from Seneca College. His entrepreneurial spirit has earned him accolades such as the National Commercial Bank Nation Builder Award and the Bold One Champion of Manufacturing by the National Baking Company. Passionate about fostering growth through innovation, Jason is committed to creating impactful solutions that empower consumers and businesses alike, driving both economic development and technological progress.

David Dick is the Co-founder of Monytri, a fintech platform designed to revolutionize the way people engage with financial assets. The Monytri app aims tom connect users to major brokers, banks, and financial institutions, allowing them to gift stocks and ETFs seamlessly. Alongside its gifting features, Monytri offers a strong focus on financial literacy, providing users with the tools and knowledge to build, grow, and preserve wealth. The platform aims to give users a solid foundation in creating sustainable financial habits while promoting accessibility and inclusivity.

Originally from the island of Curaçao, David is a seasoned finance professional with extensive international experience. He holds a master’s degree in Finance from the University of Tilburg and has built a diverse career spanning roles at General Motors, NYSE-Euronext, Robeco and Baywa. For several years, he has been navigating complex global markets as a commodity trader, specializing in the physical grain trade and their financial derivatives on the exchange.

With his deep financial expertise and entrepreneurial vision, David is committed to transforming how people approach financial education and gifting, enabling a new generation to engage with wealth creation and management innovatively.

www.monytri.com | @monytri.fintech

Jennifer Doherty-Bigara is a Senior climate change specialist at the Inter-American Development Bank, based in Barbados. Her main role consists in advising and mainstreaming climate change policy recommendations in the portfolio with the Government as well as enhancing their impact through strategic initiatives. With over fifteen years of experience in the sustainability agenda, she has mainly focused on climate governance and national and local climate change policies, fiscal policy and green budgeting, climate finance and long-term planning exercises with an adaptation approach. Prior to her current post, she led the IDB portfolio of Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay, from 2016-2019, and from 2019-2021 was at the Agence Française de Developpement (AFD), coordinating the efforts of the Adapt ‘Action Platform in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean. Jennifer holds two Master´s Degrees: one in International Development Policy from the McCourt School of Public Policy, University of Georgetown and a second one in International Affairs and Business Strategy from Sciences Po Toulouse.

Dave Dowrich is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of TIAA, where he is responsible for TIAA’s financial management and planning, actuarial, tax, accounting and financial reporting functions for the organization.

Dave joined TIAA from Prudential where he held a similar role for Prudential Financial’s International Businesses, based in Tokyo, Japan.  Prior to Prudential, he worked at AIG as Chief Executive Officer, International Life and Retirement, with oversight of AIG Life (UK), Laya Healthcare (Ireland) and leading the Life and Retirement division’s international strategy and growth. He previously served as CFO of AIG Japan and Asia Pacific and as CFO and Chief Financial Actuary of Institutional Markets in the USA. Prior to joining AIG, Dave held senior roles in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse, as well as reinsurance and transaction structuring roles at Swiss Re and Canada Life Reinsurance. Dave began his career as a pension consulting actuary in Toronto, Ontario.

Dave earned an MBA in Finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a BSc in Actuarial Science and Applied Statistics from the University of Toronto. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, an Associate of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries. Dave is on the board of Scotiabank, Vantage Group Holdings Ltd, has served on several insurance and non-insurance operating and holding company boards, and currently serves on the boards of non-profit and academic organizations.

In July 2022, Dave was named one of the “2022 Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America”. 

(http://savoynetwork.com/features/dave-dowrich/)

It was 1995. Ciceron was born over drinks and dinner at an Italian bistro in San Francisco as one of the first digital agencies in the US.

The Web was a wee bit back then. There was no Google. No YouTube. No WiFi. No streaming audio, video or on-demand programming. People hated it when web pages had images on them because they would have to wait for them to load. 

Fast forward to 2024. The firm Andrew Eklund founded that day has been consistently recognized as one of the most innovative, boundary-pushing by AdWeek, Inc. 5000, and the Business Journal’s Fast 50, having stuck to its guns that digital consumer experience is still the most significant, game-changing business influence of the past century. Entire markets have emerged as a result of disintermediation and disruption of traditional business models. Power shifts constantly. Simply stated, those who are nimble, open, and adaptive win.

Andrew is a sought after speaker on a host of topics related to digital transformation, from the advancement of AI and business intelligence to data-driven marketing performance models.

Pascale Elie is Haiti native entrepreneur. She is the co-founder and chairperson of HaitiPay, Haiti’s first privately regulated fintech company. HaitiPay began as a mobile wallet operator and has expanded to offer a wide range of digital payment solutions, acting as a transaction hub for financial institutions, including account transfers, cross-institution services, and international remittance deposits.

With her partners she launched CellPay Corporation that she also leads. CellPay is a U.S.-based fintech focused on linking global remittances to local merchant networks across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) markets. CellPay uses a community-driven approach to channel diaspora funds toward boosting the local economies through earmarked transfers

Born in Guadeloupe, Lionel Fabert is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for leveraging technology to create sustainable and inclusive solutions. As Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Axalio, Lionel plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s mission to transform the critical minerals market through blockchain innovation and ESG-driven practices. With over 10 years of expertise in marketing and product development, Lionel has successfully bridged the gap between technology and impact. His roots in the Caribbean inspire his commitment to fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability across the region and beyond.

Ms. Tara Frater is the Principal and Founder of FT Legal, a boutique law firm based in Barbados. She is an experienced attorney-at-law with over 15 years of experience working at leading firms in international financial services centres in the Caribbean. She has lectured in various fora on legal issues and her speaking engagements include various Caribbean and Latin American conferences hosted by STEP and other organisations.

Ms. Frater actively engages on issues affecting the international financial services sector in the Caribbean. She participates in various working groups focused on legislative reform and currently serves on the Trust Review Committee and is the Chairperson of the FinTech Advisory Committee convened by the Barbados Government. She formerly served as the Chairperson of the STEP Barbados Branch and is a former Director of the Barbados International Business Association. She has repeatedly made the Citywealth IFC Power Women Top 200 List, which recognise women of influence in government, private wealth, private client advisory and philanthropy across international financial centres. She has a keen interest in cryptocurrencies and the transformative potential of blockchain technology.

Eldred F. Garcia is the SVP of Business and Partner Development at First Atlantic Commerce & PowerTranz, spearheading strategic growth and fostering valuable partnerships across the Caribbean and Latin America.

Having held various leadership roles in banking, consulting, and all the major credit card brands, Eldred’s commitment to the regional payment ecosystem is highlighted by the deployment of industry-shifting payment technologies and advanced fraud prevention solutions.

Eldred’s leadership extends beyond the payments industry. He has served as a medical officer in the US Marine Corps and on the City of Miami’s Technology Advisory Board. He also led the US EMV Chip Readiness Committee for the US Secret Service.

Gabrielle is the Director of Educational Initiatives at Blockchain Lex Group in collaboration with CryptoMondays Caribbean and Africa. She is also the founder of The Erline Bradshaw Foundation and The Femme Lex Cohort. In her role as Director of Educational Initiatives at Blockchain Lex Group, Gabrielle spearheads programs such as the No Long Ting’ Bootcamp and Electric Dreams Venture Builder at CryptoMondays Caribbean and Africa, which focus on revolutionising Web3 and legal tech education across the Caribbean, Latin America and Africa.

As the founder of The Erline Bradshaw Foundation, she possesses 20+ years of education leadership, and oversees the Caribbean’s most awarded comprehensive and globally recognised education programs of their kind, positively influencing over 10 million leaders, students, and professionals in Law, Literacy, and STEM fields. Her commitment to education and community advocacy is further demonstrated by her launch of the Gabrielle Gay Award for Excellence in Reading and The Femme Lex Cohort, initiatives that have impacted over 115 schools and universities and reached more than 500,000+ professionals and students.

Gabrielle’s influence extends to government, consultancy, and international roles: where she is recognised as the Sustainable Development Champion for Education in the Prime Minister’s Office of the Government of Barbados. She actively engages with and serves as an Ambassador with CARICOM, Humane Intelligence, the WTO, the OECS, UNICEF and United Nations advisory groups. An acclaimed education futurist, Gabrielle holds numerous leadership positions and accolades, establishing her as a leading voice in shaping the future of education in the Caribbean and beyond.

