Vlad Ciurca, Author at Techsylvania https://techsylvania.com/author/vlad/ Thu, 28 Nov 2024 09:50:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://techsylvania.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/favicon-150x150.webp Vlad Ciurca, Author at Techsylvania https://techsylvania.com/author/vlad/ 32 32 Techsylvania 2024: uniting innovation and insight Day 2 Wrap-Up https://techsylvania.com/techsylvania-2024-day-2-wrap-up/ https://techsylvania.com/techsylvania-2024-day-2-wrap-up/#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2024 14:31:33 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?p=324245 This year’s edition of Techsylvania has come to a close! We enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere that fostered relationship-building and the […]

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This year’s edition of Techsylvania has come to a close! We enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere that fostered relationship-building and the exchange of innovative ideas and projects.

Over 3,500 participants had the opportunity to select their favourite sessions from 4 amazing stages: Center Stage, Impact Stage, Technical Workshops Stage, and Q&A Session Stage, where more than 50 leaders in business and technology shared their insights.

In addition, our event featured 5 workshops, was supported by over 60 partners, and benefited from the efforts of more than 50 hard-working volunteers. We couldn’t be more grateful to the entire Techsylvania community: participants, partners, speakers and volunteers for contributing to the success of Techsylvania 2024. 

We have some highlights below that you might want to read if you missed the event or if you want to refresh your memory. 

CENTER STAGE

Center Stage was the epicenter of activity on Day 2, hosting sessions that kicked off the day’s events. International leaders in business and technology shared invaluable insights for techsylvanians. 

Mircea Geoană, Deputy Secretary General of NATO was the first speaker of the day. He emphasized the transformative role of technology and innovation in the global landscape and the unprecedented speed and scale of technological advancements, particularly in AI and biotechnology, and their impact on various sectors, including national security, economy, and society. While acknowledging the immense potential of new technologies, Geoană also warned about the risks they pose and how important is the responsible use and ethical standards to prevent these advancements from becoming threats to security and stability.

He ended the speech by pointing out the necessity of collaboration between governments, private sectors, and civil societies to harness the benefits of technological innovations effectively. He mentioned initiatives like NATO’s Innovation Fund which supports startups and technological advancements. This collaboration is crucial to ensuring that innovations are used for the greater good and that societies can adapt to rapid technological changes.

Sacha Dragic, Founder and Board Member of Superbet was next on stage and he talked about the global expansion of Superbet into Latin America, highlighting the company’s strategic vision and adaptability. Despite initial challenges, including significant fraud issues in Brazil, the company managed to develop effective solutions and apply them globally.

This expansion underscores the importance of seizing opportunities and being prepared for the complexities of new markets. Sasha emphasized the critical role of hiring the right talent and fostering an innovative culture. He stated that he spends a significant portion of his time on talent recruitment and believes in combining diverse perspectives to drive innovation. Additionally, Superbet invests heavily in AI and technology, positioning itself to stay ahead of competitors and adapt to future industry changes.

“One of the secrets of success in the early days was discipline. It’s very easy as a founder and entrepreneur to get distracted because new ideas come every day. You need to be very disciplined, focus on your main goal, and continuously question your beliefs because what you think is true today may be totally wrong in a year or two.”

Drew Banin, Co-Founder dbt Labs talked about his journey in building a database in order to understand how databases work under the hood. Towards the end, he integrated music with the database in Google Sheets, demonstrating how data can be transformed into musical notes and played back, adding a creative and engaging dimension to the database’s functionality. He also talked about future plans: to build a query optimizer, get it distributed and then create a YouTube series on how to build your own database. Also, for those interested, he mentioned they are soon opening an office in Cluj-Napoca and hiring talented people. 

Giuseppe Castelbuono, Chief Digital and Information Officer at UniCredit Bank discussed UniCredit Bank’s digital transformation strategy, focusing on enhancing customer experience through improved technology and business processes. This transformation involves leveraging technologies like cloud computing and artificial intelligence to optimize both customer interactions and internal operations.

He emphasized that while banks must adopt new technologies quickly, they must also ensure security and compliance. Castelbuono envisions a future where banking services are simpler, more secure, and seamlessly integrated into customers’ daily lives. He highlights the importance of making banking processes as effortless as possible while maintaining stringent security standards.

