Under the patronage of His Excellency,
His Excellency Engineer Abdullah Alswaha has over two decades of experience
in leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship. Throughout his multi-decade
career, he has built multi-billion riyal, high-performing organizations in both the
private and public sector.
His Excellency was appointed as Minister of Communications and Information Technology in April 2017. Prior to this, he was the Chief Digital Officer of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in charge of leading key digitization efforts across the
public sector, including the creation of a national digital identity scheme,
promoting open data and the enablement of digital entrepreneurship
Before His Excellency joined the Vision 2030 team, he served in the private
sector as the CEO of Cisco Saudi Arabia.
Under his leadership, the company remained the leading digitization partner in
Saudi Arabia and the surrounding region. He also founded Ubieva, a social
entrepreneurship incubator that went on to launch the first mobile health app in
the Middle East.
In addition to his role as the Minister of Communications and Information
Technology, he also chairs the board of the Saudi Space Commission, Research,
Development and Innovation Authority, King Abdulaziz City for Science and
Technology (KACST) and the, Communications and Information Technology
Commission, and the National Digitization Committee.
His Excellency is a member of several ministerial level social and economic
committees, and sits on the boards of the MISK Foundation and NEOM.
His Excellency holds bachelors degrees in electrical engineering from the King
Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) and computer science
from the University of Washington, and has attended the Executive Education
Program at Harvard Business School.
H.E. Abdullah Al-Swaha
Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Saudi Arabia & Chairman, CST
The Global Forum on Connecting the World from the Skies was hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia.
The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts from across the world to discuss the continued evolution of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and the key role they are playing in shaping the future of global connectivity.
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient, and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
Before joining the ITU, Mr. Maniewicz occupied a managerial position in Uruguay’s main telecommunications operator and was Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Engineering of Uruguay’s main University.
Mr. Maniewicz is married and has two children. He speaks Spanish, English, French and Portuguese.
Mario Maniewicz
Director, BR, ITU
UNOOSA Director, Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini, maintains responsibility for the Office’s management and administration, provides strategic guidance to its work and ensures that it is implemented in accordance with the mandates of the General Assembly, the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the established policies of the United Nations. She develops the work programme of the Office and ensures the Office’s efficiency, transparency and accountability.
Ms. Holla-Maini serves as the senior advisor to the Secretary-General and represents the SG at meetings and conferences on matters relating to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. She also discharges the Secretary-General’s obligations under the UN treaties and principles on outer space.
Alongside the team in the Office of the Director, Ms. Holla-Maini oversees and coordinates the strategic direction and operational priorities of the Office, including the preparation, monitoring and implementation of the work plan, budget and the strategic framework of the Office.
Aarti Holla-Maini
Director, UNOOSA
Hamid Akhavan is the CEO and President of EchoStar, overseeing all aspects of the company and serves as a member of the Board of Directors. DISH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar. Before joining EchoStar, Hamid was most recently a partner at Twin Point Capital, an investment firm, and a founding partner of Long Arc Capital LLC. He held a variety of executive leadership positions including CEO of Unify Inc. (formerly Siemens Enterprise Communications), Chief Operating Officer at Deutsche Telekom and CEO of T-Mobile International, in connection with which he also served as a member of the Board of Management of Deutsche Telekom. Hamid has been a member of the Board of Directors of Vonage Holding Corp., a global cloud communications company, since 2016, and also serves on that Board’s Technology and Transactions Committees. In addition, Hamid has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Anterix Inc., a wireless communications company, and is a member of its Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees. Hamid earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the California Institute of Technology and his Master of Science in the same fields from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He’s an avid photographer, woodworker and music enthusiast.
Hamid Akhavan
CEO & President, EchoStar
Eva Berneke is Chief Executive Officer of Eutelsat Group, the world’s first GEO-LEO integrated satellite operator formed through the merger of Eutelsat Communications, a global leader in geostationary (GEO) satellite operations, and OneWeb, a world-class low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications network.
Eva Berneke joined Eutelsat on 1st January 2022 from KMD, Denmark’s leading IT and software company, specialising in IT solutions and services for the public and private sector, and now part of the NEC Group. During her tenure she oversaw the transformation of KMD from a mainly government service provider to a modern, digital company competing in both the public and private sectors.
Prior to that Eva held several senior positions at TDC, formerly TeleDanmark, the largest telecommunications company in Denmark, notably as Head of Strategy and Head of the company’s Wholesale Business division. Eva began her career at McKinsey where she developed a specialization in the TMT sectors and where she was based for 10 years at the group’s Paris offices.
Eva sits on the Boards of international groups Lego and Vestas Wind Systems as well as France’s Ecole Polytechnique. She is a graduate of Denmark’s Technical University, where she gained a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and holds an MBA from INSEAD.
Eva Berneke
CEO, Eutelsat Group
ANATEL’s Commissioner Carlos Baigorri, currently President of the Board of Directors, has a degree in Economic Sciences from the University of Brasília (UnB), a Master’s and Doctorate in Economics from the Catholic University of Brasília (UCB).
Acting in the telecommunications area since 2006, he was a consultant and analyst of sector information for an association of mobile operators. He has also served as an undergraduate professor at the Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), at the Institute of Higher Education of Brasília (IESB), and at the Brazilian Institute of Capital Markets (IBMEC). In addition, he wrote articles and book chapters that were published in Brazil and abroad. He has been a permanent career employee at Anatel since 2009, where he has previously been nominated Executive Superintendent, Competition Superintendent, Obligations Control Superintendent, and Head of Technical Assistance.
Carlos Baigorri
President, ANATEL Brazil
Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications, has extensive experience in organizational governance, politics, and competitive economics, and is recognized as a global expert in wireless networks and cloud computing.
Prior to taking on the Governorship at the CST, Dr. Altamimi served the organization as Deputy Governor for Regulation and Competition and acting Deputy Governor for Consumer Protection and Partnership.
A prominent contributor to the international discourse in the field of wireless technology. He has been instrumental in the establishment of a number of specialized research societies in Saudi Arabia, including the Saudi Association for Information Security (Hemaya) where he sits on the board of directors, and his work with the CST has seen him spearhead the preparation of systems, legislation, and regulations in the telecommunications and information technology sector in Saudi Arabia.
Among his many academic achievements, Dr. Altamimi has published several scientific papers in the field of telecommunications engineering and organizational economics. He is the vice president of a research group specializing in wireless networks, next-generation networks, and cloud computing at the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva. He also sits on the board of the Saudi Space Commission and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.
Dr. Altamimi graduated from Harvard University’s Leadership Development program and holds a Ph.D. in telecommunications and networking from the University of Pittsburgh in the USA, a master’s degree in communications technology and policy from the University of Strathclyde in the UK, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals in Saudi Arabia.
H.E. Dr. Mohammed Altamimi
Governor, CST
Jeremy Jurgens is Managing Director & Head of the Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He is responsible for the Member and Partner companies essential to the mission of the Forum as the International Organisation for Public-Private Cooperation. His responsibilities include oversight of all industry initiatives, innovation and technology pioneer communities, the Forum’s offices in China, India and Japan as well as the Centre for Cybersecurity. He has served in various functions since 1999 including Chief Information Officer, Chief Representative China, the head of the Annual Meeting in Davos and the architect of the Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Platform.
Prior to joining the Forum, Jeremy Jurgens has worked at Microsoft, Patagonia and the Japanese Ministry of Finance. He holds a Master in Education from Harvard University and a BA in Economics and International Relations, from Claremont McKenna College
Jeremy Jurgens
Managing Director, World Economic Forum
Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is an officer of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers from the 1984 batch. He had superannuated as Chairman & CEO, Railway Board on 31st August 2023 after a career spanning about 37 years Indian Railway. He is a graduate in Civil Engineering from Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Gwalior, with gold medal and has master’s degree in engineering (Structures) from IIT Roorkee. He has worked in various positions in the Central, Northern, North Central, Western, and West Central Railway, as well as in the Railway Board.
Besides Chairman & CEO, Railway Board, some of the important positions held by Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti include Member Infrastructure, Railway Board, General Manager of Central Railway and Western Railway, Divisional Railway Manager, Lucknow, Northern Railway, Chief Administrative Officer (Construction), Northern Railway and Executive Director, Railway Board. Post his retirement, Ministry of Railway had appointed him to a One-Man Expert Committee for improvement in inspection and maintenance of track. In December 2023, Gati Shakti Vishvavidyalaya, Vadodara, a Central University appointed him as a Distinguished Visiting Professor.
His expertise includes railway operations, track maintenance, project execution and station redevelopment. During his illustrious career, Shri Lahoti initiated several reforms in execution of infrastructure projects and took several initiatives to modernize and mechanize track maintenance on Indian Railways. During his stints as CRB & CEO, GM and DRM, he brought about significant improvement in freight transport performance and took several customer friendly initiatives to improve the quality of service and ease the customer interface. He has also extensively contributed to planning and structuring of station redevelopment projects in various positions served by him.
Shri Lahoti has travelled to various countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia in connection with official assignments. He has undertaken executive training programmes at Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA, SDA Bocconi Business School, Milan, Italy and Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.
He was born to Freedom Fighter Late Shri Ratan Lal Lahoti and Late Smt. Kanchan Devi Lahoti at Guna, M.P. and is the younger brother of former Chief Justice of India Late Justice R.C. Lahoti. His wife is a homemaker and his son is a working professional in Bangaluru.
Anil Kumar Lahoti
Chairman, Telecom Regulatory Authority India
More Information Available Shortly
Gilles Bregant
Director General, ANFR France
More Information Available Shortly
Sherif Sedky
CEO, Egyptian Space Agency
More Information Available Shortly
H.E. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori
Chairman of the Board, Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre
Dr. Kam Ghaffarian is a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to creating companies with a mission to advance humanity and expand human knowledge. Dr. Ghaffarian co-founded and serves as Executive Chairman of several deep-tech companies that push the limits of humankind’s capability. Among his ventures are X-energy, an advanced nuclear energy reactor and fuel company; Intuitive Machines, a premier provider of technologies and space exploration services that became the first company to land on the Moon; Axiom Space, building the first commercial space station while being the sole provider of private astronaut missions to the International Space Station; Quantum Space, creating infrastructure for deep space commerce; and PTX, a space engineering and technology firm. He is also the founder and CEO of IBX, an innovation and investment firm that oversees the portfolio of companies he helped create. Dr. Ghaffarian started his entrepreneurial career in 1994 when he founded Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, which he sold in 2018 for $375mm to KBR. He holds multiple degrees, including B.S. degrees in computer science and electronics engineering, an M.Sc. in information technology, and a doctorate in philosophy of technology. Dr. Ghaffarian is an active philanthropist focusing on education, STEM initiatives, and the pursuit of interstellar travel
Kam Ghaffarian
Co-Founder, Executive Chairman, and CEO, Axiom Space
Greg Wyler is a technology entrepreneur, engineer, and inventor who conceived and founded O3B and OneWeb. He holds over 35 patents related to the design, implementation, and use of satellite communications technology. Greg founded O3B Networks, in partnership with Liberty Global, in 2007 with the goal of unlocking MEO orbit to deliver Internet to remote areas without the need for laying fiber. SES, Google, and HSBC became investors in O3B Networks in 2009, which raised over $1.2bn. By 2016, O3B had a firm backlog of $350 million with more than $100 million in current-year revenue, and SES exercised its option to purchase the company. After the success of his first company, Greg moved on to an even more ambitious venture: creating a network of hundreds of LEO satellites to deliver low-latency, high-speed Internet to connect the unconnected around the world. He founded OneWeb in 2012 with investment from Softbank, Bharti, Airbus, Intelsat, Virgin Group, Qualcomm, Hughes, Grupo Salinas, Maxar, and Coca-Cola. He raised over $3.3bn to further OneWeb’s mission to connect all the unconnected schools of the world and provide Internet to fuel economic growth, improve education, social development, advance gender equality and make healthcare more accessible across the globe.
Greg Wyler
Founder & CEO, E-Space
Professor Konstantinos Masselos has been appointed as the President of the Hellenic Telecommunications and Post Commission (EETT) in February 2018. He has been elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) for 2019.
In 2006 he joined University of Peloponnese, where he is currently a Professor in Computing Systems Design in the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications. Konstantinos served as Rector of the above university the period 2012-2017. During the period 2005 to 2008, he was Lecturer in digital systems at the Imperial College London. Also from 2010 to 2016 he served as Honorary Lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, at the Imperial College London. From 2001 to 2004 he joined Intracom Telecom SA in Greece.
Konstantinos has been involved in several research and development projects and has consulting experience in industry and public organizations. Since 2005 he has been regularly involved as an expert in different European Commission units. Additionally, Konstantinos was member of the Scientific Committee of European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) organization from 2015 to 2017. He has authored more than 120 papers in international journals and conferences.
Konstantinos Masselos
President, EETT Greece
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa is pleased to announce that Councillor Mothibi Ramusi has been sworn-in as the 6th Chairperson of ICASA, at a ceremony held at the ICASA Head Office, in Centurion.
The ceremony was presided over by the Honourable Professor JCW van Rooyen SC, formerly Acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa. During the ceremony, the newly appointed Chairperson pledged to act with integrity, to uphold the public interest, and to serve the people of South Africa in the provision of electronic communications, broadcasting and postal services, in line with the Constitution and the ICASA Act.
Cllr Ramusi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, with over three decades of experience in the ICT sector. He will play a crucial role in advancing ICASA’s mandate to regulate the telecommunications, broadcasting, and postal sectors in the public interest, to promote competition, and to ensure universal access to communication infrastructure, services and content.
