Speakers Spotlight

Discover the incredible lineup of speakers joining us for PMEVOLVE 2024. Explore their profiles to learn about their expertise, accomplishments, and session topics. Connect with them directly through their social media links.

Session Information Topic:

Your Strategic Move - The Path to C-Suite for the Strategic Project Manager

Keynote Speaker Day 1

Morning Session

Fola Alabi, Transformational Leader and CIO of Strategic Project Leader Inc.

Fola F. Alabi is a distinguished thought leader, EdTech advocate, and authority in strategic leadership and project management. A lifelong student of leadership, technology, strategy, and project excellence, Fola is committed to refining and elevating project management into a strategic discipline and a core pillar of corporate strategy, pivotal for organizational value acceleration and peak performance. Known as "the Einstein of Strategic Leadership," Fola unifies strategy and project management, embodying the role of THE Strategic Project Leader™️.

For the past two decades, Fola has dedicated her career to researching, teaching, and consulting. She has helped organizations, leaders, and their teams to close value leaks, execute the right projects the right way and cultivate strategic project leaders. Through compelling keynotes, transformative training, advisory services, and dynamic workshops, Fola focuses on strategic “conscious” leadership and what she terms "project intelligence"—the essential quotient for future-ready project professionals and business leaders aiming to impact ROI and chart their path to C-suite roles. This is part of her current Doctorate research, class of 2026. Fola's insights inspire global impact and empower professionals to achieve the success they desire.

As we navigate the future of project management, project managers must evolve into strategic project leaders. Fola F. Alabi is your Strategic Catalyst, committed to empowering business leaders and project professionals to become more strategic. Elevate your career, accelerate value for organizations, chart your path to the C-suite, and fuel the global economy.

Remember, leaders like you shape the future—start today. Think big! Be Strategic!

She is a transformational leader and CIO of Strategic Project Leader Inc., a business consulting boutique firm. In addition, she is also the founder of No Gap Foundation, a purpose-driven non-profit organization that bridges the opportunity, relational, and health gaps for women, visible minorities, and working parents.

As a visionary, Fola sits on the board of several organizations, helping them drive strategic outcomes. With decades of experience managing projects and PMOs for global organizations, including but not limited to, the Department for Transport, Fortis Alberta, NYSE Euronext, and TC Energy, Fola brings a wealth of expertise in strategic project management and transformational strategic leadership to help individuals and organizations become drivers and executors of strategic goals, leading to the attainment and sustainment of results.

As a busy mother of three who speaks four languages, Fola enjoys travelling, volunteering, podcasting, and, more importantly, spending quality time with her adventurous family. She was also the past Vice President of the Project Management Institute – Southern Alberta Chapter (PMI-SAC) Board and is currently an executive advisor.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

The Power of Positive Mindset: Turning Pain into Power

Keynote Speaker Day 1

Afternoon Session

Atif Rashid - Resilience Coach at Inspire1 IV Consulting​

Atif Rashid's life narrative exemplifies resilience through profound adversities, making him an embodiment of the principles he teaches. From his modest beginnings in Pakistan, where he faced numerous adversities including partial deafness and societal challenges, Atif moved to Canada as an international student, where he pursued his BCom at Dalhousie University, followed by an MBA and CPA certification from Saint Mary's University.

His career took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with cancer, leading to the amputation of his leg. This profound personal crisis propelled Atif into becoming a resilience expert, mindset coach, and an impact speaker. Atif initiated the global movement "Inspire 1 - Impact Billions," channeling his experiences into empowering others to overcome their challenges.

His professional engagements as a public servant and financial strategist, coupled with his personal triumph over adversity, render him a sought-after speaker at international forums including the TEDx stage. He has delivered keynote addresses at various conferences, workshops, and seminars, focusing on resilience, diversity, inclusion, and mental health.

Atif’s workshops and seminars integrate resilience with practical leadership and financial strategies, making him a beacon of hope and a guide for many navigating personal and professional challenges.

For more information on Atif Rashid and to join his mission, visit www.atifrashid.ca.

 

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Every Member of Your Project Team in Brilliant: Leveraging Positive Feedback to Build High Performing Project Teams

Workshop Facilitator

Day 1

Marie Hogan, Vice-President of Business Development at the Leadership Institute

Marie brings 15+ years of experience in strategic partnerships, economic development, and education, currently serving as Vice-President of Business Development at the Leadership Institute, where she is expanding the Leadership Institute's programming to new regions of Canada, most notable through the Certification in Leadership and Management Skills, designed for the realities and managers and executives.

Previously, Marie held roles such as Director of Business Development at Mitacs, a national not-for-profit that drives innovation partnerships between industry, academia, and the world, where she led the development, negotiation, structuring and scoping of thousands of strategic partnerships between major Canadian innovation ecosystem stakeholders, such as companies, community organizations, economic development supports, government, and academic institutions in order to support Canadian productivity. One of her key achievements was leading a strategic MOU with Canada's Ocean Supercluster, in which she developed and delivered on a national Oceans talent strategy to build the R&D talent pipeline for Oceans innovators in partnerships with key stakeholders across the country.

With a background in education and training, a Master of Post-Secondary Education focused on transitions from school-to-work, a trained teacher with a Bachelor of Education with teachables in Social Studies, French, and a self-directed teachable in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and an early career leading and facilitating teams and events from 25 to over 500 within Post-Secondary institutions, Marie is known for her expertise in the soft skills that drive people engagement, skill mastery, and high-performing teams.

Marie is passionate about helping people leaders and collaborators capture the brilliance of their teams and create safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environments using a people-first approach, and often delivers workshops and talks in this space.

Marie's work has impacted the capacity for collaboration in Canada, and she remains committed to fostering a people-centric approach to partnerships, projects, team building, and leadership.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Why 78% of Your Organization Couldn’t Care Less About Your Transformation Initiative and What To Do About It

Workshop Facilitator

Day 1

Kevin Judge, CEO and Founder of iNOBL, Strategic Business Advisor, Best-Selling Author, and International Speaker

Kevin is a strategic business advisor, best-selling author, and international speaker with a rich blend of entrepreneurial and corporate experience.

As the CEO and Founder of iNOBL, Kevin leads a team that senior leaders trust to turn strategy into sustainable results.

He has guided thousands of leaders—from small businesses to multinational companies across North America and Europe—in implementing success strategies during times of growth, decline, and transformation.

Kevin is known for providing actionable insights, enriched with real-world experience, to help executives drive results for their business, their people, and themselves.

There’s a lot more to Kevin than any bio could ever convey. If you’d like to know more, he encourages you to reach out for a conversation.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Future of Teams: Empowering Gen Z+ with Next Gen Project Management

Workshop Facilitator

Day 1

Luke Goetting, Global Keynote Speaker, TEDx Speaker, Future of Work Expert & Keynote Speaker

Luke Goetting is a global keynote speaker and Future of Work expert who has electrified audiences at TEDx, DisruptHR, the AI & Agile Summit and hundreds of events around the world. As a sought-after voice at leadership events and management trainings, Luke specializes in helping organizations maximize employee engagement and productivity with an emphasis on unlocking the potential of Gen Z and the emerging workforce.

Luke is founder of the award-winning communications agency Puffingston Presentations in Austin, Texas, and has crafted high-impact presentations for industry giants like Dell, IBM, Lenovo and AMD. His expertise in developing engaging, interactive experiences has made him a go-to resource for organizations looking to future-proof their workforce and foster a culture of innovation.