Kevin Greenidge is a distinguished economist whose expertise spans the fields of economics, finance, and public policy. A Barbadian national, he holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the
University of Nottingham, an M.Phil. in Economics with Distinction from the University of Cambridge, and a B.Sc. in Economics with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kevin has held several key positions where he significantly influenced economic policy and strategy. Since March 2023, he has been serving as the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, overseeing the country’s monetary policy and financial stability. Prior to this, he was the Senior Economic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Barbados and the Government of Barbados from August 2018 to December 2022. In this role, he played a pivotal part in designing and advising on the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) programme, successfully negotiating with international institutions including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and leading the government’s economic team in critical discussions.

His tenure at the IMF from August 2011 to July 2018 showcased his expertise in international economics, policy review, and strategic economic planning across various countries. As a Senior Economist, he contributed to numerous policy papers and economic reviews that impacted low-income developing countries.

Kevin’s earlier roles at the Central Bank of Barbados, including Director of the Research and Economic Analysis Department and Senior Economist, underline his commitment to developing sound economic intelligence and policy advice. His leadership ensured the delivery of high-quality economic and statistical analysis, fostering a deeper understanding of Barbados’s economy and contributing to its policy formulation.

In addition to his professional roles, Kevin is actively involved in several professional affiliations, contributing as a referee and member to prestigious economic societies and journals. His vast experience also includes consultation roles for central banks and organisations across the Caribbean, emphasising his expertise in econometrics, economic modelling, and policy restructuring.

Kevin’s academic contributions are equally impressive, with numerous publications in refereed journals and books focusing on economic growth, financial liberalisation, and the macroeconomic impacts of policy programmes in small economies. His work has received notable recognition, including awards for his PhD dissertation and contributions to economic literature.

Kevin Greenidge’s career is marked by a deep commitment to advancing economic understanding and policy effectiveness, demonstrating his exceptional capabilities as an economist, advisor, and leader in both national and international contexts.

Aaron Grinhaus LL.B., J.D., LL.M. (Tax) is a business and international tax lawyer, writer, professor, Web3 law expert and founder of Grinhaus Law Firm (grinhauslaw.ca) based in Toronto with associate offices across Canada. Aaron frequently gives presentations on a variety of business, international tax and regulatory law related topics and has acted as chair, presenter and lecturer through a number of educational institutions and organizations. He regularly advises on international tax structuring and Web3 law and is an Adjunct Professor of International Tax Law as well as Faculty and Co-Director of Osgoode Hall Law School’s prestigious Web3, Blockchain and Metaverse Law Certificate Program. In 2019 he published “A Practical Guide to Blockchain and Smart Contract Law” (LexisNexis: 2019), the world’s first textbook on Web3 law, which is now in its 3rd and international editions. In January 2022 Grinhaus Law Firm became the first law firm in Canada (and one of only a few in the world) to establish an office in the Metaverse in Decentraland and in 2023 he was a founding member of the Metaverse Bar Association (MetBA.io).

Aaron holds law degrees from the University of Ottawa (LL.B.), Michigan State University College of Law (J.D.) and a Masters in Tax Law from Osgoode Hall Law School of York University (LL.M.)

Julaire Hall is a Programs Officer at the Interledger Foundation, a nonprofit foundation advocating for the adoption of open, interoperable payments with an aim to increase access to digital financial services for those currently excluded from traditional financial services. At ILF, Julaire plays a pivotal role in developing and administering grant programs to resource the growth and adoption of interoperability through the Interledger Protocol. Julaire engages organizations and individuals with a keen interest in open-source, open payments and enabling inclusive digital financial services.  

Julaire comes with over a decade of experience in planning, executing, and overseeing the successful delivery of programs in government and non-governmental organisations in Jamaica. Julaire holds an Executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business & Technology and Master of Science degree in Governance and Public Policy from the University of the West Indies. Julaire is a certified Prosci Change Management Practitioner and is currently studying to become a Certified Digital Finance Practitioner.

Matt Hamilton is the Senior Developer Relations Engineer at the Arbitrum Foundation, a leading organization that enhances the efficiency of Ethereum, a major player in decentralized finance (DeFi). With over two decades of experience in software development, Matt has held key roles at IBM and Ripple, working on AI, machine learning, and financial technology. He specializes in using blockchain to improve transaction speed and security, but also enjoys teaching developers how emerging technologies can reshape finance. Matt resides in Barbados, where he spends his free time paddleboarding with his dogs or tinkering with his electric Mini Moke.

A professional (over)thinker, Saelese Haynes is a multi-jurisdictional attorney-at-law, international speaker and researcher in cutting-edge areas of the law. Saelese is the founder and head of Titan Chambers where she has cultivated an understanding of spaces where law and technology intersect such as fintech and Intellectual Property. This positions her as a leading voice in navigating the legal complexities of emerging technologies and bringing seasoned perspectives to the projects in which she is involved as a valuable resource for her clients.

With a background in law, a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, and a vision for a tech-forward Caribbean, she is committed to fostering responsible tech practices that protect both businesses and consumers. Saelese’s work reflects her dedication to advancing tech knowledge and ethical standards, making her a trusted and knowledgeable advisor. In the past few years, she has helped clients bridge gaps in innovation and compliance in launching new products and services.

 Saelese has a hands-on approach with an interest in development that goes beyond her professional curiosity. As such, she is often reviewing and testing new solutions that can bring efficiency in her personal and professional life. In fact, she also ran this bio by her AI assistant before it came to you! If you catch up to Saelese, she’ll talk endlessly about initiatives that promote equity in the spaces that she inhabits. 

Jennifer has an inherent, natural gift in the area of communications, diplomacy and stakeholder engagement. Over the years she has worked extensively in a consultative and executive leadership capacity within a range of sectors across government, private sector and non-profit entities. She has helped to bring clarity to organisations’ communications, marketing and public relations goals under the HighMax Consulting Brand, a PR, and Marketing Communications boutique firm which she founded in 2008.

Jennifer is the current TV anchor, producer and co-host of USVI’s OUR TV Network’s dynamic business and economic development television program with Bloomberg News, and One Source St. Thomas as news partners—the program focuses on advancing trade, innovation, and economic opportunities across the Caribbean. Through her leadership, the show has spotlighted key topics such as cross-border payments, fintech, e-commerce, and trade law, featuring influential thought leaders and experts like Curt Persaud, Carolyn Shepherd, and Andrea Ewart. Her work has been instrumental in fostering collaboration with key partners, promoting solutions to drive economic growth. Jennifer’s visionary approach and outlook for the program continues to shape and guide the narrative of Caribbean progress and connectivity.

In her foreign relations capacity, in 2021 – 2022, she fostered Israel-Caribbean relations, emphasizing humanitarian aid, agricultural innovation, and strategic communication efforts. In 2021 – 2022 she coordinated the shipment of $2 million GUY in medical supplies from Panama on behalf of the Government of Israel to Guyana during the COVID-19 pandemic in collaboration with CILC, a regional NGO. In one of her roles, as it relates to foreign relations, she has coordinated briefings, and summits on behalf of the Embassies of Mexico and Panama accredited to the Caribbean to educate and sensitize the Caribbean Community. She also coordinated public relations efforts for Israeli smart farming and digital technologies training seminar across the Caribbean, attracting over 1,300 regional participants from the Caribbean farming community, and later assisted in the initiation of talks with the Agriculture and Agro-Industrial Development arm of the CARICOM Secretariat to foster trilateral cooperation on Israel’s AgriWeb program.

As a continuous learner within her field of Public Relations and Marketing Communications, she has honed over 25 years of knowledge and experience, building startegic partnerships, planning investent and stakeholder engagement summits as well as local and regional press conferences. She holds a Masters Degree in Global Marketing and International Sales from Edinburgh Napier University Scotland and a Diploma in Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations from the University of the West Indies (UWI) CavehillI Campus. She has also completed certificates in Project Management with the InterAmerican Development Bank, (IDB), Marketing and General Management for Small Business with the Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BAMP), and Global Diplomacy from the University of London & SOAS University of London, among others.

She holds firm to the philosophy that “real progress occurs when we each reach back and enable others along the journey using our God-given talents, skills and experience” and is committed to her life vision, which is to give effect to humanity realising their fullest potential and being of global value.