“Artificial intelligence is not gonna replace humans but humans with artificial intelligence are gonna replace humans without artificial intelligence.”

Jonathan Rivers, Chief Technology Officer at Fortune Magazine talked about the transformation of Fortune Magazine under his leadership. The magazine underwent a significant transformation, including the development of new products and revenue streams. A notable achievement was the launch of a generative AI application that modernized the Fortune 500 data, turning it into a SaaS product. This initiative aimed to democratize access to financial data and improve user interaction through advanced data visualization and AI-driven functionalities. Rivers highlighted key lessons learned during the rapid development and deployment of the AI application. These include the importance of clean data, the necessity of focused and user-friendly AI applications, and the understanding that an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is the starting point for further development. He emphasized that enterprise applications must meet high standards set by best-of-breed consumer experiences.

“The MVP is not the finish line; it is the beginning. It is the start of the marathon. You have done a warm-up; you are deciding if you are ready to even run the race.” 

Nigel Richardson, SVP and CIO Europe at PepsiCo, talked about how PepsiCo has leveraged AI and digital transformation to significantly impact their agricultural operations. By using machine learning for pattern recognition, they have been able to optimize farming practices. AI is also crucial in PepsiCo’s manufacturing processes. They use AI-driven applications to monitor and manage plant operations, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and addressing packaging concerns. By integrating AI solutions to predict and fix issues before they escalate, PepsiCo enhances operational efficiency and sustainability.

AI helps PepsiCo understand consumer preferences and behaviors, enabling better market segmentation and product assortment. By analyzing consumer data, they tailor products to different demographics and regions, minimizing waste and ensuring precise product distribution. This AI-driven approach aids in delivering the right products to the right places, enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing excess inventory.

AI has made a massive impact for farmers because it can increase their yields, improve quality, reduce the amount of pesticides, and reduce water usage. It’s one of those examples of AI being a win-win for everyone that we couldn’t do before.”

Quharrison Terry, Growth Marketer at MarkCuban Companies talked about the startup culture in Japan. Currently, Japan is increasingly focusing on technology and AI to drive economic growth and innovation. The government is actively supporting AI initiatives and startups, aiming to become the most AI-friendly country in the world. The Japanese government has launched several initiatives to foster a vibrant startup ecosystem.

Traditionally conservative in their business practices, Japanese companies are beginning to embrace more risk-taking and innovative approaches. This shift is necessary to combat economic challenges such as an aging population and deflation. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and supporting venture activities, Japan aims to revitalize its economy and compete globally.

The government basically said they want to become the most AI-friendly country in the world. The prime minister actually is pushing this and the chairman of the Democratic Liberal Party actually said Japan is not thinking of implementing strict regulations and it will be fewer regulations as possible when it comes to AI development.

Suthen Thomas, Group CTO at Grab, talked about how at their company, the approach to technology, including AI, starts with the customer. The company focuses on identifying customer problems first and then finding the best technological solutions, which may include AI, to address these problems.

This method ensures that technological advancements directly enhance customer experiences and solve real-world issues effectively. Grab employs auto-adaptive systems that continuously adjust to changing conditions and user behaviors. These systems use feedback loops to evaluate and refine their performance over time. AI models at Grab are extensively used across various segments of the business, including mobility, deliveries, and financial services. These models are active in production environments, helping to determine pricing, predict ETAs, and ensure safety. This widespread application demonstrates AI’s versatility and critical role in optimizing Grab’s operations and services.

At Grab, when we think about artificial intelligence, we treat it no different than any other technology. We start with the problem of the customer and then use AI to solve their problem.

Michelle Rosa-Wolfe, Executive Vice President at VistaJet, declared that VistaJet heavily relies on technology to optimize its aviation operations. This includes developing new technologies to predict demand patterns and surge areas months in advance. By leveraging these innovations, VistaJet strategically positions its aircraft around the globe to meet growing business demands, such as recent expansions into Africa and India. The company focuses on enhancing customer experience through technological advancements.

This includes developing internal platforms that provide intelligence and optimize fleet management. These technologies enable VistaJet to offer seamless customer interfaces, allowing clients to book flights and manage services efficiently through user-friendly apps. The company has seen significant increases in aircraft movements in regions like Romania, reflecting its ability to flexibly expand operations based on emerging market dynamics and client demands.

