8th & 9th of October
NYU Abu Dhabi
Global Transformation in The Age of AI Conference
About the Conference
This conference provides a vital forum for government leaders, business experts, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to leverage AI and shape how it can be harnessed to foster sustainable growth, build resilient systems, and enhance citizen well-being. This conference offers a unique platform to share best practices across national contexts, forge collaborations, and collectively shape and create a future where AI serves as a powerful catalyst for a more developed, sustainable, and equitable world for all citizens. The agenda will showcase innovations and cross-sector partnerships that highlight AI technologies as tools for human development, improved quality of life, and building communities that deliver better citizen experiences. Join us as we navigate the complex interplay between technology, sustainable advancements, and citizen well-being, and build a resilient global community that meaningfully advances our collective futures.
Institutional Hosts and Featured Speakers
Bringing together visionary leaders and distinguished experts, our hosts and speakers represent the institutions and voices driving global progress in AI for sustainable development.
Nana Baffour, CFA
Executive Chairman of Sazience
Jemima A. Frimpong, PhD
Associate Professor of Management at Stern at NYUAD
Mohamed Resk
Managing Director of Sazience
Lite Nartey, PhD
Affiliate Professor of Strategy at INSEAD
Agenda
October 8th
5:30 PM
Opens for registration
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Cocktail & Networking
October 9th
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
Registration & Networking Breakfast
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
WelcomeremarksandOpeningSession:
Global Transformationin theAge ofAI | Fostering development, sustainability, and resilient futures
This opening session will explore the global impact of AI on economies, institutions, and society, highlighting both opportunities and urgent challenges. It will introduce the event’s core mission: using AI to drive sustainable growth, build resilient systems, and improve quality of life through cross-sector collaboration.
9:15 AM -9:30 AM
Keynote Speech
This session will present an overview of the UAE’s national AI strategy, focusing on key pillars such as strategic investments, sector priorities, and the governance frameworks guiding implementation. It will offer insights into how coordinated national efforts can drive innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact across future-ready sectors.
9:30 AM –10:00 AM`
Spotlight Talk:
AI in Action: Enhancing Mobility and Urban Access
This session will explore how AI is transforming urban mobility, optimizing transport systems, last-mile delivery, and commuter experiences through data, machine learning, and real-time analytics, particularly in complex or resource-limited environments.
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Coffee Break & Netoworking
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Panel:
Government Integration and Collaboration for AI: Catalyzing Economic Development and Sustainable Outcomes
This panel will examine how cross-government collaboration is accelerating AI-driven digital transformation, through bilateral agreements, innovation hubs, and strategic investments that support infrastructure, regulation, and policy alignment across regions.
11:00 AM - 11:20 AM
Spotlight Talk:
AI in FinTech: Modernizing Financial Systems and Financial Inclusion
This session will explore how AI is reshaping financial services through FinTech innovations, enhancing credit scoring, fraud detection, and digital access to support inclusion, modernize infrastructure, and foster more equitable economic growth.
11:20 AM -12:20 PM
Panel:
Innovation and Collaboration in AI: Building Dynamic Ecosystems for Scalable Impact
This panel will explore how cross-sector collaboration can drive inclusive and scalable AI adoption, highlighting strategies for building robust ecosystems, institutionalizing best practices, and enabling responsible innovation from concept to deployment.
12:20 PM-1:20 PM
Networking Lunch Break
1:20 PM –2:00 PM
Panel:
Transforming Health Systems with AI: The Promise of AI and the Future of Health, Health Care, and Citizen Well being
This panel will explore how AI is transforming healthcare, from drug discovery and diagnostics, to behavioral health services, while addressing critical issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, and equitable access. It will examine how human-AI collaboration can support more resilient and inclusive health systems.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
Spotlight Talk:
Shaping Tomorrow: Emerging Leaders and the Future of AI
This session will explore the skills future leaders need to thrive in an AI-driven world, combining technological literacy, ethical decision-making, and human-centric capabilities to guide strategy, innovation, and sustainable impact.
2:20 PM - 3:20 PM
Panel:
Choosing Our AI Future: Open-Source, Sovereign, or Global Platforms?
This session will examine strategic, economic, and ethical considerations in choosing between global AI platforms, open-source models, or sovereign AI systems, highlighting implications for public service delivery, data governance, and digital sovereignty.