The Acting Chairperson of ICASA, Councillor Peter Zimri, warmly welcomed the newly appointed Chairperson, emphasising the significant role the appointment will play in advancing the Authority’s mission of effective regulatory oversight in the sector. “The Council pledges to support and work together with the Chairperson to address the dynamic challenges and opportunities in the rapidly-evolving ICT landscape, including both broadcasting and postal services” added Cllr Zimri.
Cllr Ramusi is a qualified Electronic Systems Engineer. He holds a Bachelors’ Degree (BEng) in Electronic Systems Engineering, and various other formal qualifications. Since 1992, he has held senior positions in the ICT and Space/Satellite.
Cllr Ramusi’s appointment as Chairperson, by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Honourable Mondli Gungubele, was announced in the Government Gazette on 3 April 2024. This appointment is in line with section 5(1B) (c) of the ICASA Act, 2000 (Act No. 13 of 2000), as amended.
Mothibi Ramusi
Chairperson, ICASA
Philip Marnick is the General Director of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). He was appointed early January 2022 by the Members of the Board, to assume the position, paving the way for a more effective regulatory framework by continuing the evolution of the telecom sector liberalization.
Mr. Marnick leads the TRA, including the development of consumer protection initiatives and resolving disputes. The TRA develops regulatory rules that promote competition, innovation, and investment in broadband services and facilities, as well as developing a more comprehensive and competitive framework that aligns with international best practices. Ensuring that Bahrain remains a center of innovation and that its telecommunications sector serves everyone while supporting Bahrain’s strategic objectives.
Before assuming his role at the TRA, Philip managed and directed at Ofcom in the UK, where he was the Group Director of Spectrum responsible for all aspects of UK national and international spectrum management – from strategy to delivery including awards, clearance and enforcement.
Mr. Marnick has worked in the telecommunications sector for over 30 years. He has served as a senior executive in technology, operations, and strategy. Mr. Marnick has worked in both start-ups (from inception to sale) and major corporations, in firms such as UK Broadband, O2, Orange, BT, J-Phone in Japan (now Softbank Mobile), Extreme Mobile, and SpinVox (now Nuance).
From analogue to 5G, he has engaged across every mobile generation. Throughout his carrier he has been at the forefront of industry developments – in both fixed and mobile. He has collaborated on the first deployments of mobile networks utilizing new technologies and standards, this has also included innovative products such as the first camera phone and photo messaging service, as well as mobile internet and hosted voice services.
Philip Marnick
General Director, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), Bahrain
Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter was appointed Executive Vice President of Technology & Innovation, effective April 1, 2023.
Prior to this role, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Aramco, a role he undertook in May 2015.
Al-Khowaiter joined the company in 1984 and completed a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in 1988. His first assignment was as an engineer with Southern Area Oil Operations, where he worked on the commissioning of the ‘Uthmaniyah gas-oil separation plants.
After earning an M.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Al-Khowaiter joined the Process & Control Systems Department in July 1996.
After joining the Hawiyah Gas Plant Project as a project engineer in 1997, he became a senior project engineer in 1999. In 2000, Al-Khowaiter was given a division-level leadership role and led the commissioning of the Hawiyah Gas Plant.
In 2002, he was transferred to the Haradh Gas Plant during the construction and commissioning phase and served as superintendent of Gas Plant Operations.
Between 2004 and 2005, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan Fellowship Program, earning an M.S. degree in Business Administration.
In July 2005, Al-Khowaiter was named Manager, Facilities Planning, and in 2006, he led the development of the master plan for the King Abdullah University of Science & Technology. In 2007, he was seconded to the university, where he served as Interim Provost and then named Interim Vice President for Economic Development.
Al-Khowaiter returned to Aramco in November 2009 and became Director of New Business Evaluation, before being elevated to Chief Engineer from August 2011 to 2014. In 2014, he was appointed Executive Director of Power Systems.
Al-Khowaiter is currently a member of the Board of Directors of SATORP (Saudi Aramco Total Refining Petrochemical Co.), SADCO (Saudi Aramco Development Co.), the King Abdulaziz City of Science & Technology (KACST).
Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter
Executive Vice President Technology & Innovation, Aramco
Parth Trivedi is CEO and Co-Founder of Skylo Technologies. Skylo is a software-defined global service operator, connecting cellular devices directly over satellites, ensuring that you never lose coverage. Skylo’s focus is on enabling connected services for people outdoors and connected workflows for machines at work across critical industries such as agriculture, defense, maritime, logistics, mining, and others, in addition to consumer cellular devices. Skylo is backed by Innovation Endeavors, Intel, Samsung, BMW, Boeing, Next47, Seraphim, Softbank Group, DCM, and Moore Strategic Ventures.
Trained as an aerospace engineer, Parth has led various missions and aerospace projects at MIT sponsored by the US Department of Defense, Air Force Research Laboratory, NASA, Lockheed Martin, and the Federal Aviation Administration. He was nominated to the US delegation task force to the UN technical body on global aviation (ICAO). Parth and his co-founders conceived of Skylo at Stanford University, where he was co-leading research in the Space Systems Development Lab, and later spun the company out as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Innovation Endeavors.
Parth has a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Purdue University with highest distinction, SM in Aerospace Engineering from MIT, and MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business.
Parth Trivedi
CEO & Co-founder, Skylo
Jaume Sanpera, founder and CEO at Sateliot, is a serial entrepreneur backed by over 30 years of experience and deep expertise in the telecommunications industry.
During his career, Jaume founded several companies, including the global business group Eurona, a leading satellite operator in Europe.
In 2018, he founded Sateliot the company that is launching commercially the first 5G NTN NB-IoT LEO constellation to offer 100% connectivity everywhere on the planet, providing service to commercial cellular NB-IoT RF modules able to support the newly introduced Non-Terrestrial-Network (NTN) features as per latest 3GPP Release
Jaume Sanpera
CEO, Sateliot
Isabelle Mauro is the Director General of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA) that represents the interests of 29 global and regional satellite operators. She reports directly to their Chief Executives.
Under Isabelle’s leadership, GSOA and its member CEOs lead the effort to showcase the benefits of satellite communications for a more inclusive and secure society – vital to bridging the world’s digital divide, achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and realizing the 5G ecosystem.
Isabelle has 25 years experience in the Telecoms and Technology sector, starting at the GSMA, where she was responsible for government and international Affairs. In 2015 she moved to New York to join the World Economic Forum as Head of Information, Communications and Technology Industries, managing the portfolio for 60+ Tech companies globally and leading initiatives on inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.
Isabelle is passionate about inclusion and sustainability. She is Chair of the High-Level Advisory Board of the DigitalGoesGreen Foundation. She also sits on the Advisory Board of Women in Tech and is a member of the UNESCO Advisory Group for the Declaration on Connectivity for Education.
Isabelle holds an MSc in European Politics and Policy from the London School of Economics. She is fluent in French, English, Italian and Spanish.
Isabelle Mauro
Director General, GSOA
Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications , Space and Technology Commission (CST), has extensive experience in organizational governance, politics, and competitive economics, and is recognized as a global expert in wireless networks and cloud computing.
Prior to taking on the Governorship at the CST, Dr. Altamimi served the organization as Deputy Governor for Regulation and Competition and acting Deputy Governor for Consumer Protection and Partnership.
A prominent contributor to the international discourse in the field of wireless technology. He has been instrumental in the establishment of a number of specialized research societies in Saudi Arabia, including the Saudi Association for Information Security (Hemaya) where he sits on the board of directors, and his work with the CST has seen him spearhead the preparation of systems, legislation, and regulations in the telecommunications and information technology sector in Saudi Arabia.
Among his many academic achievements, Dr. Altamimi has published several scientific papers in the field of telecommunications engineering and organizational economics. He is the vice president of a research group specializing in wireless networks, next-generation networks, and cloud computing at the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva. He also sits on the board of the Saudi Space Commission and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.
Dr. Altamimi graduated from Harvard University’s Leadership Development program and holds a Ph.D. in telecommunications and networking from the University of Pittsburgh in the USA, a master’s degree in communications technology and policy from the University of Strathclyde in the UK, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals in Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
An opening session that sets the scene by hearing from different thought leaders on their global visions for the future of NTNs. How do they see the future development of the sector, and what need to be the next steps from both industry and policy stakeholders in order for the exciting potential of NTNs can be realised?
More information available shortly.
ANATEL’s Commissioner Carlos Baigorri, currently President of the Board of Directors, has a degree in Economic Sciences from the University of Brasília (UnB), a Master’s and Doctorate in Economics from the Catholic University of Brasília (UCB).
Acting in the telecommunications area since 2006, he was a consultant and analyst of sector information for an association of mobile operators. He has also served as an undergraduate professor at the Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), at the Institute of Higher Education of Brasília (IESB), and at the Brazilian Institute of Capital Markets (IBMEC). In addition, he wrote articles and book chapters that were published in Brazil and abroad. He has been a permanent career employee at Anatel since 2009, where he has previously been nominated Executive Superintendent, Competition Superintendent, Obligations Control Superintendent, and Head of Technical Assistance.
UNOOSA Director, Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini, maintains responsibility for the Office’s management and administration, provides strategic guidance to its work and ensures that it is implemented in accordance with the mandates of the General Assembly, the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the established policies of the United Nations. She develops the work programme of the Office and ensures the Office’s efficiency, transparency and accountability.
Ms. Holla-Maini serves as the senior advisor to the Secretary-General and represents the SG at meetings and conferences on matters relating to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. She also discharges the Secretary-General’s obligations under the UN treaties and principles on outer space.
Alongside the team in the Office of the Director, Ms. Holla-Maini oversees and coordinates the strategic direction and operational priorities of the Office, including the preparation, monitoring and implementation of the work plan, budget and the strategic framework of the Office.
Eva Berneke joined Eutelsat on 1st January 2022 as Chief Executive Officer. She is also a member of the Board.
Eva brings considerable experience of the Telecoms and Technology industries. She joins Eutelsat from KMD, Denmark’s leading IT and software company, specialising in IT solutions and services for the public and private sector, and now part of the NEC Group. During her tenure she oversaw the transformation of KMD from a mainly government service provider to a modern, digital company competing in both the public and private sectors.
Prior to that Eva held several senior positions at TDC, formerly TeleDanmark, the largest telecommunications company in Denmark, notably as Head of Strategy and Head of the company’s Wholesale and Business divisions. Eva began her career at McKinsey where she developed a specialization in the TMT sectors and where she was based for 10 years at the group’s Paris offices.
Eva sits on the Boards of international groups Lego and Vestas Wind Systems as well as France’s Ecole Polytechnique. She is a graduate of Denmark’s Technical University, where she gained a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and holds an MBA from INSEAD.
Hamid Akhavan is the CEO and President of EchoStar, overseeing all aspects of the company and serves as a member of the Board of Directors. DISH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar. Before joining EchoStar, Hamid was most recently a partner at Twin Point Capital, an investment firm, and a founding partner of Long Arc Capital LLC. He held a variety of executive leadership positions including CEO of Unify Inc. (formerly Siemens Enterprise Communications), Chief Operating Officer at Deutsche Telekom and CEO of T-Mobile International, in connection with which he also served as a member of the Board of Management of Deutsche Telekom. Hamid has been a member of the Board of Directors of Vonage Holding Corp., a global cloud communications company, since 2016, and also serves on that Board’s Technology and Transactions Committees. In addition, Hamid has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Anterix Inc., a wireless communications company, and is a member of its Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees. Hamid earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the California Institute of Technology and his Master of Science in the same fields from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He’s an avid photographer, woodworker and music enthusiast.
Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter was appointed Executive Vice President of Technology & Innovation, effective April 1, 2023.
Prior to this role, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Aramco, a role he undertook in May 2015.
Al-Khowaiter joined the company in 1984 and completed a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in 1988. His first assignment was as an engineer with Southern Area Oil Operations, where he worked on the commissioning of the ‘Uthmaniyah gas-oil separation plants.
After earning an M.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Al-Khowaiter joined the Process & Control Systems Department in July 1996.
After joining the Hawiyah Gas Plant Project as a project engineer in 1997, he became a senior project engineer in 1999. In 2000, Al-Khowaiter was given a division-level leadership role and led the commissioning of the Hawiyah Gas Plant.
In 2002, he was transferred to the Haradh Gas Plant during the construction and commissioning phase and served as superintendent of Gas Plant Operations.
Between 2004 and 2005, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan Fellowship Program, earning an M.S. degree in Business Administration.
In July 2005, Al-Khowaiter was named Manager, Facilities Planning, and in 2006, he led the development of the master plan for the King Abdullah University of Science & Technology. In 2007, he was seconded to the university, where he served as Interim Provost and then named Interim Vice President for Economic Development.
Al-Khowaiter returned to Aramco in November 2009 and became Director of New Business Evaluation, before being elevated to Chief Engineer from August 2011 to 2014. In 2014, he was appointed Executive Director of Power Systems.
Al-Khowaiter is currently a member of the Board of Directors of SATORP (Saudi Aramco Total Refining Petrochemical Co.), SADCO (Saudi Aramco Development Co.), the King Abdulaziz City of Science & Technology (KACST).
Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications , Space and Technology Commission (CST), has extensive experience in organizational governance, politics, and competitive economics, and is recognized as a global expert in wireless networks and cloud computing.
Prior to taking on the Governorship at the CST, Dr. Altamimi served the organization as Deputy Governor for Regulation and Competition and acting Deputy Governor for Consumer Protection and Partnership.