At VistaJet, we lean on technology because we need to learn, predict, and automate. We’ve invested significantly in internal platforms that not only provide intelligence but also optimize our fleet management, helping us place our assets strategically to meet business demands.

Vladimir Dănilă, Founder and CEO of Linearity, talked about how he had this belief that success in the app market was quick and straightforward, akin to launching Flappy Bird. However, the reality of managing teams, aligning people, and understanding customer needs reset these expectations. The company now prioritizes simplicity in design and functionality, aiming to make complex technology accessible and user-friendly.

I’ve learned that simplicity is key—not just in product design, but in how we approach technology. Complex technology should be made simple for the end user. That’s why I love the idea of using technology to make design accessible and powerful.

Christyl Johnson, Deputy Director for Technology & Research Investments at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, talked about how NASA is envisioning a future where humanity not only returns to the moon, but also establishes sustainable habitats on Mars by 2100. This involves overcoming significant technological challenges such as creating habitats, generating resources like oxygen and water, and managing energy effectively. NASA’s approach involves pushing the boundaries of technology across various fields. This includes advancements in AI for managing energy and agriculture on other planets, 3D printing for constructing habitats, and medical technologies like digital twins and robotic surgery, which are crucial for sustaining human life in extraterrestrial environments. NASA emphasizes the importance of diversity in thought and collaboration to solve complex challenges.

The agency has historically partnered with diverse industries and disciplines, from sports equipment manufacturers to medical professionals, to develop groundbreaking solutions that often have broader applications beyond space exploration.”In order for that to happen again, we have to think about everything differently today because we’re gonna have humans living on Mars by 2040. We’ve got to really start now ramping up the technology capability in order for us to get there.

IMPACT STAGE

Smaranda Teleabă, Chief Digital and Marketing Office at L’Oreal, talked about how the company is pioneering the integration of technology into the beauty industry under her leadership. They have introduced concepts like green science chemistry and they are digitalizing the customer journey, which are transforming how consumers interact with beauty products. This innovative approach not only enhances customer experience but also underscores L’Oréal’s commitment to sustainability and personalized beauty solutions. By combining deep beauty industry knowledge with advanced technological expertise, L’Oréal is shaping the future of beauty, ensuring a sustainable and enriching customer experience.

Angus Keck, COO at AgUnity underscored the critical importance of adhering to deadlines, maintaining regular contact (without coming across as desperate or pushy), and mentioning other investors. Moreover, he stressed the belief that with self-confidence, anything is achievable. His advice emphasized the necessity of perfecting your pitch and avoiding assumptions that the deal is already secured.

Shravan Nageswaran, Co-Founder & CEO at Atman Labs, encouraged participants to challenge the consensus, learn from nature and invent from first principles. He believed that advancements across multiple deep learning disciplines beyond large language models will allow to take flight.

Humans will coexist with benevolent AI. Challenge the consensus. Learn from nature. Invent from first principles. Advancements across multiple deep learning disciplines beyond LLMs will allow us to take flight.

Peter Sandberg, Founding Partner at Nordic Secondary Fund has been at the forefront of pioneering liquidity options for startup stakeholders through secondaries. With over 35 years of experience in investment banking and asset management, including founding successful asset management firms and making impactful pre-seed and seed investments as a business angel, Peter brings a wealth of expertise to the table and talked at Techsylvania about Navigating Secondaries: Unlocking Liquidity Options for Startup Stakeholder.

Under his leadership, N2F has carved out a unique position in the Nordic market, raising €140M across two funds and completing over 30 secondary deals, resulting in five successful exits. His commitment to navigating secondaries has not only unlocked new liquidity pathways but also set a precedent for strategic investment in the region.

Masoud Al – Rawahi, Co-Founder & Partner at Phaze Ventures is a dynamic figure in the realms of entrepreneurship, investment, and technology. He talked about his whole journey, including details about working for over a decade in information technology within corporate settings.

Bogy Skowronski, Partner at Founder Partners, is a seasoned serial entrepreneur and influential figure in the technology startup ecosystem. With a distinguished background in capital transactions at UBS AG, EBRD London, and FFC Fincoord Ltd, she also thrives as an active venture capitalist and angel investor. Bogy’s commitment to global success is encapsulated in her title of presentation, “Building Global Success: Strategy, Support, and Capital.” This encapsulates her expertise in providing strategic guidance, robust support systems, and crucial capital to emerging ventures.