3:20 PM - 3:40 PM
Coffee Break & Netoworking
3:40 PM - 4:00 PM
Spotlight Talk:
AI and Agriculture (AgriTech): Advancing Productivity, Resilience, and Food Security
This session will explore how AI is advancing agriculture through precision farming, supply chain optimization, and climate resilience, boosting productivity, supporting smallholder farmers, and enhancing sustainability and food security.
4:00 PM - 4:40 PM
Panel:
AI and Security: Balancing National Sovereignty, Data Protection, and Public Trust
This panel will explore how AI is being adopted in security-related domains, such as defense, surveillance, and infrastructure, while addressing critical tensions between national security, privacy, and civil liberties. Topics include regulatory frameworks, responsible use of biometric technologies, and safeguards for ethical oversight.
4:45 PM –5:00 PM
Closing Session
This closing session will consolidate key insights and collaborations from the day, reaffirming AI’s potential to drive sustainable, inclusive progress. It will highlight strategic takeaways, practical implementation models, and conclude with a call to collective action for leveraging AI toward a more equitable future..
Constellation of Global Minds
Nana Baffour, CFA
Executive Chairman of Sazience
Mr. Baffour has a proven track record in innovation-inspired growth and creating shareholder value. He is a global management executive with hands-on operating experience in companies across the globe. Mr. Baffour has a B.A. in Economics from Lawrence University, an M.S. in Economics from University of North Carolina, and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Mr. Baffour is also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
Lite Nartey, PhD
Affiliate Professor of Strategy at INSEAD
Dr. Lite Nartey is Affiliate Professor of Strategy at INSEAD, where she focuses on executing strategy in complex stakeholder environments. She has held faculty positions at the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business and consulted for multinationals, development agencies, and governments. Dr. Nartey holds a PhD and MSc in Management from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and an MPA from NYU’s Wagner School of Public Service.
Salim Al Alawi
Director - Business Development, at Orbitworks
The Director of Business Development at Orbitworks, with over 10 years of experience in the space and satellite communications sector. He has held key roles managing government contracts, driving strategic partnerships, and leading revenue growth in the UAE. Salim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering from Virginia Tech.
José Rubinger
CEO & Co-Founder, Key2enable Assistive Technology
José Rubinger is a mission-driven serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in technology, sales, and social innovation. As CEO and Co-Founder of Key2enable, he develops inclusive EdTech solutions that combine AI, adaptive learning, and assistive hardware to empower children with disabilities and support educators worldwide. His ventures have received recognition from Singularity University, MIT, the LEGO Foundation, and Berkeley Haas, among others, for advancing accessibility, learning outcomes, and social impact.
André Renato Rizzo Dias, MSc
McGill Executive Institute
André Renato Rizzo Dias, MSc is a Forbes-featured executive with over 20 years of experience in digital transformation, strategy, and international business development across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. He is a Faculty Member at the McGill Executive Institute, advising organizations on emerging technologies, and also serves as a mentor and board advisor. A frequent international speaker, he bridges academic insight and executive practice to drive growth and innovation.
Dr. Nadeem Alduaij
Physician Executive and Health Innovation Leader
Dr. Nadeem Alduaij is a Physician Executive and Health Innovation Leader specializing in digital health and medical toxicology. He advises the Department of Health Abu Dhabi’s Research & Innovation Center, where he helped establish the national Poison & Drug Information Service. He is also co-founder of Baraka Impact Finance, a Swiss platform for health impact investment. Dr. Alduaij holds a medical degree from the University of Geneva and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University.
Edurne Gil de San Vicente
Sustainability Impact Strategist | Systems Innovator | Driving ESG Intelligence & Global Impact
A Sustainability Impact Strategist and Systems Innovator focused on driving ESG intelligence and global transformation. With a strong background in systems thinking and cross-sector collaboration, she helps organizations embed sustainability into strategy, turning complex challenges into measurable impact.
Khalil Ramadi
Assistant Professor of Bioengineering at New York University (NYU), and Director of the Laboratory for Advanced Neuroengineering and Translational Medicine at NYU Abu Dhabi
An Assistant Professor of Bioengineering at NYU and Director of the Laboratory for Advanced Neuroengineering at NYU Abu Dhabi. His research develops non-invasive neuromodulation technologies to treat neurological, endocrine, and immune disorders. Formerly a postdoctoral fellow at MIT and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, he is also a Regional Director for MIT Hacking Medicine and a guest instructor at Harvard. A TED Junior Fellow and award-winning innovator, Prof. Ramadi bridges research and entrepreneurship to drive real-world health impact.
