Moonshot Idea Award
Joshin Raghubar
CEO - Technology and Impact Venture Entrepreneur
Joshin Raghubar is technology and impact venture entrepreneur. He is the founder of iKineo Ventures, a venture builder and investment firm, through which is he currently growing Explore Sideways, a travel(tech) company; Adbot, a machine-learning powered SaaS platform automating online search advertising for SMEs; and Inves Capital, a group of digital asset and cryptocurrency businesses that includes ZARP, a leading emerging markets stablecoin. He is a co-founder and Chairperson of Kena Health, a health-tech venture which aims to be Africa’s leading low-cost out-of-hospital healthcare provider. Joshin serves as chairperson of the UVU Africa group tasked with development of the region as a technology and innovation cluster. Through this role he is also a director of UVU Bio, Africa’s biotech cluster initiative. Joshin also served as a non-executive director of the Africa Leadership Initiative, is the current Chair of the Cape Town Chapter of YPO, and is on the board of Cape Town Tourism.
Joshin Raghubar is technology and impact venture entrepreneur. He is the founder of iKineo Ventures, a venture builder and investment firm, through which is he currently growing Explore Sideways, a travel(tech) company; Adbot, a machine-learning powered SaaS platform automating online search advertising for SMEs; and Inves Capital, a group of digital asset and cryptocurrency businesses that includes ZARP, a leading emerging markets stablecoin. He is a co-founder and Chairperson of Kena Health, a health-tech venture which aims to be Africa’s leading low-cost out-of-hospital healthcare provider. Joshin serves as chairperson of the UVU Africa group tasked with development of the region as a technology and innovation cluster. Through this role he is also a director of UVU Bio, Africa’s biotech cluster initiative. Joshin also served as a non-executive director of the Africa Leadership Initiative, is the current Chair of the Cape Town Chapter of YPO, and is on the board of Cape Town Tourism.
Joanna Rees
Board member of Endeavor.org
Tina Wells
CEO Wellspring Studio
Author and Founder of RLVNT Media Tina Wells is a business strategist, advisor, author, and the founder of RLVNT Media, a multimedia content venture that brings culture-shifting storytelling and beloved products to market through innovative partnerships.. Tina has been recognized by Fast Company's 100 Most Creative People in Business, Essence’s 40 Under 40 and more. For over two decades she led Buzz Marketing Group, an agency she founded at age 16 with clients like Dell, The Oprah Winfrey Network, Kroger, Apple, P+G, Johnson & Johnson, and American Eagle that Tina connected with her network of 30,000 buzzSpotters®and 7,000 “momSpotters”, all influential millennials and passionate end-consumers. Tina is also the author of 16 books, including the best-selling tween fiction series Mackenzie Blue, its 2020 award-winning spinoff series, The Zee Files, and the marketing handbook, Chasing Youth Culture and Getting It Right. Tina’s board positions have included THINX, the United Nations Foundation’s Global Entrepreneurs Council, The Franklin Institute and Young Entrepreneur’s Council. She has also served as the Academic Director for Wharton’s Leadership in the Business World Program at the University of Pennsylvania and is a member of the 2017 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute. In 2021, Tina was inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Achievement. Her new book, The Elevation Approach hits shelves on March 21, 2023, and shares her flexible and foolproof technique for work-life harmony—the secret to meeting your goals without sacrificing joy for productivity and progress. She resides in Haddonfield, NJ.
Author and Founder of RLVNT Media Tina Wells is a business strategist, advisor, author, and the founder of RLVNT Media, a multimedia content venture that brings culture-shifting storytelling and beloved products to market through innovative partnerships.. Tina has been recognized by Fast Company's 100 Most Creative People in Business, Essence’s 40 Under 40 and more. For over two decades she led Buzz Marketing Group, an agency she founded at age 16 with clients like Dell, The Oprah Winfrey Network, Kroger, Apple, P+G, Johnson & Johnson, and American Eagle that Tina connected with her network of 30,000 buzzSpotters®and 7,000 “momSpotters”, all influential millennials and passionate end-consumers. Tina is also the author of 16 books, including the best-selling tween fiction series Mackenzie Blue, its 2020 award-winning spinoff series, The Zee Files, and the marketing handbook, Chasing Youth Culture and Getting It Right. Tina’s board positions have included THINX, the United Nations Foundation’s Global Entrepreneurs Council, The Franklin Institute and Young Entrepreneur’s Council. She has also served as the Academic Director for Wharton’s Leadership in the Business World Program at the University of Pennsylvania and is a member of the 2017 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute. In 2021, Tina was inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Achievement. Her new book, The Elevation Approach hits shelves on March 21, 2023, and shares her flexible and foolproof technique for work-life harmony—the secret to meeting your goals without sacrificing joy for productivity and progress. She resides in Haddonfield, NJ.
Andrea Piana
CEO Piana Technology
Andrea Piana's passion for environmentalism drove the 440-year-old legacy of his family's textile company to shift toward sustainable solutions and technological innovations. He envisions a truly circular, zero waste economy, and sees an opportunity to provide the building blocks for new physical and social infrastructure driven by compassion and empathy. ‍ Andrea's bold vision has guided the development of revolutionary technologies Powered by Piana Smart™.
Andrea Piana's passion for environmentalism drove the 440-year-old legacy of his family's textile company to shift toward sustainable solutions and technological innovations. He envisions a truly circular, zero waste economy, and sees an opportunity to provide the building blocks for new physical and social infrastructure driven by compassion and empathy. ‍ Andrea's bold vision has guided the development of revolutionary technologies Powered by Piana Smart™.
Moonshot Start-Up Award
David Madden
Senior Director, Partnerships & Innovation at Luminate
David leads Luminate's Partnerships team which develops and supports Luminate's collaborations with other funders and networks. In this role, David and his team work closely with other funders to bring more resources to those who are working to ensure that that everyone - especially those who are underrepresented - have the power to shape society. David brings nearly 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur creating organisations that use technology to drive change. Prior to joining Luminate, David was the Founder & CEO of Phandeeyar, a tech hub in Yangon, which spearheaded the development of Myanmar’s startup and social innovation ecosystem. Previously, David co-founded Purpose, a global social impact agency, which uses technology to build movements and harness New Power. A civic tech pioneer, he co-founded Avaaz, the world’s largest online citizens’ movement, now with more than 50 million members, and GetUp, a technology-enabled movement that has more members than all of Australia’s political parties combined.
David leads Luminate's Partnerships team which develops and supports Luminate's collaborations with other funders and networks. In this role, David and his team work closely with other funders to bring more resources to those who are working to ensure that that everyone - especially those who are underrepresented - have the power to shape society. David brings nearly 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur creating organisations that use technology to drive change. Prior to joining Luminate, David was the Founder & CEO of Phandeeyar, a tech hub in Yangon, which spearheaded the development of Myanmar’s startup and social innovation ecosystem. Previously, David co-founded Purpose, a global social impact agency, which uses technology to build movements and harness New Power. A civic tech pioneer, he co-founded Avaaz, the world’s largest online citizens’ movement, now with more than 50 million members, and GetUp, a technology-enabled movement that has more members than all of Australia’s political parties combined.
Kalia Lydgate
Dream Machine Innovation Lab Senior Strategist
Kalia Lydgate is a strategist and cultural creative building new models that make the old obsolete. Her work focuses on common ground solutions at unlikely intersections. Kalia is Senior Strategist at Dream Machine where she leads research and programs related to artificial intelligence. Following the 2016 election, Kalia co-founded and led the #LoveArmy, a national pro-democracy campaign to counteract the increased hatred and division in the U.S.. As the Director of Engagement, Kalia led the effort to integrate #LoveArmy’s values-based distributed and digital organizing infrastructure into the heart of Dream.Org to catalyze impact for its programs. Before joining the Dream.Org team, Kalia worked with a Hawaii-based nonprofit, the Olohana Foundation, working on climate adaptation and agroforestry projects rooted in indigenous knowledge systems. Kalia began her career in the green jobs movement, initially passing first-in-the-nation legislation to fund green jobs training programs and later co-leading a green jobs program in New Bedford, MA, where she also served as a Mayoral Fellow for the City of New Bedford. When she’s not working, Kalia is immersed in regenerative land practices, alternative economies, and bioregional organizing in her rural community. Kalia graduated from Wesleyan University in 2007 with a degree in Social Ecology. She is a mother, kitchen herbalist, printmaker, spoken word artist and salsa dancer.
Kalia Lydgate is a strategist and cultural creative building new models that make the old obsolete. Her work focuses on common ground solutions at unlikely intersections. Kalia is Senior Strategist at Dream Machine where she leads research and programs related to artificial intelligence. Following the 2016 election, Kalia co-founded and led the #LoveArmy, a national pro-democracy campaign to counteract the increased hatred and division in the U.S.. As the Director of Engagement, Kalia led the effort to integrate #LoveArmy’s values-based distributed and digital organizing infrastructure into the heart of Dream.Org to catalyze impact for its programs. Before joining the Dream.Org team, Kalia worked with a Hawaii-based nonprofit, the Olohana Foundation, working on climate adaptation and agroforestry projects rooted in indigenous knowledge systems. Kalia began her career in the green jobs movement, initially passing first-in-the-nation legislation to fund green jobs training programs and later co-leading a green jobs program in New Bedford, MA, where she also served as a Mayoral Fellow for the City of New Bedford. When she’s not working, Kalia is immersed in regenerative land practices, alternative economies, and bioregional organizing in her rural community. Kalia graduated from Wesleyan University in 2007 with a degree in Social Ecology. She is a mother, kitchen herbalist, printmaker, spoken word artist and salsa dancer.
Ranji Nagaswami
Chief Executive at Leading global asset management firms
Ranji is Chief Strategy and Chief Commercial Officer of SVPGlobal (Strategic Value Partners, LLC) a global investment firm managing over US$17 Billion in distressed debt, special situations and private equity investments. Through her 30+ year career in the investment industry, Ranji has held executive and portfolio management positions at world-class asset management firms. She was previously Chief Executive Officer of Hirtle Callaghan, a pioneer of the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) fiduciary model managing $20 Billion in client assets. She has held leadership roles at UBS Asset Management, AllianceBernstein, Bridgewater Associates and Corsair Capital. She also served as chief investment advisor to the administration of Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg for the City of New York's public employee pension plans. Ranji has served on numerous Boards and Investment Committees including currently serving on the Curtis Institute Investment Committee, and previously as a member of the Yale University Investment Committee, the Yale School of Management Advisory Board, and the North American Council of Ashoka, a global fellowship of social entrepreneurs, among others. She earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Mumbai University in India, a MBA from the Yale School of Management and is a Chartered Financial Analyst. Ranji is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute and moderator for the Aspen Global Leadership Network. Her chief life mission outside of her professional endeavors is to deepen the crucial connection between Finance and Society through the Aspen Finance Leaders Fellowship, which she founded at the Aspen Institute. Ranji relies greatly on her husband Bo Hopkins, a professor at Yale University and their two grown children Mira and Jay for their shared laughter, love and courage.
Ranji is Chief Strategy and Chief Commercial Officer of SVPGlobal (Strategic Value Partners, LLC) a global investment firm managing over US$17 Billion in distressed debt, special situations and private equity investments. Through her 30+ year career in the investment industry, Ranji has held executive and portfolio management positions at world-class asset management firms. She was previously Chief Executive Officer of Hirtle Callaghan, a pioneer of the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) fiduciary model managing $20 Billion in client assets. She has held leadership roles at UBS Asset Management, AllianceBernstein, Bridgewater Associates and Corsair Capital. She also served as chief investment advisor to the administration of Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg for the City of New York's public employee pension plans. Ranji has served on numerous Boards and Investment Committees including currently serving on the Curtis Institute Investment Committee, and previously as a member of the Yale University Investment Committee, the Yale School of Management Advisory Board, and the North American Council of Ashoka, a global fellowship of social entrepreneurs, among others. She earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Mumbai University in India, a MBA from the Yale School of Management and is a Chartered Financial Analyst. Ranji is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute and moderator for the Aspen Global Leadership Network. Her chief life mission outside of her professional endeavors is to deepen the crucial connection between Finance and Society through the Aspen Finance Leaders Fellowship, which she founded at the Aspen Institute. Ranji relies greatly on her husband Bo Hopkins, a professor at Yale University and their two grown children Mira and Jay for their shared laughter, love and courage.
