1st CTU Caribbean Artificial Intelligence Forum
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Theme: AI for Caribbean Transformation: Governance, Innovation and Resilience for a Shared Digital Future
Background
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping economies, public services, education, creative industries, security, climate resilience and the wider digital development landscape. For the Caribbean, AI presents a major opportunity to advance inclusive growth, improve public service delivery, strengthen disaster risk management, expand access to skills and enhance regional competitiveness. However, without coordinated policy action, the region risks deepening existing digital divides, weakening data sovereignty, increasing dependence on external technology platforms and remaining a “standards-taker” in the global AI ecosystem.
In July 2025, the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) launched the Caribbean AI Task Force (CAITF) to guide ethical, inclusive and responsible AI development across the region. The Task Force was established to support harmonised AI policies and regulatory frameworks, build regional AI capacity, promote responsible AI aligned with sustainable development, and strengthen collaboration among governments, academia, the private sector, civil society and youth.
The CAITF Interim Report, Toward Harmonised AI Policies and Recommendations for the Caribbean, calls for a coordinated CARICOM-wide response to AI governance and implementation. It highlights the Caribbean’s “connectivity paradox”, where strong digital engagement is constrained by fragile infrastructure, high connectivity costs, fragmented regulation and limited data governance. The report identifies five priority areas for action: regional AI governance, data sovereignty and digital infrastructure, innovation and industry development, human capacity and AI literacy, and sustained multi-stakeholder engagement.
The inaugural Caribbean AI Forum 2026 (CAIF 2026) will serve as the flagship regional platform for launching the CAITF Final Report and advancing its recommendations. This Forum will convene policymakers, regulators, development partners, private sector leaders, academia, civil society, youth and other key stakeholders to support a harmonised, ethical and Caribbean-centred AI ecosystem. It is envisioned not as a one-off event, but as the first edition of a recurring regional platform for dialogue, implementation and global positioning.
Aims and Objectives
The inaugural CAIF 2026, aims to position the Caribbean as a coordinated, multi-stakeholder, proactive and responsible actor in the global AI ecosystem. Its specific objectives are to:
- Officially launch and promote the CAITF Final Report
- Promote regional harmonization on AI governance and priorities and implementation partnerships
- Facilitate multi-stakeholder AI dialogue and innovation showcasing across the region
- Establish the Caribbean AI Forum as a recurring regional platform
Event at a Glance
| Dates: | 23 – 24 July 2026 | Time: | 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (AST) |
| Modality: | Hybrid | Venue: | The University Inn Conference Centre, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago |
| Audience: | Policy makers and regulators, private sector, academia, DFIs, NGOs and youth | ||
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the CTU Caribbean AI Forum Planning Committee at caif@ctu.int. Additional information, including registration, and detailed agenda, will be posted to the event website.
Call to Action
The CTU invites governments, regulators, industry leaders, development partners, academia, civil society, youth and other interested stakeholders to join CAIF 2026 as active partners in shaping a responsible, inclusive and Caribbean-centred AI future. Together, we can move from policy ambition to coordinated regional action, ensuring that AI strengthens Caribbean sovereignty, competitiveness, resilience and sustainable development.
1st Caribbean AI Forum (CAIF) 2026
23rd – 24th July 2026
The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago
| Time | Activity | Speaker(s) |
| Day 1: Thursday 23 July 2026 | The University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago | ||
| 08:00-09:00 | Registration | – |
| 09:00-09:02 | Safety Briefing | University of the West Indies |
| 09:02-09:10 | Welcome Remarks | · Mr. Nigel Cassimire, Deputy Secretary-General, CTU
· Prof. Rose‑Marie Belle Antoine, Campus Principal, UWI STA Campus |
| 09:10-09:30 | Towards Regional Harmonization: The Caribbean AI Task Force | Dr. Craig Ramlal,
Executive Director of the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre and Head of the Control Systems Group in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine and Chair, CTU Caribbean AI Task Force |
| 09:30-09:45 | Keynote Address: World Digital Governance (WDG) From Principles to Action | Mr. Graeme Thomson
Founding Member, World Digital Governance (WDG) |
| 09:45-10:05 | Feature Address | Senator the Honourable Dominic Smith,
Minister of Public Administration and AI, Trinidad and Tobago and President, Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU |
| 10:05-10:10 | Launch of the Caribbean AI Task Force Final Report | Senator the Honourable Dominic Smith
Dr. Craig Ramlal Mr. Nigel Cassimire |
| 10:10-10:20 | Cultural Interlude and Drone Show | Mr. Emmanuel Joseph (Pannist) |
| 10:20-10:40 | Coffee Break & Group Photo | – |
| 10:40-11:20 | High‑Level Session
Presentation: AI Governance and Considerations for Small States
Panel: Turning the Work of the CAITF into Collective Action About Panel: A focused discussion with senior policymakers and decision makers to convert CAITF recommendations into a regionally led implementation agenda; panelists give brief positions followed by targeted dialogue to recommend pilot initiatives suitable for small states. |
Moderator: Mr. Nigel Cassimire, Deputy Secretary-General, CTU
H.E. Ren Hongyan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Trinidad and Tobago
Panelists: · Senator the Honourable Dominic Smith · H.E. Guillaume Pierre, Ambassador of the French Republic to Trinidad and Tobago · Dr. Craig Ramlal, Chair – CAITF & Director AIIC |
| 11:20-12:00 | National AI Movements: Trends, Opportunities & Lessons Learnt
About Panel: A targeted discussion with senior policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to review national AI movements across the Caribbean, surface practical trends and lessons learnt, and identify three scalable, low-cost opportunities plus a short roadmap for regional knowledge sharing, capacity building, and policy harmonization. |
Moderator: Mr. Kirk Sookram, Deputy CEO, Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT)
Panelists: · Mr. Christopher Reckord, Chair of the National AI Task Force, Jamaica (Remote) · Mr. Atiba Phillips, Board Director, iGoVTT · Mr. Vincent Roberts, Chairman and Commissioner, NTRC Grenada |
| 12:00-13:00 | LUNCH | |
| 13:00-13:40 | Culture, Creatives, Intellectual Property & AI
About Panel: Regional decision‑makers, cultural leaders, and creative industry champions examine how AI intersects with culture, creativity, and intellectual property, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment and job creation. Panelists will identify practical policies and business models to protect creators’ rights, unlock new creative economies, and scale skills pathways for young people, producing three actionable recommendations and pilot initiatives to catalyze youth‑led employment and sustainable creative industries. |
Moderator: Ms. Nievia Ramsundar, Legal and Regulatory Consultant
Panelists: · Dr. Justin Koo, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, UWI · Jean Marie Altema, ProfIT Development Consulting Executive Manager (Remote) · Mr. Keron Rose (Remote)
|
| 13:40-14:50 | Data Sovereignty, Cybersecurity & AI Infrastructure
About Panel: A strategic convening of regional decision‑makers and infrastructure stewards to define practical approaches to data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and resilient AI infrastructure. Panelists will surface appropriate frameworks for secure local data repositories, shared edge and cloud architectures, procurement safeguards to avoid vendor lock‑in, and a concise action plan with designated focal points for standards, capacity building, and incident‑response coordination. |
Moderator: Mr. Kurleigh Prescod, CEO, TATT
Panelists: · Mr. Tracy Hackshaw, Chef d’ Enterprise, UPU (Remote) · Mr. Reza Sookdeo, Chief Information Officer, Heritage Petroleum Limited · Mr. Shernon Osepa, Consultant Strategic Advisor and CAITF Coordinator, CTU · Mr. Steven Williams, Principal Consultant Data Privacy · Mr. Cédric Pradel, Executive Director ACCYB |
| 14:50-15:05 | Coffee Break | |
| 15:05-15:45 | Human‑Centric, Rights‑Based & Ethical AI
About Panel: A high-level discussion with senior policy leaders and strategic decisionmakers to anchor Caribbean AI development in humancentric, rights based, and ethical principles; panelists will propose practical safeguards, and a timebound set of policy commitments to protect rights, counter bias, and serve vulnerable communities.