Ahmed El Hagry
AI PhD @ MBZUAI | Artificial Intelligence | Golden Visa Holder
Experienced AI leader, researcher, and consultant with a strong track record in artificial intelligence, computer vision, NLP, LLMs, VLMs, speech, and data science. Proven expertise in managing and delivering AI-driven solutions across industries, blending research with real-world applications. Contributed to international and regional projects with organizations such as Technology Innovation Institute (TII), NEOM, Emotech LTD, AD Ports Group, Amazon Web Services (AWS), IBM, Huawei, and academic institutions including MBZUAI, Sorbonne University, and the University of Massachusetts. Work spans the USA, UAE, UK, GCC, Europe, and Japan, driving AI innovation through cutting-edge applied research, cross-functional products, technical leadership, and AI consulting.
Joe Abiakl
Partner | Head of Retail and Consumer Oliver Wyman
Joe Abiakl is a visionary executive in technology and innovation, recognized for leading transformative projects across global markets. With a proven track record in driving strategic growth and building sustainable digital ecosystems, he has become an influential voice at the intersection of business, technology, and public policy. His multidisciplinary expertise and insights on the impact of artificial intelligence position him as a key thought leader in shaping the future of both emerging and developed economies.
Mohamed Resk
Managing Director of Sazience
Mr. Resk is an accomplished business executive with a proven track record in strategy, transformation, and innovation-driven growth. He currently serves as Managing Director of Sazience, leading initiatives that connect technology, education, and sustainable development. Mr. Resk holds a B.A. in Economics, magna cum laude, from The American University in Cairo, and is a candidate for the Executive MSc in Cities at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Prof. Dr. Hoda Alkhzaimi
Associate Vice Provost for Research Translation & Innovation, NYU Abu Dhabi
Prof. Dr. Hoda Alkhzaimi is Associate Vice Provost at NYU Abu Dhabi and Founder of EMARATSEC, with over 20 years of experience in advanced technologies, investments, and economic development. She is a Founding Partner of Bluverse Ventures and advises global organizations such as the UN, ITU, WEF, BRICS, and G20. She also serves on boards and advisory councils for leading companies including Jaguar Land Rover, Tata Group, Meta, Google, and Schneider Electric. A strong advocate for women in STEM, she has held leadership roles in global networks promoting inclusivity in science and technology.
Dr. Fauzia Jabeen
Top 2% Scientist, Stanford University | Professor | Thought Leader in Sustainability, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Is a Full Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at UAE University and ranked among the world’s top 2% scientists by Elsevier–Stanford. With 23+ years of experience, she specializes in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and strategy. She has held senior leadership roles, serves on advisory boards, and published extensively in top journals. Prof. Jabeen is also a certified PMP and Fellow in Higher Education, with a strong track record in research, consulting, and executive training across the Middle East.
Malur Narayan
Board Advisor & Chief AI Transformation Leader, Qintess; Co-Founder, XTRIUM.ai
Malur Narayan is a distinguished technology leader with over three decades of experience in AI/ML, 5G, quantum computing, and IT/sustainability. A leading voice in AI governance, he advocates for the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence to shape a better future. He has held senior leadership positions at Nortel and Tata Consultancy Services and served as CTO at startups including Latimer AI and Cache AI, combining entrepreneurial spirit with a successful corporate career.
Najib Makarem
Group Chief Human Resources Officer at National Holding
Najib Makarem is Group Chief Human Resources Officer at National Holding, where he leads group-wide HR strategy and culture, enhancing workforce potential and organizational resilience. He brings 20+ years of experience spanning consulting, leadership development, and people management across the region. Prior roles include senior HR leadership positions, and he is frequently invited to share insights on the future of work and talent.
Cristianno Santos
Founder Urmob.city | Telemetry, Urban Mobility
Cristianno Santos is the founder of Urmob.city, a pioneering platform dedicated to telemetry and sustainable urban mobility. Educated at McGill University and based in São Paulo, he combines technical expertise with an entrepreneurial vision to deliver solutions that integrate artificial intelligence, smart cities, and social innovation. His work positions him as a transformative leader advancing urban quality of life while addressing both local challenges and global trends.