Daine is a distinguished legal professional admitted to practice in England and Wales, Barbados, and Jamaica, with extensive expertise in corporate law. Serving as General Counsel, Head of Compliance, and MLRO for financial institutions in Barbados and the Cayman Islands, Daine holds an LL.M. from Cardiff University and a CAMS certification. His work demonstrates his understanding of corporate structures, insurance law, and risk management, confidently navigating complex legal and regulatory landscapes. An entrepreneurial spirit led Daine to create deckit, a logistics app aimed at revolutionizing global package delivery. “deck” is a tribute to his family—parents Ena and Carson, and daughter Kali—reflecting his personal and professional values. His background in law, compliance, and technology equips him to provide counsel across industries, from financial services to tech startups, making him a trusted advisor in today’s dynamic business environment.

Ms. Denise Hinds-Jordan is a skilled financial sector professional with over 25 years of experience in financial regulation, development economics, and public policy. Currently acting in the role of Deputy CEO, her substantive role is that of Director, Supervision and Regulation. In this position, she is responsible for consolidated supervision and oversight of entities, products, and services in the Insurance, Securities, and Pensions sectors. She is secretary to the FSC’s Fintech Working Group and is intimately involved in the development of the fintech strategy for the non-bank financial sector.

This career regulator was previously a Consultant with the Securities Commission of the Bahamas and has served in varied regulatory positions with the Central Bank of Barbados.

She has significant training and experience in multiple areas of banking, insurance, and securities regulation and is intimately involved in policy development at the FSC.

Tedd Huff is a recognized thought leader in the fintech industry with over 25 years of experience. Is the Founder & CEO of Voalyre, a global fintech enablement firm specializing in software and professional services as well as the founder & host of Fintech Confidential.

His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in driving the success of numerous startups over the past two decades, serving as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, Chief Experience Officer, and Chief Strategy Officer.

Tedd has provided strategic direction to both private startups and public companies such as Global Payments, OpenEdge, Heartland Payment Systems, Nuvei, and TSYS.

His focus on growth, innovation, and user experience has simplified the complexity of payments, leading to collaborations with major companies like Apple, Google, Amazon, Walmart, Cabela’s, and Restoration Hardware.

Jahshii established himself as an artist through breakout hits like Cream Of The Crop, Shift Change, Born Fighter, Keep Up and a slew of others. But the Grant’s Pen born, Jamaican native unlike his musical peers, emerged as a star in his own rite through exceptional skill in the performing arts. It was Jashshii’s stagecraft that differentiated him as an up-and-coming artist and won him the love of the Jamaican people. Jahshii had tested his mettle against the best in the city, by way of a weekly talent stage show by his now mentor Popcaan. Jahshii’s strong voice and personality are tempered only by his humble, self-reflective and jovial characteristics. These shine through in the sonic identity of his brand but also the general aesthetic that people have come to associate him with. Jahshii wears his heart, strong as a lion on his sleeves. But before the 22 year-old captured the hearts of many Jamaicans islandwide, he had flashes of the bright lights in his future in music. A four year-old Jahshii, legally Mluleke Tafari Clarke, recorded his first single dubbing himself by the name we have all come to know and respect. Between that first flash of musical brilliance at four, and his current place in his journey to stardom; the young artist struggled like most youths to decide their future. Driven by a love of football and natural athletic abilities, the young Jahshii was torn between his music and his bright future as a footballer who performed and represented well during his high school seasons. Ultimately, it was his time as a musical gladiator dominating the unruly clash stage that transformed his indecision into certainty. Additionally, he had gained a cult following that exceeded his and all expectations. Now Jahshii is seasoned on his journey, in demand and more aware of his nuanced relationship with his growing audience than ever. The result of which, was a string of more mature and intimate hits like Energy, Promise, Prosperity, and even Stronger. As the young artist matures and connects on deeper levels with his audience, something key is observable in his journey; he cares. Jahshii is passionate, and genuinely concerned for his link through music, to his fans. He places a great deal of focus now on creating musical experiences that will connect him further with the people who support him. He has even on occasion used his platform to speak on behalf of the people during performances and address systematic issues like education and violence against women. This young artist is not just excellent at his musical craft, he is also socially aware and concerned as a result. This plays out in some of the darker themes his music tackles, though often somehow optimistic in its ending. Now this new focus has been turned to the crafting of a body of work. Something especially older dancehall artists rarely ever attempt, much less achieve in their career. Jahshii has been hard at work making a collection of songs to serve as a proper sonic narrative of his introduction. This new body of work is an EP titled Nawmal A Lie. It is a five-track collection that sounds like a distilled musical version of a surreal journal entry by someone living their dream.

The introductory track Happy Living is a testament to this dreamlike quality of Jahshii’s experience in the wake of his establishment and continued growth as a musical force in Jamaica’s sea of talented artists. A truly formidable task. The EP continues much in this same mood, as it delves deeper into the darker side of street life with songs like Havok. Meesh and Big chop are likely to become the cinematic score for the lives of many hard-working Jamaicans in this time. Star serves as a fitting end and aptly descriptive song to describe his current place in dancehall music. Jahshii is the latest in a long line of Jamaican Reggae Dancehall stars.

Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, is a human ethernet – connector of people and dots! TV Presenter, International Event Host, Speaker, Best-selling Author of ‘My Brand Compass.’ Her podcast ‘Redirection with Terri-Karelle’ is the #1 Caribbean podcast in the world and she is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Open Door Jamaica Foundation which caters to children and young adults with disabilities.

Simon Johnson is a regional investment strategist who currently serves as an Investment Officer at IDB Lab where he oversees the Lab’s investment efforts across its six Caribbean member countries: The Bahamas, Jamaica, Suriname, Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago. Simon’s responsibilities include supervision, originating, and structuring both debt and equity investments.

Beyond his regional work, Simon is a part of the IDB Lab’s Direct Equity team, through which he evaluates equity opportunities in both the Caribbean and Latin America. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Banking & Finance and a master’s degree in economics, both from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus in Jamaica, with a focus on development and financial economics. Simon has passed levels I and II of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program offered by the CFA Institute.

With a robust technical background, Simon has successfully led cross-functional teams and managed deals from origination to completion within the Caribbean and extra-regionally. Simon also has experience in conducting quantitative and policy-based economic research. Simon is also passionate about advancing financial literacy in the Caribbean. In 2019, he founded a financial literacy platform aimed at creating inclusive in-person and digital learning spaces where individuals can build and maintain a healthy relationship with their money.

Sanjib is Chairman of Fintech Meetup, the fastest growing major fintech conference in North America. Sanjib is also Founder & CEO of Guppy, a fintech startup focused on self-sovereign credit data.

Sanjib has built and launched over 20 products and businesses including being a founding engineer on Intel’s graphics chip business, the first Chief Marketing Officer at Money20/20, and a member of or advisor to over 10 startups resulting in investments or exits totalling over $2 billion. He is a former Googler, having worked on Google Wallet to bring new capabilities for live commerce and e-commerce. He was also a Senior Vice President in Citi’s consumer business.

Sanjib has an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and BS and M.Eng. from Cornell University, where he built lasers, electric cars, hi-fi audio systems, and AI systems for EKGs classification. He is a patent holder and developed a programming language used by Intel for nearly 30 years.

Marcia Klingensmith, known globally as the “Instant Payments Maven”, is the CEO of FinTech Consulting, LLC with a passion for innovation in the payments landscape. With over 20 years of experience of bringing products and services to market at Fortune 500 companies like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Visa, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, and FIS Global.

Her deep expertise spans banking transformation, instant payments, ISO200222 (the Financial Rosetta Stone), cross-border transactions, and the future of money. Marcia is a trusted advisor who helps financial institutions and fintechs in North America, South America, and the Caribbean navigate the ever-evolving world of payments. She is committed to promoting conversations that push the boundaries of financial technology and empowers businesses to leverage its potential for growth.

Connect with Marcia at the FinTech Islands conference to explore how she can help you navigate your digital transformation journey.

Dr. Mikki Lake is a Lifestyle Cardiologist, Speaker, and Investor, with an impressive educational background, having trained at Emory University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the University of Miami. Her distinguished medical career includes leadership positions such as the Director of Noninvasive Cardiology at a major Florida hospital system and Director of a Women’s Heart Program.