|
Moderator: Ms. Nia Nanan, Senior Research Analyst, CTU
Panelists: · Mr. Cordel Green, Executive Director, Broadcast Commission of Jamaica, Jamaica (Remote) · Ms. Sandrea Maynard, Pro Vice-Chancellor UWI · Ms. Lily Dash, Founder Future Caribbean · Prof. Derrick Cogburn, Professor of Information Technology & Analytics (Kogod School of Business), and Environment, Development & Health (School of International Service) and Executive Director, Institute on Disability and Public Policy, American University · Mr. Kevan Rajaram, Manager of Analytics and Information Management at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) & Researcher (TTLAB)
|
| 15:45-16:50 | Women in AI
About Panel: A transformative session convening women leaders, to accelerate women’s leadership in AI across the region. Panelists will identify practical pathways for skills, funding, and entrepreneurship and recommend priority actions to scale women‑led talent, startups, and youth job creation. |
Moderator: Ms. Shanea Lewis, Policy Analyst, CTU
Panelists: · Ms. Diedre Cousins, CIO GraceKennedy · Dr. Maria Myers-Hamilton, Chair CTU Network of Women (Remote) · Ms. Amanda Zilla, Co-Chair HerSpace in AI, AIIC, UWI · Ms. Julie Koon Koon, Lead Data Scientist, Republic Bank Limited and Lecturer, Bsc Computing, University of Greenwhich (SBCS) · Ms. Sarah Rudder-Chulhan, Associate Director, Digital & Client Experience, CIBC |
| 16:50-17:00 | Day 1 Wrap-up | Dr. Craig Ramlal, Chair CAITF |
| End of Day 1 | ||
| Day 2: Friday 24 July 2026 | The University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago | ||
| 09:00-09:05 | Day 1 Recap & Day 2 Kick-off | Ms. Kristerbella Sookdeo |
| 09:05-10:30 | Youth Debate – Moot: The House believes that mandatory cyber insurance requirements will improve AI security standards more effectively than government regulation.
About: The debate invites participants to critically examine the most effective approaches to strengthening cybersecurity and AI governance. Teams are encouraged to consider legal, economic, technological, ethical and public policy perspectives while assessing whether market-driven mechanisms such as cyber insurance create stronger incentives for secure AI systems than traditional regulatory approaches.
|
Facilitators/Judges:
· Ms. Gabrielle Johnson, Vice Chair, Caribbean ICT Youth Network (CIYN), CTU · Mr. Andrew Sieupersad, Director, TAIROne Initiative · Mr. Terren Finley, President, ISG · Mr. Kevon Swift, Past-Chair, ISOC Trinidad and Tobago
Debaters: Team A (FOR): · Mr. Bryan Balkissoon, UWI-GUILD · Mr. Mikail Barrock, UWI-GUILD · Ms. Samisha Maharaj, UWI-GUILD · Mr. Zephion Lee- Harris, UWI-GUILD
Team B (AGAINST): · Ms. Shania Sobers, Debate Club Member, UWI-ROYTEC · Mr. Ezekiel Renne Cambridge, ISACA Student Member, UWI-ROYTEC · Ms. Annalisa Maharaj, Debate Club Member, UWI-ROYTEC · Mr. Zacharias Dyer, Vice President, ISACA Student Group, UWI-ROYTEC |
| 10:30-10:50 | Coffee Break | |
| 10:50-11:00 | Debate Feedback & Winner Announcement | Ms. Gabrielle Johnson |
| 11:00-
12:00 |
Driving AI Development in SIDS: The Role of Intergovernmental Organizations in Multilateral Development
About Panel: A strategic convening on how intergovernmental organizations and multilateral partners can unlock AI for Small Island Developing States by coordinating financing, shared data and computing infrastructure, capacity building, and governance. The panel will define practical partnership models to turn scale constraints into regional advantages and policy recommendations to catalyze resilient, inclusive AI‑driven development. |
Moderator: Ms. Lois St. Brice, Senior Programme Officer – Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives Office of global affairs | Office of the Vice-Chancellor, UWI
Panelists: · Mr. Ahmed Elraghy, Head RME Division ITU · Mr. Ugo Blanco, Resident Representative, UNDP, Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao, Aruba and Sint Maarten, Digital Facility Lead – AI & Emerging Technologies, UNDP · Mr. Demetris Herakleous, Associate Economic Affairs Officer, UN ECLAC · Ms. Paula Istruiz Cavero, Programme Specialist for Social and Human Sciences, UNESCO |
| 12:00-13:00 | Lunch | |
| 13:00-13:50 | AI Literacy, Youth & the Future Workforce
About Panel: In this session panelists will discuss the AI literacy small states need to meet their unique regional challenges and how youth and the wider community should prepare for the future of work. The session will explore practical steps for building local skills, expanding access, aligning education with employers, and fostering community‑wide strategies that make AI an engine for inclusive jobs and resilient economies. |
Moderator: Mr. Tariq Mohammed, Advisor to the SG and Chair, CIYN, CTU
Panelists: · Prof. Sean Thorpe, Dean, Faculty of Engineering & Computing, UoT, Jamaica (Remote) · Ms. Lois St. Brice, Senior Programme Officer – Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives, Office of Global Affairs | Office of the Vice-Chancellor, UWI · Dr. Andrea Kanneh, Manager of Performance and Engagement, MPAAI |
| 13:50-15:50 | AI for Climate Resilience & Disaster Risk Reduction
About Panel: This session will examine how AI can mitigate the annual disaster risks facing Caribbean states, improving early warning, damage assessment, infrastructure planning, and recovery, and clarify the responsibilities and partnerships needed across institutions to make the region more resilient. |
Moderator: Mr. Shernon Osepa, Consultant Strategic Advisor CTU/Coordinator CAITF
Panelists: · Kenneth Kerr, Science and Technology Officer, Caribbean Meteorological Organization (CMO) · Dr. Letetia Addison, Deputy Chair, Advisory Board, UWI Disaster Risk Reduction Centre, UWI & Researcher, TTLAB · Prof. Derrick Cogburn, Professor of Information Technology & Analytics (Kogod School of Business), and Environment, Development & Health (School of International Service) and Executive Director, Institute on Disability and Public Policy, American University · Representative, CDEMA |
| 15:50-16:05 | Coffee Break | |
| 16:05-17:00 | AI for Economic Transformation
About Panel: A roundtable discussion convening regional development partners, private sector innovators, to map how AI can accelerate economic development across the Caribbean. The session will prioritize scalable, locally relevant applications, tourism optimization, fintech and financial inclusion, climate‑smart agriculture, public service efficiency, and digital trade, while addressing governance, data, and capacity constraints. |
Moderator: Ms. Lois St. Brice, Senior Programme Officer – Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives Office of global affairs | Office of the Vice-Chancellor, UWI
Panelists: · Mr. Javed Razack, Vice-President of Shared Services, Ramps Logistics · Mr. Riard Mohammed, Regional Manager, Honeywell Caribbean · Mrs. Esther Callender-George, Group Chief Information Security Officer, Guardian Group · Mr. Mervyn Eyre, Head of Fujitsu Caribbean Operations |
| 17:00-17:30 | OPEN INTERACTION SESSION | · Mr. Tariq Mohammed – Advisor to the SG and Chair, CIYN, CTU |
| 17:30-17:40 | Next Steps & Wrap-up | · Mr. Nigel Cassimire, Deputy SG CTU |
| End of CAIF 2026 | ||
Day 1 | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Craig Ramlal | caribbean ai taskforce final report on ai harmonization |
 Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Sen. Hon. Dominic Smith Senator the Honourable Dominic Alexander Smith serves as Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence. Appointed to the Senate and Cabinet in 2025, he brings a distinguished background in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and public service. A graduate of the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine, Minister Smith holds a Master’s degree in Economics. His leadership journey began early and has remained focused on national transformation through technology, efficiency, and equity. In his current role, he is responsible for modernizing government operations, improving service delivery through digital tools, and advancing the nation’s Artificial Intelligence strategy, supporting the Government’s vision of citizen-centered, innovation-driven governance. Before entering Cabinet, Minister Smith founded a Digital Consultancy Company in Port of Spain that supported organizations in digital transformation, content strategy, and data analytics. His work in the private sector has helped shape people-focused, data-driven growth across industries. He previously served as a Temporary Opposition Senator and was the United National Congress (UNC) candidate for Malabar/Mausica in the 2025 General Elections, where he dramatically closed a longstanding vote gap, earning recognition for his grassroots engagement and tireless work ethic. Minister Smith is a champion of youth empowerment, inclusive innovation, and technology-driven economic development. He brings a dynamic, solutions-oriented vision to his portfolio, grounded in patriotism, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. |
 Ambassador of France to Trinidad and Tobago, Embassy of France in Trinidad and Tobago H.E. Guillaume Pierre Guillaume Pierre, born in 1970, is a graduate of Sciences Po Paris, holds a DEA in comparative politics and a Certificate of Proficiency in English. He began his career as a journalist and television director, before joining the French cooperation by occupying several positions as audio-visual attaché in French embassies, then, from 2007 to 2013, was Africa Director of CFI, a French cooperation agency that designs and implements development projects through the media. From 2013 to 2018, he was cultural advisor and director of French institutes in Rio de Janeiro, then in Oslo. After a stint in Political Management at the Quai d’Orsay, he was posted in 2021 in Monterrey, where he carried out a multifaceted action to promote Franco-Mexican relations. He was appointed in the summer of 2025 Ambassador of France to Trinidad and Tobago and presented his credentials to Her Excellency Christine Kangaloo on September 30, 2025. |
 Managing Director, Spectrum Management Authority Dr. Maria Myers-Hamilton Dr. Maria Myers-Hamilton is a telecommunications regulator and ICT leader with more than three decades of experience across finance, energy, education, and spectrum governance. As Managing Director of Jamaica’s Spectrum Management Authority since 2018, she has driven a programme of regulatory modernisation and digital inclusion — releasing low-band spectrum to expand affordable rural coverage, automating end-to-end licensing with artificial intelligence, and building the most extensive national spectrum-monitoring network in the Caribbean. Her earlier career spans mission-critical ICT leadership in Jamaica’s financial sector and her historic appointment as the first woman to serve as Director of Information Systems at the Jamaica Public Service Company. Today she is a recognised regional voice in radiocommunication, serving as Third Vice-Chair of the CITEL PCC.II working group preparing for WRC-27, Chair of a CTU Task Force, and Vice- President of the EU–LAC Network of Women Leaders in Digital Policy. A committed champion for women in technology and for meaningful connectivity across small island developing states, her guiding conviction is simple: technology must serve people, and no community should be left on the wrong side of the digital divide. |
 Lead Data Scientist, Republic Bank Limited Julie Koon Koon Julie Koon Koon is a Lead Data Scientist specializing in applied artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics. She develops intelligent, data-driven solutions that transform business processes, support strategic decision-making, and deliver measurable value within the financial services sector. Julie also serves as a lecturer at SBCS Global Learning Institute, where she teaches data science, analytics, and computing. She holds a First Class Honours BSc in Computer Science and Management, an MSc in Data Science with Merit, and an MBA with Distinction specializing in Business Analytics. An IEEE-published researcher, Julie has presented her work on AI-driven recommendation systems and banking innovation at international conferences. Passionate about advancing responsible AI adoption across the Caribbean, she is committed to bridging the gap between research and industry while mentoring the next generation of data and AI professionals. |
 Lecturer/Researcher, The University of the West Indies Dr. Letetia Mary Addison Dr. Letetia Mary Addison is an award-winning statistician, educator and researcher at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. She is Deputy Chair of the Advisory Board of the UWI Disaster Risk Reduction Centre and serves as UNESCO’s Lead National Expert for the Trinidad and Tobago Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment. Her research lies at the intersection of responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence, applied statistics and climate-health resilience. Dr. Addison leads AI4SIDS, an award-winning initiative exploring the potential of AI-driven early warning systems to strengthen disaster preparedness and risk reduction in Small Island Developing States, recognised through the Global AI Innovation Grand Challenge at COP29. As founder and Ambassador of Women in Data Science Trinidad and Tobago (WiDS TT) and AI in Climate Lead within the TTLAB Data Science Group, she actively mentors young people pursuing careers and developing solutions in data science, AI and technology across the Caribbean. |
 Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, St Augustine Dr. Justin Koo Justin is a Tenured Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, St Augustine. Prior to joining UWI, Justin was a Visiting Lecturer at King’s College London and a Teaching Fellow at University College London (UCL). Justin’s primary research interest is focused on copyright law and he has published books and articles in the area, as well as drafted copyright laws for the Caribbean region. Justin also has interests in trade mark law, sports law and entertainment law. Justin was awarded the UWI’s ‘Most Outstanding Faculty Researcher’ in Law at the Principal’s Research Awards 2024. Justin’s research has been cited by the Court of Justice of the European Union, in leading intellectual property books and he has drafted multiple copyright laws and regulations in the English-speaking Caribbean. |
 Associate Economic Affairs Officer at the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean Mr. Demetris Herakleous Demetris Herakleous is an Associate Economic Affairs Officer at the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. He coordinates the eLAC Digital Agenda Working Group for the Caribbean. His research focuses on artificial intelligence governance, national AI agendas for productivity and development in Latin America and the Caribbean, and issues related to digital sovereignty and digital resilience. |
