As educators one of the toughest trials we face is getting our students' curiosity peaked and creating a passion for discovery and learning. That’s why we are so excited to announce our opening keynote speaker, the fantastic Ms. Simone Giertz. Simone is a STEM icon, Swedish inventor, brain-tumor survivor, robotics enthusiast, TV host, professional YouTuber, and passion provoking educator. Her TED talk, "Why you should make useless things,” has encouraged kids and adults worldwide to ask questions through creation and to be curious! Simone’s going to share her unique perspective into the importance of STEM education and how educators and students can ask and answer questions through the process of creation.

Recognized worldwide for her debut as an actress in the film Roma, for which she was nominated for an Oscar for best actress, Yalitza, a Mexican of indigenous origin, dreamed of being a teacher since she was a child. When she had the opportunity, chose to be a preschool teacher because, “it is the essential stage, where it's up to you if they keep fighting for their dreams or if they consider them not possible".

In 2019, she was named a UN Ambassador for Indigenous Peoples, and Time magazine included her as one of the 100 most influential women in the world. Yalitza will share her passion for lifelong learning, her perspective and vision for education in our region, and how together we can empower and inspire any student's success.

Join us in learning from one of the most profound public speakers of our time, author and educator, Adam Grant. Adam deeply understands the emotional journey educators are on and speaks powerfully to the triumphs and tragedies of this path. As an organizational psychologist, bestselling author and professor at Wharton, Adam explores the science of motivation, generosity, original thinking, and rethinking. He is recognized as one of the world's 10 most influential management thinkers, and Fortune's 40 under 40. Adam will be bringing us all on a journey of self discovery, connection, and hope as he relates his personal insights and personal experience of embracing the educators' path.