Sorin Anagnoste, Applied Strategy Professor is specialized in online business models and technology entrepreneurship. With a profound finance background of over 15 years in managerial roles, Sorin brings a wealth of practical experience to his academic efforts. He talked about how generative AI has reached peaked interest and the revolution is continuing.  He underscores concerns about overregulation stifling growth in this burgeoning field, advocating for balanced policies to sustain innovation and development.

Arnaud Collery, CEO of Humanava emphasized the importance of leadership in defining purpose, setting clear goals, and fostering a cohesive vision while promoting a culture of trust through meaningful rituals.

Arnaud’s diverse background includes coaching top tech CEOs and unicorn startups like Careem, leveraging his creativity and empathy to drive innovation and sustainable success. 

Adrian Pica, CPO Potters Maps, delivered a compelling presentation on navigating modern business challenges with strategic clarity. He emphasized understanding a business’s intrinsic value and the pivotal role of product leaders in integrating digital and physical elements for broad market appeal. Bica illustrated his points with examples such as the surge in food delivery services during economic crises, highlighting the importance of achieving a strong product-market fit. His analogy of “cooking your business recipe” underscored the potential of platforms like YouTube and Netflix for revenue generation, even in competitive landscapes.

Partner session with Dan Mihăescu, Founding Partner at GapMinder Ventures, Alex Popa, President at AXP Holding and Elena Vrabie, Moderator and Country Lead Romania at The Recursive. 

The speakers talked about the importance of choosing investors and Alex Popa emphasized that you should select investors based on their ability to contribute to your growth rather than just their capital. He also advised fostering strong relationships with investors to leverage their support effectively as your company scales.

Dan Mihăescu spoke about the importance of going to as many events as possible, having the right people besides you and learning from them. Then the next step is to focus on technology because proper technology can help you advance fast. 

During the day we also had some insightful Q&A sessions where attendees engaged directly with keynote speakers, actively posing questions and gaining deeper insights into the topics at hand. The speakers who attended the sessions where: Sasha Dragic – Superbet, Drew Banin – dbt Labs, Jonathan Rivers – Fortune Magazine, Quharrison Terry – Mark Cuban Companies and Suthen Thomas – Grab.

Techsylvania 2024 brought together over 3,500 participants and 50 leaders in business and technology across four main stages: Center Stage, Impact Stage, Technical Workshops Stage, and Q&A Session Stage. 

Attendees engaged directly with keynote speakers during Q&A sessions, asking questions that uncovered deeper insights into complex topics. This interactive format not only enhanced the conference experience but also fostered discussions on the cutting edge of technology and business strategy. Participants also benefited from practical learning in technical workshops, gaining new skills and strategies. 

As we reflect on the success of Techsylvania 2024, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire community—participants, partners, speakers, and volunteers—who contributed to making this event a resounding success. We look forward to continuing this journey of business and technology exploration and discovery with you all in the years to come! 

 

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Inspiring ideas, innovative business solutions, and future predictions – Day 1 Wrap Up @Techsylvania 2024 https://techsylvania.com/day-1-wrap-up-techsylvania-2024/ https://techsylvania.com/day-1-wrap-up-techsylvania-2024/#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2024 14:00:13 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?p=324234 Techsylvania is the place where you need to be if you are a tech expert, entrepreneur, or passionate about the […]

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Techsylvania is the place where you need to be if you are a tech expert, entrepreneur, or passionate about the latest technologies. This year the main focus was on topics regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on business and society, how local and international authorities can join forces and improve our everyday lives and how important is to believe in your business idea and never give up despite all obstacles you may encounter. 

Here’s a brief overview of some of the highlights from the day’s sessions. 

CENTER STAGE

Shai Shalev from Mobileye has walked us through the evolution of AI and how self-supervised learning, particularly through large language models, revolutionized the field. For applications in the physical world, such as robotics and autonomous driving, learning from experience is crucial but challenging due to the risks and constraints of real-world testing. Simulations offer a safer alternative, though they may not perfectly replicate reality. 

Daniel Hume, Chief AI Officer at WPP, critiques the current use of the term “AI,” arguing that many systems labeled as AI are merely automation and not true artificial intelligence. True AI involves systems that can learn, adapt, and make decisions autonomously, rather than simply executing repetitive tasks. 

