Luisa Velez (Moderator)
With over a decade of experience in corporate communications, public relations, and executive branding, Luisa helps organizations strengthen their reputation, elevate thought leadership, and build thriving workplace cultures. As Director of Corporate Communications at Charitable Impact, she leads media relations, internal engagement, and executive communications strategies that enhance brand visibility and inspire teams across the […]
Monica Hernandez
host of the global podcast Materials.Business, she combines technical expertise with a deep commitment to authentic leadership, purpose-driven communication, and inclusive representation. As the CEO of Infinity Growth, she inspires organizations and professionals worldwide to lead with integrity, build meaningful connections, and drive sustainable impact across industries.
Sherese Johnson (Moderator)
For over 15 years Sherese has worked as a consultant at the intersection of Environmental Social Governance (ESG), Marketing and Business Development to create remarkable online and offline experiences. She has worked across industries in the energy sector, supporting utilities and real estate developers to communicate and engage stakeholders with concepts related to purpose and […]
Rochelle Grayson
Digital strategist with 30+ years in business, tech, finance, and education. Expert in AI, digital business models, monetization, and analytics. Teaches at UBC Sauder, advises at Sustainable Media Center. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, she is dedicated to advancing responsible AI and empowering digital leaders.
Christopher McLean
Christopher McLean is a mechanical engineer with over 25 years of experience in design leadership at startups. As founder of Heroic Design, he develops software that pairs product designers with GenAI co-creators and a structured design process. He also teaches design at UBC and mentors startup founders at the Creative Destruction Lab.
Karen Claus
Karen Claus is a technology lawyer and fractional general counsel, advising high-growth companies on contracts, privacy, data governance, and AI compliance. She has held senior legal roles at fast-growing tech companies and provides embedded general counsel services through her firm. Karen is CIPP-certified and advocates for equity and inclusion, serving on the board of the […]
Paola Murillo (Host)
Shapes the impact of the Latino community in Canada as the Executive Director of the non-profit organization Latincouver. With over 18 years of global experience, she spearheads initiatives like Carnaval del Sol, as well as advocating for entrepreneurs and empowering Latinos to reach their potential.
Luis Brasdefer (Moderator)
Lawyer and MBA with 25+ years’ experience, including 20 in executive roles across government, private sector, and ventures. Expert in business analysis, cross-cultural negotiation, and international markets. Fluent in English/Spanish, he’s known as a trusted leader driving partnerships, growth, and sustainable strategies
Heather Bell
Experienced Immigration Consultant with a demonstrated history of working with different industries seeking to hire and retain foreign talent and with families temporarily or permanently settling in Canada.
George Moen
George Moen is a lifelong entrepreneur who started his first business while studying at UBC. He left school to pursue entrepreneurship full-time, achieving success with Sandwich Tree, which grew to nearly 100 franchises before the 1980s recession. He later helped expand Blenz Coffee to over 100 locations worldwide as President.
