Tiffany Ricks is an award-winning tech entrepreneur and the founder of HacWare, a cutting-edge cybersecurity company. Mrs. Ricks has been recognized as one of the most powerful and inspirational leaders in Dallas by D CEO for 2024. Her innovative approach and dedication to cybersecurity and AI have earned her recognition, including being backed by Google for Startups in 2024. Tiffany continues to make significant strides in the tech industry, particularly in enhancing cybersecurity awareness and education.

Tina designs and drives growth strategy — determining how to build, test and scale NSL’s products and services, and how to develop world-class teams and inclusive culture.Tina draws upon her experience as a first-generation college student and white-collar professional. Her lived perspective, paired with ten-plus years of legislative, management consulting, and business strategy experience, informs her work as COO, and shapes her understanding of how to help others translate their skills into previously unforeseen opportunities.Tina holds a BA in Government and International Affairs from Claremont McKenna College, and an MBA in Management & Strategy and Finance from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

With roots in the African Nova Scotian community of Truro, Vanessa Smithers founded Grow Home, Please in 2017. She has spent 17+ years in community support, employment, leadership, and advocacy. Fostering connections and promoting self-discovery, Vanessa has supported 2000+ people, with 95% of clients hailing from the Black community.

Vina Morris, the Head of Technology & Security at the Vera Institute of Justice, stands out as a trailblazer in the tech sector, boasting a rich 25-year career. Her strategic leadership roles at Vera, NYU Langone Health, and as the founder of SheCIO showcase her expertise in delivering cutting-edge tech solutions. Recognized for her adeptness in spearheading strategic initiatives, Vina is lauded for cultivating a culture of excellence beyond mere technological advancements. In her role as Vice President of Operations at the New York Metro Chapter of the National Black MBA, she leads impactful programs that empower women. Motivated by her personal battle with breast cancer, Vina established AfroPink, a non-profit aimed at raising awareness and providing support to underserved communities. Through her educational accomplishments and advocacy efforts, Vina demonstrates a commitment to ongoing learning, tech innovation, strategic leadership, and health empowerment in marginalized settings.

Yajaira Bonilla is the founder of Gen Scholars. She is a 14x Scholarship Winner with over $100,000 in scholarships. At Gen Scholars, they help students learn how to find less-competitive scholarships and have a higher chance on winning.

Yulkendy Valdez is a Forbes 30 under 30 social entrepreneur and public speaker. She speaks on global stages from Lyon to St. Gallen on the Future of Work, Women of Color in Technology, Mentorship and Sponsorship, and Diversifying the Start-up and Venture Capital Ecosystem.

Zaria Smith is the Program Director at Nex Cubed, where she leverages her expertise in venture capital and technology to drive innovation and growth. With a technical background evidenced by her triple AWS certification, Zaria excels in identifying and nurturing promising startups. She is dedicated to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

As an accomplished bilingual Community Engagement Manager at a health tech startup that was acquired, I bring a unique perspective and passion for technology and innovation. I have a proven track record in fostering community engagement and as a VC Fellow at various VC Firms, I provide a keen insight into venture capital dynamics and leverage that to drive impactful initiatives. Renowned for my organizational prowess and adept problem-solving abilities, I am dedicated to leveraging my expertise in community building and venture capital to advance equitable solutions within underrepresented communities.