You, the leaders, have to understand that AI is going to radically transform your business and is very important what you want to do. Ultimately, you want to create an organization that innovates.”, said Daniel. He has also addressed risks associated with AI, including micro risks (safe deployment), malicious risks (preventing misuse), and macro risks (potential existential threats). Effective AI implementation requires addressing these risks and ensuring AI is used ethically and responsibly.

Shervin Pishevar, Chairman & CEO of Edison Fund believes that ”As an entrepreneur, I understood that nothing can replace the human connection. Even if AI is moving thousand times faster, the value of people who have verbal communication skills, who can express things is going to go off now.” Yet, we are going to witness incredible advancements in Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), and Shervin encourages staying alive to witness these changes, suggesting that the next 20 years will bring significant breakthroughs in longevity and intelligence.

Angela Ivanova, Co-Founder & CEO at LAM’ON OOD, and Michiel Scheffer, President of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Board have talked about how your startup can thrive internationally.

Even if there are some  difficulties in securing initial funding, especially due to skepticism about the potential success and benefits, having angel investors and grants is vital for your business. 

Chris Mirabile from Novos has offered us a different perspective on what we think longevity means. Chris defines longevity not just as living longer, but more importantly as extending the period of life without chronic illness, referred to as healthspan. His deep knowledge in the field stems from a personal passion for longevity and health. This passion led to extensive reading of scientific studies and surrounding themselves with subject matter experts.

In the age of AI & digitalization, the power of working together has never been greater. Moderated by Elisabeta Moraru, Country Lead at Google, the discussion on Center Stage about ”How Can CEE Countries Leapfrog Leveraging Digital and AI?” has brought together visionaries like Patrick Warnking from Google, Bogy Skowronski of FounderPartners, and Sabin Sărmaș from the Romanian Parliament. Here are some takeaways: 

We are all very busy but take some time and educate yourself on the latest AI tools that are all available for free.” (Patrick Warnking)

“We don’t have time for administration, we want to have time for strategies, for our organizations. So, governments play a crucial role on this topic.” (BogySkowronski)

“Which are the cultures that are performing best? I received this answer: wher ethe leadership of the country is at the highest level. I would like to have bold leaders that would assume a digital transformation of our country, not just a statement.” (Sabin Sărmaș)

Sumon Sadhu from Atman Labs believes that “The most ambitious company you can build is one that redefines a nation.” Seizing unique moments in history and raising the ceiling of ambition is crucial for transformative success. Flipkart capitalized on the rise of the Indian middle class and the shift from offline to online shopping, while DeepMind elevated the ambition for AI and contributed to global advancements. 

Exploring the virtual world of Metaverse might be fascinating but there are always two sides of a coin. Nina Jane Patel, Interpol’s Metaverse Expert emphasizes the rapid evolution and integration of technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), extended reality (XR), spatial computing, AI, and blockchain into the fabric of our digital lives.

Nina highlights the complexities, challenges, and potential risks associated with virtual worlds. These include issues related to safety and security, such as online grooming, sexual exploitation, and other forms of metaverse-specific crimes. The importance of developing effective safety measures, educational resources, and regulations to protect users, especially children, in these digital environments is a key focus of her work. 

Yet, there are immense opportunities that virtual worlds and associated technologies present. From the significant growth forecast in the virtual world market to innovative applications in gaming, education, and entertainment, these technologies offer new ways to engage, create, and connect. Patel also discusses the need for long-term strategies that prioritize user empowerment and the continued innovation that drives the technological landscape forward.

The next generation of AI is going beyond the surface. Fernando Dominguez Pinuaga from SandboxAQ thinks AI is transforming healthcare by simplifying complex processes, such as interpreting heart data, making it accessible without extensive training. Additionally, AI is advancing encryption methods, enhancing data security, and accelerating the development of quantum computing, highlighting the interconnected progress in technology and AI’s role in driving these advancements.

How do we transform ourselves so we don’t lose who we are but at the same time become very competitive with these other services? This is a tough challenge, especially for a satellite radio company like SiriusXM.

Joe Inzerillo has had an interesting discussion with Quharrison Terry about the development and challenges of satellite radio. Joe highlights the experience with Disney, focusing on the company’s strategic shift to streaming with Disney+. This transformation was driven by the need to adapt to changing media consumption habits and compete with established streaming platforms like Netflix.