A prominent contributor to the international discourse in the field of wireless technology. He has been instrumental in the establishment of a number of specialized research societies in Saudi Arabia, including the Saudi Association for Information Security (Hemaya) where he sits on the board of directors, and his work with the CST has seen him spearhead the preparation of systems, legislation, and regulations in the telecommunications and information technology sector in Saudi Arabia.
Among his many academic achievements, Dr. Altamimi has published several scientific papers in the field of telecommunications engineering and organizational economics. He is the vice president of a research group specializing in wireless networks, next-generation networks, and cloud computing at the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva. He also sits on the board of the Saudi Space Commission and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.
Dr. Altamimi graduated from Harvard University’s Leadership Development program and holds a Ph.D. in telecommunications and networking from the University of Pittsburgh in the USA, a master’s degree in communications technology and policy from the University of Strathclyde in the UK, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals in Saudi Arabia.
A. H. Sayed is Dean of Engineering at EPFL, Switzerland, where he also directs the Adaptive Systems Laboratory. He has served before as a Distinguished Professor and Chair of Electrical Engineering at UCLA. He is a member of the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). He served as President of the IEEE Signal Processing Society in 2018 and 2019. He is the author of over 650 scholarly publications and 10 books. His research involves several areas, including adaptation and learning theories, data and network sciences, statistical inference, and information processing theories. His work has been recognized with several major awards, including the 2022 IEEE Fourier Technical Field Award and the 2020 IEEE Norbert Wiener Society Award. He is a Fellow of several professional societies.
Poster Session: IEEE Competition on NTN for 6G (B Floor)
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is an officer of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers from the 1984 batch. He had superannuated as Chairman & CEO, Railway Board on 31st August 2023 after a career spanning about 37 years Indian Railway.
He is a graduate in Civil Engineering from Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Gwalior, with gold medal and has master’s degree in engineering (Structures) from IIT Roorkee. He has worked in various positions in the Central, Northern, North Central, Western, and West Central Railway, as well as in the Railway Board.
Besides Chairman & CEO, Railway Board, some of the important positions held by Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti include Member Infrastructure, Railway Board, General Manager of Central Railway and Western Railway, Divisional Railway Manager, Lucknow, Northern Railway, Chief Administrative Officer (Construction), Northern Railway and Executive Director, Railway Board. Post his retirement, Ministry of Railway had appointed him to a One-Man Expert Committee for improvement in inspection and maintenance of track. In December 2023, Gati Shakti Vishvavidyalaya, Vadodara, a Central University appointed him as a Distinguished Visiting Professor.
His expertise includes railway operations, track maintenance, project execution and station redevelopment. During his illustrious career, Shri Lahoti initiated several reforms in execution of infrastructure projects and took several initiatives to modernize and mechanize track maintenance on Indian Railways. During his stints as CRB & CEO, GM and DRM, he brought about significant improvement in freight transport performance and took several customer friendly initiatives to improve the quality of service and ease the customer interface. He has also extensively contributed to planning and structuring of station redevelopment projects in various positions served by him.
Shri Lahoti has travelled to various countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia in connection with official assignments. He has undertaken executive training programmes at Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA, SDA Bocconi Business School, Milan, Italy and Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.
He was born to Freedom Fighter Late Shri Ratan Lal Lahoti and Late Smt. Kanchan Devi Lahoti at Guna, M.P. and is the younger brother of former Chief Justice of India Late Justice R.C. Lahoti. His wife is a homemaker and his son is a working professional in Bangaluru.
The session will discuss the vital role of WRC-27 in shaping the future shape of NTN and converged connectivity, and at the importance of collaboration and coordination in the preparation and build up to this. How can stakeholders come together to ensure the vast potential of NTN is achieved?
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa is pleased to announce that Councillor Mothibi Ramusi has been sworn-in as the 6th Chairperson of ICASA, at a ceremony held at the ICASA Head Office, in Centurion.
The ceremony was presided over by the Honourable Professor JCW van Rooyen SC, formerly Acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa. During the ceremony, the newly appointed Chairperson pledged to act with integrity, to uphold the public interest, and to serve the people of South Africa in the provision of electronic communications, broadcasting and postal services, in line with the Constitution and the ICASA Act.
Cllr Ramusi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, with over three decades of experience in the ICT sector. He will play a crucial role in advancing ICASA’s mandate to regulate the telecommunications, broadcasting, and postal sectors in the public interest, to promote competition, and to ensure universal access to communication infrastructure, services and content.
The Acting Chairperson of ICASA, Councillor Peter Zimri, warmly welcomed the newly appointed Chairperson, emphasising the significant role the appointment will play in advancing the Authority’s mission of effective regulatory oversight in the sector. “The Council pledges to support and work together with the Chairperson to address the dynamic challenges and opportunities in the rapidly-evolving ICT landscape, including both broadcasting and postal services” added Cllr Zimri.
Cllr Ramusi is a qualified Electronic Systems Engineer. He holds a Bachelors’ Degree (BEng) in Electronic Systems Engineering, and various other formal qualifications. Since 1992, he has held senior positions in the ICT and Space/Satellite.
Cllr Ramusi’s appointment as Chairperson, by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Honourable Mondli Gungubele, was announced in the Government Gazette on 3 April 2024. This appointment is in line with section 5(1B) (c) of the ICASA Act, 2000 (Act No. 13 of 2000), as amended.
Tareq Al Awadhi is the Executive Director Spectrum Affairs Department of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) in the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Al Awadhi has 27 years of experience in spectrum management. He is Chairman of Arab Spectrum Management Group (ASMG) and he has been selected as Chairman of ITU World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC) 2012. He is also Chairman of Arab Working Group for PP-22 Preparation. He headed a number of ITU Working Groups and meetings and contributed towards ITU resolutions, recommendations and studies. He represented the UAE in ITU, IMO, ICAO, Arab League, GCC Telecom Bureau and a number of other international and regional forums.Tareq Al Awadhi played a pivotal role in establishing Spectrum Affairs Department in the TDRA. He pioneered the modern spectrum management concepts in the region and equipped the UAE with one the most advanced and first of its kind fully automated online spectrum management and frequency planning system. He developed UAE 5G Strategic Plan and Beyond (2020-2025) and the UAE ranked 4th Globally in launching and operating the 5G in 2020. This plan serves as a road map to accelerate the pace of introducing the 5G in the country and work with all partners in using this Technology in all sectors in the country (such as health, education, entertainment, infrastructure, military, security, etc.).
He has long experience in satellite coordination business. Under his supervisor; the UAE Administration managed to register their 11 satellites in the ITU Master Frequency Registration for the purpose of it protection, and around 138 files were opened covering a large number of satellite orbital under UAE name.
Jennifer A. Manner is the Senior Advisor for Space and Satellite Policy at the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), advising on spectrum management issues related to space and satellite communications. Prior to NTIA, she was Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at EchoStar Corporation and held senior roles at the FCC, MCI/WorldCom, and Skyterra.
Jennifer has led several industry and government organizations, including the Global Satellite Operators Association and the Satellite Industry Association, and served as Chair of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee.
She has also been a professor of law at Georgetown University Law School, teaching international telecommunications law, and continues to teach at Carnegie Mellon and UC Boulder.
An accomplished author, her works include “Spectrum Wars: The Rise of 5G and Beyond” and the upcoming “Spectrum Wars: A New Hope for Connectivity.” She is also a filmmaker, with her latest film, “When Wire Was King: The Transformation of Telecommunications,” available on PBS and streaming platforms. Jennifer holds a B.A. from SUNY Albany, a J.D. cum laude from New York Law School, and an LL.M. with honors from Georgetown University Law School.
Peng serves as the Vice-President of Policy & Regulatory at GSOA, where he spearheads advocacy efforts in critical policy and regulatory domains, including spectrum management, market access, and national policy initiatives. With a rich background in the telecommunications sector and expertise across mobile and satellite industries, he’s been advising governments and telecom industry globally.
Before joining GSOA, Peng played a pivotal role at Eutelsat OneWeb in shaping international regulatory and policy frameworks, focusing on delivering satellite licensing structures to accommodate Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, and tailoring satellite regulatory procedure during WRC-23. Prior to this, at GSMA, Peng was responsible for the global campaign aimed at optimizing spectrum licensing conditions for mobile operators worldwide. He led a diverse team of policy experts across developing markets, engaging policymakers and regulators to advocate for industry best practices in telecom policy.
Peng holds a Master’s degree in Telecommunication from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology of Lausanne, complemented by an Executive MBA from the London Business School. Peng is fluent in English, Mandarin, and French.
Fahad Alghamdi is an accomplished expert in satellite regulations and space services, with extensive experience in international frequency coordination and spectrum management. As Satellite expert at the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST), Fahad plays a pivotal role in shaping satellite policy and ensuring regulatory compliance for national and international satellite initiatives. He is the Chairman of multiple strategic groups, including the Radiocommunication Advisory Group Correspondence Group (CG) in the ITU-R and the Arab Spectrum Management Group’s Working Group on Mobile Satellite Services.
Zeina Mokaddem is VP Regulatory and Market Access at Viasat. Throughout her career she successfully championed and introduced a number of pioneering communication technologies globally and in the Middle East and North Africa in particular.
Prior to working for Viasat, Ms Mokaddem worked as a consultant for several international communication players assisting them in opening new markets and shaping favorable regulatory frameworks in different jurisdictions. Ms Mokaddem has an MSc in Engineering Management from the American University.
Barnaby has been in the telecom industry for over 30 years working on early telematics and leading edge solutions in the enterprise mobile operator industry.
Moving to Viasat over five years ago Barnaby continues to innovate in IOT and solution based selling.
A real advocate of ecosystem partners to support the outcome customers need and the value they bring.
Currently delivering use cases for direct to device and exciting opportunities this offers customers, ecosystem partners, MNOs and satellite providers.
Focussing on the huge potential of hybrid terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and potential business models and types of collaboration that will help create this exciting new ecosystem. Discussions will also focus on strategies that are emerging from both terrestrial and non-terrestrial operators, and on the technology and policy challenges that need to be overcome.
Abdulah Aljohani (Senior Member, IEEE) was previously a Research & Innovation Consultant at the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). Currently, he works with the NEO Space Group (NSG), a wholly owned PIF company aiming to be the national champion for satellite operations within the KSA, as a Senior R&D advisor.
He is also an Associate Professor with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, and a Research Associate at the Center of Excellence in Intelligent Engineering Systems, King Abdulaziz University.
He received his B.Sc. (Eng.) degree (Hons.) in electronics and communication engineering from King Abdulaziz University in 2006, and M.Sc. (Distinction) and Ph.D. degrees in wireless communication from the University of Southampton, Southampton, U.K., in 2010 and 2016, respectively.
His research interests include spectrum management techniques, Non-Terrestrial Networks, channel coding, cooperative communications, space-time coding, free-space optical communication, and MIMO systems. He has published over 30 articles and holds 13 U.S. patents. He has won more than 10 research grants and multiple innovation and best paper awards.
Philip Marnick is the General Director of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). He was appointed early January 2022 by the Members of the Board, to assume the position, paving the way for a more effective regulatory framework by continuing the evolution of the telecom sector liberalization.
Mr. Marnick leads the TRA, including the development of consumer protection initiatives and resolving disputes. The TRA develops regulatory rules that promote competition, innovation, and investment in broadband services and facilities, as well as developing a more comprehensive and competitive framework that aligns with international best practices. Ensuring that Bahrain remains a center of innovation and that its telecommunications sector serves everyone while supporting Bahrain’s strategic objectives.
Before assuming his role at the TRA, Philip managed and directed at Ofcom in the UK, where he was the Group Director of Spectrum responsible for all aspects of UK national and international spectrum management – from strategy to delivery including awards, clearance and enforcement.
Mr. Marnick has worked in the telecommunications sector for over 30 years. He has served as a senior executive in technology, operations, and strategy. Mr. Marnick has worked in both start-ups (from inception to sale) and major corporations, in firms such as UK Broadband, O2, Orange, BT, J-Phone in Japan (now Softbank Mobile), Extreme Mobile, and SpinVox (now Nuance).
From analogue to 5G, he has engaged across every mobile generation. Throughout his carrier he has been at the forefront of industry developments – in both fixed and mobile. He has collaborated on the first deployments of mobile networks utilizing new technologies and standards, this has also included innovative products such as the first camera phone and photo messaging service, as well as mobile internet and hosted voice services.
Luciana Camargos is the GSMA’s Head of Spectrum. She directs the GSMA’s range of advocacy issues on public policy relating to spectrum with national governments and multilateral organisations.
Luciana’s career began with Brazilian regulator Anatel, where she worked as part of the board advisory team. She joined the GSMA in 2012, where she has continued to be active in shaping the future of mobile services at international forums such as the ITU, CITEL, and other multilateral organisations.
She has chaired regulatory groups charged with developing communications regulation at the ITU and in regional organisations. She is an active supporter of the role of women in technology and is a former chair of the ITU’s Network of Women.
Luciana earned an MBA in telecommunications from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, and a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Brasilia.
Gregory Ewert serves as the Chief Commercial Officer & Managing Director, North America, Stratospheric Platforms, Ltd. He is responsible for orchestrating global strategic partnerships and distribution across enterprises, military/government, and MNOs. Mr. Ewert has decades of experience in mobility, satellite, and traditional telecom applications. Prior executive experience spans international, MNOs and mobile satellites where he held various positions at Sprint, GlobalOne, BCE (Bell Canada), Iridium, Inmarsat, and Intelsat, most recently as Vice President of Strategy and Business Development.