Prepare for a session that informs and entertains – Luke Goetting is here to revolutionize how you think about the future of work!

 

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Holistic Approach to Transformation

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 1

Aaron Streeton - Managing Partner & Founder at Tengu Consulting​

Aaron Streeton brings two decades of expertise in Operations Consulting. He is the Managing Partner and Founder of Tengu Consulting, where he spearheads transformation initiatives, focusing on designing and implementing Targeted Operating Models.

Prior to starting Tengu, Aaron served as the Chief Delivery Officer at Proudfoot, overseeing Global Operations and ensuring client success across six continents and in over thirty countries. In his career, he has led transformation engagements for notable Canadian companies such as Air Canada, Bell, TELUS, SaskEnergy, The Irving Group of Companies, Teck Resources, SaskTel, and Gordon Food Services. One of his significant achievements was taking over and managing a global transformation effort during the pandemic, ensuring project quality in Europe and Asia. He spent six months in China in the first half of 2021, leading a local team at two of the sites in Shanghai and Nanjing.

Aaron holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from Queen’s University, is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and a Certified Executive Coach. His unique ability to blend technical and tactical approaches to engagements is highly regarded. He has a unique ability to help the client make their strategy into a practical reality. Clients and colleagues often commend Aaron for his calm and competent demeanour, his dry sense of humour, and his dedication to bringing success to clients.

Passionate about client success and mentoring the next generation of operations consultants, Aaron continues to build a consultancy at Tengu that prioritizes client success and holds his team accountable for delivering  holistic and sustainable results.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Unveiling Your Purpose: Finding Your North Star

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 1

Kemi Tade, BME, PRINCE2 - Chief Purpose Officer at The Purpose Temple

With over 12 years of experience in Healthcare, Aviation and Finance, Kemi is a dedicated Purpose Coach and the Chief Purpose Officer at The Purpose Temple. She specializes in guiding clients—ranging from individuals to businesses and government entities—in discovering, understanding, and activating their unique purpose.

In her previous role as Business Change Manager at NWL CCG London, Kemi led transformative initiatives, driving teams to achieve significant milestones. One of her standout accomplishments was the implementation of a predictive analytical tool that enabled clinicians to identify patients at risk of life-threatening diseases, showcasing her commitment to impactful change.

Kemi holds a degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Surrey, UK, and is certified in PRINCE2. Renowned for her strategic vision, leadership skills, and innovative problem-solving, she has a unique ability to ask the 'unaskable' questions that unlock deeper insights and facilitate growth.

A passionate mentor, Kemi is especially dedicated to guiding students and is currently focused on establishing a tech school in Nigeria, further extending her commitment to empowering the next generation.

At The Purpose Temple, Kemi excels in helping clients articulate their authentic stories and develop actionable roadmaps that align with their purpose. She is adept at helping individuals peel back self-imposed barriers that hinder their journey toward a fulfilling life.

Kemi’s work has positively impacted clients across the globe, and she remains devoted to cheerleading, inspiring others, and fostering lives rich in purpose.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

9 Traits of a High Performing Project Management Professional

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 1

Simon Ellison, PMP, PgMP, CBCP, Program Director/Program Management Consultant

Simon joined CNL as the Ac-225 Program Director in December 2020 focussed on fusion power, leading the project team work activities. Simon is an accomplished manager with more than 25 years in industry with a proven track-record in project management, operations and engineering. Simon has a thorough understanding of the global nuclear landscape.

Prior to his arrival at CNL, Simon was the Director of Major Projects at Bruce Power leading the major component replacement of the CANDU Reactors. Bruce Power is currently the largest operational power reactor site in the World. The site is refurbishing 6 of its 8 reactors for the Ontario provincial government over a 15 year period at a cost of $15Bn.  

Simon’s previous work includes leading the Victoria In-Service Support Contract for the Department of National Defence as the Program Director. This included the refurbishment of the Victoria Class Submarines and In-Service support to the operational vessels. He led the AECL Capital Projects Team at Chalk River, managing the Laboratory Renewal, Infrastructure and Isotope Supply Reliability Programs, including the construction and commissioning functions. He also was a Senior Project Manager at the Atomic Weapons Establishment in Aldermaston, UK and Project Manager and Operations Manager in Magnox and Mixed Oxide fuels at the Sellafield Site, UK.

Simon started his career in the Royal Navy, as a Marine Engineer on Nuclear Submarines. He continued his studied at Warwick University, UK and holds a M.Sc. in Engineering Business Management. He is also a certified Project Manager (PMP), Program Manager (PgMP) and Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP).

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

The Project Manager’s Dilemma: Believe Everything; Believe Nothing

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 1

Temisan Sagay,MBA, Program Manager - Analytics Thrive Digital & Director, Mentoring - PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter

Temisan brings 17 years of experience in Project and Program Management currently serving as the Director of Programs and Operational Excellence at Capital Friends Network, where he oversees a diverse portfolio of projects focused on data, AI, and digital transformation.

Previously, Temisan held roles such as Program Manager - Analytics at Thrive Digital, where he led teams through complex digital marketing initiatives, and successfully guided critical modernization projects achieving significant milestones in project delivery.

Known for his strategic vision and leadership acumen, Temisan possesses an MBA, and is certified in multiple project management methodologies. He is also the co-author of the groundbreaking PMI research publication, "Artificial Intelligence and Project Management" further showcasing his expertise in integrating AI into project management practices.

Passionate about mentoring future leaders in the field, Temisan currently serves as the Director of Mentoring at Project Management Institute’s Ottawa Valley Chapter, contributing to the professional development of emerging project managers.

Temisan's work as a speaker, author and practitioner has impacted global teams and industry standards, and he remains committed to inspiring others and fostering growth within the project management community.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Cross-cultural Characterization of Leadership: A Project Team’s Perspective

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 1

Dr. Oday Aswad, PMP, Technology Entrepreneurship at the University of Ottawa

Oday brings two decades of international experience in project management. He is a certified project manager (PMP) since 2008 and began his career as an assistant architect, gradually working his way up to become a project manager. During his career, Oday managed projects, recruited and trained talents, coordinated with suppliers, negotiated bids, and managed contracts. Moreover, working in Canada and the United Arab Emirates gave Oday valuable knowledge and experience in multicultural workplaces and managing complex projects.

Oday has taught Project Management for a decade at different post-secondary institutions in the Construction, IT, Business, and Supply Chain management departments. At St. Lawrence College, Oday currently teaches project management, sustainability, and international business. Oday also teaches Technology Entrepreneurship at the University of Ottawa - Engineering department.

Oday holds a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) and a Ph.D. in Digital Transformation. In addition, he has earned an MBA and a BSc in Architectural Engineering. Oday's interdisciplinary publications cover engineering applications, online marketing, service marketing, information systems, and service design. Oday is a certified PMP, Lean-Six Sigma Black Belt, and Empowered Educator.

Oday is passionate about augmenting professional practices with academic methods and technologies to give PM students and professionals a competitive advantage in their respective industries and prepare them for contemporary career requirements.