Chadia El Meouchi
Managing Partner at Badri and Salim El Meouchi Law Firm
Chadia El Meouchi Naoum is managing partner of Badri and Salim El Meouchi Law Firm, a leading regional law firm in the Middle East, and is a member of the New York Bar. Chadia has been recognized by Financial News as amongst the top 50 Most Influential Women in Middle East Finance, by International Financial Law Review IFLR Women Leaders Top 300 global, and as leading corporate and commercial lawyer by Chambers Global Guide for Leading Lawyers since 2004. Chadia is visiting professor at: University Panthéon – Assas Paris II, Paris - France, American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University. Chadia is co-founder of ed-tech startup, LeapLearner. Chadia is also a co-founder and board member of various NGOs and institutions. Chadia has a Master of Laws from Georgetown University (Washington, DC), a BCom from Concordia University, a BCivLaw at the University of Montreal, a post-graduate diploma in Oil & Gas law from Robert Gordon University, an Islamic Finance Qualification from the UK SII and ESA. Chadia is the co-founder of Middle East Leadership Initiative, a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute, and of Aspen Global Leadership Network, the Aspen Corps of Moderators, and the Aspen Leadership committee.
Chadia El Meouchi Naoum is managing partner of Badri and Salim El Meouchi Law Firm, a leading regional law firm in the Middle East, and is a member of the New York Bar. Chadia has been recognized by Financial News as amongst the top 50 Most Influential Women in Middle East Finance, by International Financial Law Review IFLR Women Leaders Top 300 global, and as leading corporate and commercial lawyer by Chambers Global Guide for Leading Lawyers since 2004. Chadia is visiting professor at: University Panthéon – Assas Paris II, Paris - France, American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University. Chadia is co-founder of ed-tech startup, LeapLearner. Chadia is also a co-founder and board member of various NGOs and institutions. Chadia has a Master of Laws from Georgetown University (Washington, DC), a BCom from Concordia University, a BCivLaw at the University of Montreal, a post-graduate diploma in Oil & Gas law from Robert Gordon University, an Islamic Finance Qualification from the UK SII and ESA. Chadia is the co-founder of Middle East Leadership Initiative, a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute, and of Aspen Global Leadership Network, the Aspen Corps of Moderators, and the Aspen Leadership committee.
Taavet Hinrikus
Partner Plural
Taavet is a partner at Plural, the early-stage investment fund that backs the most ambitious founders on a mission to change the world through technology. He co-founded Wise in 2010, which went public in the first-ever direct listing in Europe in 2021. Prior to that, Taavet was Skype’s Director of Strategy until 2008, starting as its first employee. He’s been an active investor for more than a decade, looking for 10x better solutions to huge problems that have impact globally. More recently he co-founded Jōhvi Coding School to help increase the number of people with coding skills in Estonia.
Taavet is a partner at Plural, the early-stage investment fund that backs the most ambitious founders on a mission to change the world through technology. He co-founded Wise in 2010, which went public in the first-ever direct listing in Europe in 2021. Prior to that, Taavet was Skype’s Director of Strategy until 2008, starting as its first employee. He’s been an active investor for more than a decade, looking for 10x better solutions to huge problems that have impact globally. More recently he co-founded Jōhvi Coding School to help increase the number of people with coding skills in Estonia.
Josh Baer
CEO Capital Factory
Joshua Baer helps people quit their jobs and become entrepreneurs. He’s the founder of Capital Factory, a startup community that helps entrepreneurs find investors, customers and employees. Josh founded his first startup in 1996 in his college dormitory at Carnegie Mellon University and now teaches a class at the University of Texas for student entrepreneurs. He is a Henry Crown Fellow and Braddock Scholar at the Aspen Institute, a member of the National Committee on US-China Relations Young Leaders Forum, an Eisenhower Fellow, and a recipient of the Anti-Defamation League Torch of Liberty. Josh lives in Austin with his wife Amy and three children. The best way to reach him is on Twitter @joshuabaer or by email josh@quityourjob.com
Joshua Baer helps people quit their jobs and become entrepreneurs. He’s the founder of Capital Factory, a startup community that helps entrepreneurs find investors, customers and employees. Josh founded his first startup in 1996 in his college dormitory at Carnegie Mellon University and now teaches a class at the University of Texas for student entrepreneurs. He is a Henry Crown Fellow and Braddock Scholar at the Aspen Institute, a member of the National Committee on US-China Relations Young Leaders Forum, an Eisenhower Fellow, and a recipient of the Anti-Defamation League Torch of Liberty. Josh lives in Austin with his wife Amy and three children. The best way to reach him is on Twitter @joshuabaer or by email josh@quityourjob.com
Moonshot Non-Profit Award
Shane Ryan
Senior Advisor to The National Lottery Community Fund
Shane Ryan is Senior Advisor to The National Lottery Community Fund former Global Executive Director of the Avast Foundation and former Deputy Director for The National Lottery Community Fund, former multi award winning CEO of Working with Men(Future Men). Under his stewardship WWM built a national reputation as a solution focused organization offering evidence based approaches to community needs and issues particularly around conflict and transition, father’s development, masculinity and youth unemployment. Having worked in a variety of inner city areas tackling drug use and managing the UK’s first mobile health care facilities for the NHS until 1995, Shane moved to the voluntary sector and into various managerial appointments in charities as well as a Home Office secondment and projects taking him to the USA and Japan. Shane has over 25 years experience working with young people and through WWM is a frequent advisor and speaker on non-profit matters covering the entire range of his charities work nationally.
Shane Ryan is Senior Advisor to The National Lottery Community Fund former Global Executive Director of the Avast Foundation and former Deputy Director for The National Lottery Community Fund, former multi award winning CEO of Working with Men(Future Men). Under his stewardship WWM built a national reputation as a solution focused organization offering evidence based approaches to community needs and issues particularly around conflict and transition, father’s development, masculinity and youth unemployment. Having worked in a variety of inner city areas tackling drug use and managing the UK’s first mobile health care facilities for the NHS until 1995, Shane moved to the voluntary sector and into various managerial appointments in charities as well as a Home Office secondment and projects taking him to the USA and Japan. Shane has over 25 years experience working with young people and through WWM is a frequent advisor and speaker on non-profit matters covering the entire range of his charities work nationally.
Badruun Gardi
Founder & CEO at New Nomad Institute
Christopher Gergen
Chief Growth Officer at 4P Foods
Christopher Gergen has over 25 years of experience building, scaling, and supporting systems-based solutions in communities globally. He is the founding partner of Forward Impact, a for-benefit advisory firm and investment fund that strives to work with forward-thinking foundations, family offices, corporations, developers, and policy makers who are committed to investing in systemic solutions to the economic inequities and disparities within our nation’s cities and regions. Most recently, Christopher was founding CEO of Forward Cities – a national non-profit launched that helps cities and regions strengthen their equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems. Since launching in 2014, Forward Cities has worked with over 30 cities, launched regional collaboratives in North Carolina and Ohio, and developed a national cross-city learning collaborative. Christopher is also founding partner of Raleigh Founded, the largest entrepreneurial co-working community in North Carolina. Additionally, Christopher has been a fellow and faculty member with Duke University’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship initiative, the Innovator in Residence at the Center for Creative Leadership, a regular columnist for the Raleigh News & Observer and is co-author of the nationally acclaimed book Life Entrepreneurs: Ordinary People Creating Extraordinary Lives, an alum of Leadership North Carolina (class 24) and a 2013 Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute where he was recently named a Braddock Scholar. Other entrepreneurial endeavors for Christopher include co-founding SMARTHINKING, a venture-backed on-line tutoring company that grew to over 1,000 universities before being acquired by Pearson in 2011, launching the Entrepreneurs Corps that placed 400 AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteers into 96 non-profits for a year of capacity building support, and starting Café Nunoa – a bar, restaurant, live music venue in Santiago, Chile that Christopher started when he was 24. Christopher currently serves on the board of the Duke School and is on the Governor’s NC Works Commission in North Carolina. He received his BA with honors from Duke University, his MPP from The George Washington University, and his MBA from Georgetown. He lives with his wife and two children in Durham, NC.
Christopher Gergen has over 25 years of experience building, scaling, and supporting systems-based solutions in communities globally. He is the founding partner of Forward Impact, a for-benefit advisory firm and investment fund that strives to work with forward-thinking foundations, family offices, corporations, developers, and policy makers who are committed to investing in systemic solutions to the economic inequities and disparities within our nation’s cities and regions. Most recently, Christopher was founding CEO of Forward Cities – a national non-profit launched that helps cities and regions strengthen their equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems. Since launching in 2014, Forward Cities has worked with over 30 cities, launched regional collaboratives in North Carolina and Ohio, and developed a national cross-city learning collaborative. Christopher is also founding partner of Raleigh Founded, the largest entrepreneurial co-working community in North Carolina. Additionally, Christopher has been a fellow and faculty member with Duke University’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship initiative, the Innovator in Residence at the Center for Creative Leadership, a regular columnist for the Raleigh News & Observer and is co-author of the nationally acclaimed book Life Entrepreneurs: Ordinary People Creating Extraordinary Lives, an alum of Leadership North Carolina (class 24) and a 2013 Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute where he was recently named a Braddock Scholar. Other entrepreneurial endeavors for Christopher include co-founding SMARTHINKING, a venture-backed on-line tutoring company that grew to over 1,000 universities before being acquired by Pearson in 2011, launching the Entrepreneurs Corps that placed 400 AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteers into 96 non-profits for a year of capacity building support, and starting Café Nunoa – a bar, restaurant, live music venue in Santiago, Chile that Christopher started when he was 24. Christopher currently serves on the board of the Duke School and is on the Governor’s NC Works Commission in North Carolina. He received his BA with honors from Duke University, his MPP from The George Washington University, and his MBA from Georgetown. He lives with his wife and two children in Durham, NC.
Katie Fitzerald
Director The Aspen Institute
Katie Fitzgerald is the director for the Aspen Challenge. Prior to launching the Aspen Challenge, Katie was a project manager for the Seminars Department and the Aspen Ideas Festival Scholars Program at the Aspen Institute. In these roles, she was in charge of managing an array of seminars serving Aspen Institute fellows from around the world, working with the executive team to allocate and manage over $600,000 in scholarship funds per year, and recruiting and selecting over 300 Scholars to participate in the Aspen Ideas Festival. Katie has a B.S. from Northern Michigan University with a major in geographical information systems. While in college, Katie studied in Armidale, Australia and then traveled throughout Europe for several months. Katie has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado for 15 years, after moving from Vail. She is a Chicago native and avid Bears fan. Katie resides in Basalt with her two daughters, Maggie, 12, and Lily, 10. Katie also serves on the board of Girls on the Run, and volunteers at her local food pantry, Lift Up.
Katie Fitzgerald is the director for the Aspen Challenge. Prior to launching the Aspen Challenge, Katie was a project manager for the Seminars Department and the Aspen Ideas Festival Scholars Program at the Aspen Institute. In these roles, she was in charge of managing an array of seminars serving Aspen Institute fellows from around the world, working with the executive team to allocate and manage over $600,000 in scholarship funds per year, and recruiting and selecting over 300 Scholars to participate in the Aspen Ideas Festival. Katie has a B.S. from Northern Michigan University with a major in geographical information systems. While in college, Katie studied in Armidale, Australia and then traveled throughout Europe for several months. Katie has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado for 15 years, after moving from Vail. She is a Chicago native and avid Bears fan. Katie resides in Basalt with her two daughters, Maggie, 12, and Lily, 10. Katie also serves on the board of Girls on the Run, and volunteers at her local food pantry, Lift Up.
Tommy Lopper
VP The Aspen Institute