Lauren is Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, overseeing the global expansion Starlink. Her scope includes global licensing, launch of sales in new markets, enterprise customer relationships, strategic connectivity projects, and crisis response. She has been a part of the Starlink team since mid-2020. Lauren has over 18 years of experience at SpaceX. Prior to her current role, she was a Principal Operations Engineer for the executive team. She has also held individual and leadership positions across the company, including working in business development, compliance, finance, risk management, corporate real estate, and human resources. Throughout all roles, she has focused on complex and critical project management. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Baylor University and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University.
Guy is based in Munich, Germany and is currently responsible for spectrum regulatory issues involving the recently launched Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone 14. Prior to joining Apple in 2020, Guy held a number of regulatory and market access positions with Viasat, Inmarsat/Global Xpress, Boeing and Alcatel.
Juha Korhonen is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in the telecommunications and technology industries. He has held several prominent C-level roles, including Group Director of Digital and Innovation at Zain Group and Chief Commercial Officer at both Zain Saudi Arabiya and Wataniya Telecom in Kuwait. Currently, Juha serves as is Vice President of Infrastructure at TONOMUS, the tech and digital subsidiary of NEOM. He was previously a Senior Director and Advisor at Gartner.
Renowned for his ability to drive revenue growth, revitalize underperforming businesses, and capture market share in highly competitive environments, Juha has a proven track record of transformative leadership. In Saudi Arabia, he spearheaded the creation, launch and operation of a fully digital operator, B-Brand. Before that, he led the implementation of a group-wide API program across six operating companies, enabling expansion into new verticals.
Juha holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Computer Science and Telecommunications from the Helsinki University of Technology in Finland. He is from Flemington New Jersey, USA, and is married with three children.
Strategic leader with over 25 years of experience driving growth and innovation in multinational telecom and IT organizations. Recognized for leading cross-functional teams, managing multi-million-dollar engagements, and delivering transformative solutions for service providers and enterprise clients. A results-driven business partner with proven expertise in strategic sales, business development, and operational excellence. Accomplished in building sustainable partnerships, driving market penetration, and cultivating a culture of innovation and growth.
Sakher has over 15 years’ experience in the satcom industry with comprehensive knowledge of key entities in the region. Leading sales & business development initiatives in the MEA, Central Asia & Turkey regions, with expertise in defense, maritime, and land mobility sectors for driving growth and expanding multi-orbit constellation networks. Strategic planning and a focus on achieving objectives within the dynamic GEO & LEO satellite sectors, exemplary development of regional partnerships and driving application-based demand.
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
This session will dissect the exciting possibilities of space, from revolutionary technologies to the creation of new markets and industries. It will delve into the economic influence and growth of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) – a game-changer for space exploration and global connectivity; and also look more broadly at emerging space technologies in related areas such as reusable launch vehicles and in-space manufacturing. It will explore the new markets that are emerging and look at what needs to be done to take advantage of these.
More information available shortly.
Jeremy Jurgens is Managing Director & Head of the Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He is responsible for the Member and Partner companies essential to the mission of the Forum as the International Organisation for Public-Private Cooperation. His responsibilities include oversight of all industry initiatives, innovation and technology pioneer communities, the Forum’s offices in China, India and Japan as well as the Centre for Cybersecurity. He has served in various functions since 1999 including Chief Information Officer, Chief Representative China, the head of the Annual Meeting in Davos and the architect of the Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Platform.
Prior to joining the Forum, Jeremy Jurgens has worked at Microsoft, Patagonia and the Japanese Ministry of Finance. He holds a Master in Education from Harvard University and a BA in Economics and International Relations, from Claremont McKenna College.
Susmita Mohanty is a serial space entrepreneur and space diplomat. Her latest endeavour launched in October 2021 is India’s first dedicated space think tank called Spaceport SARABHAI (S2). As the Director General, she provides stewardship for S2’s mission and strategy. Armed with perspectives and insights from her rich and multilateral international experiences, she aspires to building broader international consensus and dialogue where space activities of Asia-Pacific nations have an increasingly strategic role to play in the sustainability of space exploration.
Susmita is the only space entrepreneur in the world to have co-founded companies on 3 different continents: EARTH2ORBIT, Bangalore (2009-2021), MOONFRONT, San Francisco (2001-2007) and LIQUIFER Systems Group, Vienna (2004-ongoing). Prior to turning entrepreneur, she worked for the International Space Station Program at Boeing in California and did a short stint at NASA Johnson.
In 2022, when India celebrated 75 years of independence, Susmita was one of 75 women honoured by the Indian government with the Women Transforming India (WTI) Awards. In 2019, she was selected as one of BBC’s 100 Women laureates inspiring and influencing a female-led future. In 2017, she was featured on cover of Fortune Magazine. In 2012, she was voted into Financial Times’ list of “25 Indians to Watch”. Technologies. In 2005, Susmita was honoured on Capitol Hill in Washington DC with the International Achievement Award for promoting international cooperation through her entrepreneurial ventures.
Educated in India, France, and Sweden, Susmita holds multiple degrees including a PhD. She is a member of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Future Council for Space Technologies.
Kam Ghaffarian is the visionary space and energy entrepreneur behind several companies dedicated to furthering human civilization, including Axiom Space. After co-founding Axiom Space in 2016 to unlock space’s potential for innovation through commercialization, he serves as executive chairman of the board and a key strategic advisor on the development of the space economy.
Kam started his entrepreneurial career in 1994 by founding Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. (SGT), a government services company focusing on IT, engineering, science applications, and mission operations. SGT became NASA’s second-largest engineering services contractor, providing International Space Station operations and astronaut training support, generating annual revenues of over half a billion dollars and eventually acquired by KBR. He previously held numerous technical and management positions at Lockheed Martin, Ford Aerospace, and Loral, among others.
Driven by his mission to advance the state of humanity and human knowledge, Kam has created organizations transforming the space and energy sectors. In addition to co-founding Axiom Space, his other companies include, Intuitive Machines, a leader in delivering science technology for NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program; X-energy, which is developing nuclear power solutions for both terrestrial energy and space propulsion use; and IBX, an innovation and investment firm.
Kam is also an active philanthropist and founder of a non-profit focused on scientific research and enabling interstellar travel. Kam holds several degrees, including undergraduate degrees in computer science and electronics engineering and a Master’s of Science in Information Management.
Martijn is the Chief Executive Officer of Neo Space Group (NSG). With extensive experience in CEO and executive leadership roles, he has built a successful track record of delivering growth in complex international environments.
Before joining NSG, Martijn was the CEO of EXA Infrastructure, and had previously served as Senior Advisor to Digital Infrastructure investors, leading the acquisition of EXA by I Squared Capital.
Martijn was previously the Group Managing Director of Telstra Enterprise and served on the Executive Committee of Telstra Corporation. During his tenure at Telstra, he also was the CEO of Telstra Global, which under his leadership transformed into the leading service provider in Asia Pacific. Prior to his time at Telstra, he was the SVP for Asia Pacific at Openwave Systems and has also held several executive positions at KPN Royal Dutch Telecom.
Martijn has lived and worked extensively across Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Americas, currently residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He holds an MBA from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.
Driving forward the evolution and rise of NTN connectivity comes with a responsibility to ensure that growth is delivered a responsible and sustainable way that supports the well-being of individuals and of the planet. This involves addressing the environmental impact of our technologies, promoting mental health, and creating positive, inclusive digital spaces. This fireside chat will explore how best to achieve this, and to deliver connectivity that enriches lives while protecting future generations and the ecosystems they rely on.
He is a senior partner in the Middle East office of McKinsey & Company. He advises government and private clients on topics related to technology, transformation and economics. During the past decade, he has supported clients in more than 10 countries across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He has deep experience in helping public and private clients unlock value from the smart use of digital and analytics; improving how governments plan, budget and deliver against top priorities; and developing long-term and medium-term economic and fiscal strategies. He is passionate about helping governments drive positive change for their people and believes that the biggest unlock in coming years will be technology. In addition to his client work, he publishes and speaks at conferences on topics including resilience in government, digital transformation and excellence in customs and tax agencies. While he is a native English speaker, he is conversational in Arabic and has lived in the Middle East off and on for almost 20 years.
Abdulaziz Saud Altamrah serves as the General Manager of Strategy and Digital Sustainability at the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), where he leads the organization’s strategic direction, focusing on digital transformation, innovation, and aligning corporate initiatives with sustainability and ESG standards. His role encompasses driving national strategies, enhancing market competitiveness, and fostering digital development to advance Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the global digital economy.
With over a decade of experience, Abdulaziz has held key roles in strategy, digital innovation, and R&D. At the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), he spearheaded strategic planning and performance monitoring, contributing to significant advancements in international indices and national ICT strategies. Previously, his R&D work at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) included pioneering projects in radar signal processing, smart traffic systems, and emerging technology foresight.
A published researcher and holder of a Master’s in Computer Engineering from King Saud University, Abdulaziz combines technical expertise with executive acumen to deliver impactful solutions. He is a recognized leader in leveraging digital innovation to drive sustainable growth and strategic excellence.
More information available shortly.
The mega-constellations of satellites that are being deployed at an unprecedented rate continues to grow, and so too do the challenges surrounding their environmental impact, sustained economic viability, and potential risks to increasing space operations. This session will go into the critical issue of sustainability of the rapidly expanding non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and the essential need to address these issues through technological advancements, increased international cooperation, and more effective governance to face the emerging challenges. Only by working together, can we harness the significant potential of NTNs while clearly mitigating their risks, thereby ensuring a sustainable future for space exploration and for the needs here on Earth.
H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri is the Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC). With over 20 years of experience in the UAE National Space Programme, he has played a pivotal role in the development and execution of significant projects at the Centre, including the partnership with NASA to build the Emirates Airlock on the Gateway Lunar Space Station.
AlMarri was instrumental in the UAE Astronaut Programme, shaping its strategy and objectives, and leading the selection process of astronauts. Under his guidance, MBRSC has advanced in satellite technology through the UAE Satellite Programme, developing multiple satellites, and spearheading the Emirates Mars Mission and Emirates Lunar Mission.
He played a key role in establishing the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) in 2006, which merged with MBRSC in 2015. AlMarri also initiated the Knowledge Transfer Programme with the Satrec Initiative of South Korea.
Prior to becoming the Director General, AlMarri held several crucial roles, including Project Manager for DubaiSat-1 and DubaiSat-2, Head of the UAE Astronaut Programme, and Deputy Director General at MBRSC. He is a member of the International Academy of Astronautics and has fostered collaborations with leading space agencies, including NASA, ESA, JAXA, Roscosmos, and CNES.
AlMarri’s leadership was vital in winning the rights to host the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2021 and SpaceOps 2023 in Dubai. He successfully led the organising committee for the IAC in 2021, marking the first time the event was held in an Arab nation.
Awarded the Exceptional Public Service Medal from NASA and the UAE Pioneers Award, AlMarri has represented the UAE at international conferences and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPOUS). He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer network engineering from the Higher Colleges of Technology Dubai.
Kalpak Gude is the Head of Regulatory Affairs for Project Kuiper at Amazon. He is responsible for global regulatory affairs, including licensing, regulations, ITU filings and regulatory processes, as well as space safety and sustainability. Prior to Amazon, Mr. Gude was General Counsel at Swarm Technologies and President of the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance trade association. He has also had senior roles in the U.S. government at the FCC and U.S. Senate, as well as in industry at OneWeb, Intelsat and PanAmSat.
Michael currently serves as Chief Product Officer at Aalyria Technologies. Aalyria is a Google spin-out that helps orchestrate satellite constellations. Michael is a former engineer, product manager and Head of Open Source at Facebook.
Michael also serves on the Outernet Council, which aims to accelerate the creation of the space internet, as well as the Earth Space Sustainability Initiative.
Michael has deep expertise in technology leadership having served as a board director at the Linux Foundation, Zephyr Foundation, Magma Foundation, Open Infra Foundation, Presto and GraphQL.
Michael also founded the Major League Hacking Fellowship to support early-career developers and open-source maintainers. Over the past five years, the Fellowship has launched hundreds of software development careers.
John P. Janka serves as Chief Officer, Global Government Affairs & Regulatory at Viasat, Inc., an international communications solutions provider with a long legacy of designing, building and operating telecommunications and broadband networks of all types. He has extensive experience in the telecommunications, media, and technology (TMT) sector from over three decades of work at the global law firm Latham & Watkins, where he was a partner and served as the head of its Communications Law practice group. In that capacity, Mr. Janka represented entities ranging from startup entities to global leaders, whom he counseled on a variety of strategic matters. His clients included domestic and international satellite, wireless, and other terrestrial telecommunications companies; Internet service providers; video programming and other content suppliers; media services companies; television and radio broadcast operators; equipment manufacturers; and banks, private equity firms, and other investors.
Mr. Janka consistently has been recognized as a leading lawyer in publications such as Euromoney’s Expert Guides to the World’s Leading TMT Lawyers, Euromoney’s The Best of The Best USATelecoms, The International Who’s Who of Telecoms & Media Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and the Washingtonian magazine. Both Chambers USA and The Legal 500 US ranked Mr. Janka as a leading lawyer in the telecommunications, satellite, and broadcast areas, noting his creativity, vast experience, and reputation as one of the leading lawyers. In 2017, Mr. Janka was inducted into The Legal 500’s Hall of Fame, which highlights individuals who have received “constant praise by their clients” and who are at the “pinnacle of their profession.” In addition, The Financial Times highlighted one of Mr. Janka’s projects for Viasat, providing a “standout” ranking for advising on issues involving new uses of radio spectrum.
Mr. Janka also developed and edited for a decade a global compendium of international law, entitled The Technology, Media and Telecommunications Review.