Session Information Topic:

Ideas Exchange: How the PMO Contributes to Project Success

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 1

Victorious Eche, CSM, ACSM, Director of Operations- PMI Dallas Chapter

Victorious Eche brings 10+ years of experience in Banking Industry, Previously serving as Project Manager at Citi Bank, where Over 5 years of experience leading projects across multiple industries, with a strong focus on compliance, data governance, and risk management within Citi Bank's PMO.  ​

Victorious led enterprise-level projects, focusing on compliance management, data governance, and risk control frameworks. Leveraging comprehensive knowledge of federal supervisory guidance, Victorious partnered with cross-functional teams to implement strategic initiatives and regulatory compliance processes, continuously interacting with senior management and regulators. Additionally, she facilitated Agile Scrum ceremonies to promote iterative improvement and team engagement, effectively managing project budgets, operational strategies, and remote team coordination.  ​

Previous a Program Manager, Victorious was instrumental in supporting data governance policies and risk management initiatives under the Chief of Staff. She managed a $6 million budget, facilitated contract negotiations, and maintained comprehensive documentation to ensure knowledge sharing and transparency. Her efforts resulted in substantial cost savings and improved stakeholder relationships.  ​

 Victorious facilitated cross-team collaboration to manage value stream dependencies, organized technical roadmaps to drive ROI, and regularly assessed organizational performance. she was pivotal in aligning team priorities with company goals and improving productivity through data analysis and agile methodologies. led Scrum teams, utilized Agile tools like JIRA, and coached teams to embrace agile mindsets, enhancing team dynamics and project delivery success. His efforts in promoting shared accountability and ownership significantly strengthened team collaboration and project outcomes.

She is graduating soon with a MBA in Business analytics from Texas Women’s University and has two Bachelors of Science degrees in Accounting and Business Management form Shaw University ​NC.

Victorious is passionate about Communication and community engagement and Networking e.g., Black Network, Women’s Network, PMI Dallas, several community engagement mentoring future leaders, sustainability, advancing industry standards, and she frequently is involved with the PMI Dallas and Fort Worth Chapter volunteering.  ​

In her role at PMI Dallas Chapter, Victorious continues to engage with community initiatives e.g., Focus on Disadvantage communities, Chapter events, enhance operational efficiency, influence positive change in the industry​

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

PMI OVOC Impact Stories: Bridging Connections through Volunteering and Building PM’s Next Gen

Panelist

Day 1

Suprojit Das, MEng - Project Manager , Electrical Construction & Energy Management

Suprojit Das, MEng is an accomplished Project Manager specializing in Electrical Construction and Energy Management, with over five years of diverse experience in technical and managerial roles. Currently based in Ottawa, Canada, Suprojit serves as a Project Manager at Black & McDonald Limited, where he has been leading infrastructure projects since April 2023. His responsibilities include overseeing project cost, schedules, quality, safety, and contract performance while driving cross-functional teams toward successful project outcomes.

Before his current role, Suprojit gained valuable experience at Black & McDonald as a Cost Analyst and Procurement Specialist, where he managed financial reviews, customer billing, vendor selection, and change order management. He also worked as a Sales Project Coordinator at Robertson Electric Wholesale, handling quotations, project bidding, and supply chain management for major electrical manufacturers. Earlier in his career, he held roles in business development and project engineering with a focus on automation and industrial process solutions.

Suprojit holds a Master of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Plymouth and a Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management from Algonquin College, where he won the Ontario Project Management Competition. His academic background is complemented by a research publication on graphene-based biosensors for Alzheimer's detection. His expertise spans project management, electrical engineering, procurement, process improvement, and business development.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

PMI OVOC Impact Stories: Bridging Connections through Volunteering and Building PM’s Next Gen

Panelist

Day 1

Parth Shah - @ CIRA , Project/Program Management, Leadership & Collaboration

Parth Shah is a distinguished leader in IT and cybersecurity, with over a decade of experience spanning program and project management. Currently serving as Program Manager at the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA), Parth plays a pivotal role in advancing Canada’s cybersecurity framework. He leads transformative initiatives like the Canadian Traceroute Database and Canadian Shield, which strengthen the nation’s digital resilience and influence key cybersecurity policies. 

Before his tenure at CIRA, Parth excelled as a Technical Project Manager at Akamai Technologies, where he led cross-functional teams to deliver high-stakes projects for global financial clients. Among his notable achievements was resolving critical security and performance challenges, resulting in a monthly revenue savings of approximately $50,000 through strategic infrastructure optimization. 

Parth’s educational background includes postgraduate certifications in Project Management and Brand Management from Algonquin College. He holds several professional credentials, including Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Pragmatic Management Certified—Level One (PMC-I). His exceptional leadership and technical expertise have earned him recognition through numerous awards, such as the Best Project Manager Award from PMI Ottawa and accolades for leadership and teamwork in previous roles. Known for his ability to convert complex problems into growth opportunities, Parth is a catalyst for innovation and operational excellence. 

In his current role, Parth continues to shape the future of cybersecurity, leading initiatives that ensure the integrity and security of Canada’s digital ecosystem. 

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

PMI OVOC Impact Stories: Bridging Connections through Volunteering and Building PM’s Next Gen

Panelist

Day 1

John Joseph, MSc, PMP, DASM - Project Manager- IRCC

John Joseph is a Project Manager with over fifteen years of experience. 
John works with Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada on the Digital Platform modernization project, overseeing essential project management functions. 

John was born on the beautiful Island of Haiti in the Caribbean. As a child, he migrated to Canada and then to the United States, where he lived for 25 years before returning to Canada. 

John has had a very eclectic project management career; John has worked for a Fortune 500 company and several non-profits before landing at IRCC. 

John is a proud husband and father of two beautiful girls. 
John's current pursuit of an MBA in IT Management clearly indicates his commitment to continuous learning and growth, inspiring optimism about his future potential. 

John is passionate about project management, leadership, team building, Teamwork, and employee development. 

Connect with John in person and LinkedIn to learn more about his project management journey.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

PMI OVOC Impact Stories: Bridging Connections through Volunteering and Building PM’s Next Gen

Moderator

Day 1

Taiwo Abraham, Co-Founded HOPS, IT Program Manager

Taiwo Abraham is a North America-based IT program manager, college professor, conference speaker and researcher. With over 15 years of experience and numerous certifications, Taiwo is a recognized leader in project management, sustainability, and organizational change. His expertise spans IT, workplace tech, and startups, earning him multiple PMI awards and a role in developing the PMBOK® Guide—Seventh Edition.

Embodying the Ubuntu philosophy of "I am because you are", Taiwo co-founded HOPS, a non-profit career development platform that has helped over 1500 recent immigrants secure rewarding employment in North America. As VP of Programs, Symposium and Mentoring for PMI OVOC, he created valuable volunteering opportunities for his project management students, many of whom have gone on to lead impressive careers in both public and private sectors. Taiwo's journey exemplifies the power of knowledge-sharing and community support in fostering professional growth and success.

Session Information Topic:

PMI OVOC Impact Stories: Bridging Connections through Volunteering and Building PM’s Next Gen

Moderator

Day 1

Jennifer Read, CMC, PMP, PEng - President and CEO, Jennifer Read Consulting Inc.

A Project Management Professional (PMP), and a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) with over 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors from an on-time and on-budget delivery, change management, governance, quality perspective. Experienced in all PMI Project Management Knowledge Areas with a recent focus on Business Transformation and Information Technology related projects, focusing on Governance, Reporting, Change Management, Project Control (Schedule & Risk). Committed to organizational satisfaction, with experience in the establishment of Project Management Offices (PMOs), Project Management Support Teams, and providing Project Management support for all levels of management, as well as experience in all phases of hardware, software, and IT related projects, providing strategic direction for IT related initiatives, defining, scoping, and managing client requirements. 