Tommy Loper is passionate about the development of human potential and relationship building that lead to more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable futures. Tommy serves as Vice President for Enterprise Development at the Aspen Institute leading the organization’s “network of networks” initiative to become a thriving interconnected global community of leaders. Since joining the Institute in 2008, Tommy has led multiple endeavors to broaden and deepen Aspen’s mission for a more just, free and equitable world including: supporting the launch of the Aspen Global Leadership Network; co-founding the Resnick Aspen Action Forum; co-founding Weave: The Social Fabric Project with David Brooks of The New York Times; and serving as vice president of the Institute’s Leadership Division programs. Tommy is the co-founder of the Aspen LGBTQ+ Pride Group and former co-chair of the Institute’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Group. His career path spans two decades and includes work with two start-up event production agencies. At age 35, he was recognized as a top 20 conference producer in the United States on the BizBash 1,000. Tommy serves as a board advisor for multiple organizations and efforts that further his passion for the humanities, space exploration, and equality, including: Space for Humanity, Off-World Humanities, The Moonshot Platform, The Quorum Initiative, Keseb pro-democracy movement, and formerly Friends of New Orleans. Tommy is a graduate of the School of International Service at American University, he studied at La Universidad Diego Portales in Chile, L’Université libre de Bruxelles in Belgium, and Georgetown University’s Nonprofit Executive Management program. He is a regular guest lecturer for the course “Designing for Human Behavior” at the University of Texas at Austin, School of Architecture and The George Washington University. Tommy is married to Dirk Sellers, Chief Development Officer at the National Wildlife Federation, and together they make their home in Rehoboth Beach, DE, and Washington, DC, with their two Labradors Georgiou and Lilibet. Tommy is an avid traveler, runner, Trekkie, and dog lover.
Tommy Loper is passionate about the development of human potential and relationship building that lead to more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable futures. Tommy serves as Vice President for Enterprise Development at the Aspen Institute leading the organization’s “network of networks” initiative to become a thriving interconnected global community of leaders. Since joining the Institute in 2008, Tommy has led multiple endeavors to broaden and deepen Aspen’s mission for a more just, free and equitable world including: supporting the launch of the Aspen Global Leadership Network; co-founding the Resnick Aspen Action Forum; co-founding Weave: The Social Fabric Project with David Brooks of The New York Times; and serving as vice president of the Institute’s Leadership Division programs. Tommy is the co-founder of the Aspen LGBTQ+ Pride Group and former co-chair of the Institute’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Group. His career path spans two decades and includes work with two start-up event production agencies. At age 35, he was recognized as a top 20 conference producer in the United States on the BizBash 1,000. Tommy serves as a board advisor for multiple organizations and efforts that further his passion for the humanities, space exploration, and equality, including: Space for Humanity, Off-World Humanities, The Moonshot Platform, The Quorum Initiative, Keseb pro-democracy movement, and formerly Friends of New Orleans. Tommy is a graduate of the School of International Service at American University, he studied at La Universidad Diego Portales in Chile, L’Université libre de Bruxelles in Belgium, and Georgetown University’s Nonprofit Executive Management program. He is a regular guest lecturer for the course “Designing for Human Behavior” at the University of Texas at Austin, School of Architecture and The George Washington University. Tommy is married to Dirk Sellers, Chief Development Officer at the National Wildlife Federation, and together they make their home in Rehoboth Beach, DE, and Washington, DC, with their two Labradors Georgiou and Lilibet. Tommy is an avid traveler, runner, Trekkie, and dog lover.
Moonshot Learning Award
Hildegard Vasquez
Head Architect HACHE UVE
Hildegard Vasquez has led the architectural office Hache Uve, which she created, since 1998, concentrating mostly on preservation and renovation of historic sites such as San Felipe, Panama´s historic district, and the city of Granada, Nicaragua. Her office has worked on major restoration projects such as the National Theater of Panama, Santo Domingo Convent, Las Clementinas Hotel, Benedetti Building (recognized with the Architectural Restoration First Prize of the Society of Panamanian Architects, November 9, 2011) and the American Trade Hotel and Hall. She is a founding member and president of Fundación Calicanto, a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and conserving the historic and human heritage of Casco Antiguo (San Felipe). Fundación Calicanto projects include the re-socialization of local gangs, educational programs for single mothers, a leadership in the arts program for kids, multi-cultural events, and many direct battles for the conservation of historical heritage. She now also serves as a board chairman of the Interoceanic Canal Museum since its inception in 1997 and was part of the board of the Museum of Contemporary Arts from 2001 to 2005. Hildegard has a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of fine arts from Rhode Island School of Design and a master of architecture in historic restoration from the Polytechnic University of Madrid. She was a finalist for Avon Woman of the Year in 2011, Hero for Panama in 2011, and recognized as a Light in the Community by the Association of Women Entrepreneurs in Panama in 2011. Hildegard is a 2011 finalist for the McNulty Prize, winner of the 2013 Latin America FT/Citibank Urban Ingenuity Award, and recipient of the 2014 RISD Professional Achievement Award. She is a Fellow of the second class of the Central America Leadership Initiative as well as a member of and moderator for the Aspen Global Leadership Network.
Hildegard Vasquez has led the architectural office Hache Uve, which she created, since 1998, concentrating mostly on preservation and renovation of historic sites such as San Felipe, Panama´s historic district, and the city of Granada, Nicaragua. Her office has worked on major restoration projects such as the National Theater of Panama, Santo Domingo Convent, Las Clementinas Hotel, Benedetti Building (recognized with the Architectural Restoration First Prize of the Society of Panamanian Architects, November 9, 2011) and the American Trade Hotel and Hall. She is a founding member and president of Fundación Calicanto, a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and conserving the historic and human heritage of Casco Antiguo (San Felipe). Fundación Calicanto projects include the re-socialization of local gangs, educational programs for single mothers, a leadership in the arts program for kids, multi-cultural events, and many direct battles for the conservation of historical heritage. She now also serves as a board chairman of the Interoceanic Canal Museum since its inception in 1997 and was part of the board of the Museum of Contemporary Arts from 2001 to 2005. Hildegard has a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of fine arts from Rhode Island School of Design and a master of architecture in historic restoration from the Polytechnic University of Madrid. She was a finalist for Avon Woman of the Year in 2011, Hero for Panama in 2011, and recognized as a Light in the Community by the Association of Women Entrepreneurs in Panama in 2011. Hildegard is a 2011 finalist for the McNulty Prize, winner of the 2013 Latin America FT/Citibank Urban Ingenuity Award, and recipient of the 2014 RISD Professional Achievement Award. She is a Fellow of the second class of the Central America Leadership Initiative as well as a member of and moderator for the Aspen Global Leadership Network.
Arturo Condo
President at EARTH University
President of EARTH University, an innovative global institution based in Costa Rica that prepares young leaders from across the world as change agents for advancing sustainable development and nature-positive food systems. Dr. Condo led the creation of EARTH Futures, a global center which aims to transform rural areas and he guided the launch of EARTH Ventures, an initiative to launch new businesses with purpose. He served as President of INCAE Business School between 2007 and 2015 where for two decades he served in several positions, including Dean of the MBA, Dean of Innovation and Development, and professor in strategy, competitiveness and sustainable development. He has a Doctorate in business strategy and competitiveness from Harvard Business School and was recognized as a “Distinguished Scholar” in his MBA at INCAE. In 2007, the World Economic Forum recognized him as a Young Global Leader (YGL). Dr. Condo is a strong believer in the power of youth to change the world and his work also focuses on ethics, gender equality and dignity. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Bancolombia, of Vital Voices Costa Rica, Country Chair to Costa Rica for the organization Global Dignity and a member of the Inter-American Dialogue. He lives in Costa Rica, is married and has three children.
President of EARTH University, an innovative global institution based in Costa Rica that prepares young leaders from across the world as change agents for advancing sustainable development and nature-positive food systems. Dr. Condo led the creation of EARTH Futures, a global center which aims to transform rural areas and he guided the launch of EARTH Ventures, an initiative to launch new businesses with purpose. He served as President of INCAE Business School between 2007 and 2015 where for two decades he served in several positions, including Dean of the MBA, Dean of Innovation and Development, and professor in strategy, competitiveness and sustainable development. He has a Doctorate in business strategy and competitiveness from Harvard Business School and was recognized as a “Distinguished Scholar” in his MBA at INCAE. In 2007, the World Economic Forum recognized him as a Young Global Leader (YGL). Dr. Condo is a strong believer in the power of youth to change the world and his work also focuses on ethics, gender equality and dignity. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Bancolombia, of Vital Voices Costa Rica, Country Chair to Costa Rica for the organization Global Dignity and a member of the Inter-American Dialogue. He lives in Costa Rica, is married and has three children.
Aasim Shabazz
President & co-founder at Twin Cities Innovation Alliance
Aasim Shabazz is a vision-driven technologist, co-founder, and president of Twin Cities Innovation Alliance (TCIA). Aasim drives innovative solutions to complex problems faced by communities and organizations. Aasim serves as the architect of the TCIA’s annual Data 4 Public Good conference—a cultivated experience for meaningful contributions, co-powering, change-making, and relationship-building in digital justice. Throughout his career, Aasim has contributed leadership by serving on various boards and commissions, including advancing Minnesota equitable light rail development—where he served as a founding co-chair of the Blue Line Coalition.
Aasim Shabazz is a vision-driven technologist, co-founder, and president of Twin Cities Innovation Alliance (TCIA). Aasim drives innovative solutions to complex problems faced by communities and organizations. Aasim serves as the architect of the TCIA’s annual Data 4 Public Good conference—a cultivated experience for meaningful contributions, co-powering, change-making, and relationship-building in digital justice. Throughout his career, Aasim has contributed leadership by serving on various boards and commissions, including advancing Minnesota equitable light rail development—where he served as a founding co-chair of the Blue Line Coalition.
Erin Gallegos
Corporate Responsibility GEN
Erin Gallegos is a communications professional and strategist. Depending on how you count, her experience spans three or four continents, four or five countries, and the academic, corporate, government, and philanthropic sectors. Erin believes in the power of narrative to shape and reveal assumptions, outcomes, and relationships among people, organizations, and systems. In her former role as the Head of Partnerships for the former Avast Foundation, Erin was among the original supporters and funders of the Moonshot Awards, seeing the potential for this platform to support young people and their much needed ideas. Drawing on her rhetorical training, Erin's preferred method of offering insights and shifting perspectives is through asking insightful questions and developing a collaborative understanding and shared goals through constructive dialogue.
Erin Gallegos is a communications professional and strategist. Depending on how you count, her experience spans three or four continents, four or five countries, and the academic, corporate, government, and philanthropic sectors. Erin believes in the power of narrative to shape and reveal assumptions, outcomes, and relationships among people, organizations, and systems. In her former role as the Head of Partnerships for the former Avast Foundation, Erin was among the original supporters and funders of the Moonshot Awards, seeing the potential for this platform to support young people and their much needed ideas. Drawing on her rhetorical training, Erin's preferred method of offering insights and shifting perspectives is through asking insightful questions and developing a collaborative understanding and shared goals through constructive dialogue.
Alec Shi
Founder EduBeyond
Alec was a previous award winner in Moonshot's learning category as the founder of EduBeyond, an education company that leverages AI to improve corporate learning outcomes with personalization and generative functions. After the Moonshot competition, EduBeyond received distinction from organizations such as MIT and Samsung, which resulted in funding and media coverage. At EduBeyond, Alec has worked within the intersection of pedagogical research and commercializing edtech products in North America and Asia Pacific.
Alec was a previous award winner in Moonshot's learning category as the founder of EduBeyond, an education company that leverages AI to improve corporate learning outcomes with personalization and generative functions. After the Moonshot competition, EduBeyond received distinction from organizations such as MIT and Samsung, which resulted in funding and media coverage. At EduBeyond, Alec has worked within the intersection of pedagogical research and commercializing edtech products in North America and Asia Pacific.
Moonshot Health Award
Carly Zakin
Co-founder and Co-CEO at theSkimm