Slava Rubin from Humbition strongly believes that it is important to have a passion for what you’re doing and be committed to it for the long term.

The early stages are challenging and may not yield immediate rewards. However, continued dedication and willingness to endure these struggles are essential for eventual success. Startups often fail due to a lack of focus, trying to do too much, and not identifying the right market fit. Learning to say no to distractions and concentrating on a core idea is crucial for survival and success.

We have found out from John Caspers, Co-founder Adyen & Rootline, that despite not succeeding in the SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) market, the experience was valuable as it provided important lessons in product-market fit, operational optimization, and understanding customer segments.

Hiring talented individuals with a creative and entrepreneurial mindset, allowing them freedom and support to innovate within the company not only nurtured internal innovation but also contributed to the broader startup ecosystem, with former employees starting new ventures based on their experiences.

IMPACT STAGE

We have had the chance to explore other countries’ entrepreneurial environments as well as dive deep into how to scale and fund your company. All the captivating talks on the Impact Stage were hosted by Elena Vrabie, Country Lead @The Recursive.

Partha Nageswaran from Aabhra brings our awareness on data. Enterprises have a lot of data that is not analysed and analysts don’t have support from systems. Unifying the world’s data will expand the world’s knowledge. 

Rutger de Waard from Rootline had an interesting discussion with Elena Vrabie from The Recursive about sales, startups, tactics, and innovation. He agrees that there is a challenge to start from scratch but he strongly advises to “Listen to what the client wants. Sell your value before pricing. If you sell on pricing, it’s only about pricing.” 

Yosuke Kurosawa (Japan Facts Organization) and Quharrison Terry (Mark Cuban Companies) have explored Japan’s entrepreneurial environment. The culture startups in Japan are supported by the government yet, there are not a lot of Japanese people starting companies.

Michiel Scheffer and Elena Ungureanu from the European Innovation Council have discussed with Ioana Mihai (European Investment Bank) and Endre Hunnyadi, Business Development Manager Lumen, about funding your deep tech company to scale up in the European Union. It is important to identify, develop, and scale up high-risk, high-impact innovation across Europe.

The EIC prioritizes deep tech innovations that align with the EUs strategic goals and address major societal challenges.

Karel Obluk from Evolution Equity Partners believes that there are opportunities for new technologies . A product becomes a product only when a customer pays for it. Understanding the market is very important and many people underestimate this.

Nick Powell from Bolt has shared inspiring stories about Bolt’s evolution and emphasized the importance of expanding value for their customers such as adopting new features, services and options like Bolt Luxe, long-term car rentals, and Bolt business card expense management.

 

Andreas Cser (Fraser) and Thomas Cser (Pricefx) had a debate on tech, culture, and who’s right. We should see the value of failure. People should not be afraid to fail and start again because failure is an opportunity to grow. 

Andrei Hasna has talked about how we can remain competitive when AI has the potential to disrupt any business and what is the true cost of innovation. There are 3 pillars of innovation: collaboration, transformative and multidisciplinary. Andrei has made us thinking about this question: “Do we afford to live in a world where AI is how it is right now and do we need regulations?”

Andrei Bica from Profi said that the main goals of CFO’s in 2024 are continuous automation, using data to drive value, taking charge of digitalization, guiding the enterprise value and ncrease the value of the company using the technology. Profi focuses on 4 main pillars: Customer Engagement (next step after customer experience – Mobile App – 2.4 million subscribers ), Sustainable Expansion (AI tools to check the traffic), State of the art logistic (6 distribution centers ), Efficiency (dedicated team taking care of process information).

Pranay Prakash from Windsor.io was very honest and confessed to Elena and the audience that if there is something that he would have done differently, he would be more careful with the hiring, maybe implement a different hiring process.

Martina Vidakovic has 6 years of experience working at Happening. She told us that each market had problems: inconsistent implementation, increased development time, frontend overhead, and testing. Using KMP has some advantages like  shared codebase which allows consistency, simplified maintenance, flexibility, interoperability, scalability, consistency, seamless integration.