Mr. Janka graduated cum laude from Duke University and Order of the Coif from the University of California at Los Angeles School of Law. He served as a law clerk to Judge Cynthia Holcomb Hall, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and as a delegate at International Telecommunication Union World Radiocommunication Conferences
This session will focus specifically on the key role that innovative start-ups can play in unlocking the transformative potential of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). The fast-evolving environment offers huge opportunities for innovative start-ups who can harness the unique capabilities of NTNs and revolutionize connectivity across different vertical applications. It will look at the role that Governments and regulators can play in delivering an environment that encourages innovation amongst start-ups and SMEs, and at how best to equip these innovative new market entrants with the knowledge and strategies needed to successfully navigate technical and regulatory challenges and to launch and scale ventures.
KEYNOTE FIRESIDE CHAT
In January 2023 Frank was appointed as Acting Vice Governor of Space Sector at Communication, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and was holding the position as Managing Director of Space Sector of the Saudi Space Agency (SSA) before. Frank supports the build-up and operation of the Space programmes and Space sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Prior to SSA, Frank worked 19 years for the European Space Agency (ESA) as
Head of Innovation and Ventures Office. He also headed the Technology Transfer Programm Office (TTPO) as well as the Commercial Development for Human Spaceflight and Exploration. His ESA team initiated over 380 industry transfers, aided 1,500 start-ups via the ESA BICs and supported over 1,000 downstream business cases.
Before joining ESA, Frank held the position of Founder and CFO / COO for an IT start-up, headquartered in Munich, Germany. Frank also spent seven years at Apple Computer.
Greg Wyler is Founder, CEO and Chief Architect at E-Space. In this role, Greg has re-imagined low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite system design, manufacturing, economics and service delivery to overcome the limitations associated with legacy LEO systems. Greg also serves as Chairman of the E-Space Board of Directors.
Greg is a recognized technology entrepreneur, engineer and visionary, with a proven track record of creating and growing innovative space companies. In 2007, he founded O3b Networks, followed by starting OneWeb in 2012. Both have proven successful, leveraging satellite technology to fuel global connectivity missions. Greg holds more than 35 patents related to the design, implementation and use of satellite communications technology.
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
More information available shortly.
This discussion will focus on how advancements in NTN technologies are being utilized to address the diverse connectivity needs of businesses and communities worldwide, especially in remote and challenging environments. It will examine how satellites and aerial platforms are being innovatively used to enhance existing networks, ensuring seamless connectivity across sea, air, and land. The session will also explore the transformative impact of NTN technologies, the progress driving their adoption, and the challenges that remain as we push the limits of digital communication.
Dr. Mohamed El-Moghazi is the Executive Director of International Policies at the NTRA of Egypt, Chairman of the Arab Spectrum Management Group WP 1, and Vice-Chairman, the Preparatory Meeting for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023. Dr. Maghazi is holder of a PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and a Master Degree in Telecommunications Management.
Dr. Moghazi is the founder of the Global Telecom Policy Researchers Network (GTPRN), a non-profit initiative for researchers in the field of telecommunications policy. He has recently published the book “The International Radio Regulations”, and the book chapter “Towards a Future-Proof International Spectrum Management Policy”.
David Willis has been appointed Group Director, Spectrum, bringing 30 years of technology and telecom experience in government and industry to the role. David joins Ofcom’s Senior Management Team.
He joined Ofcom to oversee its Spectrum Group, which ensures that the UK’s wireless spectrum – a valuable, finite national resource – is used efficiently and effectively.
Most recently David was President of the Communications Research Centre, the Government of Canada’s research centre for advanced wireless telecommunications, spectrum management and helping to improve broadband services for Canadians.
Before this David led the Spectrum Engineering and Planning team at Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada. Here his work included international spectrum standards; wireless spectrum engineering and planning; satellite spectrum policy, licensing and coordination; and leading the Canadian delegation at the 2019 World Radio Communication Conference.
David has also held leadership roles in product management, operations and engineering at BlackBerry and Nortel Networks.
For over 30 years, Bocar BA has been delivering impact in the Telecom/ICT industry of the MEA region, facilitating collaboration among private-sector and government-sector entities in the pursuit of digitalization and socio-economic conducive policies. BA’s professional engagement is recognized in industry-wide advocacy activities, especially toward promoting investment sustainability in the private sector of the Middle East. His innate people-centric approach has mobilized multiple consensus-building platforms, cross-regional stakeholders, and issue-specific advocacy on important sector-development challenges.
As CEO of SAMENA Council, he is collaborating with leading platforms and global telecommunications development institutions, including the ITU, UN Broadband Commission, the World Bank (WB), and World Economic Forum (WEF), among others, as an objective-minded representative of the private sector, in particular of Telecom Operators. He is an advocate of effective policy-making and future-friendly regulation, which are crucial for fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that all nations across the globe have agreed to in the larger interest of socio-economic development needs.
Bocar chairs the Industry Advisory Group for Development Issues & Chief Regulatory Officers Meeting (IAGDI/CRO) at the ITU and is a noted member of the Review Board of the 5th Generation Collaborative Regulation (G5) Benchmark. He is a principal advisor to various business, investment, and regulatory entities and assists governments in addressing matters relating to digital infrastructure investment, innovation catalysts, sustainable digital economy, job-creation, and citizen-centric public-sector delivery through the use of ICTs.
As Broadband Commissioner, Bocar BA has chaired consensus-building and contributed to the development of recommendations for leaders worldwide on 21st century funding and financing models, to help accelerate digital infrastructure development and digitalization.
Bocar has held various senior management positions in major corporations in Paris. His expertise includes enabling companies in building solid relationships with global customers, identifying untapped revenue growth opportunities, consolidating multiple contracts for government cooperation and developing strategies for market penetration in emerging countries throughout the Middle East, Africa and Asia. He has also worked closely with several governments and investment banks to promote trade, investment and cooperation between developed and developing countries in Europe and the Middle East. He is also actively involved in Investment projects, aiming to link governmental opportunities throughout the region.
Bocar is a French national and is married with three children.
Nadine Allen joined SES as Global Head of Enterprise & Cloud in January 2024.
Prior to SES, Nadine has held a variety of leadership positions in the telecommunications and enterprise sectors for Ericsson and Marconi. In her last position, Nadine was head of Ericsson’s Enterprise Business and Strategy for Southeast Asia, India and Oceania where she was accountable for building growth businesses in the areas of 5G, Private Networks, Cloud, Security and IoT as well as strategy development and execution across the region.
Before that, she was CEO of Ericsson Thailand, Head of Global Customer Unit Telenor group and Head of Enterprise Business in Western Central Europe.
Nadine is a UK national and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Warwick (UK).
Parthsarathi “Parth” Trivedi is the CEO and co-founder of Skylo. Parth is an aerospace engineer, who has led various missions and aerospace projects at MIT sponsored by the US Department of Defense, NASA, and FAA.
Mr Omar Qaise is the founder and CEO of OQ TECHNOLOGY, a NewSpace customer focused startup which is building a global 5G LEO satellite constellation dedicated for “Internet-of-Things” communication that can provide connectivity anywhere, especially in remote and rural areas
Mr Qaise brings tremendous experience and heritage to his venture as he worked many years in different organizations and enterprises in the satellite and telecommunication industry (European Space Agency (ESA), German Aerospace Centre (DLR), O3b, OHB SYSTEMS, EUMETSAT) by working on missions ranging from Low-Earth Orbit observation and telecommunication satellites and GEO giant satellites to far deep space missions such as the spacecrafts Herschel and Planck. Most recently was with SES Satellites, the world’s largest GEO broadcast satellite operator, where he had responsibility for Satcom sales and business development in regions such as the Middle East and Africa especially in M2M and Oil and Gas. He became fascinated with the possibilities of the IoT technology as a low cost product filling a market gap. Mr Qaise brings extensive customer connections and knowledge of competing Satcom systems and 5G, as well as being the chief architecture of the concept.
Poster Session: IEEE Competition on NTN for 6G (B Floor)
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
This session explores the potential of converging non-terrestrial and 5G technologies to unlock a new era of ubiquitous, high-performance connectivity. It will explore the interoperability and complementarity nature of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and the way in which this can be harnessed to enable new use cases and expanding market opportunities for IoT and other key applications. With 6G on the horizon, it will explore how policymakers and industry stakeholders can work together to drive the integration of NTNs into future connectivity networks, and help to deliver on the goals of enhanced capacity, ultra-low latency, and global coverage.
Ivan Suarez is a global advisor specialising in satellite and spectrum policy and regulation. He assists companies and governments with their strategy, compliance, licensing and policy needs, covering SatComms and other space-related industries. In recent years, he has worked on a vast number of projects related to policy and regulation for D2D products, satellite broadband internet, and the launch of 5G satellite networks. Ivan is actively involved in several regional groups in preparation for WRC-27, focusing on Latin America and Africa. He contributes to several publications such as ViaSatellite and SpaceNews, covering different areas of the New Space Economy. He holds several Masters Degrees in Telecommunications Law and International Relations.
More information available shortly.
Experienced CEO with a large professional background in the Telecommunications Industry, Jaume Sanpera is a classic in technological entrepreneurship in Spain.
Founder of various companies mainly telecommunications, creating a business group that was listed on the stock market and with a wide international presence, such as Eurona, (1st telecom satellite operator in Europe that was listed in 2010), Ambientum , (leading the environmental sector in Spain), Cidec a praxis technology, TechnoTrends, Festuc etc.
Jaume is backed by almost 30 years of experience in Telecommunications and recognised achievements in this sector.
Its consolidation as an entrepreneur and CEO expert in the Telecommunications Industry makes him a very present figure in the media, forums and other information and broadcasting platforms.
Eng. Alhamedi Alanezi is a distinguished figure in telecommunications. As President and CEO of ARABSAT, he masterfully steers the organization through the complex landscape of satellite communications, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation and service excellence.
Educated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Eng. Alanezi blends operational expertise with strategic business acumen. His professional experience has paved the way for over two decades of impactful leadership and pioneering contributions to the industry.
Since assuming leadership at ARABSAT, Eng. Alanezi has been instrumental in redefining the company’s strategic direction. He oversees all facets of the company’s operations, from operation and technology development to customer service. Under his stewardship, ARABSAT has not only expanded its market presence but has also embarked on the launch of cutting-edge satellite programs that have significantly enhanced its service offerings.
A respected leader, Eng. Alanezi frequently shares his insights and expertise as a speaker at international telecommunications and satellite conferences, influencing industry trends and practices. His dedication to advancing satellite technology extends beyond professional realms; he is deeply passionate about the role of telecommunications in enhancing connectivity across the Arab region.
Jean-Hubert Lenotte joined Eutelsat in September 2013, as the Group’s Director of Strategy, and became a member of the Executive Committee in 2016 as Director of Strategy and Strategic Marketing.
In June 2019, he also took charge of the Deployment Department and is responsible for Eutelsat’s satellite fleet, frequency management, resource planning and innovation. This newly revamped department is now known as the Strategy and Resources Department.
Jean-Hubert began his career at Bouygues where he was notably part of the project team that created Bouygues Telecom in 1994. He joined McKinsey & Company in Paris in 1997 and was elected Partner in 2004. In 2009, he headed the Consumer Service Line of McKinsey & Company in the global telecommunications, media and technology practice.
A Belgian national, he is a graduate of the Ecole Polytechnique and holds a Masters degree in Economy and Finance from the Institute of Political Sciences in Paris.
More information available shortly.
Isabelle Mauro is Director General of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA) that represents the interests of 70 members in the satellite ecosystem. She reports directly to their Chief Executives.
Under Isabelle’s leadership, GSOA and its member CEOs lead the effort to showcase the benefits of satellite communications for a more inclusive and secure society – vital to bridging the world’s digital divide, achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and realizing the 5G ecosystem.
Isabelle has 25 years experience in the Telecoms and Technology sector, starting at the GSMA, where she was responsible for government and international Affairs. In 2015 she moved to New York to join the World Economic Forum as Head of Information, Communications and Technology Industries, managing the portfolio for 60+ Tech companies globally and leading initiatives on inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.
Isabelle is passionate about inclusion and sustainability. She is Chair of the High-Level Advisory Board of the DigitalGoesGreen Foundation. She also sits on the Advisory Board of Women in Tech and is a member of the UNESCO Advisory Group for the Declaration on Connectivity for Education.
Isabelle holds an MSc in European Politics and Policy from the London School of Economics. She is fluent in French, English, Italian and Spanish.
Mohammad Khiami received his bachelor of science degree with honors in Computer Engineering and master’s degree in Computer Networks from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in 2020 and 2024 respectively. He started his career as a Network Engineer at Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) then he joined Saudi Aramco as a Communication Engineer with experience in designing and operating robust IT infrastructures and solutions.
Nadine Allen joined SES as Global Head of Enterprise & Cloud in January 2024.
Prior to SES, Nadine has held a variety of leadership positions in the telecommunications and enterprise sectors for Ericsson and Marconi. In her last position, Nadine was head of Ericsson’s Enterprise Business and Strategy for Southeast Asia, India and Oceania where she was accountable for building growth businesses in the areas of 5G, Private Networks, Cloud, Security and IoT as well as strategy development and execution across the region.
Before that, she was CEO of Ericsson Thailand, Head of Global Customer Unit Telenor group and Head of Enterprise Business in Western Central Europe.
Nadine is a UK national and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Warwick (UK).
A discussion to address the security concerns surrounding NTNs, including potential vulnerabilities and attack vectors, and what needs to be done to safeguard NTN networks and foster a secure and reliable environment. It will discuss the ways in which innovative solutions and best practices are being used to increase NTN security, and at how non-terrestrial networks can help to contribute to increasing the security of communications networks more broadly.