 Executive Director & Chair, Caribbean AI Taskforce, Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre, The University of the West Indies Dr. Craig Ramlal Dr. Craig Ramlal is the Executive Director of the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre (AIIC) at The University of the West Indies (UWI) and serves as the chair of the CTU’s Artificial Intelligence Taskforce charged with writing harmonized AI policies, recommendations and guidelines for the Caribbean nations. In 2023, the United Nations recognized him as a preeminent AI leader, appointing him to the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI. Their recommendations on governing AI for humanity formed Objective 5 of the Global Digital Compact, which was adopted by member states during the 79th UN General Assembly. Previously, he lent his expertise to the development of Singapore’s National AI Research and Development Plan, UNDP+CARICOM’s joint regional AI programme 2026-2030 and UN ECLAC’s National AI Agenda’s for SIDS. He earned his PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering through split-site by the University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia. His research focuses on control systems, artificial intelligence, and game-theoretic systems. |
 Industrial Business Leader Riard Mohammed Riard Mohammed is an accomplished industrial business leader and automation professional. Based out of Trinidad and Tobago, he has over 30 years of extensive experience in the international oil and gas sector, process plant automation, and digital technology solutions. Career & Leadership Highlights He has lead a major Global Automation Provider across the Caribbean for over 25 years, supporting key industrial and upstream energy customers in Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, and Barbados. As an Engineer he participated in the implementation of Automation systems for BP’s offshore facilities supplying Atlantic LNG, including the Mahogany A and B platforms. Earlier in his career, he spent 7 years as an automation engineer at Fertrin/Arcadian (now Nutrien), where he successfully implemented the first Distributed Control System (DCS) in Trinidad. Business Advocacy: He is an active figure in the local business community, maintaining involvement with corporate networks like the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago Education Master of Business Administration (MBA): Sustainable Energy Management from the Arthur Lok Jack GSB. Bachelor of Science (BSc): Earned in Electrical Engineering from the UWI. |
 Head of Fujitsu’s operations in the Caribbean Mervyn Eyre Mervyn Eyre serves as head of Fujitsu’s operations in the Caribbean, where he is responsible for managing the strategic direction and general management of its business in this region. He has also assumed a number of global roles including the Head the International Business Strategy Office (IBSO) head quartered in Japan and Head of Managed Infrastructure Services (MIS) in North America. Leveraging more than 30 years of experience in the global ICT industry, Mervyn has been instrumental in leading the introduction of managed and cloud-based digital services in the Caribbean region including Infrastructure Services, Enterprise Application Services and more recently AI adoption and Business Automation. Building on deep experience in driving Human Centric Digital Transformation, Mervyn is now leading the way in fulfilling Fujitsu’s purpose of driving sustainability transformation for both businesses and society. |
 Manager, Analytics and Information Management, Caribbean Development Bank Kevan Rajaram Kevan Rajaram is an analytics, information management, and artificial intelligence professional with more than 12 years of experience across the banking, consulting, telecommunications, and multilateral development sectors. He currently serves as Manager, Data Analytics and Information Management at the Caribbean Development Bank, where he leads initiatives in data governance, information management, analytics, artificial intelligence readiness, and digital transformation. Kevan holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Science in Statistics from The University of the West Indies. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Computer Science, with research focused on trust, explainability, and governance in artificial intelligence systems. His work examines how AI systems can be designed and evaluated to support transparent, accountable, and context-sensitive decision-making, particularly in Small Island Developing States. His professional and academic interests include trustworthy AI, data strategy, responsible innovation, and application of AI to several cross-cutting themes. |
 Chief Executive Officer of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago. Kurleigh Prescod Kurleigh serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago. He has over two decades of leadership experience in technical and general management roles in the telecommunications sector, including with both regulators and operators across various markets in the region, including Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao, Barbados and the Windward Islands. He also serves as Chair of the Spectrum Management Steering Committee of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union. Kurleigh holds a B.Sc. (First Class Honours) in Electrical & Computer Engineering from UWI and an M.Sc. (Distinction) in Telecommunications from the University of Maryland, both pursued under academic scholarships. |
 Senior Programme Officer – Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives, Office of Global Affairs, Office of the Vice Chancellor Lois St Brice Lois St Brice is an innovation ecosystems and strategic partnerships practitioner with over a decade of experience building initiatives that connect research, technology, skills development, and international cooperation to advance sustainable development in the Caribbean and wider Global South. At The UWI, she leads the development of regional and global partnerships that drive innovation, digital transformation, climate resilience, and workforce development, working with organizations such as ITU, CTU, Future Earth, and other global partners. She has played a key role in establishing strategic institutional platforms for digital skills development and AI capacity building, including the UWI–ITU Academy Training Centre. Passionate about preparing societies for sustainable futures, her work sits at the intersection of technology, policy, capacity development, and strategic collaboration, with a particular emphasis on advancing evidence-based approaches to innovation and governance to deliver inclusive, just and sustainable development outcomes for the Caribbean and the wider Global South. |
 Digital Business Strategist & Founder, The Digipreneur Company Keron Rose Keron Rose is a Bangkok-based digital business strategist, educator, speaker, media personality, and founder of The Digipreneur Company. Born in Trinidad and Tobago and raised in Canada, he brings a cross-market perspective shaped by North America, the Caribbean, and Asia. His work focuses on digital business strategy, AI visibility, search intelligence, ecommerce, content ecosystems, and monetization. Keron is the host of Digipreneur FM and Digital World on Freedom 106.5FM, a columnist for the Jamaica Observer & T&T Guardian, workshop facilitator, and Program Advisor for the University of South Florida’s Digital Marketing Program and lecturer at the Arthur Lok Jack school of Business. Through consulting, training, media, and public speaking, he helps businesses and professionals build discoverability, authority, and revenue in the modern digital economy. |