Phil Grady
Successful entrepreneur and business development expert driving growth and innovation
A seasoned entrepreneur and business development expert with a passion for turning visionary ideas into thriving ventures. With a diverse career spanning media, fintech, open banking, AI, ESG, and more, he has led the growth of multiple businesses through innovation and strategic leadership. A TEDx speaker, Phil thrives on building exciting companies with great people and driving impact across industries.
Khawla Hammad
Founder & CEO at Takalam
The Founder and CEO of Takalam, an award-winning digital mental health platform based in the UAE. With a background in business strategy and innovation, she is driving accessible, tech-enabled mental health solutions across the MENA region. A recognized advocate and speaker on digital health and AI in mental well-being, Khawla has led Takalam into key partnerships and earned multiple accolades for her leadership and impact.
Mahdi Rimawi
Helping Universities & Ministries Empower Students with Future‑Ready Skills | Director of Academia MENA at LinkedIn
Is the Director of Academia MENA at LinkedIn, where he helps universities and ministries equip students with future-ready skills. With 15 years in the tech industry and a focus on education and edtech, he specializes in strategic sales, complex software solutions, and building impactful partnerships that drive innovation across the region
Hasan Tosun
Co-Founder & CEO @ Sensgreen
The co-founder and CEO of Sensgreen, I lead a Techstars and HUB71 backed cleantech startup that aims to make buildings more energy-efficient and healthier, as well as to create more sustainable cities. We have developed a smart indoor air quality monitoring and control system that can reduce HVAC energy consumption by up to 40% and improve occupant comfort and productivity. I have a strong background in energy modeling and market research, having worked as a researcher at DIW Berlin and ewi Energy Research & Scenarios, where I contributed to various projects on the supply and demand of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. I also have a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, having attended Draper University and Innovation Acceleration Group's executive education program. I am fluent in English, German, and Turkish.
Daniel Mould
the CEO of WeMove
Is the CEO of WeMove, a UK-based transport technology company redefining group travel logistics. With a background in sales and data analysis across the mobility and insurance sectors, Daniel brings a sharp focus on innovation, efficiency, and user experience. He previously held roles at CoachScanner and Admiral Group, and has led WeMove since 2019, driving its growth in the UK’s transport tech landscape.
Jemima A. Frimpong, PhD
Associate Professor of Management at NYU Stern School of Business at NYU Abu Dhabi
Dr. Frimpong is Associate Professor of Management at the NYU Stern School of Business at NYU Abu Dhabi, where she served as Vice Dean of Programs, and Program Head for Business, Organizations, and Society. As an organizational scholar, her work focuses on innovation in healthcare, decision making, and performance improvement. She has held academic positions at Johns Hopkins University, and Columbia University. Dr. Frimpong holds a PhD in Managerial Science and Healthcare from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
Nader AlBastaki
Managing Director, Dubai Future District Fund
Nader AlBastaki is Managing Director of the Dubai Future District Fund, a venture capital fund of funds driving innovation and entrepreneurship in the UAE. He has over 15 years of experience spanning banking, tourism, strategy, and venture capital. Previously, he held leadership roles at Dubai Future Foundation, where he served as Acting Chief of Strategy, and at Dubai Tourism, leading advanced analytics and business intelligence. Earlier in his career, he spent five years at HSBC in corporate and investment banking. Nader also advises and mentors startups through incubators and innovation forums.
Sophia Soyoung Jeong
Associate Program Head of Business, Organizations and Society; Visiting Associate Professor, NYU Abu Dhabi
Sophia Soyoung Jeong is a business professor and organizational behavior scholar at NYU Abu Dhabi, where she is Associate Program Head of Business, Organizations and Society. Her work focuses on trust, cooperation, diversity, and ethical decision-making in organizations. She has previously taught at Zayed University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and holds a PhD in Organizational Behavior from the University of South Carolina’s Moore School of Business.
Constance Gallay
Co-Founder & Director, Black Soldier Fly Holdings (BSFH)
Constance Gallay is a climate strategist and systems builder working at the intersection of regenerative development, circular agriculture, and social justice. At BSFH, she advances waste-to-value chains and insect-powered climate solutions rooted in East Africa and extending globally. With over a decade of cross-sector experience, from mobility to manufacturing, she has led initiatives in urban innovation, ecosystem restoration, and inclusive value chains, and advises ventures driving climate resilience and equity.