Carly Zakin is the Co-founder and Co-CEO of theSkimm, a company that makes it easier to be smarter and has reinvented morning routines for millions. Carly received a BA in Political Science and Film, with a minor in Creative Writing from the University of Pennsylvania, where she began interning for NBC News. Upon graduation in 2008, Carly began work for CNBC's primetime development division and went on to produce MSNBC news documentaries both in New York and DC. From breaking news and writing for the political unit, to personal finance and documentaries on the Kennedy family, and interviewing Tom Brokaw on the Berlin Wall, she made a career out of sharing stories. In 2012, Carly and her Co-founder Danielle Weisberg started theSkimm from their couch, and have since been honored in Forbes 30 under 30 in Media 2015, Adweek's Young Influentials 2015, and by Goldman Sachs Builders and Innovator Summit as one of the most 100 Intriguing Entrepreneurs in 2014, among others. Carly resides in New York, bakes a mean soufflé, and secretly watches marathons of "Golden Girls" and "Frasier." Taavet Hinrikus Taavet is a partner at Plural, the early-stage investment fund that backs the most ambitious founders on a mission to change the world through technology. He co-founded Wise in 2010, which went public in the first-ever direct listing in Europe in 2021. Prior to that, Taavet was Skype’s Director of Strategy until 2008, starting as its first employee. He’s been an active investor for more than a decade, looking for 10x better solutions to huge problems that have impact globally. More recently he co-founded Jōhvi Coding School to help increase the number of people with coding skills in Estonia.
Carly Zakin is the Co-founder and Co-CEO of theSkimm, a company that makes it easier to be smarter and has reinvented morning routines for millions. Carly received a BA in Political Science and Film, with a minor in Creative Writing from the University of Pennsylvania, where she began interning for NBC News. Upon graduation in 2008, Carly began work for CNBC's primetime development division and went on to produce MSNBC news documentaries both in New York and DC. From breaking news and writing for the political unit, to personal finance and documentaries on the Kennedy family, and interviewing Tom Brokaw on the Berlin Wall, she made a career out of sharing stories. In 2012, Carly and her Co-founder Danielle Weisberg started theSkimm from their couch, and have since been honored in Forbes 30 under 30 in Media 2015, Adweek's Young Influentials 2015, and by Goldman Sachs Builders and Innovator Summit as one of the most 100 Intriguing Entrepreneurs in 2014, among others. Carly resides in New York, bakes a mean soufflé, and secretly watches marathons of "Golden Girls" and "Frasier." Taavet Hinrikus Taavet is a partner at Plural, the early-stage investment fund that backs the most ambitious founders on a mission to change the world through technology. He co-founded Wise in 2010, which went public in the first-ever direct listing in Europe in 2021. Prior to that, Taavet was Skype’s Director of Strategy until 2008, starting as its first employee. He’s been an active investor for more than a decade, looking for 10x better solutions to huge problems that have impact globally. More recently he co-founded Jōhvi Coding School to help increase the number of people with coding skills in Estonia.
Steven Kisingiri
Director at Global Emergency Care
Thoughtful and innovative strategic professional with over 25 years of experience working with key international and national profit and not-for-profit stakeholders at executive and senior managerial levels to optimize organizations' strategic planning, purpose, and execution. Of these, ten years were spent enhancing transformative culture to drive collaborative solutions that encourage the most vulnerable women and children to embrace their future and growth in ways that have a meaningful impact on them. Experienced in developing and maintaining relevant country-wide strategic plans in line with global strategic plans while at the same time cultivating and maintaining substantial stakeholder relationships with national and international implementing partners and government. Skilled at being a strategic thought partner to the senior leadership team and organizations' boards and a trusted and astute advisor with integrity and passion. Acquired over a decade's experience leading the delivery of high-quality program outcomes working with partners, stakeholders, and consultants to deliver timely, fiscally sound programs that technically respond to the identified needs and are sustainable. Significant experience optimizing a cross-section of globally distributed, diverse specialists maximizing team performance, building robust systems, and enhancing organizational culture to drive desired outcomes while galvanizing inclusion of the most vulnerable women and children.
Thoughtful and innovative strategic professional with over 25 years of experience working with key international and national profit and not-for-profit stakeholders at executive and senior managerial levels to optimize organizations' strategic planning, purpose, and execution. Of these, ten years were spent enhancing transformative culture to drive collaborative solutions that encourage the most vulnerable women and children to embrace their future and growth in ways that have a meaningful impact on them. Experienced in developing and maintaining relevant country-wide strategic plans in line with global strategic plans while at the same time cultivating and maintaining substantial stakeholder relationships with national and international implementing partners and government. Skilled at being a strategic thought partner to the senior leadership team and organizations' boards and a trusted and astute advisor with integrity and passion. Acquired over a decade's experience leading the delivery of high-quality program outcomes working with partners, stakeholders, and consultants to deliver timely, fiscally sound programs that technically respond to the identified needs and are sustainable. Significant experience optimizing a cross-section of globally distributed, diverse specialists maximizing team performance, building robust systems, and enhancing organizational culture to drive desired outcomes while galvanizing inclusion of the most vulnerable women and children.
Nastya Podorozhnya
Founder Martynka
Nastya Podorozhnya is a Ukrainian human rights activist and sex educator. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, she moved to Poland at the age of 17, where she received a degree in Education and Cultural Anthropology and studied sex education. When the full-scale invasion of Ukraine broke out, Nastya evacuated from the country together with her family and founded "Martynka" - a female-led Ukrainian grassroots organisation based in Poland. "Martynka" provides holistic informational, legal, and psychological support to migrants and refugees around anything from human trafficking and gender-based violence to safe accommodation, abortions or emergency contraception. Over the first year of work, "Martynka" helped 8 migrant women open criminal proceedings against their abusers, provided hundreds of psychological consultations, and processed over 700 requests through its Telegram chat bot. "Martynka" remains the only Ukrainian reproductive rights organization in Europe.
Nastya Podorozhnya is a Ukrainian human rights activist and sex educator. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, she moved to Poland at the age of 17, where she received a degree in Education and Cultural Anthropology and studied sex education. When the full-scale invasion of Ukraine broke out, Nastya evacuated from the country together with her family and founded "Martynka" - a female-led Ukrainian grassroots organisation based in Poland. "Martynka" provides holistic informational, legal, and psychological support to migrants and refugees around anything from human trafficking and gender-based violence to safe accommodation, abortions or emergency contraception. Over the first year of work, "Martynka" helped 8 migrant women open criminal proceedings against their abusers, provided hundreds of psychological consultations, and processed over 700 requests through its Telegram chat bot. "Martynka" remains the only Ukrainian reproductive rights organization in Europe.
Ondřej Šimetka
Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, University Hospital Ostrava
Ondrej Simetka (52), medical doctor/philantropist/politician - currently works as a Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Medical Faculty and University Hospital Ostrava, Czech Republic and since 2020 also as a Senator of the Parliament of the Czech Republic. He has been trained in obstetrics and gynecology and tropical infectious diseases in Czech Republic (Charles University), Brazil (University of Sao Paulo), Egypt (Ain Shams University), USA (Stanford University), Italy, Germany and India. He has spent nearly 5 years on missions with Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), UN agencies (UNV, UNFPA, UNDP), RACS (Royal Australian College of Surgeons) and Caritas CZ in Sri Lanka, East Timor, Cambodia and Liberia as a doctor, consultant, trainer and advisor, mostly in war zones or conflict affected areas. As a member of UNDP team in Timor Leste, he helped to start a project of training the midwives and doctors in emergency obstetric care (EmOC) in 2004 which runs with short breaks until today and contributed to the 80% reduction of maternal mortality rate in Timor Leste over past 15 years. He was at the foundation and opening of MSF office in Czech Republic in 2007 and has also served for many years as a member of the supervisory board of MSF in Austria and Czech Republic. In 2019 Ondrej Simetka was awarded the VIA Bona Award by the VIA Foundation for his philantropic projects. He is happily married, has 3 kids and loves long distance running and mountain biking.
Ondrej Simetka (52), medical doctor/philantropist/politician - currently works as a Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Medical Faculty and University Hospital Ostrava, Czech Republic and since 2020 also as a Senator of the Parliament of the Czech Republic. He has been trained in obstetrics and gynecology and tropical infectious diseases in Czech Republic (Charles University), Brazil (University of Sao Paulo), Egypt (Ain Shams University), USA (Stanford University), Italy, Germany and India. He has spent nearly 5 years on missions with Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), UN agencies (UNV, UNFPA, UNDP), RACS (Royal Australian College of Surgeons) and Caritas CZ in Sri Lanka, East Timor, Cambodia and Liberia as a doctor, consultant, trainer and advisor, mostly in war zones or conflict affected areas. As a member of UNDP team in Timor Leste, he helped to start a project of training the midwives and doctors in emergency obstetric care (EmOC) in 2004 which runs with short breaks until today and contributed to the 80% reduction of maternal mortality rate in Timor Leste over past 15 years. He was at the foundation and opening of MSF office in Czech Republic in 2007 and has also served for many years as a member of the supervisory board of MSF in Austria and Czech Republic. In 2019 Ondrej Simetka was awarded the VIA Bona Award by the VIA Foundation for his philantropic projects. He is happily married, has 3 kids and loves long distance running and mountain biking.
Moonshot Art For Peace Award
Yemi A.D.
Founding partner, CEO and Creative Producer Moonshot Platform
Founding partner, CEO and Creative Producer at Moonshot Platform Yemi A.D. is a multidisciplinary creator and social innovator. With over 20 years of experience, Yemi has honed his skills as a choreographer, director, and producer, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after creatives in his field. He has collaborated with high-profile clients and designed global concerts, tours, and music videos, including a VMAs performance (2010), the short film Runaway (2010), or a series of performances for Saturday Night Live (2010). Yemi's creative development has led to internationally acclaimed campaigns for Google, Apple, and Mercedes Benz. Yemi is the Ambassador of the UN Sustainable Development Goals for the Czech Republic and was appointed the Czech Goodwill Ambassador by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2019. Additionally, he devotes his time to work with disadvantaged children in Indonesia, where he founded an elementary school; in India, where he presented a program for kids with impaired hearing sense; in Nigeria where he established a program granting EU scholarships to talented students; and in the Czech Republic working with children with disabilities. In 2021, Yemi founded Moonshot Platform Inc., a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that seeks and accelerates emerging leaders and their organizations around the world who work on solutions to the 21st Century Grand Challenges & SDGs focused innovations. The platform, supported by former U.S. Secretary Madeleine Albright & McNulty Foundation, has reached over 3 million people. In December 2022, Yemi was selected from one million applicants to be a crew member of the dearMoon project, the finst civilian lunar orbit mission operated by SpaceX. Unfortunately, the mission was canceled two years later due to technological setbacks and the uncertain launch date of the newly developed Starship rocket.
Founding partner, CEO and Creative Producer at Moonshot Platform Yemi A.D. is a multidisciplinary creator and social innovator. With over 20 years of experience, Yemi has honed his skills as a choreographer, director, and producer, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after creatives in his field. He has collaborated with high-profile clients and designed global concerts, tours, and music videos, including a VMAs performance (2010), the short film Runaway (2010), or a series of performances for Saturday Night Live (2010). Yemi's creative development has led to internationally acclaimed campaigns for Google, Apple, and Mercedes Benz. Yemi is the Ambassador of the UN Sustainable Development Goals for the Czech Republic and was appointed the Czech Goodwill Ambassador by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2019. Additionally, he devotes his time to work with disadvantaged children in Indonesia, where he founded an elementary school; in India, where he presented a program for kids with impaired hearing sense; in Nigeria where he established a program granting EU scholarships to talented students; and in the Czech Republic working with children with disabilities. In 2021, Yemi founded Moonshot Platform Inc., a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that seeks and accelerates emerging leaders and their organizations around the world who work on solutions to the 21st Century Grand Challenges & SDGs focused innovations. The platform, supported by former U.S. Secretary Madeleine Albright & McNulty Foundation, has reached over 3 million people. In December 2022, Yemi was selected from one million applicants to be a crew member of the dearMoon project, the finst civilian lunar orbit mission operated by SpaceX. Unfortunately, the mission was canceled two years later due to technological setbacks and the uncertain launch date of the newly developed Starship rocket.
Hope Azeda
Founder Ubumuntu Arts Festival