Amazing Q&A sessions, practical workshops & a lot of valuable networking

During the Q&A sessions, participants had the chance to interact directly with the keynote speakers, posing questions and gaining additional understanding of the discussed subjects. These sessions added a valuable interactive dimension to the conference, fostering deeper exploration and clarification of the ideas presented.

Regarding the workshops, each offered practical and interactive learning opportunities for everyone, enabling us to acquire new skills in specific areas of interest. 

  1. Design Smarter: The Untapped Power of Product Simulation with Tamás Biró  & Dacian Lucaci (Accenture)
  2. Leveling up the Medical, Legal, and Regulatory process in Pharma with Gen.AI with Radu Radocea, Bogdan Peltea, Mario Dumitru (Deloitte). They showed us how AI is supporting the pharmaceutical industry and how you can ask the model for formula if you are a chemist.
  3. Making it all come together: How Critical User Journeys shape products that empower people long-term with Ilona Farkas , Dragoș Bardac, Daniel Chiș (Google). They talked about impactful user experience design.
  4. Achieving Low Latency and High Throughput with Apache Kafka with Andrei Moldovan (msg systems Romania). Andrei shared strategies for optimizing data processing efficiency. 
  5. Preparing and Using Data for AI with LangChain and OpenSearch® Sébastien Blanc & Tibs (Aiven)

 

See you on Day 2, dear techsylvanians!

 

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Inside Bolt’s Billion Euro Challenge https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/inside-bolts-billion-euro-be/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/inside-bolts-billion-euro-be/#respond Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:55:30 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=324152 Nick Powell (Bolt)

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Nick Powell (Bolt)

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Meet the Visionaries Taking the Stage as Top 5 Speakers at Techsylvania 2024 https://techsylvania.com/top-5-speakers-at-techsylvania-2024/ https://techsylvania.com/top-5-speakers-at-techsylvania-2024/#respond Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:43:07 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?p=324108 Techsylvania 2024 is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. This year’s lineup of speakers promises to be […]

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Techsylvania 2024 is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable.

This year’s lineup of speakers promises to be nothing short of phenomenal, with some of the brightest minds in technology, business, and innovation taking the stage to share their insights and visions for the future.

Here are the top 5 speakers you won’t want to miss:

Christyl Johnson – Deputy Director for Technology & Research Investments at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Dr. Christyl Johnson is a renowned expert in the field of space technology and innovation. As the Deputy Director for Technology & Research Investments at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, she manages the Center’s research and development portfolio, formulating the Center’s future science and technology goals. With her extensive experience in the space industry, Dr. Johnson’s talk at Techsylvania 2024 is sure to be a highlight, as she shares her insights on the future of space exploration and its potential applications. including her topic “Harnessing Technology to Bring Sustainable Human Presence to Mars“.

Sebastian Dobrincu – Co-Founder of Revocalize.ai

 

Sebastian Dobrincu is a tech entrepreneur, investor, and software engineer with a passion for AI and innovation. As the co-founder of Revocalize.ai, an AI startup building synthetic AI voice technology, Dobrincu is known for being the youngest investor on the Shark Tank franchise and has been recognized as Silicon Valley’s Youngest Self-Made Millionaire.

His talk at Techsylvania 2024 will likely focus on the future of AI and its potential applications in various industries, including his topic “Identifying Your Target Customers: A Guide for Engineers in Tech

Nina Jane Patel – Vice President of Metaverse Research at Anthropic

Nina Jane Patel is an expert in the field of virtual and augmented reality, with a background in computer science. As the Vice President of Metaverse Research at Anthropic, she has worked on developing innovative technologies for immersive experiences.

Her talk at Techsylvania 2024 will likely focus on the future of metaverse technology and its potential applications in various industries. Her topic will be “Spatial Computing: Navigating the Opportunities and Risks of the 3D Metaverse

Shai Shalev-Shwartz – CTO of Mobileye

Professor of Computer Science at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem & Chief Scientist at Deci AI
Shai Shalev-Shwartz is a leading expert in machine learning and has made significant contributions to the field of deep learning. As a Professor of Computer Science at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Chief Scientist at Deci AI, he has published extensively in top-tier machine learning conferences and journals.  His topic will be “Through the AI Looking Glass: A Personal Chronicle of Innovation and Safety”.