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Pollyannas, Cassandras and Januses: Three tales of project performance or why projects are caught between bias and error

Keynote Speaker Day 2

Morning Session

Dr. Lavagnon Ika, Professor and Founding Director of the Health Systems and Management Programs at the University of Ottawa.

Lavagnon Ika, MSc, PhD brings more than 20 years of experience in teaching project management to project managers and senior business leaders in many universities and schools in countries throughout Canada, the USA, Europe, Africa, Australia, China, and the Middle East.

He is Professor of Project Management and Founding Director of the Major Projects Observatory at the Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa. He is also an Extraordinary Professor at both the Graduate School of Technology Management and the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GBIS) of the University of Pretoria.

He is a Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow, a World Bank Fellow, an Associate Editor of the International Journal of Project Management and the Canadian Journal of Development Studies, and a (former) member of the Academic Boards of the international project management associations PMI and IPMA.

Professor Ika is a key contributor to the most recent debates on major infrastructure delivery (e.g., project behavior or why projects experience cost overruns and benefit shortfalls), and he is considered the world leader of the research on managing global development projects (e.g., World Bank or Global Affairs Canada-funded projects delivered in Africa).

Professor Ika's work has earned him three Emerald Publishing House Awards of Excellence (Best Reviewer Award in 2018, Outstanding Paper in 2017 and Highly Commended Paper Award in 2011), as well as three IPMA Global Awards of Excellence (Research Award in 2017 and 2022 and Contribution of a Young Researcher Award in 2012).

He won the PM World Journal Editor’s Choice Award in 2021. He was a finalist of the 2023 UK Association for Project Management (APM) Award for the Research Paper of the Year. He was awarded the Telfer Innovative Researcher Award in 2017 and the Telfer Established Researcher Award in 2021.

He is the co-author of the 2024 PMI Book of the Managing Fuzzy Projects in 3D and he is leading a handbook on project behavior to be published with Cambridge University Press in 2024. Professor Ika has provided guidance for the World Bank as external advisory panel member on their Results and Performance of the World Bank Group 2023 and for the PMI in 2024 as a lead scholar on how to measure project success. He can be contacted at: Ika@telfer.uottawa.ca

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Implementing AI in Corporate Governance

Keynote Speaker Day 2

Afternoon Session

Saurabh Srivastava, MBA, E.I.T - Senior Director, Program Management Office - Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Saurabh Srivastava, MBA, E.I.T., is a seasoned leader in program and project management, currently serving as the Senior Director of the Program Management Office at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) in Pembroke, Ontario. With over a decade of experience in the nuclear sector, Saurabh provides executive oversight for CNL’s business management functions, including Procurement, Supply Chain, Central Program Management Office, Information Management & Technology, Cyber Security, Asset Management, and Site Planning.

Before his current role, which began in September 2023, Saurabh was the Deputy Vice President of Business Management at CNL, where he played a key role in optimizing processes and driving strategic initiatives. His prior experience includes roles as a Senior Project Management and Engineering Consultant and positions at Hatch, E.S. Fox Limited, and SNC-Lavalin, where he gained expertise in project management, engineering, and reactor operations.

Saurabh holds an MBA from the Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA program, a joint offering by Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and York University's Schulich School of Business. He is certified as an Engineering Intern (E.I.T.) by Professional Engineers Ontario and has completed Radiation Safety Officer training.

His career is marked by a commitment to safety, innovation, and continuous improvement, with a focus on delivering impactful outcomes in the nuclear industry.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Choose Your Own Culture

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Robert Snyder, MBA, PMP Founder and President of Innovation Elegance, LLC

Robert Snyder is the founder and president of Innovation Elegance, LLC. His thirty-year career spans roles such as developer, project management, change management, sales enablement, and the performing arts. His career path includes corporate roles, consulting roles, startups, PMP, and Agile certifications. He’s performed in numerous vocal, dance, and theater ensembles. Robert earned his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois and his MBA in Strategy from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

8 Patterns of Business Agility

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Alexandre Frédéric Joly - Founder & Owner, Agile Lounge® by AFJ – Business Agility, Scrum, and Entrepreneurship Coach

Alexandre Frédéric Joly is a seasoned expert in Business Agility Consultancy, Project Management, and Experience Design for Contact Centers, dedicated to transforming how businesses deliver value to their customers and enhance employee engagement. As the founder and owner of Agile Lounge® by AFJ, he provides cutting-edge coaching services focused on Business Agility, Scrum, and Entrepreneurship, guiding organizations toward greater flexibility and innovation in today’s dynamic market.

With over 20 years of experience, Alexandre has spearheaded agile transformations, built high-performance teams, and worked alongside pioneers like Mike Beedle, co-signer of the Agile Manifesto. His coaching expertise, underpinned by certifications in ScrumMaster and Business Agility, has empowered businesses to thrive through agility.

A core part of his offering is helping businesses adapt through strategic Project Management. His comprehensive approach ensures that organizations not only implement projects effectively but also continuously improve their processes. Additionally, Alexandre specializes in Experience Design for Contact Centers, with CCaaS – Contact Center as a Service mindset, ensuring businesses enhance customer interaction and service delivery by leveraging agility and design thinking principles.

Alexandre is also the host of the Dare Real Agile Podcast, where he shares unique insights and real-world agile experiences. As a digital nomad and founder of Agile Travel™, he combines his love for travel with his commitment to helping others achieve work-life flexibility, guiding both aspiring and experienced nomads to realize their goals of working from anywhere.

His mission is to inspire and enable businesses to embrace agility, innovation, and human-centered experiences while fostering continuous growth in an ever-changing world.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Workshop : Navigating Transformation in a Large Scale Complex Programs

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Doris Perron - ​ Director of Program and Project Managers at Desjardins

Doris Perron is a member of the PMI-Montreal Bord Administration and has 20 years of experience in program and project management, mostly in the financial sector. Currently serving as Director of a team of 45 program and project managers in one of the largest PMO in North America at Desjardins, she supports and advises executive sponsors, program and project managers working on major transformation programs critical to the organization.

Previously, Doris worked at National Bank where she was leader of the PMO in the compliance sector and later on, she also implemented continuous improvement in the Operations. Prior to that, she was a consultant as a Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma where she worked in different industries, training engineers in the execution of major projects within Operations.

She has a Master's degree in Mathematics and Statistics from Montreal University and Doris is certified as a PMP, ACP, SAFE Agilist, MBBLSix Sigma, Quality assurance specialist.

Doris is passionate about program management, mentoring future leaders in the field, teaching project management and helping organizations achieve their benefits through successful programs /projects.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Workshop: Navigating Transformation in a Large Scale Complex Programs

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Mariama Zhouri, PMP, RPM, CISM, CRISC, M.Sc., CAMS - Managing Partner @ HSCG

Managing partner at Hammersmith Consulting Group (HSCG), Leader of Risk Advisory and Majors transformations, Mariama Zhouri, Harvard and HEC Montréal Alumni, has been making her mark for nearly 24 years with prestigious firms such as PwC, CGI, KPMG, Deloitte and lately the head of HSCG.

Ms. Zhouri is an enthusiastic seasoned consultant supporting fortune 100 companies to envision Risks Management, Major projects transformation, Crisis Management, IT risks, business continuity and Data protection, decision-making and use of data and regulations as a business accelerator.