Hope Azeda is a playwright, director and founder of mashirika performing arts media company. She is a pioneer in using art as tool for social transformation . She is the founder of Ubumuntu Arts Festival which provides a platform for artists from around the world to present performances dealing with aspects of societal violence and human nature, to mass incarceration, to civil war and genocide. She uses art to promote values of humanity and healing, a unique approach that centers storytelling to help communities around the world to deal with their own traumas and to triumph over adversity. Hope was recently honored as a Laureate of the John. P. McNulty prize 2018, Awarded a lifetime award by MAAFA and also the winner of the continental award in the category of arts and culture 2018/19 honored by ceo global. 2021 Segal Centre honoree for civic engagement in the arts.
Hope Azeda is a playwright, director and founder of mashirika performing arts media company. She is a pioneer in using art as tool for social transformation . She is the founder of Ubumuntu Arts Festival which provides a platform for artists from around the world to present performances dealing with aspects of societal violence and human nature, to mass incarceration, to civil war and genocide. She uses art to promote values of humanity and healing, a unique approach that centers storytelling to help communities around the world to deal with their own traumas and to triumph over adversity. Hope was recently honored as a Laureate of the John. P. McNulty prize 2018, Awarded a lifetime award by MAAFA and also the winner of the continental award in the category of arts and culture 2018/19 honored by ceo global. 2021 Segal Centre honoree for civic engagement in the arts.
Janet Echelman
Artist and Principal at Studio Echelman
Radhikaraje Gaekwad
Trustee & Director Trustee Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, CDS Art Foundation
H.H. Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad, an Aspen Global Leadership Network Fellow and honorary doctorate recipient from the University of East London, is actively involved in various philanthropic and cultural endeavors. She serves as Vice President of the Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogalaya, Trustee of the Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, and Director of the CDS Art Foundation. With a background in journalism and a Master's in medieval Indian history, she has significantly contributed to preserving India's royal heritage, including documenting the Lukshmi Vilas Palace and reviving traditional textiles like Chanderi and Baroda Shalu. Radhikaraje organizes the Lukshmi Vilas Palace Heritage Garba and spearheads initiatives such as the Pink Line project and the Heat to Feet project. She has been recognized as one of India’s Top 50 Women in Indian Luxury and awarded for her social entrepreneurship and heritage revival efforts. Additionally, she promotes crafts through the Urja fair and fosters arts and culture via the Maharaja Ranjitsinh Gaekwad Festival of Arts. An avid traveler, she has visited over 50 countries and is among the few Indian women to take a polar dip in Antarctica.
H.H. Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad, an Aspen Global Leadership Network Fellow and honorary doctorate recipient from the University of East London, is actively involved in various philanthropic and cultural endeavors. She serves as Vice President of the Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogalaya, Trustee of the Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, and Director of the CDS Art Foundation. With a background in journalism and a Master's in medieval Indian history, she has significantly contributed to preserving India's royal heritage, including documenting the Lukshmi Vilas Palace and reviving traditional textiles like Chanderi and Baroda Shalu. Radhikaraje organizes the Lukshmi Vilas Palace Heritage Garba and spearheads initiatives such as the Pink Line project and the Heat to Feet project. She has been recognized as one of India’s Top 50 Women in Indian Luxury and awarded for her social entrepreneurship and heritage revival efforts. Additionally, she promotes crafts through the Urja fair and fosters arts and culture via the Maharaja Ranjitsinh Gaekwad Festival of Arts. An avid traveler, she has visited over 50 countries and is among the few Indian women to take a polar dip in Antarctica.
Moonshot AI for Good Award
Sara Polak
Research Group Lead at CCHAOS Research Lab
Sara Polak is an Oxford-educated archaeologist who has worked in the tech sector her entire career. She has worked in start-ups in London and LA for 7 years and after almost 10 years abroad she returned back home to the Czech Republic where she now leads a research group at FIT CTU focusing on the study of the principle of cloud civilisations and the way complex social systems function. She believes in free education for all, multidisciplinarity, and is fascinated by the historical impact of technologies on the structure of human society. The mentioned research primarily focuses on the specifics of human behavior in virtual environments To obtain the most relevant data, Sara and her team decided to build a custom simulator that, due to its idealistic foundation and significant historical distance, would allow for a relatively unbiased approach for all participants. For this reason, the writings of the Greek philosopher Plato (427-347 BC), The Republic, were chosen, where Sara finds a very detailed description of the proposed utopian society. Sara describes herself as a British comedy junkie, technology and history obsessive. She is writing a book on memes and history.
Sara Polak is an Oxford-educated archaeologist who has worked in the tech sector her entire career. She has worked in start-ups in London and LA for 7 years and after almost 10 years abroad she returned back home to the Czech Republic where she now leads a research group at FIT CTU focusing on the study of the principle of cloud civilisations and the way complex social systems function. She believes in free education for all, multidisciplinarity, and is fascinated by the historical impact of technologies on the structure of human society. The mentioned research primarily focuses on the specifics of human behavior in virtual environments To obtain the most relevant data, Sara and her team decided to build a custom simulator that, due to its idealistic foundation and significant historical distance, would allow for a relatively unbiased approach for all participants. For this reason, the writings of the Greek philosopher Plato (427-347 BC), The Republic, were chosen, where Sara finds a very detailed description of the proposed utopian society. Sara describes herself as a British comedy junkie, technology and history obsessive. She is writing a book on memes and history.
Lei Motilla
Co-founder and social innovator lead at AI4Gov
Lei is the co-founder and lead social innovator at AI4Gov. She is a young leader from the Philippines, specializing in applied AI for the public sector. She finds inspiration in blending advanced technologies with community organizing together with a team of fellow young leaders with multi-disciplinary skills. She believes that digital technologies, especially Artificial Intelligence, can be used strategically to ensure meaningful youth engagement in democratic institutions.
Lei is the co-founder and lead social innovator at AI4Gov. She is a young leader from the Philippines, specializing in applied AI for the public sector. She finds inspiration in blending advanced technologies with community organizing together with a team of fellow young leaders with multi-disciplinary skills. She believes that digital technologies, especially Artificial Intelligence, can be used strategically to ensure meaningful youth engagement in democratic institutions.
Sean Bielat
Founder & CEO, Greengrid
Sean Bielat is an Executive Partner at Wincove Private Holdings and Executive Chairman of Rhino Tool House, an industrial solutions company. He is the former Chief Executive Officer of Endeavor Robotics, the leading provider of ground robots for military applications across the US Armed Forces and into more than 55 countries. Sean was a candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in 2010 and 2012. He previously worked at iRobot Corporation and as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He began his career as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. Sean holds a Bachelor’s degree in Government from Georgetown University, a Master in Public Policy in International Security and Political Economy from the Harvard Kennedy School, and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. He completed a Certificate in Financing and Deploying Clean Energy through the Center for Business and the Environment at Yale University. Sean is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute.
Sean Bielat is an Executive Partner at Wincove Private Holdings and Executive Chairman of Rhino Tool House, an industrial solutions company. He is the former Chief Executive Officer of Endeavor Robotics, the leading provider of ground robots for military applications across the US Armed Forces and into more than 55 countries. Sean was a candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in 2010 and 2012. He previously worked at iRobot Corporation and as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He began his career as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. Sean holds a Bachelor’s degree in Government from Georgetown University, a Master in Public Policy in International Security and Political Economy from the Harvard Kennedy School, and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. He completed a Certificate in Financing and Deploying Clean Energy through the Center for Business and the Environment at Yale University. Sean is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute.
Michal Pechoucek
Technology Executive and AI Professor
Michal Pěchouček is the Director of the AI Center (AIC) at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague. He is the author of more than 400 impacted publications and contributed by many innovative applications to AI research in the field of computer science. Over the past 20 years, he has been working at the CTU in Prague, where he led the Department of Computer Science, co-founded the research-oriented program Open Informatics, established the AIC, and started the initiative prg.ai that aims to transform Prague into a European AI superhub. He has been a visiting professor at the University of Southern California, the University of Edinburgh, the State University of New York in Binghamton and the University of Calgary and led research projects funded by agencies like NASA, the FAA or the U.S. Department of Defense. In addition to his academic work, Michal has been involved in establishing several technology start-ups, such as cybersecurity company Cognitive Security (acquired by CISCO in 2013), AgentFly Technologies, which focuses on autonomous air traffic control, and BlindSpot Solutions, which develops artificial intelligence for use in industry and which was acquired by the Adastra Group in 2017. In 2019, he was appointed Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in Avast, yet continues to lead the AIC, give lectures and supervise students at the university. He is married and has three daughters. In his free time, he loves to hike in the mountains and run marathons.
Michal Pěchouček is the Director of the AI Center (AIC) at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague. He is the author of more than 400 impacted publications and contributed by many innovative applications to AI research in the field of computer science. Over the past 20 years, he has been working at the CTU in Prague, where he led the Department of Computer Science, co-founded the research-oriented program Open Informatics, established the AIC, and started the initiative prg.ai that aims to transform Prague into a European AI superhub. He has been a visiting professor at the University of Southern California, the University of Edinburgh, the State University of New York in Binghamton and the University of Calgary and led research projects funded by agencies like NASA, the FAA or the U.S. Department of Defense. In addition to his academic work, Michal has been involved in establishing several technology start-ups, such as cybersecurity company Cognitive Security (acquired by CISCO in 2013), AgentFly Technologies, which focuses on autonomous air traffic control, and BlindSpot Solutions, which develops artificial intelligence for use in industry and which was acquired by the Adastra Group in 2017. In 2019, he was appointed Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in Avast, yet continues to lead the AIC, give lectures and supervise students at the university. He is married and has three daughters. In his free time, he loves to hike in the mountains and run marathons.
Alissa Hsu Lynch
Board of Directors at The Honest Company and former Google
Alissa is a former professional dancer turned global business leader with over 25 years of healthcare, consumer goods, and technology experience at industry giants including Johnson & Johnson and Google. At Google Cloud she pioneered strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, steering digital transformation in healthcare through the innovative application of data, analytics, and AI. Her tenure as an executive at Johnson & Johnson saw her at the helm of multi-billion-dollar businesses, demonstrating her agility in navigating the complex landscapes of both the Consumer and MedTech sectors. Her global perspective is enriched by her lived experience of working across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Alissa has served on the Board of Directors of The Honest Company (Nasdaq: HNST), Pulmonx Corporation (Nasdaq: LUNG), and is a member of the Board of Trustees of American Ballet Theatre. Recognized by Fierce Healthcare as one of the most influential minority healthcare executives, she was named to the Financial Times Agenda Diversity 100 and was honored by BoardProspects as one of 100 AAPI Board Directors Making a Difference. She is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute and holds two design patents. She is also an Entrepreneur in Residence at DigitalDx Ventures, a woman-led impact venture fund investing in innovation at the intersection of AI and healthcare. Alissa is a frequent speaker and writer on the topics of digital transformation, health technology, and enlightened leadership. Before her business career, Alissa lived her childhood dream of becoming a professional dancer. She toured internationally for 6 years with the Limón Dance Company and Ralph Lemon Dance, performing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, and the Cannes Dance Festival. She earned an A.B. in English at Princeton University and her M.B.A. at Columbia Business School.
