Panel Discussion 2025 Speakers

Brandon Laur

CEO
THE WHITE HATTER

Brandon is the CEO and instructor at The White Hatter, where he leads digital literacy workshops for students, parents, educators, and professionals. His mission is to make the internet a safer place for everyone.

🔹 Expert in: Internet safety, privacy, and OSINT (open-source intelligence)
🔹 Research Focus: Hackers, Scammers, & Teenage Sexting Behavior
🔹 Recognized With: BC Medal of Good Citizenship 🏅 | Emerging Businessperson of the Year 🏆 | Social Innovations Youth Award

Brandon’s expertise has been featured across Canadian & U.S. media, where he shares insights on today’s biggest digital threats. He also leads The White Hatter’s broadcasting studio, helping to expand its impact globally.

CAPT J.S. Manak

Cyber Security Officer
Canadian Armed Forces

Capt J. S. Manak is a highly accomplished leader in cybersecurity and communications technology, serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. As part of the leadership team at the Joint Force Cyber Component Command, Capt Manak plays a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation, design, and maintenance of Communications and Information Systems (CIS) while delivering cyber effects locally, nationally, and internationally.

With a degree in Computer Science from the University of Calgary, Capt Manak brings a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership, and strategic insight to managing cyber operations. Leading a team of over 2,000 IT and cyber professionals, he ensures that stakeholder needs are met in a dynamic and rapidly evolving digital landscape.

🔹 Expert in: Cybersecurity, IT Infrastructure, & Communications Systems
🔹 Current Role: Leadership team at the Joint Force Cyber Component Command
🔹 Experience: Managing & coordinating cyber effects and IT operations at national and international levels
🔹 Tech Startup Founder: Applying entrepreneurial skills to national service

Capt Manak’s work extends beyond traditional cybersecurity, shaping digital defense strategies and operational cyber capabilities that impact not only Canada but also global security efforts. His leadership continues to drive innovation and resilience in national cybersecurity operations.

DR. AYO LASISI

Founder KedeSolutions
Cyber Security Expert

Ayo is a technology leader, cybersecurity expert, and the visionary behind Kede Solutions Incorporated and Tha Challenge Initiative. With a PhD in IT and Business Innovation from the University of Brighton, a Master’s in Information Systems Engineering from the University of Manchester, and a BSc in Computer Science Engineering from Babcock University, Nigeria, he brings cutting-edge expertise to the tech and business sectors.

🔹️Expert in: Cybersecurity, IT Risk Management & Business Innovation
🔹️Founder & CEO of Kedesolutions Incorporated | Tech & Cybersecurity Leader
🔹️Passionate About Digital Inclusion & IT Education

Through Kedesolutions, Ayo collaborates with top organizations—including PwC, Alberta Pension Services, Athabasca University, Gilead Sciences, Thermo Fisher, Nutrien, and Teck Resources—offering advanced cybersecurity solutions to safeguard businesses against evolving cyber threats.

Beyond corporate consulting, Ayo is committed to digital inclusion through Tha Challenge Initiative, a platform that provides free IT training to individuals lacking access to technical education. His mission is to bridge the digital divide, empower future tech professionals, and create lasting opportunities in the industry.

DR. Shalini Ramachandran

Mrs. Malaysia World
Mrs. World Ambassador

Dr. Shalini is a renowned medical doctor, social activist, and advocate for lifestyle medicine. She is the Founder of ARANDA CLINIC and DrY DrS WELLNESS, specializing in dermatology, preventive healthcare, and holistic wellness. Beyond medicine, she is a global icon in pageantry, holding the prestigious title of Mrs. Malaysia World 2024 and receiving international accolades for her contributions to women’s empowerment and sustainability.

🔹 Expert in: Medical Dermatology, Preventive Medicine, & Lifestyle Wellness
🔹 Pageantry Titles & Awards: Mrs. Malaysia World 2024 👑 | Mrs. World Ambassador Awardee | Inspirational International Queen of the Year (AIII, India)
🔹 Achievements: 2x Malaysia Book of Records Holder 📖 | Unsung Hero Award (Malaysia) 🏆
🔹 Advocacy: Sustainable Fashion Queen | Women’s Health & Social Activism

As a member of the Malaysia Society of Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Shalini is committed to raising awareness on wellness, sustainability, and social impact. Her leadership in healthcare and advocacy continues to inspire and empower communities worldwide.

KATHY MACDONALD

Retired Police Officer
Cybercrime Prevention Advocate

Kathy is a retired police officer with the Calgary Police Service, bringing nearly three decades of investigative and crime prevention expertise. Now a globally recognized cybercrime prevention advocate, she is dedicated to educating individuals and organizations on digital security, online fraud, and emerging cyber threats.

🟣 Expert in: Cybercrime, Digital Safety, & Cybersecurity Awareness
🟣 Author of Cybercrime: Awareness, Prevention, and Response
🟣 Member of the Métis Nation of Alberta |
🟣 Recognized as a Top 20 Woman in Cybersecurity

With extensive experience as an online investigator and media spokesperson, Kathy has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of cybercrime. She is passionate about equipping people with actionable strategies to protect their personal data, privacy, and digital presence. Her work continues to drive important conversations on social engineering, online exploitation, and the risks of AI and IoT in today’s interconnected world.

WILLIAM DOWNING

Founder
Blue Shield

William is the founder of Blue Shield, bringing nearly a decade of law enforcement and justice system experience to the fight against cybercrime. Witnessing firsthand how criminals exploit human vulnerabilities, he has dedicated his career to developing innovative training programs and resources that help individuals and organizations defend against these evolving threats.

🔹 Expert in: Cybercrime, Law Enforcement, & Digital Security
🔹 Founder of Blue Shield | Cybersecurity Advocate
🔹 Passionate About Digital Safety & Inclusion

As a husband and a proud father of a 5-year-old daughter, William’s mission is deeply personal. He is committed to addressing the unique cybersecurity challenges women face, advocating for a safer, more inclusive digital future for all. Through his work, he continues to lead critical conversations on protecting our interconnected world and staying ahead of emerging cybersecurity trends.