Ms. Zhouri is an Inclusive executive with the ability to orchestrate and restructure major projects on time and on budget, to build internal fellowship and external durable relationships and foster development of solid and passionate delivery teams. Ms. Zhouri is PMP, RPM, CISM, CRISC, CAMS and Ms.c. She is Alumni of Harvard Business School, McGill University, HEC Montreal Business School.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Enhancing Workflow Using Power Apps

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Thomas Doyle III, President & CEO, PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter - Head of Digital Services - CJCR HQ, Canadian Armed Forces

Thomas Doyle III is an accomplished leader with extensive experience in project management, digital services, and information management. As the President and CEO of the PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter, Thomas spearheads strategic initiatives that foster community growth, professional development, and innovation within the project management field. Under his leadership, the chapter has launched several key initiatives, including the PMEvolve conference, aimed at advancing the profession and expanding its geographic reach.

In his role as Head of Digital Services at CJCR HQ within the Canadian Armed Forces, Thomas oversees critical digital transformation initiatives, focusing on enhancing internal communications, change management, and project management processes. With a strong background in both military and civilian sectors, he is known for his ability to lead complex projects and drive organizational success.

Thomas is deeply committed to the project management profession, with years of hands-on experience leading diverse teams through complex projects. His dedication to advancing the profession extends beyond his leadership in PMI, as he actively champions best practices in project management to help organizations achieve their strategic goals. Additionally, his expertise in change management has been instrumental in guiding organizations through transformational change, ensuring a smooth transition while maximizing stakeholder engagement and minimizing resistance.

Thomas holds a deep passion for technology-driven solutions, youth cyber education, and fostering partnerships that create meaningful impact. He is a dedicated advocate for the next generation of leaders and is actively involved in initiatives to raise awareness around cyber security, digital services, and professional growth.

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Session Information Topic:

The psychology of Productivity through Gamification

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Bola Adesope, Founder/Practice Lead at SIXDOTS.IO

Bola wants to change the world of work and the way we deliver value.

Currently the Founder/Practice Lead at SixDots.io, a capacity and human capital development company with a mission to transform 1Milllion Processionals by 2030 using the three pillars of Mindset, Skillset and Toolset, and Lead, Advisory & Transformation at Stacey & Lloyd Consulting, he has been described as a visionary Consultant, Executive Advisor and Transformation Specialist dedicated to revolutionizing how we work and deliver value. Renowned as a multi-award-winning consultant, trainer, speaker, and coach, Bola is highly regarded for his exceptional ability to drive and lead Agile, Business, and Digital Transformations across North America, Europe, and Africa.

Bola also co-founded H.O,P.S (Helping Other People Succeed), a social enterprise dedicated to coaching and mentoring young professionals

With over a decade of consulting experience working for Accenture, Deloitte and co, Bola has guided and advised companies across various sectors—including Telecoms, Insurance, Banking, Retail, IT, and Tech—in overcoming complex business challenges and enhancing the value they provide to clients and stakeholders. His deep expertise in Business Analysis, Product Management, Strategy, Change Management, Operating Model & Organizational Design and Business Agility has made him a pivotal force in delivering large-scale, enterprise-wide products and mission-critical transformation initiatives.

As a sought-after trainer, Bola holds multiple certifications and is accredited to teach courses in Business Analysis, Project Management, and Agile/Scrum. He has trained over 3,500 professionals, spoken at numerous conferences, and mentored many leaders and professionals through transformative mindset shifts.

A Keynote and International Speaker with speaking engagement across 5 continents, Bola is known for his dynamic and engaging presentation style, Bola captivates audiences with his extensive knowledge and passion for product and people transformation,

He was named a Top Business Analyst to Watch Out for in 2022 by IIBA, was the Agile Emerging Speaker Winner Toronto in 2019, Top 75 RBC Canadian Immigrant amongst many other awards

Join Bola on a journey to reshape the future of work and unlock new levels of value and innovation

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Transform from PMP to PMO

Workshop Facilitator

Day 2

Peter Botond Mihok- ​ Ambassador at PMO GLOBAL ALLIANCE

Peter Botond Mihok brings over 15 years of experience in project, program and PMO management, currently serving as an Ambassador for The PMO Leader and PMO Global Alliance, where he champions PMO practices and fosters global community growth. He also serves on the Strategic Vision Team for PMO Global Alliance, contributing to its long-term strategic initiatives.

Previously, Peter held roles such as PMO Manager at Kantar, where he established a PMO from the ground up using the PMO Value Ring methodology, significantly improving project delivery and stakeholder engagement. One of his key achievements as a program manager was successfully managing over 500 projects across 60+ countries, driving efficiency and transformation across the organization.

With a background in Economics and Management from Corvinus University of Budapest, Peter holds certifications such as PMP, PMO-CP, and PMO-CC. He is known for his expertise in strategic leadership and transformation, as well as process and organizational development.

Peter is passionate about advancing the PMO profession and mentoring the next generation of leaders. He frequently contributes to professional communities through events, speaking engagements, and publications.

In his role with PMO Global Alliance and The PMO Leader, Peter continues to drive innovation and elevate PMO standards globally. His work has impacted organizations across various sectors, and he remains committed to fostering growth and positive change in the project management community.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Gen AI Risk Framework

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 2

David Shaw, PMP, PCIP Cloud Consulting at Cloud GovCo

David Shaw PMP, PCIP has more than 24 years' experience in IT and information management as a senior project manager and Business Consultant. He has managed projects in the USA, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Denmark, Greenland, Alaska, and Trinidad & Tobago. He is currently working as a consultant in the areas of digital transformation and cloud management.

David provides executive-level technology consulting. As a thought leader he engages with business and technology executives to formulate cloud strategies that support digital transformation and the creation of complex hybrid and cloud native environments.

His expertise encompasses strategic advice, governance, architecture, roadmap creation, assessment, migration, process transformation, cloud native development and the operation of hybrid IT and multi-cloud platforms. He engages with business on cloud strategy, leadership, innovation, and governance. His areas of expertise include:

  • IT governance of cloud projects and cloud computing strategies
  • Software development with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD)
  • Critical infrastructure protection (energy, communications, water, transportation) – business continuity & disaster recovery.

David is a Project Management Professional, a Professional in Critical Infrastructure Protection and an ISO21502 Project Management practioner.

Previously David was Director of Research & Development at Eedo Knowledgeware, Director of Project Delivery at Kontentsu Corp and Manager Content Management Practice at Calian Technologies.

Session Information Topic:

Resilient AI Organizations Start with Resilient People: Integrating AI governance, Ethics, and Human Development into Project Strategies

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 2

Dr. Charles Igwe, Program Manager, Science & Technology Mission, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories & Vice President Professional Development. PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter

I bring over 15 years of experience in project management and nuclear energy to my role as a Program Manager with the Science & Technology Mission at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL). Here, I provide strategic leadership for the HTTD Directorate and the Business Management Office, guiding teams toward impactful results. As the Vice President of Professional Development at the PMI Ottawa Valley Chapter, I am deeply committed to fostering member engagement and promoting professional growth. I also serve on the Advisory Board of Harvard Business Review and review for various research journals, staying connected to the latest industry trends and innovations.