Dr. Lake is passionate about redefining cardiovascular health, believing that traditional medicine frequently falls short in preventing disease, providing too little, too late. After more than a decade in practice, she has witnessed firsthand the limitations of medication-only treatments, often leading to worsening health outcomes. She advocates for a holistic approach that prioritizes lifestyle changes, and focuses on evidenced based practices that emphasize diet, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness to harness true health. 

Dedicated to empowering her patients, Dr. Lake emphasizes the importance of reversing unhealthy habits and embracing proactive health optimization. Her mission is to help individuals cultivate intentional wellness today, for a longer, fuller life tomorrow.

Keniel is the Chief Operations Officer at Blockchain Lex Group x CryptoMondays Caribbean and Africa. He also serves as the Caribbean Regional Attaché for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). He brings over twenty years of experience in financial crime investigations, specialising in money laundering, tax evasion, counterterrorism, and organised crime.

As an expert in cryptocurrency and Web3, Keniel is committed to forging strong international relationships and leading training initiatives to address financial crimes involving digital currencies. His primary focus involves supporting financial investigations and developing relationships with key stakeholders, such as the Financial Intelligence Unit and White-Collar Police Squads. Additionally, he facilitates outreach initiatives and provides training to international partners, enhancing collaboration in combating financial crimes across borders.

His deep understanding of crypto and digital assets has been instrumental in enhancing investigative capabilities internationally, ensuring law enforcement agencies are well-equipped to tackle sophisticated financial crimes and safeguard financial integrity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Michael Lee-Chin Jr. is the founder of Seed, a fintech company dedicated to providing accessible financial solutions to underserved communities in Jamaica and beyond. Driven by a passion for fostering economic growth and empowering individuals, Michael has positioned Seed as a vital resource for bridging the gap in financial inclusion.

Seed’s mission is to transform how lending is approached, offering innovative, mobile-first solutions that simplify the loan approval process and go beyond traditional credit scores. With a commitment to social responsibility, the company aims to empower individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals, driving economic development across the Caribbean. Under Michael’s leadership, Seed is on track to evolve into a first-rate global neo-banking platform, offering a full suite of financial services to support long-term economic growth.

 Before founding Seed, Michael spent the first half of his career in the entertainment industry, where he made his mark as a writer, director, and producer. His creative vision and dedication to storytelling allowed him to contribute to numerous successful TV shows and films that captivated audiences. This creative background informs his innovative approach to business, blending storytelling and strategy to inspire impactful ventures like Seed.

Rohan Marley is an entrepreneur and former football player for the University of Miami Hurricanes and Canadian Professional Football League. He is the son of reggae legend and humanitarian, Bob Marley.

Rohan founded Marley Coffee, an organic coffee plantation and sustainable farming business sourced from Jamaica’s Blue Mountains and Ethiopia with coffee shops in operation worldwide. Later he founded House of Marley, an eco-friendly headphones and speakers electronics company. The brand can be found worldwide throughout all major electronic stores.

Rohan helps run his family’s charitable organization 1Love, as well as, Tuff Gong Clothing company.

Another venture by Rohan is the RoMarley Beach House in Puerto Morales, which opened in July 2020 in partnership with The Fives Oceanfront, a luxury boutique hotel.

In 2022, Rohan launched Lion Order, a Rastafari cannabis and hemp lifestyle brand. Lion Order is currently sold in Michigan with plans for expansion throughout all U.S. and international recreational and medical markets.

Chia Marlow-Thomas is Business & Partnership Development Manager at First Atlantic Commerce/ Powertranz. FAC is the most connected payment gateway in the Caribbean and Central America, operating in 29 countries for over 25 years, powering over 10,000 merchants. Prior to joining FAC / Powertranz Chia was an Enterprise Sales Manager at PayPal UK and brings 10 years of experience in Global Fintech innovation. Chia has presented at Finovate London, Money2020 Europe, undertook a residency at the Plug & Play Technology accelerator in Silicon Valley and was named to Innovate Finance 100 Women in Fintech Powerlist 2016. She is passionate about driving online growth for merchants through payment innovation and orchestration and finding efficiencies through emerging technology adoption. 

Brian is a dual-qualified advocate, i.e. a Barrister of England and Wales (Non-Practising) and an Attorney-at-Law in Trinidad and Tobago. An expert in anti-money laundering, crypto asset recovery, and financial regulatory compliance, he frequently advises on these matters internationally. His research on digital asset regulation, DAOs, and DeFi is widely recognized, with features in SSRN’s Top Ten list and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Computational Law Report.

Brian’s scholarly work explores the use of AI, blockchain, and smart contracts for trust and transparency in public procurement, impacting legal tech and business automation. As the Founder of Blockchain Lex Group and CryptoMondays Caribbean, he leads a rapidly growing community of entrepreneurs and fintech entities. His leadership guides discussions on legal compliance, technological risks, and market strategies. His involvement in policy and legislative discourse in various jurisdictions establishes him as a leading researcher and respected voice in legal technology and business.

Barbadian born, Tunde Mottley, has stood at the forefront of telecommunications, technology innovation and digital transformation in the Caribbean for 20+ years. As President and Co-Founder of MyOnyx Health Inc., Tunde is driving a revolution in AI healthcare by building a transformative digital health ecosystem tailored to the region, with an ambitious target to transform the Caribbean healthcare market within the next decade. This pioneering approach reflects his ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with scalable business models, addressing the critical needs of patients, providers, and governments alike.

As a Consultant, Tunde has executed digital transformation initiatives across health, government, tourism, and retail sectors. One of his most recent achievements was the development of a five-year technology and cyber-security strategy to transform the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados to a Smart Hospital, enhancing healthcare delivery with innovative technologies.

Tunde’s track record of delivering transformative results extends to his brief tenure at the Caribbean Telecommunications Union which led to a groundbreaking negotiated reduction in regional roaming rates by up to 90%, fostering greater accessibility and connectivity for millions of Caribbean travelers.

As a senior consultant for the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (MIST), Tunde has been involved in several smart projects across Barbados. Tunde contributed to Barbados’ national digital transformation agenda, and co-authored papers on digital transformation and national strategies to attract $500M in technology investment.

A Georgia Institute of Technology alumnus with an engineering foundation, Tunde brings an international perspective informed by global experience, including exclusive training in Shenzhen, China on Smart Government solutions. His ability to marry strategic vision with execution makes him a trusted partner for governments and investors aiming to digitize underdeveloped sectors and regions.

Backed by endorsements from industry leaders, clients, and peers, Tunde’s commitment to advancing technology as a force for socioeconomic transformation positions him as a key architect of the Caribbean’s digital future—and a visionary with the potential to drive global innovation in emerging markets.

Head, FinTech and Innovation Bank of Ghana Background: Kwame Oppong is the Head of Fintech and Innovation at Bank of Ghana. His background spans Technology, Digital Financial Services (DFS) operations, policy development, and regulation. He has consulted for several governments, public sector institutions, international development organizations and private corporations globally. Prior to joining the Bank, Kwame worked with CGAP (World Bank Group), Millicom, Hewlett Packard Company (now HP EB) and other organizations in the banking, housing finance and health insurance industries. Kwame is a passionate advocate for financial inclusion, innovation, and the development of digital economies.

Maya Parbhoe was born into a family of famous entrepreneurs in Suriname, and her life has been significantly influenced by their history. Her grandpa founded the largest department store in the nation and her father, Winod Parbhoe, carried on the family’s entrepreneurial energy with new businesses in aquaculture, wood processing, and aviation, as well as other fields. Sadly, Maya’s father was killed in 2001 when she was just 13 years old after revealing notable financial missteps at De Surinaamsche Bank. Maya was permanently changed by this occurrence; it made her deeply committed to justice and disgusted by corruption. Maya herself is a serial entrepreneur, founding an import company when she was only 15. Starting with only a few dollars in savings, reinvesting profits and working long hours, she had enough success to launch her second venture which grew into a multi-million USD company. Now a seasoned entrepreneur, today Maya is taking on her most ambitious challenge – running for president of Suriname on a pro-Bitcoin platform. Making Bitcoin the national currency is a key part of her bold solution to fight systemic corruption and build an economy that works for everyone.

Since inception Ali has managed to grow Advertainment Media from a bootstrapped startup to a profitable company with turnover in the millions, while retaining 100% equity.
As well as shepherding bespoke video and media assets, he runs the content for Fintech Finance, interviewing some of the best and brightest representatives across the financial services landscape.