Alissa is a former professional dancer turned global business leader with over 25 years of healthcare, consumer goods, and technology experience at industry giants including Johnson & Johnson and Google. At Google Cloud she pioneered strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, steering digital transformation in healthcare through the innovative application of data, analytics, and AI. Her tenure as an executive at Johnson & Johnson saw her at the helm of multi-billion-dollar businesses, demonstrating her agility in navigating the complex landscapes of both the Consumer and MedTech sectors. Her global perspective is enriched by her lived experience of working across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Alissa has served on the Board of Directors of The Honest Company (Nasdaq: HNST), Pulmonx Corporation (Nasdaq: LUNG), and is a member of the Board of Trustees of American Ballet Theatre. Recognized by Fierce Healthcare as one of the most influential minority healthcare executives, she was named to the Financial Times Agenda Diversity 100 and was honored by BoardProspects as one of 100 AAPI Board Directors Making a Difference. She is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute and holds two design patents. She is also an Entrepreneur in Residence at DigitalDx Ventures, a woman-led impact venture fund investing in innovation at the intersection of AI and healthcare. Alissa is a frequent speaker and writer on the topics of digital transformation, health technology, and enlightened leadership. Before her business career, Alissa lived her childhood dream of becoming a professional dancer. She toured internationally for 6 years with the Limón Dance Company and Ralph Lemon Dance, performing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, and the Cannes Dance Festival. She earned an A.B. in English at Princeton University and her M.B.A. at Columbia Business School.
Moonshot Borderless Award
Dunola Oladapo
Digital Inclusion Programme Officer at International Telecommunication Union
Dunola Oladapo works in the Digital Inclusion team at the UN ITU [The United Nations Agency for ICTs]. She has previously worked as a financial analyst at the UK National Audit Office, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Investment Bank. Dunola sits on the #iWill Fund Leadership Board where she influences how investment is allocated to increase UK youth social action;, she is the current UK Coordinator of the Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network [CYPAN], and she is a Schwarzman Scholar. She has represented the UK at the Youth G7 Summit, The G(irls)20 Summit, Women Political Leadership Forum and MISK Global Forum. She is a G(irls)20 Ambassador and is the founder and trustee of Luton Lights – a charity to empower girls in the UK. Dunola has been awarded a UK Women of The Future Award for her continuous work to try to empower those who are marginalised in society.
Dunola Oladapo works in the Digital Inclusion team at the UN ITU [The United Nations Agency for ICTs]. She has previously worked as a financial analyst at the UK National Audit Office, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Investment Bank. Dunola sits on the #iWill Fund Leadership Board where she influences how investment is allocated to increase UK youth social action;, she is the current UK Coordinator of the Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network [CYPAN], and she is a Schwarzman Scholar. She has represented the UK at the Youth G7 Summit, The G(irls)20 Summit, Women Political Leadership Forum and MISK Global Forum. She is a G(irls)20 Ambassador and is the founder and trustee of Luton Lights – a charity to empower girls in the UK. Dunola has been awarded a UK Women of The Future Award for her continuous work to try to empower those who are marginalised in society.
Jan Bednář
Founder ShipMonk
Jan Bednář founded ShipMonk in 2014 with a vision to revolutionize the way eCommerce companies manage their supply chain and ship products to customers. Through innovative supply chain software, automation, and exceptional fulfillment solutions, ShipMonk addresses one of eCommerce's biggest challenges—efficient product delivery—allowing businesses to focus on growth rather than logistics. With a passion for problem-solving, operations, and technology, Bednář and his team bootstrapped ShipMonk into a profitable market leader. In late 2020, they secured a $355 million investment from PE Growth Partners. Starting with $30,000 from a college business plan competition, ShipMonk grew to over $350 million in annual recurring revenue in just over five years, with 10 global locations and more than 2,500 employees. ShipMonk currently assists over 1,500 eCommerce companies in delivering over 5 million products monthly worldwide. Originally from the Czech Republic, Bednář moved to the U.S. to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams at 17. After several failed ventures, he founded BedaBox, which pivoted to ShipMonk in 2016. In his personal life, Bednář enjoys traveling, ice hockey, wake surfing, CrossFit, martial arts, and adrenaline sports with his wife and friends.
Jan Bednář founded ShipMonk in 2014 with a vision to revolutionize the way eCommerce companies manage their supply chain and ship products to customers. Through innovative supply chain software, automation, and exceptional fulfillment solutions, ShipMonk addresses one of eCommerce's biggest challenges—efficient product delivery—allowing businesses to focus on growth rather than logistics. With a passion for problem-solving, operations, and technology, Bednář and his team bootstrapped ShipMonk into a profitable market leader. In late 2020, they secured a $355 million investment from PE Growth Partners. Starting with $30,000 from a college business plan competition, ShipMonk grew to over $350 million in annual recurring revenue in just over five years, with 10 global locations and more than 2,500 employees. ShipMonk currently assists over 1,500 eCommerce companies in delivering over 5 million products monthly worldwide. Originally from the Czech Republic, Bednář moved to the U.S. to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams at 17. After several failed ventures, he founded BedaBox, which pivoted to ShipMonk in 2016. In his personal life, Bednář enjoys traveling, ice hockey, wake surfing, CrossFit, martial arts, and adrenaline sports with his wife and friends.
Ruben Sigala
CMO at Well
Ruben Sigala is the Chief Marketing and Analytics Officer for Well, a start-up health technology and services company with a mission to be the world's most effective partner in the advancement of individualized health. Ruben has been a frequent keynote speaker and contributor to many industry panels including the Marketing World 50 and McKinsey’s Analytics and Data Roundtable. Ruben has an undergraduate degree in finance and business from the University of Kansas, where he was a Rhodes and Marshall scholar nominee, and an MBA for Harvard Business School. Ruben also serves on the National Board of Camp Kesem, a national non-profit dedicated to providing free summer camps for children who have been impacted by a parent's cancer. He is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network.
Ruben Sigala is the Chief Marketing and Analytics Officer for Well, a start-up health technology and services company with a mission to be the world's most effective partner in the advancement of individualized health. Ruben has been a frequent keynote speaker and contributor to many industry panels including the Marketing World 50 and McKinsey’s Analytics and Data Roundtable. Ruben has an undergraduate degree in finance and business from the University of Kansas, where he was a Rhodes and Marshall scholar nominee, and an MBA for Harvard Business School. Ruben also serves on the National Board of Camp Kesem, a national non-profit dedicated to providing free summer camps for children who have been impacted by a parent's cancer. He is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network.
Christopher Aw
Board Director at Operation Snow Leopard
Christopher Aw is CIO at a private Single Family Office. He supports private investment, structuring, and partnerships. Additionally, he invests in early-stage technology companies that are revolutionizing traditional industries. He also continues to consult for nations, venture capital firms, and conglomerates in multiple areas of technology and investments. He served in the United States Air Force in technology and intelligence fields both operationally and in research and development. He has worked at a US government think tank supporting the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in a $20B per year investment vehicle evaluating technology investments across multiple disciplines. Subsequently, he founded his own companies in cyber security and technology consulting. Chris is on the board of Operation Snow Leopard which focuses on supporting the evacuation and ongoing support of Afghanistan refugees. He is also on the advisory board of Veterans in Media and Entertainment which supports military veterans in the film and entertainment industries. He also volunteers with programs that support female entrepreneurs such as Beyond The Billion, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, FYLI, Creating Responsible Innovative Business (CRIB), and Women In Tech (WIT). He has a particular interest in companies in renewable energy, water, waste management, food, and health. His education includes a BA in Business (Information Systems) from the University of Washington, an MS in Information Systems from Bowie State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland, and an Asset Management program at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Business School.
Christopher Aw is CIO at a private Single Family Office. He supports private investment, structuring, and partnerships. Additionally, he invests in early-stage technology companies that are revolutionizing traditional industries. He also continues to consult for nations, venture capital firms, and conglomerates in multiple areas of technology and investments. He served in the United States Air Force in technology and intelligence fields both operationally and in research and development. He has worked at a US government think tank supporting the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in a $20B per year investment vehicle evaluating technology investments across multiple disciplines. Subsequently, he founded his own companies in cyber security and technology consulting. Chris is on the board of Operation Snow Leopard which focuses on supporting the evacuation and ongoing support of Afghanistan refugees. He is also on the advisory board of Veterans in Media and Entertainment which supports military veterans in the film and entertainment industries. He also volunteers with programs that support female entrepreneurs such as Beyond The Billion, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, FYLI, Creating Responsible Innovative Business (CRIB), and Women In Tech (WIT). He has a particular interest in companies in renewable energy, water, waste management, food, and health. His education includes a BA in Business (Information Systems) from the University of Washington, an MS in Information Systems from Bowie State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland, and an Asset Management program at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Business School.
Pete Kadens
Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board at Fello
Pete currently serves as the chairman of The Kadens Family Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to closing the pervasive wealth and education gaps in the US. Pete retired in August 2018 as CEO of Green Thumb Industries, one of the largest publicly-traded, legal cannabis operators in the US with a current market capitalization of over $2 billion. Prior to cofounding Green Thumb Industries, in 2008 Pete started one of the largest commercial solar companies in the US, SoCore Energy. Under his leadership, SoCore expanded operations into 17 states and was named one of Chicago's most innovative businesses by Chicago Innovation Awards. In 2013, he sold SoCore Energy to Edison International, a Fortune 500 energy holding company. Pete is one of 25 cannabis industry executives serving on the board of directors of the Cannabis Trade Federation, the nation's leading organization focused solely on federal marijuana policy reform. Pete was also named one of the 20 People to Watch in the Cannabis Industry in 2018 by Marijuana Business Daily. Pete believes deeply in, and actively leads, organizations that seek to transform lives and strengthen communities, serving as chairman of StreetWise (2009 – 2018), one of the largest homeless aid organizations in Chicago. Pete currently serves as chairman emeritus at StreetWise and sits on several other boards in the nonprofit and for-profit space. Pete was awarded the Trailblazer Chicago Award by The Cara Program in 2019, The Catalyst Man of the Year by Streetwise in 2015, and the Distinguished Alumnus for Citizenship in 2010 by his alma mater, Bucknell University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science. He was also named one of the 40 Under 40 by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2012. Pete is a 2019 Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute.
Pete currently serves as the chairman of The Kadens Family Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to closing the pervasive wealth and education gaps in the US. Pete retired in August 2018 as CEO of Green Thumb Industries, one of the largest publicly-traded, legal cannabis operators in the US with a current market capitalization of over $2 billion. Prior to cofounding Green Thumb Industries, in 2008 Pete started one of the largest commercial solar companies in the US, SoCore Energy. Under his leadership, SoCore expanded operations into 17 states and was named one of Chicago's most innovative businesses by Chicago Innovation Awards. In 2013, he sold SoCore Energy to Edison International, a Fortune 500 energy holding company. Pete is one of 25 cannabis industry executives serving on the board of directors of the Cannabis Trade Federation, the nation's leading organization focused solely on federal marijuana policy reform. Pete was also named one of the 20 People to Watch in the Cannabis Industry in 2018 by Marijuana Business Daily. Pete believes deeply in, and actively leads, organizations that seek to transform lives and strengthen communities, serving as chairman of StreetWise (2009 – 2018), one of the largest homeless aid organizations in Chicago. Pete currently serves as chairman emeritus at StreetWise and sits on several other boards in the nonprofit and for-profit space. Pete was awarded the Trailblazer Chicago Award by The Cara Program in 2019, The Catalyst Man of the Year by Streetwise in 2015, and the Distinguished Alumnus for Citizenship in 2010 by his alma mater, Bucknell University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science. He was also named one of the 40 Under 40 by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2012. Pete is a 2019 Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute.
2025