My passion lies in mentoring future project leaders and harnessing the power of AI to enhance project management practices. I frequently lecture at Conestoga, St. Lawrence, and Algonquin Colleges, where I design dynamic learning plans tailored to diverse student needs, always striving to maintain a positive and engaging classroom environment.

What truly sets me apart is my philosophy. I believe in the transformative power of mentorship, the necessity of lifelong learning, and the importance of adaptive strategies in an ever-evolving world. Through my teaching roles, I instill these values in the next generation, empowering them to take on challenges with confidence.

In essence, I don’t just aim to achieve; I aim to inspire. I’m not merely a leader; I’m a catalyst for transformation. My goal is to navigate today’s complexities while equipping others to conquer the challenges of tomorrow.

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Session Information Topic:

Navigating Hard Conversations: Techniques for Effective Communication in the Workplace

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 2

Dr. Jaketra Bryant, Diversity Strategic Leadership Coach and Licensed Professional Counselor.

Dr. Jaketra Bryant brings over 15 years of experience in Diversity Leadership and Counseling.

She currently serves as Founder/CEO at Dr. Jaketra Bryant Coaching and Speaking LLC, where she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion through transformative leadership strategies.

Previously, Dr. Jaketra Bryant held roles such as Radio Host, Author, and Trainer at prestigious institutions like the University of Alabama, Georgia State University, and Xavier University, where she spearheaded initiatives that have transformed workplace cultures and inspired leaders across industries. One of her key achievements was the publication of "The Practices of Black Male Educators in Georgia Public School Classrooms," demonstrating her commitment to fostering compassion across diverse races and genders.

With a background in Biology and Psychology Pre-medicine, Dr. Jaketra Bryant holds a Master's in Community Counseling and a Doctorate in Leadership. She is globally acclaimed and is known for her ability to guide Human Resource departments, leadership teams, and executives in navigating complex challenges related to diversity and inclusion.

She is passionate about advancing leadership standards, driving innovative change, and mentoring future leaders, and she frequently [shares her insights through high-impact speaking engagements, publications, and executive coaching.

In her role at Dr. Jaketra Bryant Coaching and Speaking LLC, she continues to lead programs recognized for their unpredictability, effectiveness, and impact on corporate growth.

Her work has impacted global teams and industries, elevating leadership and diversity practices standards. She remains committed to helping organizations foster inclusive environments, navigate leadership challenges, and achieve sustainable growth.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Change Management – A Case Study Using Kotter Model

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 2

Martin Callsen, Professor Algonquin College, Certified Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQI 2.0) Practitioner

Martin has over 30 years of professional experience in the project management, government relations and training sectors, and is currently serving as a Full-time faculty member in the Project Management Graduate Certificate (PMGC) program at Algonquin College's School of Business. His PMGC courses focus on project management fundamentals, stakeholder and project team management. He is an active mentor and coach to his students.

Previously, Martin worked as a program manager at Colleges and Institutes Canada (the national association of colleges and institutes). He managed several large Global Affairs Canada funded technical and vocational education training (TVET) projects in East Africa, Latin American and the Caribbean. Prior to joining CICan, Martin was a manager at Employment and Skills Development Canada (ESDC) an managed skills development and adult literacy programs at the national level.

With a Master's degree in Project Management and two undergraduate degrees, in International Development and Political Science, Martin is an avid life-long learner. He is a certified Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQI 2.0) Practitioner and an accomplished Toastmaster.

Martin is passionate about career development, coaching, and mentorship. He is especially focused on solving the unique challenges facing the international student community in Canada.

 

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Session Information Topic:

Navigating the Storm: The Power of Collaboration and Partnerships in Resilient Project Management

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 2

Deanna Davies, Program Coordinator and Professor - Project Management Graduate Certificate Program, St. Lawrence College

Deanna Davies is a dedicated educator and leader in higher education, project manager, and passionate community advocate with over 30 years of experience developing strategies, partnerships, and programs that consistently deliver exceptional results. Her multifaceted career spans government, corporate, non-profit, and private sectors, demonstrating her adaptability and deep understanding of various industries.

With a Master’s in Community Economic Development and Leadership (MBA), Deanna's dedication to the social economy and community building is evident in every facet of her life. As a full-time professor and program coordinator for the Project Management Graduate Certificate Program at St. Lawrence College, across two campuses in the School of Business, she brings both academic rigor and practical expertise to her students, emphasizing a strong foundation in People, Partnerships, and Community.

Deanna is an advocate of collaboration and values the strength that diverse teams bring to problem-solving. Her empathetic leadership style creates an inclusive and supportive learning environment, where students are encouraged to engage actively and reflect on real-world challenges. Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that the most effective learning happens through hands-on experience, and she instills in her students the ability to learn from both successes and setbacks.

Grounded by family and fueled by her passion for continuous growth, Deanna finds inspiration in nature and teaches yoga. She embraces moments of reflection and change, continuously seeking opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

Deanna’s commitment to her students extends beyond the classroom. She empowers them to lead with purpose, collaborate effectively, and contribute to their communities. Through her unwavering dedication, she continues to inspire future leaders and strengthen the communities she serves.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Cinematic Wisdom: Hollywood's Take on Project Management​

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 2

Saima Naqvi, CIFP, PMP, and ITIL, Lead Project Management Professor at St. Lawrence college​

Saima Naqvi is a distinguished project management educator and financial expert, with over 17 years of extensive experience in finance and project management. She is renowned for her expertise in teaching and coaching, having significantly impacted the field as an Investment Consultant in Ottawa and as the Lead Professor of Project Management at St. Lawrence College. Saima's illustrious career includes involvement in numerous world-class projects, such as the Burj Khalifa and Justin Trudeau's political campaign projects.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Saima serves on the Board of Directors for two highly reputed institutions and is a proud member of the writer's panel for Seaway News. She is dedicated to giving back to the community by leading numerous community projects and mentoring newcomers to Canada. Saima holds CIFP, PMP, and ITIL certifications, along with two undergraduate degrees and an MBA, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and professional development.

She actively mentors students through the PMI Ottawa Valley & Outaouais Chapter, taking great pride in coaching, teamwork, and cultivating project planning skills among her students. Saima is highly valued for her leadership skills and her ability to simplify complex project management concepts for easy understanding. Currently, she leads and directs students during their final capstone projects at the St. Lawrence Project Management Postgraduate Program & also teaches numerous courses at her institution. 

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Session Information Topic:

AI and the Future of Work: Beyond Automation

Panelist

Day 2

Patrick Egbunonu, President & Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer Informanos Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Inc.

Patrick Egbunonu is the President of Informanos, a social enterprise that leverages AI and analytics to empower leaders, coaches, and organizations. He leads the development of an AI-driven Upward and 360° feedback platform and is dedicated to helping businesses improve decision-making, streamline workflows, and enhance profitability through AI. He also serves as CEO of EbChim Strategy and Innovation Research and President of 1MT Technical and Leadership Institute, which equips young Africans with AI-driven technical and leadership skills.

Patrick began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and later held leadership roles at a top Canadian insurance company, overseeing analytics and underwriting operations. He played a key role in launching the Business Analytics program at St. Lawrence College, where he served as Professor, Program Coordinator, Associate Dean, and Acting Dean. He is now a Term Adjunct at Queen's University’s Smith School of Business, teaching Digital Business & Technologies.