Pacôme Révillon serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Novaspace, based in Paris, France. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the space sector, Pacôme has been instrumental in shaping strategic initiatives and operational excellence. His wealth of experience includes advising high-profile clients, with a specialised focus on satellite broadcasting, communications, and finance.
Professor Konstantinos Masselos has been appointed as the President of the Hellenic Telecommunications and Post Commission (EETT) in February 2018. He has been elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) for 2019.
In 2006 he joined University of Peloponnese, where he is currently a Professor in Computing Systems Design in the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications. Konstantinos served as Rector of the above university the period 2012-2017. During the period 2005 to 2008, he was Lecturer in digital systems at the Imperial College London. Also from 2010 to 2016 he served as Honorary Lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, at the Imperial College London. From 2001 to 2004 he joined Intracom Telecom SA in Greece.
Konstantinos has been involved in several research and development projects and has consulting experience in industry and public organizations. Since 2005 he has been regularly involved as an expert in different European Commission units. Additionally, Konstantinos was member of the Scientific Committee of European COoperation in Science and Technology (COST) organization from 2015 to 2017. He has authored more than 120 papers in international journals and conferences.
Jean-Philippe Gillet leads Intelsat’s global sales organization; in addition, he oversees Intelsat’s Media, Mobility and Networks businesses, with responsibilities for developing and executing the company’s global broadband strategy and solutions.
Mr. Gillet previously served as Intelsat’s GM and Vice President for the Networks Business Unit from 2017 to 2019, as Vice President for Europe, the Middle East and Africa from 2014 to 2017, as Intelsat’s Vice President of Sales for Europe and the Middle East From 2006 to 2013 and as Intelsat’s Vice President of Media Sales from 2003 to 2006. In these roles, he successfully grew Intelsat’s business with telecommunications service providers and broadcasters, regularly exceeding revenue and backlog targets.
Prior to joining Intelsat in 2003, Mr. Gillet spent five years with Globecast North America (France Telecom Group) as Vice President of International Sales and Director of Sales for Europe, the Middle East and North America. He began his career at Orange as a sales and marketing manager.
Mr. Gillet earned a Master of Science degree in information technology from SKEMA Business School and a Bachelor’s in computer science at the Ecole Superieure d’Informatique Engineering School, located in France.
As the foundational architects of satellite technology, Intelsat operates the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructure. We apply our unparalleled expertise and global scale to connect people, businesses, and communities, no matter how difficult the challenge. Intelsat is uniquely positioned to help our customers turn possibilities into reality – transformation happens when businesses, governments, and communities use Intelsat’s next-generation global network and managed services to build their connected future.
Garnet Mons, a seasoned leader in the aerospace industry, serves as the General Manager of Kratos Arabia Ltd and Business Development Executive for Kratos Space, spearheading the company’s strategic expansion across the Saudi Arabian and GCC markets. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience within the dynamic Saudi Space sector, Garnet has been a key player in pivotal Defense and Commercial space programs, witnessing firsthand the remarkable transformation taking place in the Kingdom.
His deep understanding of the local market, coupled with his extensive technical expertise, has been instrumental in fostering strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and private sector entities. Garnet’s strategic acumen and entrepreneurial spirit have enabled him to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities, driving innovation and growth for Kratos in the region.
Beyond his managerial responsibilities, Garnet is a passionate advocate for the space industry and its potential to address global challenges. He actively contributes to industry forums and conferences, sharing his insights on the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of space. His commitment to excellence and his dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration have made him a respected figure in the Saudi space community.
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
Dr. Walid Mathlouthi received a PhD in Optics, Photonics and Lasers. He spent his early career at Optical Research Laboratories in France, Italy, Canada and the US with Intel Corp where he worked, among other things, on the first Raman silicon laser.
In 2010, he joined AT&T Labs in California as a Senior Member of Technical Staff. He worked mainly on data mining for complex Analysis/problem solving, Laboratory and field experimentation, 3G, 4G and LTE service quality and optimization, RF optimizations, Self-organizing Networks, Large scale UE data collection and analysis for actionable analytics and IP migrations such as VOLTE services.
In 2014, he joined Google Headquarters in Mountain View managing Global Network Architecture. He worked on building high quality networks to provide broadband connectivity in emergent markets and connect the under-connected. He also led Google Global Data Centre design to support cloud services deployments (compute, storage, ML Pods and AI infrastructure).
In 2021, Dr. Walid Mathlouthi began to work for ITU as the head the Future Networks and Spectrum Management division leading various projects to leverage technologies such as satellite and AI to support economic growth in developing countries and help bridge the digital gap.
A forward looking session that focuses on how high altitude platform stations (HAPS) and near space (from the upper troposphere and stratosphere) technologies are evolving, and at the exciting potential that new innovations and technologies are starting to uncover. It will explore how connectivity delivered through HAPS can complement satellites and terrestrial towers, and the coverage and performance enhancements that can be achieved. Now, following World Radio Conference (WRC-23), HAPS operators have access to key spectrum bands that can power its future success, one of the factors that led to The World Economic Forum selecting HAPS as one of its top 10 emerging technologies of 2024. This session will look at the work that is being done to develop reliable unmanned near space connectivity systems, and at the emerging markets and use cases that could open up in the future. It will look at the challenges that still need to be overcome, at the expected future shape of this exciting sector, and at the potential role that it could play in delivering the ultimate goal of global/ubiquitous connectivity which is set to be an important expectation of 6G.
Mohamed-Slim Alouini was born in Tunis, Tunisia. He received the Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 1998. He served as a faculty member at the University of Minnesota then in the Texas A&M University at Qatar before joining in 2009 the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) where he is now a Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Prof. Alouini is a Fellow of the IEEE and Optica (Formerly the Optical Society of America (OSA)). He is currently particularly interested in addressing the technical challenges associated with the uneven distribution, access to, and use of information and communication technologies in far-flung, rural, low-income, disaster, and/or hard-to-reach areas.
More information available shortly.
Richard joined Stratospheric Platforms in November 2018 and became CEO in February 2019. He was previously Global Head of Aerospace in PA Consulting. From 2010-2015, he was CEO of NATS; a privately-owned company with a turnover of £925M providing air traffic management and airport operations around the world. During that time, NATS delivered the best period of safety, operational performance, and financial results on record, whilst incorporating challenges ranging from volcanic ash, Olympic Games airspace management, international business development, organisational restructuring and wide ranging political and media engagement.
Previously he was SVP of Thales Group’s Air Systems Division based in Paris and lead the UK’s tactical military drone program for Thales, including serving in Afghanistan. He has worked extensively on civil drones and UTM systems and was appointed as a member of the UK government’s Drone Industry Action Group in 2016. Richard has 30 years’ experience of major programs in the aerospace and defense industry sector with BAE Systems, TRW Aeronautical Systems and GKN.
A Chartered Engineer, Richard holds a first-class honors degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Kingston University and an MBA from Cranfield School of Management. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and holds an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering from Kingston University.
More information available shortly.
More information available shortly.
A spectrum management professional with extensive experience in research and regulatory domains. He holds a Master’s degree in Engineering and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from King Saud University, in which he acquired a strong foundation in technical and analytical skills. Abdulaziz began his professional journey in the R&D sector, focusing on emerging technologies, before transitioning to a governmental commission, where he currently serves as a Team Lead at CST. His expertise in spectrum management is instrumental in driving innovative solutions and ensuring the efficient utilization of spectrum resources to support the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving communication needs.
Gregory is a recognized global expert in the development & operation of Lighter-Than-Air technology and has spent the last two decades bringing airships and aerostats to the Middle East. Founder of Airships Arabia, he has served as Chair of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Lighter-Than-Air Systems Technical Committee and is currently Chairman of The Airship Association.
Space stations, robots on the Moon, Humans on the surface of Mars: all these missions have communications as their backbone. This session will go above and beyond the terrestrial applications we are accustomed to. It will focus on the critical role of communication networks in supporting exploration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Topics will include network architectures, regulatory challenges, interplanetary internet, and the communication requirements of future missions. By exploring these topics, we aim to provide insights into the innovations driving the future of deep space communications and its essential role in supporting robotic and human exploration beyond Earth.
More information available shortly.
Xavier Lobao holds a Master in Telecommunication Engineering by the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) a Master in Business Administration (MBA) by the Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) and is a graduate from the International Space University (ISU) Summer Session Programme.
He has 35+ years of experience in the space sector, primarily in satellite telecommunications. Since 2000 he is working in the European Space Agency (ESA), where he is Head of the Future Telecom Programmes Division in the Connectivity and Secure Communication Directorate. Current focus areas are the integration of satellite in telecommunication networks (TN/NTN integration), D2D (Direct-to-Device) communications, the role of satellite in 5G/6G, in spectrum sustainability, in the future quantum information networks, communications on the Moon, cislunar orbit and beyond towards the Internet of the Solar System.
Cessy Karina is a Senior Radiocommunication Engineer with over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications sector. She joined the ITU in 2002 to work in the Radiocommunication Bureau’s Space Services Department and now serves as the coordinator for satellite coordination request examination in the Space Systems Coordination Division (SSC). In addition to her core responsibilities, Cessy provides support and guidance to administrations globally and participates actively in ITU workshops, seminars, and conferences, particularly those related to space services. Prior to her ITU tenure, she worked in Indonesia’s private telecommunications sector, where she contributed to frequency coordination, notification, and registration processes for Indonesian satellite networks.
A dedicated advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment, Cessy served as a co-coordinator for the Network of Women for WRC-2023 and has been an active member of the ITU’s gender task force as well as Women in Aerospace Europe since 2015. Outside of work, Cessy enjoys traveling and photography.
Ryo Ujiie, currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for ispace, inc. He received B.S. and M.S. degrees in geophysics from Tohoku University in 2007 and 2009, respectively, and M.S. degree in engineering and management from MIT in 2016. He started his professional career at JAXA in 2009 as a software/simulation engineer, was involved in software-independent verification and validation of multiple flight projects, and was engaged in software engineering, Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) simulation, and system safety design research projects until 2015. After graduating from MIT in 2016, he initiated several Multi-disciplinary System Design Optimization research projects at JAXA. In 2017, he became a member of the HTV-X (a JAXA unmanned cargo transfer spacecraft) project team and was primarily involved in GNC tasks and NASA interface management. In 2018, he started his new career at ispace as Deputy Project Manager/Lander System Engineering Group Manager before being appointed CTO in June 2022.
Ian Jones is an engineer and entrepreneur with a career spent developing the satellite ground segment. His activities span designing the first digital modems for space communications to leading the re-birth of Goonhilly, and establishing the company as the world’s first private Deep Space Communication operator.
Goonhilly has helped to command and monitor over 30 different Deep Space and Lunar missions for ESA, NASA, JAXA, ISRO and a number of private companies.
Ian’s new venture, Ibbynet, is looking at the global ground segment market including all earth orbits as well as options for helping grow the lunar economy and beyond.
He was awarded the OBE for ‘Services to Space Communications’ in King Charles’s 2024 Birthday Honours List.
Ed Kruzins Professor of Space Communications and Tracking University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra Space is a member of the National Council of Space Engineering, member of Standards Australia, Honorary Fellow of the Australian Federal Science Agency (CSIRO) and Adj/Professor University of Adelaide. He has worked in Industry, Government and International space arenas.
Ed was Director 2012-21 of the NASA-JPL/CSIRO Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex CDSCC in Canberra, tracking 40 international space exploration missions. He is a member of the International Space Exploration Coordination Group of 27 Space Agencies collaborating in Lunar and Mars exploration promoting Australian engagement.
As Systems Engineering Manager Raytheon 2004-06 at CDSCC Tidbinbilla, he provided ground station capability for key space missions including Cassini, Huygens/Titan, Mars & Lunar Orbiter, Curiosity Rover and the Voyager spacecraft. He holds practical experience in ground station and spaceflight operations. Ed began his working career in Europe with BAE/Matra/Marconi Space Systems building commercial satellites Olympus1, Inmarsat2, Telecom2 and Skynet4. With the European Union his team provided the first study work on
the Galileo navigation constellation.
Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, graduate of the UNSW Business School and member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, his space background spans over several decades and continents.
Abdulhadi serves as the General Manager of Radio Spectrum Planning at Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) in Saudi Arabia. He leads efforts in implementing the Spectrum National Strategy, overseeing the National Frequency Plan, and developing policies and regulations to advance efficient spectrum management in the Kingdom.
Previously, Abdulhadi served as the General Manager of Radio Spectrum Monitoring, where he spearheaded the modernization of spectrum management and monitoring capabilities. His work included the development of advanced radio sensing infrastructure and leveraging data analytics to adopt a cutting-edge, data-driven spectrum management approach.
With over 15 years of experience in radio spectrum and wireless technologies, Abdulhadi has held diverse leadership roles. At Mobily, he contributed to the design and operation of the Radio Access Network (RAN), driving initiatives in service management, quality enhancement, and network expansion.
Abdulhadi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in communications and electronics, from King Saud University.
Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications , Space and Technology Commission (CST), has extensive experience in organizational governance, politics, and competitive economics, and is recognized as a global expert in wireless networks and cloud computing.
Prior to taking on the Governorship at the CST, Dr. Altamimi served the organization as Deputy Governor for Regulation and Competition and acting Deputy Governor for Consumer Protection and Partnership.
A prominent contributor to the international discourse in the field of wireless technology. He has been instrumental in the establishment of a number of specialized research societies in Saudi Arabia, including the Saudi Association for Information Security (Hemaya) where he sits on the board of directors, and his work with the CST has seen him spearhead the preparation of systems, legislation, and regulations in the telecommunications and information technology sector in Saudi Arabia.