Jarryon Paul is a Visionary, Entrepreneur & Founder of Sunshine ☀️

He’s been discovering opportunities and building businesses since 10 years old earning him 18+ years of first-hand business experience.

His Vision of FINANCIAL FREEDOM FOR ALL ☀️ is at the core of Sunshine ☀️ his 13th Venture.

Currently, Sunshine ☀️ operates as a Stablecoin Exchange based in Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹 helping Trinbagonians Buy & Sell Stablecoins (USDC, USDT) for Local Currency (TTD).

Together with the Exchange, Sunshine ☀️ is also a Remittance Service based in the United States 🇺🇸 helping Trinbagonians who live and work there Send Money to Family & Friends in Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹

Sunshine ☀️ is also currently establishing Operations and testing Services (Buy, Sell, Send & Receive) in Turkey 🇹🇷 Ethiopia 🇪🇹 and Luxembourg 🇱🇺 with more countries on the way.

Jarryon knows FINANCIAL FREEDOM FOR ALL is attainable and that Sunshine ☀️ will help bring this reality to Millions and Billions of people around the World 🌍 over the next 10-20 years.

Alex Pelin is a fintech innovator and community builder who founded the Financial Club and established the intimate Fintech Retreat and DeFi Retreat gatherings. His extensive network spans leading fintech companies, venture capital firms, financial institutions, and government agencies across North America, Europe, APAC, and beyond.

As a fintech entrepreneur, Alex founded a startup that introduced modern financial tools for the US Rental market and launched the first digital bank specifically designed for US renters, with a mission to improve housing accessibility. His expertise encompasses payments, lending products, open banking, digital banking, banking-as-a-service, and digital assets.

In his work with government agencies, Alex helps regulators, policymakers, and law enforcement professionals bridge the gap with the private sector, fostering an environment that promotes responsible innovation in financial services. His unique position at the intersection of technology, finance, innovation and policy makes him a valuable contributor to the evolution of the financial services landscape in the US and abroad. 

36 years of professional experience, including 30 in management consulting and the financial industry. Founding partner and Managing Director of CYBS Consulting, a specialized payments advisory and implementation services firm, with 17 years of operation and a wide customer base spanning issuers, acquirers, fintechs/neo banks, processors, international payment schemes and other players. Proud of having contributed to building a team of highly motivated, customer devoted, and skilled professionals in payments’ IT, operations, commercial and financial management. Expert on payments strategy, processing alternatives, selection and implementation of processing solutions and vendors, card logistics, operations, and market wide functioning and migration of payment schemes. This expertise extends across, issuing, acquiring, RTP and other payments areas. Performed as Director of International Projects for the Bank of Nova Scotia Financial Group (in Canada, Mexico, South and Central America), coordinating highly complex projects like the selection and implementation of core banking and channels platforms, outsourcing of data centers and processing operations in several countries, the creation of a new regional IT organization and the overall assessment of support areas. Worked at Kearney’s Financial Institutions Group, reaching the Principal level and co-leading its Caracas office. Participated in a significant number of projects in Latin America, supporting local and multinational clients on strategy, organizational alignment, strategic sourcing and procurement, postmerger integration, technical and financial analysis, financial valuations and support for mergers and acquisitions. Certified Member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants. At the beginning of his professional career, devoted several years to work in atmospheric physics, weather modification projects, numerical modelling, and automation of data processing.

Richard Powell’s story is an inspiration. Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, he excelled as a teenager in both academics and athletics. After playing soccer for Jamaica at the U17 and U20 level, and considering an opportunity to play professionally in Europe, Richard ultimately decided to study economics at Harvard University, where he
represented the school in soccer and track & field, and founded his first company while still an undergraduate.

Now, with over two decades of experience in corporate finance, governance, business development, and principal investing in private and public companies, Richard is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor who has co-founded and led multiple successful ventures. Two of these were scaled to billion-dollar enterprises, these were:
Zerochaos, a global HR BPO that grew to 12,000 employees globally and $1.2 billion in revenues at exit, and most recently Project Black at Ariel Alternatives, a $1.4 billion private equity platform that aims to
create the next generation of large, global, diverse suppliers to the Fortune 500.

Richard is currently the Chairman of Sequential Technologies International, a global BPO headquartered in the USA, APC Holdings, a 20-year-old investment firm that partners with institutional investors and business owners to build lasting companies with measurable social impact, and The RMP Group, his family office. He is a YPO member and a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum. Perhaps most timely, he is currently putting together an innovative vehicle to invest over $2.0 billion of capital, with the flexibility to deploy in the US and Caribbean region, to address the demand in private equity, private credit, real estate and infrastructure assets.

Dr. Craig Ramlal is the Head of the Control Systems Group and the Principal Investigator of the Intelligent Systems Laboratory at the University of The West Indies. He serves on CARICOM’s Caribbean Telecommunications Union working group on Artificial Intelligence, the Caribbean Development Bank’s Sub-Technical Committee on IRC/RDA and served on the United Nations Secretary General’s High-Level Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body.

His impactful contributions include acting as a regional coordinator to develop open data strategies for Caribbean nations in collaboration with IDRC and NASA; serving as the principal investigator for developing ventilators, robotic systems, and decontamination strategies with officials from the Ministry of Health, Trinidad and Tobago and researchers from the University of Florida, aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19. With Tallinn University, he implemented deep learning diagnostic tools for Estonia’s national grid and designed novel collaborative robotic systems with researchers from Rutger’s University. He has published several peer-reviewed journals and conference articles on novel intelligent systems and their applications.

Dr. Ramlal completed his BSc, MASc, and PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering through a program split between the University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia. His research focuses on Control Strategies, Artificial Intelligence, and Game Theoretic Systems.

Sujata Rastogi is an accomplished business leader and entrepreneur with 20 years of global experience in financial services, fintech and AI. As the Head of Growth at Alchera Technologies, an AI data science company started in Cambridge she leads strategic initiatives to accelerate growth. Based in London, UK, she has lived also lived in New York, San Francisco and Singapore. 

Sujata’s extensive career includes senior leadership roles at HSBC, where she spearheaded innovation in investment management, digital transformation and fintech partnerships. She has served as a diplomat and industry expert for the UK Department of Business and Trade in Silicon Valley, advising executives and founders from financial services and fintechs on US and UK international expansion. As Founder and CEO, Sujata built a marketplace platform from the ground up.

Sujata holds an MBA from London Business School with an exchange to Wharton, University of Pennsylvania, and an Innovative Technology Leader certificate from Graduate School of Business at Stanford University. She was named TIE Intrapreneur of the Year and a finalist at the Women in Investment Awards, and Women in Finance Awards in the UK. 

Remi Born in Queens, New York into a profoundly musical family, Salaam Remi Gibbs’ name itself was inspired by music. His father, Van Gibbs (music industry producer and musician) gave him the first name, Salaam, the Arabic word for “peace” and his middle name, Remi was derived from the second and third tones of the octave scale (Do Re Mi…).

“As a kid I started out with the rhythms, playing drums,” explains Remi, who got his first set from Elvin Jones (the legendary jazz drummer of John Coltrane Quartet fame).

Signed to ASCAP Performing Rights Society at the age of 13, Remi engrossed himself in the business of making music. Salaam Remi’s foundation creating hip-hop remixes and productions for reggae artists Supercat, Ini Kamoze, Shabba Ranks, and Patra in the early 90’s would lead to his production on The Fugees album, The Score, the highest selling hip-hop album of all-time, selling over 20 million copies worldwide. The sounds created on The Score were based around the energy of “Fu-gee-la,” and laid the foundation for The Fugees to find their own creative voices on their solo albums. Those days spent tinkering with demo tracks and remixing songs from the radio, were a precursor for the man who would go on to remix and produce songs for various acts including: The Fugees, NAS, Wyclef Jean, Toni Braxton, Santana, Sade, Sting (feat. Mary J. Blige), Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, Usher, Miguel, Jazmine Sullivan and Amy Winehouse to name a few – sonic creations that have helped sell millions of records – domestically and internationally. Remi produced ten songs on Winehouse’s debut, Frank, released in 2003. The critically acclaimed single, “Stronger Than Me,” which he co-wrote with Winehouse, would win the coveted Ivor Novello Award for “Contemporary Song Of The Year.” The foundation laid by Remi on her debut album would lead to songwriting and production on her second album, Back To Black, (“Tears Dry On Their Own,” “Addicted,” “Me and Mr. Jones,” “Just Friends,” “Unholy War”) and catapult Winehouse into the spotlight to become one of the top music stories of 2007. To date, Back to Black has since sold more than three million copies worldwide, and become one of the blockbuster releases of the year.