 Principal Investigator (dreamLAB), Chair (Her Space in AI) and Communications, Branding and Engagement Strategist Amanda Zilla Amanda Zilla holds a number of roles within the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre (AIIC) and is an Assistant Lecturer in Literatures in English in the Department of Literary, Cultural and Communications Studies (DLCCS) at The UWI, St. Augustine. At the AIIC, Ms. Zilla is the principal investigator of the dream LAB, a research cluster focused on AI and VR in the arts, culture and education sectors, the chair of the working group Her Space in AI and is the Centre’s Communications, Branding and Engagement Strategist. Her Space in AI, which is focused on capacity building, outreach and mentorship initiatives as a means of ensuring that the Caribbean’s AI Future is sustainable in relation to both gender inclusivity and talent development. For several years, Ms. Zilla has been involved in the hosting of AI literacy and skill development workshops for multiple industries. Earlier this year, for UNESCO’s AI Readiness Roadmap Assessment Methodology workshop, she would have served as the lead discussant and a spotlight speaker for the Society and Culture dimension. She submitted her PhD in October 2025 and is currently awaiting her viva. |
 Group Chief Information Security Officer Esther Callender-George Esther Callender-George is a passionate and accomplished cybersecurity leader with more than 25 years of experience across the financial services, insurance and telecommunications sectors. She currently serves as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Guardian Group and is President of the ISACA Trinidad & Tobago Chapter, a global professional association advancing cybersecurity, IT governance, audit and risk management. Esther is also a member of the Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) Executive Leadership Network (ELN), where she supports the advancement of leadership and diversity within the profession. Recognised for her expertise in cybersecurity strategy, information risk and digital resilience, Esther is an advocate for digital trust, AI governance and online safety. She is passionate about helping organisations harness technology with security, resilience and innovation at the core, while inspiring and empowering more women and girls to pursue careers in STEM and cybersecurity. |
 Senior Digital Economy Strategist, Universal Postal Union (UPU) Tracy Hackshaw Tracy Hackshaw is a highly experienced Senior Digital Economy Strategist with over 25 years of experience in digital implementation and leadership across the private and public sectors, spanning local, regional, and international contexts. He currently serves as the Head of the .POST Business Management Unit, Postal Technology Centre at the over 150 year old Universal Postal Union (UPU), a United Nations system agency in Bern, Switzerland; a role he has held since September 2021. In his current role at the UPU, Tracy leads and manages all activities related to the .POST Top Level Domain (TLD) and a rapidly evolving Cyber Resilience Programme portfolio. This includes strategic planning, technical and legal oversight, marketing, business development, policy, and compliance. A key focus is positioning . POST as the premier secure and trusted digital platform for the global postal and logistics sector. One of his first projects involved the launch of CYBERTRACK.POST, a fully automated, web-based dashboard for real-time monitoring of .POST domains’ technical compliance with cybersecurity policies. He is working on expanding its functionality to improve overall Cyber Resilience, including integrating DNS abuse/security threat reporting. At present, he is leading the implementation of SECURE.POST, an online portal for cybersecurity awareness and training, and the Postal and Logistics Sector Information Sharing and Analysis Centre (POST-ISAC), which focuses on improving the cybersecurity posture of the postal and logistics services’ value-chain through collaboration, information sharing and capacity building. |
 Help Desk Technician, Ministry of Public Utilities Terren Finley Terren Finley, an aspiring software engineer, who always loved the IT space as much as he loves music. Spends a lot of time playing around with different technologies and testing them. Currently working at the Ministry of Public Utilities as a Help Desk Technician but given the opportunity to develop his skills as a programmer. Currently holds an ASc in Information Systems Management and currently pursuing his BSc in the same discipline from UWI-ROYTEC. Terrren holds an interest in cybersecurity which led him to become the President of the ISACA Student Group of UWI-ROYTEC 2 years in a row. |
 Technical Advisor to the Secretary-General, and Chair of the Caribbean ICT Youth Network Tariq Mohammed Tariq is a telecommunications specialist, leading regional and international initiatives under the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), ranging from satellite and maritime communications to subsea cable resilience. There, he leverages his background in telecommunications and electrical engineering to support Caribbean countries in advancing digital transformation, with emphasis on enabling environments, and fit-for-purpose policies and regulations. Furthermore, Tariq co-ordinates the Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum (CYIGF), serving as one of the region’s representatives at the United Nations Internet Governance Forum and Youth Track; and is the Chair of both the Caribbean ICT Youth Network, as well as IEEE Young Professionals, Trinidad and Tobago. Committed to regional development, Tariq is passionate about advancing digital agendas and supporting universal and meaningful connection for all through inclusive and sustainable practices. |
 Student, University of the West Indies, St.Augustine Campus Zephion Lee-Harris Zephion Lee-Harris is a postgraduate student at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, pursuing a Msc in Global Studies and currently serves as the Postgraduate Representative on the Guild of Students for the 2026–2027 academic year. Holding a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Political Science with minors in International Relations and Social Development Policy and Planning, Zephion is passionate about student advocacy, governance, and public policy. His academic interests include democracy, international relations, youth development, and the unique challenges facing Small Island Developing States. Beyond academia, he is committed to strengthening student engagement, fostering collaboration across faculties, and promoting initiatives that enhance the postgraduate experience. Through his leadership, he strives to build an inclusive, responsive, and empowering university community while advocating for meaningful and lasting institutional change. |
 Student, University of the West Indies, St.Augustine Campus Samisha Maharaj Samisha Maharaj is a 20 year old student at the UWI studying BSc. Banking & Finance and Political Science. She is the UWI Guild of Students Faculty of Social Sciences Representative, she founded the UWI Entrepreneurial Society, has represented UWI at the National Youth Parliament 2025 where she was awarded the UN Most Distinguished Parliamentarian award and she is currently participating in the National Women’s Parliament. Samisha has a strong passion for finance, entrepreneurship, innovation and youth empowerment. This has led to her hosting several pop ups and workshops focused on brainstorming, digital marketing and financial literacy within UWI. Using this platform, she has organized 9 charity events over the course of 2 years. She has presented posters at several conferences and she is currently working on papers with PhD led researchers in AI, governance and agri-entrepreneurship. Additionally, she is currently involved in projects within the UN FAO and UNDP. |