A frequent speaker on AI, analytics, and the future of work, Patrick has presented at conferences for organizations like TASSQ, Queen’s University, HRPA, and EDC. He holds multiple degrees, including a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, two M.Sc. degrees in Chemical Engineering and Economics, and an Executive MBA from Queen's University and Cornell University.

As a founding board member of the Black Entrepreneur Ecosystem (Southeastern Ontario), Patrick is committed to supporting Black entrepreneurs. He has also held various volunteer roles in Kingston, including Chair of the Data Analytics Working Group and serving on the board of the Kingston Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO).

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

AI and the Future of Work: Beyond Automation

Moderator

Day 2

Stephanie Moncion, M.B.A., M.A. - Senior Business Planner at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Stephanie Moncion, M.B.A., M.A., is a seasoned Senior Business Planner at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) in Chalk River, Ontario, with seven years of experience in the nuclear industry. She specializes in strategic planning, leadership, communication, and business development, playing a key role in CNL’s corporate planning efforts. Stephanie's career at CNL has included roles as Senior Corporate Planning Specialist and Program Lead, culminating in her current position, which she has held since November 2021.

Stephanie holds a Master of Business Administration in Innovation Leadership from the University of Fredericton (2023) and a master’s degree in political science from McMaster University. Her educational background enhances her ability to integrate policy, governance, and business strategy in her planning initiatives.

Her career demonstrates a dedication to advancing business development within the nuclear sector, leveraging a strategic mindset and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics.

LinedIn

Session Information Topic:

Transitioning from Execution to Strategy: Enhancing Leadership for Long-Term Success

Keynote Speaker Day 3

Morning Session

Sean musick -​ Director, Business Management Operations at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Sean Musick is a servant leader of performance and strategy with the ultimate goal of making heroes of his customers and stakeholders through predictable program execution. Most recently, he has established and co-authored a journal paper on the implementation of a Machine Learning model for predicting project success. Notably, he oversaw the program execution for several payloads and satellites flown to the International Space Station. 

Sean is committed to advancing the engineering and construction industry with a focus on global best practices. He has been a key contributor to over seven publications through the Construction Industry Institute (CII) including “Globalization: Building a Successful Global Engineering and Construction Organization”. He was the recipient of the Lean and Computing in Construction Congress (LC3) award for best paper for “Impact on Supplier Evaluation on Product Quality” pushing the envelope with a paper on “Implications of Digitization on a Construction Organization: A Case Study” and has present on numerous topics throughout his career highlighting best practices, championing improvement, digitization, and leadership.  

Over his career, Sean has developed and implemented global business management system(s), deployed dashboard(s) that used predictive analytics, and has improved the organization’s operational performance. As an empowering leader, Sean is dedicated to developing future leaders and ensuring a strong succession pipeline through mentorship and strategic guidance. 

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Session Information Topic:

Empowering Leadership: Life Long Learning as Leaders, Volunteers and Role Models

Keynote Speaker Day 3

Afternoon Session

Mitchell Fong, P.Eng, Director, PMI Education Foundations

Mitchell Fong, P.Eng, PMP has worked with a number of the world’s most reputable companies including Apple, Boeing, Comcast, Johnson & Johnson, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, and Verizon. He is an accomplished leader with 15+ years in Strategy, Product/ Program/ Project Management, Management Consulting, Engineering and Coaching.

In his career, Mitchell has led 1,250+ Team Members with Budgets of $500,000,000+ from growing Start-ups to scaling Global Organizations. He is a philanthropist, an international speaker and had roles on Organizing Committees of Multi-Sport Games. Mitchell co-founded the Ontario Project Management Competition (OPMC) and Youth Conference focusing on the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals.

He serves on the Board of Directors for the Project Management Institute Educational Foundation (PMIEF). Mitchell has completed his Executive Education through Columbia Business School and the Schulich School of Business. He holds degrees in Software Engineering and Political Science from Western University.

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Session Information Topic:

Keynote Speaker Gala & Award

Gala & Award

George Al Haddad, George Al Haddad, EMBA, P.Tech (Eng.), PSM-I, PSPO, MPM - Acting Deputy General Manager for Decommissioning and Environmental Remediation at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL)

George Al Haddad is a visionary leader with nearly two decades of transformative experience in the energy and decommissioning sectors. Currently serving as Deputy General Manager for Decommissioning and Environmental Remediation at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), George is also the Director of Reactor Decommissioning some of Canada's most iconic nuclear sites, such as Gentilly-1 and Douglas Point. His leadership spans large-scale infrastructure projects emphasizing safety, regulatory compliance, and innovation.

George has steadily advanced through a series of high-impact roles in project management, continuous improvement, and strategic leadership. His early career in engineering and technology set the foundation for his expertise in managing high-risk projects and delivering complex solutions. George always managed multimillion-dollar projects, shaping the future of industrial processes and project delivery, and he led corporate-wide improvement initiatives that drove operational excellence and heightened performance.

Throughout his journey, George earned an Executive MBA from the University of Calgary and received numerous professional project management and leadership certifications. He is pursuing a Credential of Leadership, Impact and Management in Business from Harvard. He is known for his ability to build high-performing teams, foster collaboration, and lead through change.

In his keynote, "The Power of the Phoenix," George will share personal reflections on resilience, transformation, and leadership. His journey, marked by overcoming challenges, mirrors the qualities of the mythological Phoenix—reinvention, growth, and rising stronger after each setback. His message promises to inspire project management professionals to embrace change, persevere through challenges, and continuously strive for transformation in their careers and lives. This keynote will leave a lasting impact on all who attend.

Session Information Topic:

Salesforce Careers and Job Opportunities within the Ecosystem

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 3

Babatope Ebenezer Olajide - Founder & CEO, Blackforce Inc.

Babatope brings over 10 years of experience in Engineering and Information Technology and currently serves as a Senior Salesforce Solutions Consultant at Deloitte Canada, where he designs and supports critical projects, including the Covid-19 Vaccine Administration and Compliance Platform for the BC Government and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Previously, Babatope held key roles, such as Technical Architect at IBM, and Field Engineer, Reliability Engineer, and Design Engineer at organizations including ExxonMobil, Saipem, Tata Consulting Services (TCS), Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Genentech / Roche.
Known for his expertise in cloud technologies, business entrepreneurship, and innovative problem-solving, Babatope is also passionate about mentorship, providing training, and promoting diversity in the Salesforce ecosystem through his community initiative, Blackforce, which he founded during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In his role at Deloitte Canada, Babatope continues to drive innovation and enhance business processes through technology, making an impact on both local and national levels. He remains committed to inspiring others, fostering inclusion, and advancing industry standards through his work and community efforts.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Orchestrating Complexity

Conference Speaker Theme: Innovate and Adapt

Day 3

Michele Fenlon, Computer Science, MBA Technology Leader

Michele Fenlon is a technology leader at the forefront of innovation, with expertise in delivering complex projects, driving new product development and orchestrating complex transformation programs. Her career spans successful product launches and delivery innovations across the telecom, high-tech, and consulting sectors.

With experience in both Fortune 500 companies and agile startups, Michele brings a multidimensional approach to technology leadership. Her background in computer science, coupled with an MBA, provides a strong foundation for managing mission-critical initiatives and overseeing PMOs.

A passionate believer in collaboration and continuous learning, Michele draws inspiration from systems thinking, complexity science, and chaos theory practitioners, and the natural world. She believes that Mother Nature, with her millions of years of evolution and adaptation, is the ultimate teacher. Michele applies principles from these diverse areas of interest to foster innovation and help her teams navigate the challenges of complex projects.