The tracks he created for Oscar-winning actress/singer Jennifer Hudson’s album and film projects such as Sex And The City 1 & 2 allowed Remi to shift gears into different directions for each as all have a distinct demographic and artistic approach. In 2009 Salaam release his first instrumental album “PragueNosis” featuring orchestral instrumentals recorded during a trip to Czechoslovakia, some of its material was used for collaborations issued before and after release. “Shila’s Playground,” used for the Grammy-nominated song “Lions, Tigers & Bears,” by Jazmine Sullivan, “Praguenosis” itself was later repurposed for Nas’ “The Black Bond,” included on Life Is Good, one of several 2012 works that led to Remi’s Grammy nomination in the category of Producer of the Year, Non-Classical. In September 2013, Remi released his first official solo project, the R&B-oriented “One: In the Chamber,” featuring appearances from NeYo, Corinne Bailey Rae, Jordin Sparks, and Akon, which was nominated for the Best Urban Contemporary Album Grammy.

Remi’s most recent project, entitled Black On Purpose, was released in November of 2020. The album features artists such as Busta Rhymes, Nas, Jennifer Hudson, Mumu Fresh, Black Thought, Doug E Fresh, Cee Lo Green, Bilal, Teedra Moses, D-Nice, Mack Wilds, Common, Case, Betty Wright, James Poyser, Stephen Marley, Anthony Hamilton, Syleena Johnson, Super Cat, Spragga Benz, and Chronixx. Moved by heightening racial tensions and the loss many experienced due to COVID, Remi created this project to express what he didn’t want to have to explain, but what he felt the community needed to hear. Remi says, “the purpose of this project was to remind myself and my people that when I do something it’s for my community, ungentrified Black music. This is for us, by us. Black On Purpose.” “I’m always trying to find the sound of the artist, so I prefer to custom-make songs. It preserves the integrity of the artist’s vision and prevents me from sounding predictable,” Remi says of his production methods, “I don’t follow trends. I’m not ‘trendy.’ I hate following trends.” Remi concludes, “I think we have to go back to good music, learn from the people who’ve had longevity, use their foundation, and inject something new into it to move forward. I am inspired simply by looking back while moving forward.” – www.salaamremi.com

Ms. Elizabeth Riley is the first female Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and was appointed to that position on July 1, 2021. She is a committed regionalist with over 24 years experience in the areas of disaster risk management at the regional and international levels and in environmental management. She is passionate about people and sees her role as one of creating spaces and facilitating connections to advance the resilience agenda. At the operational level, Ms Riley has played a leadership role in the coordination of regional responses to all major hazards impacting the region from Hurricane Ivan in 2004 to Hurricane Beryl in 2024. She has written, presented, and published technical papers in disaster management and environmental management. Ms Riley has also lectured in Disaster Management at the University of the West Indies, Mona and Cave Hill. She holds a M.A (Econ) in Environment and Development from University of Manchester, United Kingdom, BSc. (Hons) in Geography from the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica and a Masters Certificate in Results Based Monitoring and Evaluation and Information Systems from the University of Laval, Quebec.

Bradley has worked in the payment sector for 15+ years based across Europe, Asia and North America. Most recently he held the position of Chief Commercial Officer for Checkout.com, overseeing the company’s growth from start-up to $40B valuation between 2018 – 2024. Prior to this, he was the 1st employee of Adyen in Singapore from where he ran the broader APAC region including opening their physical presence in China, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, and India. Throughout both roles, he was responsible for supporting the largest merchants globally and guiding their payment strategies. Today he is the co-founder and President of Meridian, a company leveraging new payment rails to deliver low -ost, secure, and instant payments to fintechs and merchants.

Matteo Rizzi is an unconventional entrepreneur with two decades of experience in Financial Services, constantly referred amongst the top executives in the industry. He spent 13 years at SWIFT – where he co-founded Innotribe, the innovation arm of the cooperative, launching the first global startup challenge. Since 2013, he has had a FinTech Investor and/or Venture Partner role with global VCs and CVCs (20+ deals, 5 exits). In 2015, he co-founded FinTechStage (now FTSGroup.eu) – a platform for Investors and Innovators to boost FinTech innovation globally. In 2019, Matteo founded Timepledge.org a global initiative to foster financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. The same year he launched Breaking Banks Europe (as the Executive Producer). In 2023, he was appointed Senior Advisor for Elevandi (MAS). He is the author of “The FinTech Revolution” and “Talents & Rebels” and is fluent in 5 languages.

Mariame McIntosh Robinson is a global financial services leader with over 25 years of experience as a P&L leader, investor, board member and advisor to leading companies in the US and the Caribbean.

Over the past 9 years, Mariame has led companies as President & CEO of First Global Bank for ~7 years where she spearheaded the bank’s transformation resulting in the more than doubling of profits in first 3 years; and most recently, as President of a fintech firm in the United States for ~2 years where she led strategy, market expansion and strengthening of corporate governance.

She is passionate about strategy, cultural transformation and corporate governance in driving organizations to full potential performance and is currently the Managing Director of Global Triangle Advisors.

Mariame is a NACD certified Director and currently serves on several publicly listed and private global and regional Boards with profit ranging from US$700 million to $1.2 billion, notably Parkland Corporation, Digicel Group and Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (non-profit).

She is a former McKinsey and Bain Consultant, and a private equity investor in companies in the Caribbean region; as well as a member of Young Presidents Organization, International Women’s Forum, and a Young Global Leader alum with the World Economic Forum. Mariame is the 1998 Jamaica Rhodes Scholar and also serves as the National Secretary for the Jamaica Rhodes Scholarship Selection.

Mariame holds a BSc. in Electrical Engineering from MIT, an MBA from Harvard Business School and a M.Phil in Economics from Oxford University.

She is married with two children.

Mr. Houston Ross, Group Chief Information and Digital Transformation Officer, Republic Bank Limited is a vision-driven strategist, leader and change agent with an internationally well-earned reputation for driving fundamental business transformation and realizing growth objectives through technology innovation. A repeat award-winner for contributions to leveraging technology to create business value, he was named among the Top 100 IT executives globally and most recently in 2022 recognized by Money Conference 2.0 for his contributions to technology and innovation within the banking and insurance industries. Prior to joining the Republic Financial Holdings Team, Houston was an Executive Committee member of Paidy, Inc.(a PayPal company), Tokyo, Japan, which was one of only six “unicorn” fintechs in Japan’s history. He successfully led several innovations such as redesigned payments platform in the cloud, with over eight (8) million customers, integration of a post-payment service within Amazon, delivered innovative digital products in Japan, and the largest exit in Japan’s history of a foreign owned start-up. Houston has corporate executive leadership and board level roles such as COO, CIO and CTO in global organizations such as NN Group, ING and AXA. Currently an executive member of the Mastercard Latin American and Caribbean Technology Conference, and Executive Council for Leading Change (ECLC). Houston has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool, UK and a Bachelor of Science, Management Information Systems from Barrington University, Mobile, Alabama, USA.

Self-made fintech entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Girasol Payment Solutions with strong knowledge in technology, payments, financial systems and operations.

Focusing on developing cutting edge solutions by revolutionizing the way payments platform operates and interacts between traditional banking and fintechs in the Caribbean and Latam.

Also passionate about developing an ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation throughout the Caribbean Region.

Ray Ruga is an entrepreneur focused on driving innovation in banking and financial services across the Americas, with a mission to make the industry more efficient, agile, and inclusive. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Fintech Americas, he is a passionate advocate for transforming the financial services industry to become more adaptive, efficient, and as inclusive as possible. With over 30 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, banking, insurance, and government, Ray offers a broad and informed perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. He holds an MBA in Finance from The George Washington University.

Khary Sharpe is an experienced Information Technology Scientist with more than 25 years in the field, focusing on creating and deploying innovative solutions for the finance and telecommunications industries. In his roles as a solutions architect and software developer, he has spearheaded major projects, including:

• Developed HeadOffice, a Jamaican Enterprise Resource Platform.