 Student, University of the West Indies, St.Augustine Campus Bryan Balkissoon As a second-year law student at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, with a passion for public policy and humanitarian work, Bryan Balkissoon remains committed to using his voice, as well as the law, as an agent for social change. In this capacity, he works to improve and represent the interests of his faculty, while seeking to better the campus as a whole. His journey began in community spaces, where his volunteer work with the underprivileged drove him to advocate for and actively promote sustainable nutrition for the disadvantaged and environmental protection. This is enshrined in his work as the Chairman of the Diabetes Youth Arm, working with an executive team and a national board to educate the youth in our population. With the Trinidad and Tobago Youth Advocacy Network, he works with the charity department to support communities nationwide, while promoting environmental protection and awareness.Remaining outspoken about issues of youth support and public policy, he hopes to use the law to contribute to public solutions that promote justice, sustainable progress, and the upliftment of the Caribbean on the world stage. |
 Student, The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus Mikail Barrock Mikail Barrock is a final-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student at The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus, and a dedicated student leader committed to service, advocacy, and community engagement. Although his journey began with aspirations in the culinary arts, his passion for helping others inspired him to pursue a career in healthcare. Throughout his time at UWI, Mikail has held several leadership positions, including Public Relations Officer of the UWI Guild of Students for the 2026–2027 academic year and former Vice-Chairperson and Public Relations Officer of the Medical Sciences Student Council (MSSC). Recognized for his strong communication skills and student-centered approach, he has actively advocated for issues affecting the student population, including economic challenges and campus development. Mikail remains committed to fostering meaningful engagement, empowering students, and creating positive change within the university community. |
 External Relations Officer at the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence of Trinidad and Tobago Gabrielle Johnson Ms. Gabrielle Johnson is an ICT and international relations professional with a strong commitment to digital transformation, regional cooperation, and sustainable development. She currently serves as an External Relations Officer at the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence of Trinidad and Tobago, where she works to strengthen strategic partnerships and facilitate collaboration among government, private sector, regional, and international stakeholders in the ICT sector. She holds a Bachelor of Science in International Relations and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), bringing together expertise in public policy, strategic management, and international engagement. Her professional interests include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, internet governance, and leveraging digital technologies to promote inclusive and sustainable development. Ms. Johnson serves as Vice Chair of the Caribbean ICT Youth Network (CIYN) and is a Co-Founder of the Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum (CYIGF), where she champions meaningful youth participation in digital policy, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives across the Caribbean. Passionate about bridging the digital divide, she is dedicated to advancing inclusive digital transformation and creating opportunities that empower underserved communities through technology. |
 UWI-ROYTEC ISACA student group member Shania Sobers I am Shania Sobers, a motivated and dedicated business student pursuing an Associate Degree in Business Management at the UWI School of Business and Applied Studies (UWI-ROYTEC). I graduated from ASJA Girls’ College, Barrackpore, where I built a strong academic foundation and developed a passion for leadership and personal growth. Beyond my studies, I actively contribute to campus life as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the UWI-ROYTEC Debate Club and Vice-Captain of the Photography Club. These leadership roles have strengthened my communication, teamwork, organization, and problem-solving skills while allowing me to advocate for my peers and support an engaging student community. I am passionate about political science and law, and I enjoy exploring topics related to leadership, governance, and public policy. I am committed to continuous learning, building meaningful connections, gaining practical experience, and making a positive impact in both the business and public sectors. |
 Student, UWI ROYTEC Annalisa Maharaj My name is Annalisa Maharaj. I am a Year 1, Semester 3 student. I am currently studying ADM at UWI ROYTEC [South Campus]. I have a strong interest in public speaking, critical analysis and current affairs. I enjoy exploring how theories are applied to real-world contexts, collaborative work and evidence-based arguments. I have had experience in debating since high school, being in the school debate club. Beyond school, I am the founder of SISTERS Keeper, a non-profit organization that helps girls in need of sanitary and self-care products. I also run myown baking business named TASTEBUDS DELIGHT. These activities help me to work with others, understand and analyze situations, compromise and make critical decisions. |
 Student, UWI-ROYTEC Zacharias Dyer I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems Management from UWI-ROYTEC and currently work as an IT Assistant, gaining hands-on experience across systems and security operations. I serve as Vice President of the ISACA Student Chapter at UWI-ROYTEC, where I help lead student initiatives in governance, risk, and cybersecurity, and also serve as RSC Clubs Representative and Captain of the Astronomy Club. I’m actively building toward a career in cybersecurity, currently pursuing Security+ and CEH certifications while running a self-built SOC home lab on Wazuh SIEM to sharpen my practical security-monitoring skills. I plan to pursue graduate studies abroad after gaining further industry experience. I’m passionate about student leadership and the Caribbean’s growing role in tech, and I’m proud to represent UWI-ROYTEC at the inaugural Caribbean AI Forum. |
 Director, TAIROne Andrew Sieupresad Andrew Sieupresad is a Trinidad-based software developer and Director at Aurelian Consulting, specializing in web development. With a BSc in Computer Science from UWI, he brings extensive expertise in .NET backend engineering and is currently passionate about building modern applications with Golang and Sveltekit. His career spans developing enterprise solutions for ANSA McAL, creating medical systems, and leading full-stack projects. Beyond the screen, he loves playing football, challenging myself on scenic hikes, and maintaining his fitness at the gym. |
 Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ugo Blanco Mr. Ugo Blanco is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for the UNDP Multi‑Country Office covering Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, a position he has held since July 2023. After ten years of service in the Caribbean, he now leads the work of the UNDP Digital Facility for the Caribbean and is a strong advocate for human‑centred digital transformation and the ethical, well‑governed use of artificial intelligence in advancing sustainable development. Mr. Blanco brings 24 years of professional experience across multiple countries and regions. From 2019, he served as Deputy Resident Representative for the Barbados and Eastern Caribbean, overseeing ten countries and territories. His career includes roles as Senior Advisor in New York for Latin America and the Caribbean and Special Assistant to a UN Assistant Secretary‑General. He has led crisis response and recovery efforts in Haiti and Nepal, contributed to disaster risk reduction initiatives in Vietnam, and represented Spain’s development agency in Indonesia. Earlier in his career, he worked closely with NGOs and civil society organizations. He holds advanced degrees in Political Science, International Cooperation, and Human Resources Management from universities in Madrid, Spain. |