Michele believes that the rapid pace of innovation will continue to accelerate, creating the need for project managers to expand their capacities so they can successfully navigate and manage complex projects in today's entangled world. She advocates for project managers to evolve from experts directing and controlling projects to orchestrators who enable collaboration, experimentation, and innovation for their teams, while managing the natural disorder that is inherent in complex projects.

Session Information Topic:

Navigating the Future of Project Management: Ethical Implementation and Strategic Adoption of AI

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 3

Edwin Ferrer, Director Finance - PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais

Edwin Francisco Ferrer Romero brings over two decades of expertise in project management, business analysis, and digital transformation. Throughout his career, he has successfully led innovative IT and R&D projects across various industries, consistently delivering strategic initiatives on time and within budget while managing stakeholder expectations and fostering cross-functional collaboration.​

As the IT Director at a 20,000-student university, Edwin developed a comprehensive 5-year IT strategic plan and spearheaded the upgrade of critical systems, including Oracle HRM and PeopleSoft. One of his standout achievements was leading a $2 million Center for Transparency project in the Oil & Gas sector, which streamlined data consolidation and content management for unconventional hydrocarbons, significantly enhancing project efficiency.​

Edwin’s educational foundation includes an MBA from Concordia University and ongoing PhD studies, complemented by certifications such as PMP, Scrum Master, and AWS Cloud Practitioner. He is renowned for his strategic vision, leadership, and innovative problem-solving abilities, particularly in areas like IT infrastructure, data analytics, and enterprise architecture.​

Passionate about mentoring future leaders and advancing industry standards in digital transformation, Edwin has spoken at international conferences, including the Project Manager Business Analyst Symposium and Project Summit Business Analyst World Symposium. His published research on strategic project management and sustainable competitive advantage highlights his dedication to driving meaningful impact in his field.​

As a forward-thinking leader, Edwin continues to champion innovation and operational excellence, influencing positive change across industries. His work has had a profound impact on global teams and business operations, and he remains committed to inspiring others and fostering growth within the project management and business analysis communities.​

LinkrdIn

Session Information Topic:

Rules for Project Management: Do Everything You Can to Kill the Project

Conference Speaker Theme: Growth and Excel

Day 3

​Bryon McConnell, MScEng, PEng, PMP, MCIC - President of Bryon McConnell Project Management Inc

Bryon has been working for 30 years, almost all of which has been in project environments. His experience includes regulatory work, construction, procurement, research and development, general management, and project management. Bryon holds Bachelor and Master degrees in Engineering Chemistry from Queen's University at Kingston, Ontario; he is a Professional Engineer licensed in Ontario since 2001; he is a Member of the Chemical Institute of Canada; and he has held a Project Management Professional designation from the Project Management Institute since 2005.

Bryon is a long-time and entertaining public speaker, who also dedicates substantial time to mentoring. Over the past several years Bryon found that in answering questions from mentees and new practitioners he was frequently calling upon many of the lessons learned from his career, sharing successes and failures from the projects that led to the rules that he follows in his work. He realized that he could share these rules more efficiently by embracing his love of public speaking and of writing. Thus, in January 2023 he began delivering a series of public "Rules for Project Management" seminars, and is currently seeking a publisher for the book version.

At the PMEvolve 2024 session, Bryon will engage the group with the rule, "Do Everything You Can to Kill the Project".

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Session Information Topic:

Trans-formative Power Of Communication

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 3

James Lauber, BSc. PMP - Founder and CEO of GRAFTON-SST

James has developed, and been delivering the HotButton Solution program since 2015. The program informs attendees of the underlying principals affecting and impeding Strategic Communication Skills.

Prior to creating this program he founded and operated a Project Management Consulting firm (est.1995) which served key roles in multiple projects, ranging in scope from data integration to full ERP systems. Budgets for these projects ranged from less than one million to in excess of five hundred million.

The net result from decades of experience in complex computer system projects has been understanding the degree to which the common denominator for project underperformance is related to the people involved. Specifically, people’s interpersonal communication skills when faced with challenging individuals and circumstances. The observed impact on projects on time, within budget, high quality, and in scope metrics has ranged from impactful to staggering.

Having studied multiple techniques, for many years, to overcome the people problems that have plagued projects, James synthetized his practical application of this knowledge into a foundational program that has repeatedly proven invaluable in overcoming the issues that interfere with healthy corporate culture and the development of high-performance organizations.

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

Mastering the Project Pitch: Inclusive Strategies for Impactful Presentations

Conference Speaker Theme: Inspire and Transform

Day 3

Germain Aoun, MBA, MSP, PMP, M.Eng, B.Eng. – ​ Director AT Courts Administration Service & Part-time Professor at Telfer School of Management​

Germain is a seasoned director with 20 years of experience in diverse industries, currently serving as Director of Client Services and Room Technologies at Courts Administration Service, where he leads service and technology initiatives to enable Canada's federal judicial system.

In addition to his full-time role, Germain is a part-time professor at the Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa. He teaches case analysis and business presentations for both Undergraduate and MBA levels, sharing his real-world experience with the next generation of business leaders. His courses consistently receive high ratings from students, with many citing his practical insights as instrumental to their professional development.

Previously, Germain held roles such as Senior Project Manager and Senior Program Manager at Public Services and Procurement Canada, where he led major infrastructure projects ranging from $100M to $1B. His people skills and understanding of the Government machinery allowed him to secure funding for his projects in a competitive economic environment.

With a background in Engineering (B.Eng and M.Sc.), Germain elevated his business skills with a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa. He has also obtained the Project Management Professional and Managing Successful Programmes certifications.

Germain is passionate about helping others improve their communication skills. He coaches individuals and teams on enhancing their presentation skills and overall branding, drawing from his extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. His coaching has helped numerous professionals advance their careers and secure key positions.

Germain's diverse background, coupled with his passion for project management and teaching, makes him a dynamic and insightful speaker. He brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to every presentation, offering valuable takeaways for both seasoned professionals and those new to the field.

 

LinkedIn

Session Information Topic:

From Execution to Strategy: Leadership Transformation for Long-Term Success

Moderator

Day 3

Emmanuel Ubani, MSc, PMP, LSSBB, VP Operations and PMO - Canadian Aerospace and Aviation (CAA)

Emmanuel Ubani is undoubtedly a seasoned aviation expert with 15+ years of experience leading complex multi-billion dollar projects. As the co-founder of Canadian Aerospace and Aviation Consultancy (CAAC), he's currently overseeing a government-confidential aerospace and aviation program, drawing on his expertise in strategic planning, project management, and operational excellence.

Throughout his career, Emmanuel has had the privilege of leading airport projects from start to finish, including the Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 3, Abu Dhabi Airport US Customs and Border Protection Terminal, Muscat Airport, Salalah Airport, Sohur Airport, Zayed Airport and comprehensive modernization efforts at Fiumicino Airport Rome and Berlin Airport. He's also successfully managed a $4 billion new airport design, build, and ORAT program for Muscat Airport and Salalah Airport, demonstrating his ability to deliver large-scale, complex projects on time and within budget. 

Emmanuel's qualifications are a testament to his expertise. With a Master of Science in Project Management and certifications as a PMP and LSSBB, he is a seasoned professional with a passion for delivering exceptional results and building high-performing teams.

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