Cheick Camara
Vice President & Managing Director for Africa at ServiceNow
Cheick Camara is Vice President & Managing Director for Africa at ServiceNow, where he drives digital growth and transformation across the continent. With over 20 years of experience in finance, technology, and operations, he advances AI-powered solutions that streamline processes and enhance productivity. He is also committed to social impact through educational partnerships and clean energy projects supporting communities in Africa.
Murilo Sodré
Director of Technology and Innovation for the city of Balneário Camboriú, Brazil
Murilo Sodré is Director of Technology and Innovation for the city of Balneário Camboriú, Brazil, with over 20 years of experience in digital government and public sector transformation. He has led pioneering initiatives in smart cities, process automation, GovTech, and AI for public management. Previously, he served as Secretary of Technology in Itajaí, modernizing services and driving significant efficiency gains. He also founded LaBC, the city’s innovation lab, connecting government, startups, academia, and civil society to design citizen-centered solutions.
Nadir Ben
Product Executive | Scaling Multi-Vertical Products | Driving Growth & Revenue | 2x Founder | Advisor @ Plug & Play
A Seasoned product executive and 2x founder with 15+ years of experience scaling high-growth products across fintech, super apps, marketplaces, and mobility. Currently leading Product & Tech at Axel Springer, he drives cross-platform transformation for one of Europe’s largest media companies. Previously, he built and scaled Yassir’s product org from scratch, growing the African super app to 12M+ users. A Plug & Play advisor and Stanford ECPO alum, Nadir blends founder agility with enterprise scale to build product orgs that move fast, ship with purpose, and drive real growth.
Lorena Puica
CEO, Syd Life AI | Improving the Life Quality of 1BN People Through Preventive Precision AI Health Tech
The CEO of Syd Life AI, a pioneering health tech company using precision AI to improve the life quality of 1 billion people. Named one of the Top 30 Women in AI, she’s a published author, record-holding extreme athlete, and the youngest CFA. With a background in investment strategy and five degrees in math, economics, and finance, Lorena brings deep expertise and bold vision to the intersection of AI, health, and innovation.
Edmund Chan
Serial Entrepreneur |Strategy & Operation Excellence | Food Tech & Green Tech | Impact Leader
Is a serial entrepreneur and impact leader in food and green tech, leveraging over 15 years of experience in the food industry to build sustainable ventures. As the founder of TIGA MILK 太加奶, Meat the Next, and Foodtech AI, he pioneers innovative superfood solutions that address climate change and food security. An ESG award winner and Executive MBA graduate from CUHK, Edmund combines operational excellence with a strong social mission—driving real impact through tech-enabled, sustainable food systems.
Jessy El Murr
Founder, Motahadith | Public Speaking Trainer & Master of Ceremonies, Global Transformation in the Age of AI Conference
Jessy El Murr is a public speaking trainer, communications advisor, and experienced Master of Ceremonies, with over 20 years of international media experience across the GCC and the USA. A former journalist with BBC, Sky News Arabia, and Forbes Middle East, she has covered major global events and led digital media initiatives. As Founder of Motahadith, she coaches executives in leadership communication. At this conference, Jessy serves as Master of Ceremonies.
Please note: The conference speaker line up is subject to confirmations, additions, and eventual adjustments.
About Stern at NYUAD
The Stern School of Business at NYU Abu Dhabi is the top US Business school in the region. Stern at NYUAD is an academic enterprise that is uniquely positioned to influence management and business in the region. The School offers premier, internationally distinguished business degrees, tailored for aspiring leaders in the UAE and abroad. Stern at NYUAD gathers a global community of learners and talented professionals to equip them with a strong business and management foundation through an innovative curriculum taught by esteemed faculty. Through dynamic coursework, innovative teaching avenues, and real-world opportunities the programs aim to accelerate careers in a dynamic global economy.
About Sazience
Sazience Technology is a leading Digital Transformation platform in the Middle East and Africa, helping organizations enhance efficiency, decision-making, and customer engagement through technology. With operations in Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Egypt, and the UAE — and clients in 16 countries — we deliver integrated solutions in Digital Enablement (ERP, digital services), Innovative Solutions (custom software, e-services, IoT, intelligent devices, smart cities), and Data Enablement (AI-powered data solutions). Supported by 3,000+ professionals worldwide and strong technology partners, Sazience combines global expertise with local insight and strong cultural sensitivity to drive impact across finance, telco, retail, utilities, and the public sectors.
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