Moonshot Awards

Empowering young leaders

We are here to celebrate and support exceptional young leaders in pursuing early stage projects, social ventures, and ideas that have the potential to significantly advance society and the environment.
Apply now
The Moonshot 2024 Awards applications are now closed. Thank you to all who applied! Submissions will be evaluated in the upcoming weeks. You should hear from our team no later than September 30
Mark your
calendar

Timeline

April
Launch of awards & camp applications
April
Launch of awards & camp applications
May 11
Camp applications deadline
May
Camp applications deadline
July 13 to 19
Moonshot Young Leaders Camp
July 13 to 19
Moonshot Young Leaders Camp
July 15
Awards application deadline
July 15
Awards application deadline
August
Shortlist
announced
August
Shortlist announced
November 13
Moonshot Awards in New York City
November 13
Moonshot Awards in New York City

Moonshot Awards provide funding of over $100,000

across 8 categories and invite 100 young innovators and mentors into acceleration programs.

Main Category Awards

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these awards seek innovative and inclusive solutions that tackle today's most critical challenges.

Idea

For young people with a working prototype or proof of concept who require additional support to launch their initiatives.

Start-Up

For youth-led registered operations with initial market traction and a path to profitability, looking to scale.

Non-Profit

For youth-led registered non-profits with initial success, plan for sustainable growth, looking to expand their impact.

Thematic Impact Awards

Curated by Moonshot’s panel of judges and partners, these awards focus on specific themes with substantial potential for impact or urgent need for attention.

Learning

Recognizing advancements in educational methods and access.

Health

Celebrating innovations that enhance health outcomes and personal well-being.

Art for Humanity

Honoring artistic endeavors that bridge divides and foster unity amidst societal polarization.

AI for Good

Rewarding the use of AI technology to benefit society, support communities, or protect the environment.

Borderless

Acknowledging solutions by founders addressing the needs of refugees, displaced peoples, indigenous peoples, and/or migrant communities.

About Awards

We are celebrating and supporting exceptional early-stage projects, social ventures, and ideas with the potential to significantly advance communities and the environment.

Benefits of participating

Our goal extends beyond project support; we aim to foster personal growth in young leaders by providing mentorship, integrating them into a vibrant community of peers, and offering grants and funding.
Invitation to the NYC Ceremony
Featuring exclusive UN meetings, seminars at One World Trade Center, and the Moonshot Awards ceremony in Chelsea, Manhattan.
Admission to Moonshot Camp
A transformative experience focused on personal growth, mentorship, new friendships, and venture acceleration.
Financial Support
Winners of the Main Awards receive $10,000 equity-free grants, and Thematic Award winners win equity-free grants of $5,000. Members of the Moonshot Community may also be eligible for follow-on awards or investment and expert support from development directors and VCs.
Recognition and Network
Gain international recognition and connect with over 100 global partners through announcements across 8 project and provide 100 young innovators and mentors with access to acc. program.

Main Category Award

Moonshot Idea Award

Ideas have the power to set the course of the future. We aim to find and support those ideas which can change the course of history for the better. Moonshot Platform supports the sparks
of innovation across fields - ranging from the natural sciences, humanities, arts, and technology.
Do you have a revolutionary idea? One that could change the world - or your community - as you know it? And make life better for people or the planet? We want to hear it - we want to help you realize it.
Main topic
Moonshot Idea advancing fulfilment of SDGs, with a working prototype, plan, or proof of concept.
Eligibility
A young person aged 15 to 25 by 1 July, 2025.
Award
$10,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured funding or investment of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Simon Klinga
LASAR
About

Simon’s journey into space exploration began in his Czech hometown, inspired by Star Wars marathons and building rockets at age 12. At 16, he led his high school team to win NASA awards at the Conrad Challenge for a satellite-restarting laser system, gaining recognition from the Czech Prime Minister. This year, his team’s LASARsat satellite will launch aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 to test their innovation in orbit. A recipient of numerous accolades, including the European Space Agency’s Hack an Exoplanet prize, Simon dreams of making space exploration accessible to all students, inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Moonshot Start-Up Award

Small in size, but massive in impact potential, these mission-driven organizations can break molds, fix intractable problems, and innovate for a more positive future. We aim to help them change a piece of the world in a positive way, especially by reaching those who have yet to receive any formal support or funding.Have you started a company that's ready to take on a huge challenge? Do you have a compelling business plan that's ready to take off? Are you ready to put your ideas to the test and change the future?
Main topic
Youth-led operations advancing the fulfillment of one or more of the SDGs, with initial market traction and a path to profitability, looking to eventually scale.
Eligibility
A young person aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025, leading a for profit organization or project that is advancing SDGs.  The young leader can be on any
C-Level position, or a Founder. 
Award
$10,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured funding or investment of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Adekoyejo Kuye
KAMIM Technologies Cooling Hubs
About

Adekoyejo Kuye is an innovative energy entrepreneur and CEO of KAMIM Technologies Limited, a leading Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) firm in Nigeria. With nearly a decade of experience, he focuses on clean energy solutions for the power and agricultural sectors, including pioneering solar-powered cold rooms by repurposing end-of-life generators. Adekoyejo, who holds an engineering background and is pursuing an MBA in Energy and Sustainability, has spearheaded projects that connect thousands of farmers to sustainable energy. His leadership and commitment to sustainability have earned him awards from SEforALL, Carbon Trust, and others, and he is a prominent contributor to global energy dialogues, including at the United Nations.