• Development of JMMB’s Client Information System and Moneyline platform.

• Implementation of Digicel’s Value-Added Services across 32 countries.

• Design of VM Group’s CBDC/JAMDEX Wallet Platform and App.

• Creation of full-service movie ticket kiosk systems.

• Development of stock exchange platforms for Jamaica and Barbados.

Khary is the CEO and Founder of HeadOffice Inc., a Director at West Indies Software Engineering Company Limited, and the third Vice President of the MSME Alliance. He is passionate about furthering Jamaica’s digital transformation and possesses expertise in enterprise architecture, software development, business strategy, and project management.

A graduate of the University of Technology Jamaica, specialising in Software Engineering and Business Management, Khary actively engages in community building through various initiatives. These include serving as an IBI Ambassador for the Governor General’s Programme for Excellence and participating in youth mentorship programmes.

His career philosophy revolves around “Keeping IT Simple” while providing sophisticated solutions that enhance business value.

Kevin Simmons is a passionate venture capitalist and recognized ‘exceptional leader in VC’ by the UK Government. As General Partner of the $75M Alpha Fund, he drives investments in Africa’s leading fintech innovators, including three of the continent’s eight unicorns such as Flutterwave. With LoftyInc Capital, he has supported over 150 tech startups globally.

Kevin was the founding CFO/COO of Aceleron, driving its expansion to Barbados, and helped Barbadian-founded Innclusive challenge Airbnb’s bias algorithms. As CEO of Electric Miles, he led its successful exit in 2023.

An Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the University of Bristol’s #1-ranked SetSquared Incubator, Kevin also advises and mentors tech startups through Techstars platforms, and Dalhousie University in Canada. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Stanford University, Rice University, and the University of Oxford, he also completed military service at West Point

Eyal Sivan, also known as Mr. Open Banking, is one of the foremost global experts in the open banking space.

In his efforts to drive advancements in open banking worldwide, Eyal created the unique personal brand Mr. Open Banking. Under this persona, he hosts the only podcast dedicated to the open banking community, interviewing the key leaders, innovators and influencers who are driving the emergence of open banking around the globe. Since its launch in 2020, the podcast has grown to over 60 thousand subscribers, with Eyal being recognized by Open Future World as the number one Open Finance Influencer in the world for 2022. 

Today, Eyal is the General Manager for North America at Ozone API, global pioneers of open banking who’s platform powers some of the largest and most advanced data sharing ecosystems on the planet. In his role, he is responsible for expanding the firm’s global position as a leading open banking solution provider to the United States, Canada and beyond.

Dane Spencer Co-Founder & Managing Director, Smart Mobile Solutions

Meet Dane Spencer, the visionary force behind Smart Mobile Solutions (SMS). With over 15 years of trailblazing experience in technology, Dane combines a keen strategic mind with a passion for innovation to transform the digital landscape. His educational background in Computer Science and Management Studies from the University of the West Indies sets the foundation for his dynamic approach to technology and business.

Dane’s core objective is to change the world through technology—simplifying life, impacting society positively, and generating extraordinary value from every business venture or project he undertakes. His journey is marked by remarkable achievements that showcase his expertise and creativity. He developed Jamaica’s first Blackberry panic button app and tracking platform, revolutionizing mobile safety solutions. His innovative spirit also led to the creation of “Movies Palace” for Palace Amusement and the Advantage Mobile app for Advantage General Insurance, now part of the Sagicor group. Dane’s work has not only impacted local industries but also garnered attention at prominent Caribbean conferences, including Digicel’s “Meet the Experts” and the Trinidad Consumer Trade Show.

As the Managing Director of Smart Mobile Solutions, Dane is dedicated to turning his vision into reality by setting strategic objectives, guiding senior management, and ensuring that SMS continues to lead with cutting-edge solutions. His leadership drives the company’s mission to use technology to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

In addition to his role at SMS, Dane serves as a Director at WiROL, Hudson & Spencer Co. Ltd., IRad Disposables & Supplies Ltd. His diverse portfolio underscores his ability to steer various ventures towards success, from tele-radiology services to investment consultancy and specialized medical equipment distribution.

Dane’s professional strengths are as impressive as his achievements. Known for his inclusive leadership style and a unique blend of business acumen and technical prowess, he brings an in-depth knowledge of technology stacks, with a focus on mobile and data-driven applications. His design-focused software engineering approach, combined with excellent communication and team-building skills, ensures that every project he undertakes thrives.

Stephen started his career in 1989 working in Investment Banking in NY, and then spent 25 years working across various aspects of traditional financial markets in London and New York. In 2017 he dove into Blockchain, and spent time developing regulated crypto businesses in offshore locations such as Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Bermuda, and Jersey. Most recently he was advising Alan Howard on a variety of blockchain businesses, before co- founding the innovative insurance business in Bermuda. Prior to advising Alan, Stephen worked with William Shihara (co-founder, below) to develop the international business of Bittrex and was CEO of various Bittrex entities he set up / built outside the US.

Prior to Bittrex Global, Stephen’s TradFi career spanned Asset Management (Institutional and Private Client), Hedge Funds (Discretionary, Macro, Credit, Quantitative), Sales & Trading (Credit and Credit Derivatives), and Mergers and Acquisitions, Functional roles included CEO positions at two Hedge Funds in NY (Brevan Howard and Winton Capital), Managing Director positions at large Investment Banks (JPMorgan, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs). Throughout his TradFi career, Stephen has been intrigued by the gap between Capital markets and Insurance markets, and has set up Insurance vehicles to exploit credit arbitrage opportunities. He has also held various board positions for listed companies and charitable foundations, is married with a daughter, and holds dual US and UK citizenship. Stephen holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Columbia University. 

Drew holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Drew has experience on both the retail and carrier side of the insurance industry. He’s served as a VP of Brokerage for CRC in the US where he led the Digital Asset and Emerging Tech Practice Group. Prior to CRC, he was the VP of Financial and Professional Lines with Relm Insurance Ltd in Hamilton, Bermuda. His experience spans the US and International insurance marketplaces including Bermuda, London and other markets. His primary focus in the insurance industry has been in the high-growth tech space including Crypto, AI, NFTs, BioTech and other emerging sectors.

Mikel is a 3x Olympian from Trinidad and Tobago, the first athlete from the region to qualify for both the Summer (110m hurdles; Beijing 08, London 12, Rio 16) and Winter Olympics (2 man Bobsleigh-Beijing 2022).

With an impressive track record of driving innovation and execution within large global organizations, his skills have consistently enhanced the performance of the teams he’s worked with.

Currently, Mikel supports Visa’s Global & North American Fintech Partnerships driving growth and development of fintech wealth management platforms, as well as Visa’s Inclusive Client Partnerships focused on innovating relationships and amplifying impact of underrepresented founders (Black, Brown, Latinx, LGBTQ, Indigenous and women founders) within the fintech space in North America.

Prior to joining Visa, an experienced storyteller and marketer, Mikel worked with brands like Airbnb, Brooks and JBL, to global organization like the International Testing Agency(ITA) and the International Olympic Committee(IOC).

Mikel has also spent time serving his community as a former Firefighter/EMT in Atlanta metro area in Clayton County.

He gained his Master’s degree in Sport Management and Technology from the International Academy of Sport Science and Technology (AISTS) in Lausanne, Switzerland, Bachelors in Kinesiology from the University of Kentucky.