Among his many academic achievements, Dr. Altamimi has published several scientific papers in the field of telecommunications engineering and organizational economics. He is the vice president of a research group specializing in wireless networks, next-generation networks, and cloud computing at the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva. He also sits on the board of the Saudi Space Commission and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.
Dr. Altamimi graduated from Harvard University’s Leadership Development program and holds a Ph.D. in telecommunications and networking from the University of Pittsburgh in the USA, a master’s degree in communications technology and policy from the University of Strathclyde in the UK, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals in Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
An opening session that sets the scene by hearing from different thought leaders on their global visions for the future of NTNs. How do they see the future development of the sector, and what need to be the next steps from both industry and policy stakeholders in order for the exciting potential of NTNs can be realised?
More information available shortly.
ANATEL’s Commissioner Carlos Baigorri, currently President of the Board of Directors, has a degree in Economic Sciences from the University of Brasília (UnB), a Master’s and Doctorate in Economics from the Catholic University of Brasília (UCB).
Acting in the telecommunications area since 2006, he was a consultant and analyst of sector information for an association of mobile operators. He has also served as an undergraduate professor at the Catholic University of Brasilia (UCB), at the Institute of Higher Education of Brasília (IESB), and at the Brazilian Institute of Capital Markets (IBMEC). In addition, he wrote articles and book chapters that were published in Brazil and abroad. He has been a permanent career employee at Anatel since 2009, where he has previously been nominated Executive Superintendent, Competition Superintendent, Obligations Control Superintendent, and Head of Technical Assistance.
UNOOSA Director, Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini, maintains responsibility for the Office’s management and administration, provides strategic guidance to its work and ensures that it is implemented in accordance with the mandates of the General Assembly, the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the established policies of the United Nations. She develops the work programme of the Office and ensures the Office’s efficiency, transparency and accountability.
Ms. Holla-Maini serves as the senior advisor to the Secretary-General and represents the SG at meetings and conferences on matters relating to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. She also discharges the Secretary-General’s obligations under the UN treaties and principles on outer space.
Alongside the team in the Office of the Director, Ms. Holla-Maini oversees and coordinates the strategic direction and operational priorities of the Office, including the preparation, monitoring and implementation of the work plan, budget and the strategic framework of the Office.
Eva Berneke joined Eutelsat on 1st January 2022 as Chief Executive Officer. She is also a member of the Board.
Eva brings considerable experience of the Telecoms and Technology industries. She joins Eutelsat from KMD, Denmark’s leading IT and software company, specialising in IT solutions and services for the public and private sector, and now part of the NEC Group. During her tenure she oversaw the transformation of KMD from a mainly government service provider to a modern, digital company competing in both the public and private sectors.
Prior to that Eva held several senior positions at TDC, formerly TeleDanmark, the largest telecommunications company in Denmark, notably as Head of Strategy and Head of the company’s Wholesale and Business divisions. Eva began her career at McKinsey where she developed a specialization in the TMT sectors and where she was based for 10 years at the group’s Paris offices.
Eva sits on the Boards of international groups Lego and Vestas Wind Systems as well as France’s Ecole Polytechnique. She is a graduate of Denmark’s Technical University, where she gained a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and holds an MBA from INSEAD.
Hamid Akhavan is the CEO and President of EchoStar, overseeing all aspects of the company and serves as a member of the Board of Directors. DISH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar. Before joining EchoStar, Hamid was most recently a partner at Twin Point Capital, an investment firm, and a founding partner of Long Arc Capital LLC. He held a variety of executive leadership positions including CEO of Unify Inc. (formerly Siemens Enterprise Communications), Chief Operating Officer at Deutsche Telekom and CEO of T-Mobile International, in connection with which he also served as a member of the Board of Management of Deutsche Telekom. Hamid has been a member of the Board of Directors of Vonage Holding Corp., a global cloud communications company, since 2016, and also serves on that Board’s Technology and Transactions Committees. In addition, Hamid has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Anterix Inc., a wireless communications company, and is a member of its Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees. Hamid earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the California Institute of Technology and his Master of Science in the same fields from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He’s an avid photographer, woodworker and music enthusiast.
Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter was appointed Executive Vice President of Technology & Innovation, effective April 1, 2023.
Prior to this role, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Aramco, a role he undertook in May 2015.
Al-Khowaiter joined the company in 1984 and completed a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in 1988. His first assignment was as an engineer with Southern Area Oil Operations, where he worked on the commissioning of the ‘Uthmaniyah gas-oil separation plants.
After earning an M.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Al-Khowaiter joined the Process & Control Systems Department in July 1996.
After joining the Hawiyah Gas Plant Project as a project engineer in 1997, he became a senior project engineer in 1999. In 2000, Al-Khowaiter was given a division-level leadership role and led the commissioning of the Hawiyah Gas Plant.
In 2002, he was transferred to the Haradh Gas Plant during the construction and commissioning phase and served as superintendent of Gas Plant Operations.
Between 2004 and 2005, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan Fellowship Program, earning an M.S. degree in Business Administration.
In July 2005, Al-Khowaiter was named Manager, Facilities Planning, and in 2006, he led the development of the master plan for the King Abdullah University of Science & Technology. In 2007, he was seconded to the university, where he served as Interim Provost and then named Interim Vice President for Economic Development.
Al-Khowaiter returned to Aramco in November 2009 and became Director of New Business Evaluation, before being elevated to Chief Engineer from August 2011 to 2014. In 2014, he was appointed Executive Director of Power Systems.
Al-Khowaiter is currently a member of the Board of Directors of SATORP (Saudi Aramco Total Refining Petrochemical Co.), SADCO (Saudi Aramco Development Co.), the King Abdulaziz City of Science & Technology (KACST).
Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications , Space and Technology Commission (CST), has extensive experience in organizational governance, politics, and competitive economics, and is recognized as a global expert in wireless networks and cloud computing.
Prior to taking on the Governorship at the CST, Dr. Altamimi served the organization as Deputy Governor for Regulation and Competition and acting Deputy Governor for Consumer Protection and Partnership.
A prominent contributor to the international discourse in the field of wireless technology. He has been instrumental in the establishment of a number of specialized research societies in Saudi Arabia, including the Saudi Association for Information Security (Hemaya) where he sits on the board of directors, and his work with the CST has seen him spearhead the preparation of systems, legislation, and regulations in the telecommunications and information technology sector in Saudi Arabia.
Among his many academic achievements, Dr. Altamimi has published several scientific papers in the field of telecommunications engineering and organizational economics. He is the vice president of a research group specializing in wireless networks, next-generation networks, and cloud computing at the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva. He also sits on the board of the Saudi Space Commission and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.
Dr. Altamimi graduated from Harvard University’s Leadership Development program and holds a Ph.D. in telecommunications and networking from the University of Pittsburgh in the USA, a master’s degree in communications technology and policy from the University of Strathclyde in the UK, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals in Saudi Arabia.
A. H. Sayed is Dean of Engineering at EPFL, Switzerland, where he also directs the Adaptive Systems Laboratory. He has served before as a Distinguished Professor and Chair of Electrical Engineering at UCLA. He is a member of the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). He served as President of the IEEE Signal Processing Society in 2018 and 2019. He is the author of over 650 scholarly publications and 10 books. His research involves several areas, including adaptation and learning theories, data and network sciences, statistical inference, and information processing theories. His work has been recognized with several major awards, including the 2022 IEEE Fourier Technical Field Award and the 2020 IEEE Norbert Wiener Society Award. He is a Fellow of several professional societies.
Poster Session: IEEE Competition on NTN for 6G (B Floor)
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is an officer of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers from the 1984 batch. He had superannuated as Chairman & CEO, Railway Board on 31st August 2023 after a career spanning about 37 years Indian Railway.
He is a graduate in Civil Engineering from Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Gwalior, with gold medal and has master’s degree in engineering (Structures) from IIT Roorkee. He has worked in various positions in the Central, Northern, North Central, Western, and West Central Railway, as well as in the Railway Board.
Besides Chairman & CEO, Railway Board, some of the important positions held by Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti include Member Infrastructure, Railway Board, General Manager of Central Railway and Western Railway, Divisional Railway Manager, Lucknow, Northern Railway, Chief Administrative Officer (Construction), Northern Railway and Executive Director, Railway Board. Post his retirement, Ministry of Railway had appointed him to a One-Man Expert Committee for improvement in inspection and maintenance of track. In December 2023, Gati Shakti Vishvavidyalaya, Vadodara, a Central University appointed him as a Distinguished Visiting Professor.
His expertise includes railway operations, track maintenance, project execution and station redevelopment. During his illustrious career, Shri Lahoti initiated several reforms in execution of infrastructure projects and took several initiatives to modernize and mechanize track maintenance on Indian Railways. During his stints as CRB & CEO, GM and DRM, he brought about significant improvement in freight transport performance and took several customer friendly initiatives to improve the quality of service and ease the customer interface. He has also extensively contributed to planning and structuring of station redevelopment projects in various positions served by him.
Shri Lahoti has travelled to various countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia in connection with official assignments. He has undertaken executive training programmes at Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA, SDA Bocconi Business School, Milan, Italy and Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.
He was born to Freedom Fighter Late Shri Ratan Lal Lahoti and Late Smt. Kanchan Devi Lahoti at Guna, M.P. and is the younger brother of former Chief Justice of India Late Justice R.C. Lahoti. His wife is a homemaker and his son is a working professional in Bangaluru.
The session will discuss the vital role of WRC-27 in shaping the future shape of NTN and converged connectivity, and at the importance of collaboration and coordination in the preparation and build up to this. How can stakeholders come together to ensure the vast potential of NTN is achieved?
Mr. Mario Maniewicz was elected Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He took office on 1 January 2019.
Mario Maniewicz is an electronic engineer specialized in telecommunications. He has been with the ITU for over 30 years, where he has served in high-level management positions in the Radiocommunication and Development Sectors as well as in ITU Regional Offices.
As Director, Mr. Maniewicz is responsible for the management of the Radiocommunication Bureau, which organizes and co-ordinates the work of the Radiocommunication Sector whose aim is to ensure the rational, equitable, efficient and economical use of the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa is pleased to announce that Councillor Mothibi Ramusi has been sworn-in as the 6th Chairperson of ICASA, at a ceremony held at the ICASA Head Office, in Centurion.
The ceremony was presided over by the Honourable Professor JCW van Rooyen SC, formerly Acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa. During the ceremony, the newly appointed Chairperson pledged to act with integrity, to uphold the public interest, and to serve the people of South Africa in the provision of electronic communications, broadcasting and postal services, in line with the Constitution and the ICASA Act.
Cllr Ramusi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, with over three decades of experience in the ICT sector. He will play a crucial role in advancing ICASA’s mandate to regulate the telecommunications, broadcasting, and postal sectors in the public interest, to promote competition, and to ensure universal access to communication infrastructure, services and content.
The Acting Chairperson of ICASA, Councillor Peter Zimri, warmly welcomed the newly appointed Chairperson, emphasising the significant role the appointment will play in advancing the Authority’s mission of effective regulatory oversight in the sector. “The Council pledges to support and work together with the Chairperson to address the dynamic challenges and opportunities in the rapidly-evolving ICT landscape, including both broadcasting and postal services” added Cllr Zimri.
Cllr Ramusi is a qualified Electronic Systems Engineer. He holds a Bachelors’ Degree (BEng) in Electronic Systems Engineering, and various other formal qualifications. Since 1992, he has held senior positions in the ICT and Space/Satellite.
Cllr Ramusi’s appointment as Chairperson, by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Honourable Mondli Gungubele, was announced in the Government Gazette on 3 April 2024. This appointment is in line with section 5(1B) (c) of the ICASA Act, 2000 (Act No. 13 of 2000), as amended.
Tareq Al Awadhi is the Executive Director Spectrum Affairs Department of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) in the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Al Awadhi has 27 years of experience in spectrum management. He is Chairman of Arab Spectrum Management Group (ASMG) and he has been selected as Chairman of ITU World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC) 2012. He is also Chairman of Arab Working Group for PP-22 Preparation. He headed a number of ITU Working Groups and meetings and contributed towards ITU resolutions, recommendations and studies. He represented the UAE in ITU, IMO, ICAO, Arab League, GCC Telecom Bureau and a number of other international and regional forums.Tareq Al Awadhi played a pivotal role in establishing Spectrum Affairs Department in the TDRA. He pioneered the modern spectrum management concepts in the region and equipped the UAE with one the most advanced and first of its kind fully automated online spectrum management and frequency planning system. He developed UAE 5G Strategic Plan and Beyond (2020-2025) and the UAE ranked 4th Globally in launching and operating the 5G in 2020. This plan serves as a road map to accelerate the pace of introducing the 5G in the country and work with all partners in using this Technology in all sectors in the country (such as health, education, entertainment, infrastructure, military, security, etc.).
He has long experience in satellite coordination business. Under his supervisor; the UAE Administration managed to register their 11 satellites in the ITU Master Frequency Registration for the purpose of it protection, and around 138 files were opened covering a large number of satellite orbital under UAE name.
Jennifer A. Manner is the Senior Advisor for Space and Satellite Policy at the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), advising on spectrum management issues related to space and satellite communications. Prior to NTIA, she was Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at EchoStar Corporation and held senior roles at the FCC, MCI/WorldCom, and Skyterra.
Jennifer has led several industry and government organizations, including the Global Satellite Operators Association and the Satellite Industry Association, and served as Chair of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee.
She has also been a professor of law at Georgetown University Law School, teaching international telecommunications law, and continues to teach at Carnegie Mellon and UC Boulder.
