MEET THE

SPEAKERS

Speakers

Prof Antoine Bagula
ISAT Laboratory (Head)Department of Computer ScienceUniversity of the Western CapeSouth AfricaProf B. Antoine Bagula Bigomokero Antoine Bagula, holds a Ph.D. in Communication Systems from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, Sweden. He also obtained two MSc degrees: one in Computer Engineering from the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) in Belgium, and another in Computer […]
Kombada Mhopjeni
National Programme Officer for Natural Sciences (UNESCO Windhoek Office)Ms Kombada MhopjeniKombada Mhopjeni is the Deputy Director of Geo-Information at the Geological Survey of Namibia and National Programme Officer for Natural Sciences at the UNESCO Windhoek office. She has over 17 years scientific experience in the government, including various roles in geosciences and management and leads the delivery […]
Vanessa Maresch 
Empowerment Specialist, Salt Essentials IT (Salt Essential IT)Vanessa MareschVanessa Maresch is an esteemed Empowerment Specialist at Salt Essential IT, where she leverages her extensive expertise in technology and innovation to drive impactful change. With a passion for fostering inclusive and sustainable technological advancements, Vanessa has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at empowering […]
Ihemba Simon
Informatics Student (NUST)Mr Ihemba SimonIhemba Simon is a dedicated final year Informatics student driven by a passion for data. Throughout his academic journey, Ihemba has led and participated in projects that have honed his skills in a variety of technologies, including Java, Python, SQL, PHP, and data analysis tools such as Excel, Jupyter Notebook, and […]
Rachel Lazarus
Software Engineering Student (NUST)Ms Rachel LazarusI am a second-year Software Engineering student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). In addition to my studies, I am the founder of Londa Rides CC, a startup focused on innovative transportation solutions. Through Londa Rides, I aim to revolutionize the way people commute by offering efficient, […]
Michael Songiso
Computer Science Student (NUST)Mr Michael Songiso Michael Songiso is a second-year Computer Science student, specializing in Business Informatics. He aims to build a career as a data analyst in the field of data science. Currently, Michael serves as the vice-president of the FCI Society, demonstrating his commitment to exploring and contributing to new technologies. He […]
Blessing Sibanda
Software EngineerBlessing SibandaBlessing Sibanda is a software engineer who brings his passion for languages to the field of Artificial Intelligence. He specializes in Computer Vision and Natural Language Processing research, particularly focused on creating datasets for languages with limited resources. He is a dedicated advocate for his native language, Shona and as a member of […]
Dr Annastasia Shipepe
Lecturer of Computing, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Namibia (UNAM)Dr Annastasia ShipepeDr Annastasia Shipepe is a lecturer at the University of Namibia. She holds a PhD In Computer Science (University of Eastern Finland), a Master of Computer Science (Namibia University of Science and Technology), and an Honours Degree in Computer Science & IT (University […]
Benson Ntemo
Software Development Student(NUST)Mr Benson NtemoBenson Ntemo is a dedicated software development student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). He is currently employed as a Software Engineering Intern at NUST, bringing a dynamic blend of skills honed in Web Development, Mobile Development, Student Leadership, and Competitive Debating.Driven by a passion for empowerment, Benson […]
Benjamin Akinmoyeje
PhD Student in Informatics (NUST)Mr Benjamin AkinmoyejeBenjamin Akinmoyeje, a PhD student in Informatics, is currently conducting qualitative research centered on cultural hegemony and social media.His interests are Digital health, data governance, data visualization, and persuasive technologies. 
Mrs Olivia Haenert
Digital Transformation Technical Expert at the Bank of Namibia Mrs Olivia HaenertMrs. Olivia Haenert works as a Digital Transformation Technical Expert at the Bank of Namibia where she leads the Bank of Namibia’s digital transformation initiatives, focusing on integrating process redesign, and advanced technologies, while leveraging the bank's data for data-driven decision-making and the advancement […]
Prof Hossana Twinomurinzi
Vice Dean Research and Innovation in the College of Business and Economics at the University of JohannesburgProfessor Hossana TwinomurinziProfessor Hossana Twinomurinzi was appointed as the Vice Dean Research and Innovation in the College of Business and Economics at the University of Johannesburg in April 2023, where he drives the CBE’s strategy to infuse data science […]
Efraim Vilho
Community Manager (CcHUB)Mr Efraim VilhoEfraim Vilho is a passionate digital and innovation enthusiast dedicated to creating platforms for serendipitous innovation across Africa. As the Community Manager for CcHUB, Africa’s leading innovation hub, he leverages his expertise to drive technological advancement. Efraim holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science with a focus on Cyber Security and […]
Linda Patauli
Cyber Security Student (NUST)Ms Linda PatauliLinda is a 2nd year student at the Namibian University of Science and Technology, where she is pursuing her degree in Cybersecurity. In her studies, Linda focuses on data protection practices while furthering her knowledge of applications that put security measures to the test. Her passions lie in the unravelling […]