 Founder and CEO of Future Caribbean Lily Dash Lily Dash is a Barbadian entrepreneur, attorney, and venture builder with a background spanning real estate law, venture building, and technology. She is the Founder and CEO of Future Caribbean, an initiative accelerating AI-driven innovation and economic development across the region, whose Global Buildathon brought together builders from the Caribbean and around the world to create solutions to the region’s most pressing challenges. Lily is also the CEO and Co-Founder of ACTAI Advisors, a global advisory network spanning more than 7,000 technology and crypto professionals, and the founder of several ventures across the US and Caribbean, including Villabound.com. A University of the West Indies alumna, board director, and speaker, she hosts The Upwind Podcast, a series featuring global leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of AI, blockchain, and venture capital. |
 Chairman and Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) of Grenada Vincent Roberts Vincent Roberts is Chairman and Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) of Grenada and serves as Advisor on Digital Transformation to the Government of Grenada. He has over four decades of leadership experience in telecommunications, ICT policy, digital transformation and public sector reform. Mr. Roberts represents Grenada in regional and international digital policy forums, including the ICANN Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) and EU-LAC Digital Alliance. He has played a leading role in advancing Grenada’s digital transformation agenda, including initiatives in digital government, cybersecurity, data protection, AI governance and digital skills development. He is a strong advocate for inclusive, trusted and people-centred digital innovation that supports sustainable national and regional development. |
 Telecoms and Internet Policy Strategist and Consultant Strategic Advisor with the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and Coordinator of the AI Task Force Shernon Osepa Shernon Osepa is a Curaçao-born Telecoms and Internet Policy Strategist and Consultant Strategic Advisor with the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and Coordinator of the AI Task Force. He served as Director, Caribbean Affairs, and Manager for Regional Affairs (Latin America and Caribbean) at the Internet Society (ISOC), and Manager, Regional Relations Caribbean at ICANN. He was Policy Advisor at the Telecommunications & Post Regulatory Authority in Netherlands Antilles and spent nine years with UTS/Setel in Curaçao. He co-founded the Caribbean Peering & Interconnection Forum (CarPIF). His expertise spans SIDS digital economy development, disaster mitigation and cybersecurity. Shernon holds bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering and Business Administration from the Netherlands and a Master’s in Telecommunications Regulation and Policy from the University of the West Indies. He represented the global technical community at WSIS 2017. He is fluent in Dutch, Spanish, English, Papiamento and has a working understanding of French and Portuguese. |
 Policy Analyst in the Regional Policy Development Unit of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) Shanea Lewis Shanea Lewis is a Policy Analyst in the Regional Policy Development Unit of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), where she supports regional ICT policy coordination with a portfolio that spans spectrum management, Internet governance, AI and ICT accessibility and digital inclusion. Ms. Lewis began her journey with the CTU as an intern while pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science at the University of the West Indies, working directly with the Secretary General. She holds Bachelor’s Degrees in both Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science, a multidisciplinary foundation that complements her strong analytical and interpersonal skills. A recent participant in the USTTI–GCF “Empowering Women to Leadership in Cyber” programme, she is committed to advancing women’s leadership in technology across the Caribbean. |
 Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago Kirk Sookram Kirk Sookram holds the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (the Authority). He has been employed with the Authority since its inception in July 2004, starting as a Telecommunications Engineer, laying the foundation for the spectrum management mandate of the regulator and working his way up the corporate ladder to Executive Director Technology and Engineering and, in 2020, to the position he currently holds. During his tenure at the Authority, he has specialized in the areas of spectrum management, wireless technologies, telecommunications regulation, ICT and broadband development, cost modeling, universal service initiatives and policy development. His most recent area of work has emersed him into the area of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence policy. Kirk is a national of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. His qualifications include a Bachelors of Science Degree (with Honours) in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the University of the West Indies and a Masters of Science Degree (Distinction) in Operational Telecommunications from Coventry University, United Kingdom. Kirk currently sits as the Lead of the Data & Infrastructure Working Group of the Caribbean Artificial Intelligence Task Force. |
 Manager of Performance and Engagement for Trinidad and Tobago's National Digital Skills Programme, Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Dr Andrea Kanneh Dr Andrea Kanneh is a digital transformation leader and Manager of Performance and Engagement for Trinidad and Tobago’s National Digital Skills Programme within the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence. She holds a PhD in Information and Communication Technology and has expertise in digital transformation, workforce development, leadership, higher education, and research ethics. As a national focal point for the ITU Digital Transformation Centre initiative, she leads programmes that expand digital and AI capability, promote inclusion, and strengthen workforce readiness. Dr Kanneh is recognised for designing practical, people-centred strategies that connect technology, leadership, and innovation to economic opportunity, organisational performance, and sustainable national development in an AI-enabled world. |
 Manager, Analytics and Information Management Kevan Rajaram Kevan Rajaram is an analytics, information management, and artificial intelligence professional with more than 12 years of experience across the banking, consulting, telecommunications, and multilateral development sectors. He currently serves as Manager, Data Analytics and Information Management at the Caribbean Development Bank, where he leads initiatives in data governance, information management, analytics, artificial intelligence readiness, and digital transformation. Kevan holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Science in Statistics from The University of the West Indies. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Computer Science, with research focused on trust, explainability, and governance in artificial intelligence systems. His work examines how AI systems can be designed and evaluated to support transparent, accountable, and context-sensitive decision-making, particularly in Small Island Developing States. His professional and academic interests include trustworthy AI, data strategy, responsible innovation, and application of AI to several cross-cutting themes. |