An accomplished author, her works include “Spectrum Wars: The Rise of 5G and Beyond” and the upcoming “Spectrum Wars: A New Hope for Connectivity.” She is also a filmmaker, with her latest film, “When Wire Was King: The Transformation of Telecommunications,” available on PBS and streaming platforms. Jennifer holds a B.A. from SUNY Albany, a J.D. cum laude from New York Law School, and an LL.M. with honors from Georgetown University Law School.
Peng serves as the Vice-President of Policy & Regulatory at GSOA, where he spearheads advocacy efforts in critical policy and regulatory domains, including spectrum management, market access, and national policy initiatives. With a rich background in the telecommunications sector and expertise across mobile and satellite industries, he’s been advising governments and telecom industry globally.
Before joining GSOA, Peng played a pivotal role at Eutelsat OneWeb in shaping international regulatory and policy frameworks, focusing on delivering satellite licensing structures to accommodate Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, and tailoring satellite regulatory procedure during WRC-23. Prior to this, at GSMA, Peng was responsible for the global campaign aimed at optimizing spectrum licensing conditions for mobile operators worldwide. He led a diverse team of policy experts across developing markets, engaging policymakers and regulators to advocate for industry best practices in telecom policy.
Peng holds a Master’s degree in Telecommunication from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology of Lausanne, complemented by an Executive MBA from the London Business School. Peng is fluent in English, Mandarin, and French.
Fahad Alghamdi is an accomplished expert in satellite regulations and space services, with extensive experience in international frequency coordination and spectrum management. As Satellite expert at the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST), Fahad plays a pivotal role in shaping satellite policy and ensuring regulatory compliance for national and international satellite initiatives. He is the Chairman of multiple strategic groups, including the Radiocommunication Advisory Group Correspondence Group (CG) in the ITU-R and the Arab Spectrum Management Group’s Working Group on Mobile Satellite Services.
Zeina Mokaddem is VP Regulatory and Market Access at Viasat. Throughout her career she successfully championed and introduced a number of pioneering communication technologies globally and in the Middle East and North Africa in particular.
Prior to working for Viasat, Ms Mokaddem worked as a consultant for several international communication players assisting them in opening new markets and shaping favorable regulatory frameworks in different jurisdictions. Ms Mokaddem has an MSc in Engineering Management from the American University.
Barnaby has been in the telecom industry for over 30 years working on early telematics and leading edge solutions in the enterprise mobile operator industry.
Moving to Viasat over five years ago Barnaby continues to innovate in IOT and solution based selling.
A real advocate of ecosystem partners to support the outcome customers need and the value they bring.
Currently delivering use cases for direct to device and exciting opportunities this offers customers, ecosystem partners, MNOs and satellite providers.
Focussing on the huge potential of hybrid terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and potential business models and types of collaboration that will help create this exciting new ecosystem. Discussions will also focus on strategies that are emerging from both terrestrial and non-terrestrial operators, and on the technology and policy challenges that need to be overcome.
Abdulah Aljohani (Senior Member, IEEE) was previously a Research & Innovation Consultant at the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). Currently, he works with the NEO Space Group (NSG), a wholly owned PIF company aiming to be the national champion for satellite operations within the KSA, as a Senior R&D advisor.
He is also an Associate Professor with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, and a Research Associate at the Center of Excellence in Intelligent Engineering Systems, King Abdulaziz University.
He received his B.Sc. (Eng.) degree (Hons.) in electronics and communication engineering from King Abdulaziz University in 2006, and M.Sc. (Distinction) and Ph.D. degrees in wireless communication from the University of Southampton, Southampton, U.K., in 2010 and 2016, respectively.
His research interests include spectrum management techniques, Non-Terrestrial Networks, channel coding, cooperative communications, space-time coding, free-space optical communication, and MIMO systems. He has published over 30 articles and holds 13 U.S. patents. He has won more than 10 research grants and multiple innovation and best paper awards.
Philip Marnick is the General Director of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). He was appointed early January 2022 by the Members of the Board, to assume the position, paving the way for a more effective regulatory framework by continuing the evolution of the telecom sector liberalization.
Mr. Marnick leads the TRA, including the development of consumer protection initiatives and resolving disputes. The TRA develops regulatory rules that promote competition, innovation, and investment in broadband services and facilities, as well as developing a more comprehensive and competitive framework that aligns with international best practices. Ensuring that Bahrain remains a center of innovation and that its telecommunications sector serves everyone while supporting Bahrain’s strategic objectives.
Before assuming his role at the TRA, Philip managed and directed at Ofcom in the UK, where he was the Group Director of Spectrum responsible for all aspects of UK national and international spectrum management – from strategy to delivery including awards, clearance and enforcement.
Mr. Marnick has worked in the telecommunications sector for over 30 years. He has served as a senior executive in technology, operations, and strategy. Mr. Marnick has worked in both start-ups (from inception to sale) and major corporations, in firms such as UK Broadband, O2, Orange, BT, J-Phone in Japan (now Softbank Mobile), Extreme Mobile, and SpinVox (now Nuance).
From analogue to 5G, he has engaged across every mobile generation. Throughout his carrier he has been at the forefront of industry developments – in both fixed and mobile. He has collaborated on the first deployments of mobile networks utilizing new technologies and standards, this has also included innovative products such as the first camera phone and photo messaging service, as well as mobile internet and hosted voice services.
Luciana Camargos is the GSMA’s Head of Spectrum. She directs the GSMA’s range of advocacy issues on public policy relating to spectrum with national governments and multilateral organisations.
Luciana’s career began with Brazilian regulator Anatel, where she worked as part of the board advisory team. She joined the GSMA in 2012, where she has continued to be active in shaping the future of mobile services at international forums such as the ITU, CITEL, and other multilateral organisations.
She has chaired regulatory groups charged with developing communications regulation at the ITU and in regional organisations. She is an active supporter of the role of women in technology and is a former chair of the ITU’s Network of Women.
Luciana earned an MBA in telecommunications from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, and a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Brasilia.
Gregory Ewert serves as the Chief Commercial Officer & Managing Director, North America, Stratospheric Platforms, Ltd. He is responsible for orchestrating global strategic partnerships and distribution across enterprises, military/government, and MNOs. Mr. Ewert has decades of experience in mobility, satellite, and traditional telecom applications. Prior executive experience spans international, MNOs and mobile satellites where he held various positions at Sprint, GlobalOne, BCE (Bell Canada), Iridium, Inmarsat, and Intelsat, most recently as Vice President of Strategy and Business Development.
Lauren is Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, overseeing the global expansion Starlink. Her scope includes global licensing, launch of sales in new markets, enterprise customer relationships, strategic connectivity projects, and crisis response. She has been a part of the Starlink team since mid-2020. Lauren has over 18 years of experience at SpaceX. Prior to her current role, she was a Principal Operations Engineer for the executive team. She has also held individual and leadership positions across the company, including working in business development, compliance, finance, risk management, corporate real estate, and human resources. Throughout all roles, she has focused on complex and critical project management. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Baylor University and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University.
Guy is based in Munich, Germany and is currently responsible for spectrum regulatory issues involving the recently launched Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone 14. Prior to joining Apple in 2020, Guy held a number of regulatory and market access positions with Viasat, Inmarsat/Global Xpress, Boeing and Alcatel.
Juha Korhonen is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in the telecommunications and technology industries. He has held several prominent C-level roles, including Group Director of Digital and Innovation at Zain Group and Chief Commercial Officer at both Zain Saudi Arabiya and Wataniya Telecom in Kuwait. Currently, Juha serves as is Vice President of Infrastructure at TONOMUS, the tech and digital subsidiary of NEOM. He was previously a Senior Director and Advisor at Gartner.
Renowned for his ability to drive revenue growth, revitalize underperforming businesses, and capture market share in highly competitive environments, Juha has a proven track record of transformative leadership. In Saudi Arabia, he spearheaded the creation, launch and operation of a fully digital operator, B-Brand. Before that, he led the implementation of a group-wide API program across six operating companies, enabling expansion into new verticals.
Juha holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Computer Science and Telecommunications from the Helsinki University of Technology in Finland. He is from Flemington New Jersey, USA, and is married with three children.
Strategic leader with over 25 years of experience driving growth and innovation in multinational telecom and IT organizations. Recognized for leading cross-functional teams, managing multi-million-dollar engagements, and delivering transformative solutions for service providers and enterprise clients. A results-driven business partner with proven expertise in strategic sales, business development, and operational excellence. Accomplished in building sustainable partnerships, driving market penetration, and cultivating a culture of innovation and growth.
Sakher has over 15 years’ experience in the satcom industry with comprehensive knowledge of key entities in the region. Leading sales & business development initiatives in the MEA, Central Asia & Turkey regions, with expertise in defense, maritime, and land mobility sectors for driving growth and expanding multi-orbit constellation networks. Strategic planning and a focus on achieving objectives within the dynamic GEO & LEO satellite sectors, exemplary development of regional partnerships and driving application-based demand.
Live Technology Demonstrations of NTN Connectivity in Action (M Floor)
This session will dissect the exciting possibilities of space, from revolutionary technologies to the creation of new markets and industries. It will delve into the economic influence and growth of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) – a game-changer for space exploration and global connectivity; and also look more broadly at emerging space technologies in related areas such as reusable launch vehicles and in-space manufacturing. It will explore the new markets that are emerging and look at what needs to be done to take advantage of these.
More information available shortly.
Jeremy Jurgens is Managing Director & Head of the Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He is responsible for the Member and Partner companies essential to the mission of the Forum as the International Organisation for Public-Private Cooperation. His responsibilities include oversight of all industry initiatives, innovation and technology pioneer communities, the Forum’s offices in China, India and Japan as well as the Centre for Cybersecurity. He has served in various functions since 1999 including Chief Information Officer, Chief Representative China, the head of the Annual Meeting in Davos and the architect of the Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Platform.
Prior to joining the Forum, Jeremy Jurgens has worked at Microsoft, Patagonia and the Japanese Ministry of Finance. He holds a Master in Education from Harvard University and a BA in Economics and International Relations, from Claremont McKenna College.
Susmita Mohanty is a serial space entrepreneur and space diplomat. Her latest endeavour launched in October 2021 is India’s first dedicated space think tank called Spaceport SARABHAI (S2). As the Director General, she provides stewardship for S2’s mission and strategy. Armed with perspectives and insights from her rich and multilateral international experiences, she aspires to building broader international consensus and dialogue where space activities of Asia-Pacific nations have an increasingly strategic role to play in the sustainability of space exploration.
Susmita is the only space entrepreneur in the world to have co-founded companies on 3 different continents: EARTH2ORBIT, Bangalore (2009-2021), MOONFRONT, San Francisco (2001-2007) and LIQUIFER Systems Group, Vienna (2004-ongoing). Prior to turning entrepreneur, she worked for the International Space Station Program at Boeing in California and did a short stint at NASA Johnson.
In 2022, when India celebrated 75 years of independence, Susmita was one of 75 women honoured by the Indian government with the Women Transforming India (WTI) Awards. In 2019, she was selected as one of BBC’s 100 Women laureates inspiring and influencing a female-led future. In 2017, she was featured on cover of Fortune Magazine. In 2012, she was voted into Financial Times’ list of “25 Indians to Watch”. Technologies. In 2005, Susmita was honoured on Capitol Hill in Washington DC with the International Achievement Award for promoting international cooperation through her entrepreneurial ventures.
Educated in India, France, and Sweden, Susmita holds multiple degrees including a PhD. She is a member of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Future Council for Space Technologies.
Kam Ghaffarian is the visionary space and energy entrepreneur behind several companies dedicated to furthering human civilization, including Axiom Space. After co-founding Axiom Space in 2016 to unlock space’s potential for innovation through commercialization, he serves as executive chairman of the board and a key strategic advisor on the development of the space economy.
Kam started his entrepreneurial career in 1994 by founding Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. (SGT), a government services company focusing on IT, engineering, science applications, and mission operations. SGT became NASA’s second-largest engineering services contractor, providing International Space Station operations and astronaut training support, generating annual revenues of over half a billion dollars and eventually acquired by KBR. He previously held numerous technical and management positions at Lockheed Martin, Ford Aerospace, and Loral, among others.
Driven by his mission to advance the state of humanity and human knowledge, Kam has created organizations transforming the space and energy sectors. In addition to co-founding Axiom Space, his other companies include, Intuitive Machines, a leader in delivering science technology for NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program; X-energy, which is developing nuclear power solutions for both terrestrial energy and space propulsion use; and IBX, an innovation and investment firm.
Kam is also an active philanthropist and founder of a non-profit focused on scientific research and enabling interstellar travel. Kam holds several degrees, including undergraduate degrees in computer science and electronics engineering and a Master’s of Science in Information Management.
Martijn is the Chief Executive Officer of Neo Space Group (NSG). With extensive experience in CEO and executive leadership roles, he has built a successful track record of delivering growth in complex international environments.
Before joining NSG, Martijn was the CEO of EXA Infrastructure, and had previously served as Senior Advisor to Digital Infrastructure investors, leading the acquisition of EXA by I Squared Capital.
Martijn was previously the Group Managing Director of Telstra Enterprise and served on the Executive Committee of Telstra Corporation. During his tenure at Telstra, he also was the CEO of Telstra Global, which under his leadership transformed into the leading service provider in Asia Pacific. Prior to his time at Telstra, he was the SVP for Asia Pacific at Openwave Systems and has also held several executive positions at KPN Royal Dutch Telecom.
Martijn has lived and worked extensively across Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Americas, currently residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He holds an MBA from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.