Biography of Reggae Icon Roy “Bugle” Thompson August 2024 Early Life and Beginnings Roy “Bugle” Thompson was born on January 30, 1982, and is originally from Portland but grew up in Kingston, Jamaica, a city known for its rich musical heritage. Growing up in the vibrant and often challenging streets of the bustling city, Bugle was naturally drawn to the rhythms and messages of reggae music. From a young age, he was inspired by the legendary sounds of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Buju Banton, whose music shaped his worldview and ignited his passion for creating music that speaks to the soul. Bugle’s early exposure to Jamaica’s dynamic cultural scene fueled his ambition to pursue a career in music. He began his journey by performing at local events and talent shows, where his raw talent quickly became apparent. His performances were marked by a deep, authentic connection to the music, which set him apart from his peers and earned him recognition within the local music community. Growth and Success Bugle’s dedication to his craft soon caught the attention of established artists and producers in the reggae and dancehall scenes. His big break came when he was invited to write for dancehall superstar Elephant Man in 2000. This opportunity opened doors for Bugle, allowing him to tour with Elephant Man on the “Good to Go” tour in 2002 and make notable appearances on platforms like BET’s *106 & Park* and at the MTV Awards in Japan. These experiences were pivotal in shaping Bugle’s career, providing him with the exposure and industry connections needed to launch his solo career. His collaborations with Tornado on tracks like “Modella” and “If I Say I Love You” further showcased his lyrical abilities and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the reggae world. Bugle released his debut album ‘Anointed’ in 2007 — which was critically acclaimed — introducing him as a significant force in reggae music. The album featured hits like the popular track “What Have I Done to You” and impactful tracks such as “Great Day”, “I Don’t Worry”, “Tears of Joy” and “Journey” to name a few. This album resonated with listeners for their introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. His follow-up album ‘Music My Way’ didn’t disappoint and further established Bugle as a versatile artist capable of blending traditional reggae with contemporary sounds Over the years, Bugle has released numerous projects that have topped charts and become anthems in the reggae community. These include EPs such as ‘Life Span’ released in 2012 and ‘Reggae Knowledge’ in 2016; albums such as ‘Picture Perfect’ released in 2019 and ‘Toxicity’ in 2021; and tracks that have become international classics such as “Don’t Give Up,” “Nuh Compatible,” and “Rasta Party.” His versatility and passion for delivering conscious messages that educate and uplift his audience is reflected in his growth and can be seen throughout his musical career. Bugle has built a name for himself as he is recognized for connecting with listeners across the globe on a deeper level, tackling social issues, and promoting resilience, love and unity, all while honouring Jamaica’s vibrant cultural heritage. An Advocate for the People Bugle’s music is deeply personal yet universally relatable, often reflecting his experiences, he infuses his music with messages of hope. He is committed to using his voice to advocate for positive change, speaking out on topics such as injustice, crime and poverty. He is consistently using his platform to serve the people. Through his music, he encourages his listeners to persevere, hold onto their faith and remain resilient in times of hardship to better themselves and the society they call home. Bugle’s dedication to his craft and his community has made him not just a musician, but a respected voice in the fight for social justice. His contributions to reggae music have earned him and influential figure in the world of reggae, dedicated to spreading messages of love, unity, and social consciousness through his music.and influential figure in the world of reggae, dedicated to spreading messages of love, unity, and social consciousness through his music.

A trailblazing global financial services & technology executive with a track record of global growth, innovation and business transformation. 

A results-oriented and people/focused leader who attracts and develops world-class talent. She is known for creating scores of industry leaders and high-performance teams to drive transformational outcomes in service to clients, communities, and businesses in every corner of our world.  

With three decades as a global executive, she has operated in 50 countries and lived on multiple continents. She currently serves as operating partner with Advent International one of the largest and most innovative private equity firms. 

From 2020-2023 she served as the Global Head of Digital and Data Analytics at Standard Chartered spearheading their vision and investment to build a leading digital banking platform to power global trade, commerce, and financial services. 

Her time in Silicon Valley included global executive payments and commerce roles at Facebook and blockchain crypto company Ripple. Her career spans extensive international roles at MasterCard and Citibank. 

She serves as a public director at Progressive Insurance, a Fortune 100

Company. She previously served on the board of MoneyGram.   She and her family currently live in New York.

Since 2023, Mayra Vivacqua has served as Mastercard’s Cluster Lead for the Caribbean, where she focuses on driving the region’s digital transformation. She is committed to ensuring that all Caribbean citizens have access to, and can benefit from, the digital economy.

Mayra joined Mastercard in 2012, bringing more than a decade of experience to the company. Before assuming her current role, she led digital consumer solutions and marketing for Mastercard in Latin America. Her strong emphasis on innovation has made her a key figure in advancing financial inclusion and driving initiatives that empower the region’s economies.

Passionate about advocating for women in the workplace, Mayra serves as the executive sponsor of Mastercard’s Women Leadership Network in Latin America. Additionally, she is a board member of Be Strong International, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening families and communities. Her leadership extends beyond the business sector, highlighting her commitment to social impact and gender equality advocacy.

Prior to her career at Mastercard, Mayra held management roles in Marketing and Retail Banking at Itaú Unibanco in Brazil. This experience significantly shaped her leadership approach and fostered her focus on innovation.

Mayra holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University. Originally from Brazil, she enjoys exploring the diverse cultures and unique charms of the Caribbean islands. Outside of work, she treasures spending time with family and friends, maintaining a healthy balance between her professional responsibilities and personal life.

With over thirteen years at Mastercard, Mayra remains deeply committed to advancing financial inclusion and fostering innovation that fuels the growth and development of Caribbean economies.

Warrick Ward has over 20 years of diversified financial sector experience, having served in several senior roles within both the public and private sectors.

Since January 2023, Warrick assumed the role of the Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Services Commission, having most recently served as the Managing Director of AltoComp Consulting Inc. – a boutique firm offering corporate finance and strategic advisory services to a range of clients.

Warrick also served as a Senior Manager in the Advisory practice at Price Waterhouse Coopers, where he offered advisory services ranging from corporate finance and financial modelling to merger and acquisition strategy. Warrick also served previously as Chief Executive Officer of NCB Capital Markets (Barbados) Limited, and within the public sector, he has served in senior positions at the Financial Services Commission in Barbados, the Barbados Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Central Bank of Barbados.

Warrick has a diversified background in finance, economics, compliance, and other policy-related work. He has chaired several policy-making committees and boards of directors. He currently sits on the Macroprudential Committee of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS).

Warrick was educated at the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill), and the University of Southampton in the UK, where he has been awarded degrees in economics, accounting and finance. This seasoned leader has also completed several short-term studies, including courses at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the Harvard Law School.

He continues to share his varied experiences through his interaction with students, as a part-time Lecturer in the Banking and Finance Masters programme at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill campus.

Warrick is an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys basketball, football, watersports, motorsport and table tennis.

Marlon’s journey to startup CEO began in Jamaica, where he spent over a decade in retail banking and shipping, while also running a small business. After moving to the US, he furthered his education and joined the Mayor’s Office of Operations in New York. While attending college, he built a cross-border errand service for Jamaican immigrants needing reliable task completion back home. A few years later, after listening to his clients, this service evolved into MangoErrands, a platform empowering users to control how remittances are spent, bridging the gap between sending money and its effective use. Surveys, research, and interest from other immigrant communities confirmed a broader appeal and significant impact potential for receiving countries. Marlon has a deep understanding of immigrant challenges and a commitment to practical solutions. His journey from Jamaican banking to US tech startup leader continues a tradition of entrepreneurship and dedication shown by immigrants before him.

Lourde Wright is the visionary CEO and inventor behind Infiltron Software Suite, a global leader in cybersecurity and quantum technology. With over a decade of expertise in adaptive AI and quantum encryption, Lourde has pioneered innovative solutions that safeguard critical infrastructures against evolving threats. As a trailblazer in the fintech and cybersecurity industries, she has secured international patents for cutting-edge quantum technologies, reinforcing her commitment to data integrity and secure digital ecosystems. Lourde’s leadership exemplifies a bold fusion of technical excellence and strategic foresight, driving Infiltron’s mission to deliver next-generation cybersecurity solutions worldwide. A passionate advocate for diversity in tech, she continues to empower communities and redefine the boundaries of innovation.

Edwin Yearwood is a natural born Entertainer whose accolades and songwriting genius establish him as the undisputed “King of the Groove”.

He is popularly known as “The General”, and has copped acclaimed titles such as The Richard Stoute Teen Talent, numerous Party Monarchs, People’s Monarchs, Road Marches & Sweet Soca Monarchs FROM 1995 TO 206. 

Edwin was recently honoured by the City Council & Senator of Atlanta with a Proclamation & Certificate of Commendation for his great Contribution to Entertainment.

AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics is a global leader in advancing Islamic banking and finance, With 16 years of dedicated service. AlHuda CIBE has been acknowledged as a distinguished service provider due to our notable services, team of dedicated professionals and one stop solutions of Islamic banking and finance. Our aim is to provide state-of-the-art services of Islamic banking and finance. We are proud to be prominent for our following quality services all over the world.

Advisory & Consultancy

Research & Development

Education & Capacity Building

Shariah Advisory

Publications & Events