 Pro Vice-Chancellor, Global Affairs Sandrea Maynard Ms. Sandrea Maynard, LLB (Hons), LLM, SFHEA, PgCHE is Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Affairs at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), where she leads the University’s internationalisation strategy, global partnerships, and multilateral engagement across the Caribbean and internationally. A Barrister-at-Law with over 25 years of experience spanning legal practice, higher education leadership, and international development, she has held senior leadership positions in the United Kingdom and the Caribbean. Ms. Maynard is actively advancing regional collaboration on AI governance, digital policy, and capacity building through strategic partnerships, including The UWI’s collaboration with the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), World Digital Governance (WDG) and other multilateral organisations. Her work focuses on ensuring that global emerging technologies support sustainable development, digital sovereignty, and inclusive growth for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). |
 International Legal and Policy Consultant Nievia Ramsundar This former CEO of the CARICOM Competition Commission and Corporate Secretary/Executive Officer Legal and Regulatory Affairs at the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT), Ms. Nievia Ramsundar now heads up, Nievia Ramsundar Consulting Services (NRCS). Her practice leverages over 25 years’ direct experience in digital trade,technology law, competition and intellectual property law, towards providing targeted legal and policy development of SIDs policy and legal capacity for the new era. Her IP experience in Trinidad and Tobago stretches back to the early 2000’s with first time international live streaming of Trinidad carnival, commencement of in depth sensitization of the carnival and music industry of IPR, moving towards strengthening country compliance with international intellectual property rights conventions for broadcasting, and engaging the stakeholders in this region in discussions on the interrelations of competition and IPR for market development and the state of readiness of the region for new emerging technologies int eh digital economy and AI. |
 Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing Sean Thorpe 20 years in Industry and Academia, works in cyber-security, cloud, Data Protection and AI |
 Industrial Business Leader and Automation Professional Riard Mohammed Riard Mohammed is an accomplished industrial business leader and automation professional. Based out of Trinidad and Tobago, he has over 30 years of extensive experience in the international oil and gas sector, process plant automation, and digital technology solutions. Career & Leadership Highlights He has lead a major Global Automation Provider across the Caribbean for over 25 years, supporting key industrial and upstream energy customers in Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, and Barbados. As an Engineer he participated in the implementation of Automation systems for BP’s offshore facilities supplying Atlantic LNG, including the Mahogany A and B platforms. Earlier in his career, he spent 7 years as an automation engineer at Fertrin/Arcadian (now Nutrien), where he successfully implemented the first Distributed Control System (DCS) in Trinidad. Business Advocacy: He is an active figure in the local business community, maintaining involvement with corporate networks like the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago Education Master of Business Administration (MBA): Sustainable Energy Management from the Arthur Lok Jack GSB. Bachelor of Science (BSc): Earned in Electrical Engineering from the UWI. |
 VP – People and Corporate Services, Ramps Logistics Ltd Javed Razack Javed is a Geoscientist converted to a Logistics and HR professional. He has spent 10 years at Ramps in various roles across Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, Mexico, Colombia and the USA in Business Development, Contracts and Proposals, HR, Procurement, Legal, Quality and Project Management. Previously he worked with the Ministry of Energy as a Geophysicist in Contract Management. He has a BSc in Petroleum Geoscience from UWI and MSc in Oil and Gas Enterprise Management from the University of Aberdeen. He has been President of the Geological Society and served on several state boards. He currently serves on the Energy Services Committee of the Private Sector Organization of TT (PSOTT). Javed has published papers for several international conferences mainly on Petroleum Taxation and Offshore Logistics. |
 UNESCO Regional Office for the Caribbean, Programme Specialist for the Sciences Paula Istúriz Cavero Paula Istúriz Cavero is the Head of the Social and Human Sciences Programme at the UNESCO Regional Office for the Caribbean. This multidisciplinary portfolio covers meaningful youth engagement, peacebuilding, gender equality, disability inclusion, and the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence. She has worked across the Middle East and North Africa, as well as Latin America and the Caribbean, leading initiatives that strengthen social cohesion, empower youth, and promote inclusive digital transformation. Her work integrates social innovation into programme design and delivery, and she has contributed to early recovery and socio-economic resilience in crisis and emergency contexts. She holds degrees in Engineering and Art History, and a Masters in Economics and Project Management. |
 Science and Technology Officer of the Caribbean Meteorological Organization Headquarters Kenneth Kerr Mr. Kenneth Kerr is the Science and Technology Officer at the Caribbean Meteorological Organization (CMO) Headquarters and Vice-Chair of the WMO Regional Association IV Services Committee. He has over 20 years of experience in operational meteorology, climatology, and climate services, including 21 years with the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service, where he served as Senior Meteorologist, Climatologist and Chief Climatologist. At the CMO, he leads regional scientific and technical initiatives, providing strategic support to National Meteorological and Hydrological Services across the Caribbean and collaborating with regional and international partners. He holds a degree in Meteorology and Computer Science from The University of the West Indies and a postgraduate degree in Applied Meteorology and Climatology with Management from the University of Reading, United Kingdom |
Lead Sponsor
World Digital Governance
The World Digital Governance (WDG) initiative is a global movement dedicated to creating ethical, inclusive, and scalable frameworks for digital governance.
Focused on empowering nations and individuals, WDG fosters collaboration among governments, private sector leaders, and international organizations to address critical challenges in data management, artificial intelligence, and virtual assets.
By providing tools, certifications, and support, WDG ensures that digital transformation aligns with principles of sovereignty, equity, and transparency.
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