Nigel Richardson – SVP & CIO Europe at PepsiCo

Nigel Richardson is a seasoned technology executive with extensive experience in leading digital transformation. As the SVP & CIO Europe at PepsiCo, he is accountable for all aspects of Information Technology and leading digital transformation. Prior to this role, Richardson served as CIO for PepsiCo’s East Europe region and CIO for UK, Ireland, and Sub-Saharan Africa. His insights on the future of digital transformation and its impact on business will be invaluable at Techsylvania 2024.

These five visionaries are just a few of the many incredible speakers lined up for Techsylvania 2024. With their combined expertise and insights, this year’s conference promises to be an unforgettable experience for attendees. Don’t miss your chance to meet and learn from these industry leaders and shape your vision for the future of technology and business.

Register for Techsylvania 2024 today and get ready to be inspired by the top speakers in the field.

 

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Partner Session: Maximizing Funding Opportunities: Grants, Angels, VCs https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/tbadanm/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/tbadanm/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:37:09 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=324004 Dan MIhaescu (GapMinder Ventures) Alex Popa (AXP Holding) Elena Vrabie (The Recursive) – Moderator  

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Dan MIhaescu (GapMinder Ventures)

Alex Popa (AXP Holding)

Elena Vrabie (The Recursive) – Moderator

 

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Q&A Session https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/qa-session-8-3-2-2/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/qa-session-8-3-2-2/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:14:16 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=323998 Quharrison Terry (Mark Cuban Companies)

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Quharrison Terry (Mark Cuban Companies)

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Q&A Session https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/qa-session-8-3-2/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/qa-session-8-3-2/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:08:21 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=323997 Drew Banin (dbt Labs)

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Drew Banin (dbt Labs)

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Partner Session: How KMP Unified Our Apps and Divided Our Developers https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/tba-1998-2/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/tba-1998-2/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:50:40 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=323992 Martina Vidakovic (Happening)

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Martina Vidakovic (Happening)

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Q&A Session https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/nina-patel-interpol/ https://techsylvania.com/timetable/event/nina-patel-interpol/#respond Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:12:04 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?post_type=mp-event&p=323984 Nina Patel (Interpol)

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Nina Patel (Interpol)

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The Impactful Journey of Techsylvania Executive Experience https://techsylvania.com/the-impactful-journey-of-techsylvania-executive-experience/ https://techsylvania.com/the-impactful-journey-of-techsylvania-executive-experience/#respond Wed, 22 May 2024 13:26:03 +0000 https://techsylvania.com/?p=323778 Are you an investor seeking fresh ventures, an executive aiming to broaden your network, or a founder hungry for connections […]

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Are you an investor seeking fresh ventures, an executive aiming to broaden your network, or a founder hungry for connections that fuel growth? Look no further than the Techsylvania Executive Experience—an extraordinary event tailored precisely for professionals like you.

 

Techsylvania Executive Experience isn’t just another networking affair; it’s a meticulously curated platform designed to propel your career to new heights.

Picture yourself amidst a select group of investors, executives, founders, managers, and CEOs, all gathered to expand their networks and portfolios in an exclusive setting.

[button link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCTEAeje59s&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=aftermovie&utm_campaign=Executive+Ticket” newwindow=”yes”] Dive Into Techsylvania Executive Experience[/button]

But that’s not all. The Techsylvania Executive Experience goes beyond conventional networking events by offering access to a plethora of bespoke activities. Imagine indulging in guided tours, wine tastings, traditional dinners, and exclusive cocktail parties—all tailored to foster meaningful connections and explore potential collaborations.

At the heart of the Techsylvania Executive Experience lies the “Executives Pool“—a dynamic space where you can interact with a diverse array of professionals, each interaction opening doors to unprecedented growth and development opportunities.

Here, you’re not just a participant, you’re a catalyst for change and deal-making, shaping the future of the tech industry with every exchange.

Whether you’re seeking investment opportunities, aiming to expand your professional network, or eager to forge strategic alliances, the Techsylvania Executive Experience offers a rare chance to enhance your journey and leave a lasting mark in the tech landscape.

Don’t let this exclusive opportunity pass you by. Seize the chance to transform your career trajectory at Techsylvania Executive Experience—a gateway to unparalleled growth and success in the dynamic world of technology.

Join us and elevate your professional journey to extraordinary heights.

[button link=”https://techsylvania.com/executive-experience/” newwindow=”yes”] Apply Now[/button]

 

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