Winner

Adolfo Martin Vidal Ruiz
Celal-Mex
About

Adolfo is a 23-year-old scientist, biotechnologist, and CEO of Celal-Mex, a startup turning pineapple waste into eco-friendly raw materials for products like diapers and bioplastics. Named Mexico's top student entrepreneur and recognized globally, Adolfo shares insights on scientific entrepreneurship with over 15,000 followers on TikTok and gives talks across Mexico to support scientists and entrepreneurs. His journey began after creating an electric wheelchair adapter inspired by his father's battle with brain cancer. Today, Celal-Mex has received acclaim from institutions like MIT and Babson College, aiming to inspire Mexican youth in science and innovation.

Moonshot Non-Profit Award

Often at the forefront of advocacy, service delivery, and emergency response at the grassroots level, non-profit organizations usually fill in the gaps left by public and private institutions, especially in support of the most vulnerable communities. We aim to provide young leaders in this space with the support and funding they need to improve, scale up their program delivery, and increase their longer-term impact.Have you started or are you leading a non-profit to address a social, community, or environmental challenge?
Main topic
Youth-led non-profits adressing any of SDGs, which have initial success, a plan for sustainable growth, and are looking to increase their impact.
Eligibility
A young person aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025, leading a non-profit organization that is advancing one or more of the  SDGs.  The young leader can be on any C-Level position, or a Founder. 
Award
$10,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured external funding of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Jovia Kisakye
Ecobed Biotech Initiative
About

Jovia Kisakye, a social entrepreneur with a background in environmental science and business statistics from Makerere University, leads sustainable initiatives through Ecobed Biotech Brand. As CEO, she innovates in waste management and agriculture, creating mosquito-repellent skincare from spoiled milk and plant extracts and using fly larvae to transform food waste into organic fertilizers and animal feed for farmers. Recognized internationally by organizations like UNCTAD and Dovetail Impact Foundation, Jovia also serves on the African Union Youth Reference Committee, where she advocates for women’s empowerment and climate action across Africa.

Thematic Impact Category Award

Moonshot Learning Award

From the COVID-19 pandemic to the advent of generative AI, the ways in which we learn have been upended over the last half decade, and new approaches to learning will be required to prepare young people for the future of work, democracy, and society. Adapting educational practices and systems to be future fit, while also ensuring learners across the globe have access to the resources they need to learn effectively, requires new ways to harness technology, spark creativity, and provide services. Learning happens inside and outside of traditional school settings, and we believe learning is a lifelong practice. Moonshot is committed to supporting changemakers who are shifting the way that teaching and learning happen - for individuals and society.
Main topic
Proof of concept or more advanced practices in educational methods and or access.
Eligibility
A founder or idea maker aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025.
Award
$10,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured external funding of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Tamara Höfer
Richtungswechsel
About

Tamara is an expert in penal reform, who uses an evidence-based approach to support prisoner rehabilitation. Tamara previously worked as a prison officer in England & Wales as a participant of the Unlocked Graduates Programme, a leadership scheme for outstanding graduates. After her frontline role, Tamara informed national and international prison research and strategy for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and His Majesty's Prison Service in England & Wales. Since then, Tamara has founded her own NPO, Richtungswechsel, where she is currently applying her knowledge in penal reform and research to innovative solutions in supporting prisons tackling staffing problems, reducing reoffending, and improving prison conditions affecting outcomes for incarcerated individuals.

Winner

Stanley Anigbogu
LightEd Impact
About

Stanley Anigbogu is a Nigerian creative technologist and social entrepreneur committed to tackling energy poverty and environmental challenges. As the Founder and CEO of LightEd, he transforms electronic and plastic waste into solar-powered solutions, providing clean, affordable energy to underserved communities across Africa. Stanley’s innovations, such as the Glow Lamp and Avatar Station, have impacted thousands, promoting sustainability and education while reducing energy poverty.Globally recognized for his work, Stanley has earned prestigious awards, including the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award, the Swarovski Foundation Creative for Our Future Program, and the Globethics Youth Leadership Award. He is also a 776 Climate Fellow and an Echoing Green Fellow. His mission focuses on empowering communities and inspiring youth and community-led climate action for a more sustainable future.

Moonshot Health Award

Healthcare innovations teach us more about ourselves everyday. Groundbreaking advances are bringing solutions to mental and physical wellbeing challenges. And yet, intersectional disparities in access to healthcare persist in every society and between countries. As emerging technologies are leveraging bog data to transform medical research, and global health intervention and healthcare delivery systems are being threatened or dismantled, patient outcomes, healthcare access, and public health are all on the line. In this award category, we hope to discover vital solutions to transforming healthcare today - and for a healthier future for all.
Main topic
Innovations that enhance health outcomes and wellbeing for individuals and communities, including innovations that improve healthcare delivery and accessibility.
Eligibility
A founder, scientist or medical practitioner with a proof of concept, aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025.
Award
$5,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured funding or investment of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Samih Daher
The SAPHe community
About

Samih Daher is a 27-year-old healthcare professional from Lebanon, passionately dedicated to sexual health advocacy and a prominent voice within the LGBTQ+ community. Holding a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a Master’s in Clinical Research from Université Paris-Saclay, Samih specializes in the complexities of STDs and STIs, including HIV and Hepatitis. He has conducted numerous impactful workshops, such as “Sexual Health for Young Men” and “Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health,” creating open, safe environments for individuals to learn and discuss sensitive health topics. In 2023, Samih founded the SAPHe Community, an initiative aimed at improving access to sexual health resources and fostering peer support, underscoring his commitment to building a healthier, more informed society.

Moonshot Art for Humanity Award

Art has the power to transcend boundaries, evoke profound shared emotions, and transform lives and entire societies. Powerful art reflects and creates, challenges and validates, makes bold statements and asks necessary questions. We are now entering a new era of societal disruption and unprecedented technological proliferation. In this time, what is the role of art in protecting and empowering our humanity? Whether it’s a film that helps bridge gaps between enemies, or a performance art piece that expresses our inner beauty, or a sculpture depicting a modern injustice to awaken our inner conscience, we’re looking for groundbreaking artists exploring what it means to create human-centered art in an age of disruption. We are looking for art and artists that nurture our innermost humanity. How do we protect and nurture our hearts amidst great upheavals? How do we champion the timeless depth, joy, and soul of the human spirit amidst all of the rapid and often chaotic changes in today’s world?
Main topic
An artistic endeavor that spotlights our inner humanity and human spirit in the midst of a technological revolution and/or societal upheaval.
Eligibility
A young creator, performer, poet, playwright or author, filmmaker or visual artist in any medium aged 15 to 30 by 1 July 2025.
Award
$5,000 equity-free.
Exclusion
Only original pieces and productions. The use of AI technology in the creation or generation of any piece should be explained and described in the artist's statement.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Kevin Jin Kwan Kim
What Did They Say?
About

Kevin Jin Kwan Kim is a Korean-Canadian director and editor based in Vancouver, BC, on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. Known for his rhythmic editing style and his talent for storytelling, he brings to life intimate, relatable narratives that highlight BIPOC voices. His micro-shorts on heritage, including What Did They Say? and Halmeoni, have collectively garnered over 40 million views and recognition at the YDA in Cannes, the Webby Awards, CBC, and more. His short film Sun, Moon and Four Peaks premiered at the Vancouver International Film Festival, winning the Grand Prix RPCE at the Festival du Nouveau Cinema.

Read before applying
Please have these guidelines open as you go through the application for the Moonshot Art for Humanity category. It will help you keep aligned.
Important Submission Guidelines

Moonshot AI for Good Award

The emergence of new technology has transformed human society for millenia. But AI is redefining human interactions and experiences in the space of less than a generation. This technology and its rapid advances bring untold numbers of opportunities to develop solutions in education, healthcare, commerce, science and more. It also brings monumental challenges and questions around intractable social issues of access, justice, equity, and more. We invite changemakers to share their innovations which are harnessing the power of AI for good, leading the way to a more ethical and prosperous future for all.
Main topic
Proof of concept (or further) development in the use of AI technology to benefit society, support community development, or protect the environment.
Eligibility
An innovator, engineer, scientist, or coder aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025.
Award
$5,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured funding or investment of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Thomas Terhemba James
TED Evergreen
About

Thomas Terhemba James is from Nigeria, he is the founder of TED InnovativeSolutions Limited. With a background in electrical and electronics engineering, headdresses social challenges in rural communities in Nigeria associated with lack ofelectricity; with clean and renewable energy production. Using digital technology andArtificial Intelligence based model to learn and analyse customer data to offerpersonalised, flexible payment based on energy consumption and financialbehaviour, breaking affordability barriers. Thomas has earned local and internationalrecognition, including support from the Nigerian Content Development andMonitoring Board under the science and Technology Innovations Challenge (STIC),International Telecommunications Union, and Huawei under their GCYLP fellowshipand is committed to using innovation to create a sustainable business model andimpact.

Moonshot Borderless Award

Borders can both unite and divide us. Geopolitical challenges adversely affect the lives of billions, especially those living in conflict-affected areas, many of whom face both internal and transnational displacement. Entire ethnic and cultural groups are forced to flee their homes seeking safety, protection, and assistance, relying on the often ill-equipped global community to provide temporary and permanent solutions. Global trends on refugees, internally displaced persons and stateless persons are exacerbated by ongoing conflicts, civil wars, and political instability.Globally, indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities face discrimination, high poverty rates, landlessness, malnutrition, and other inequities and disparties in educational attainment, health outcomes, and economic opportunities.Given the scale of humanitarian need, we look to support initiatives that serve marginalized minority communities and / or communities in emergency situations - applying a "by or with the people, for the people principle."
Main topic
Proof of concept or more in advancements in educational methods and access.
Eligibility
A founder or idea maker aged 18 to 30 by 1 July 2025.
Award
$5,000 equity-free grant.
Exclusion
Organizations with secured funding or investment of $250,000 USD or more.
Jury
Revealed soon
Revealed soon

Winner

Muhammad Zubair Madni
Cholistan Center of Excellence
About

Muhammad Zubair Madni is a digital and social innovator with over five years of experience in designing impactful, locally tailored interventions to bridge Pakistan's digital divide. Holding a master’s in Digital Technologies, Communication, and Education from the University of Manchester as a Chevening scholar, his work focuses on ICT solutions to improve connectivity and learning in underserved areas. As co-founder of the Cholistan Centre of Excellence, he leads the DIGITAL ROHI project in collaboration with the ITU, bringing digital access to marginalized communities. His efforts have reached over 10,000 people, earning him Pakistan's National Youth Award in 2021.

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