Theme: The Tides of Change

Tides of Change explores how shifts—big or small—reshape our world, pushing us toward new ideas, discoveries, and perspectives. From personal transformation to technological innovation, environmental evolution to societal movements, change is constant. Through waves of stories, insights, and breakthroughs, this event invites speakers and attendees to dive deep into the forces that shape our future. As with the tide, progress is often gradual but inevitable. Together, let’s ride the currents of change and discover the power of adaptation, resilience, and forward-thinking ideas.

1951 @ SkySong
1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
1st Floor
Scottsdale, Arizona, 85257
United States

Ayush Prasanna

Student & Sports Psychology Enthusiast

Ayush Prasanna is a passionate high school athlete and aspiring medical professional dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential. With experience shadowing medical professionals, mentoring younger students, and participating in medical summer programs, Ayush has developed a deep understanding of the connection between physical and mental performance. He believes that building mental resilience and confidence is essential for athletes to thrive both on and off the field. Through his work, Ayush strives to promote personal growth and well-being, paving the way for a healthier and more balanced future for athletes everywhere.

Fata Avegalio

Well Rounded Sportsman

Fata Avegalio is a young man with a range of interests. Born in Monterey California, his love of the sciences may have been birthed from his fascination with the ocean and marine biology. Fata enjoys robotics, technology and just how things work. Some other interests include rugby, speech and debate, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, leisure pickle ball, watching movies & playing video games with his cousins. He enjoys watching cooking shows with his parents and twin sister that may lead to many late night snacks. He also helps with the family business. Any opportunity coupled with family & friends enhances his experiences. Although he’d like to pursue endeavors like being an engineer, a pilot, a businessman, a chef and more, his desire for deeper understanding and connection is at the heart of this young man. His passion & intensity can be both his strength and downfall. Seeking balance is an ongoing journey for Fata.

Kentarou Siejak

Teen Podcaster & Entrepreneur

Kentarou’s life is a story of action and impact. As a teenager, he stepped onto podcasting platforms to share bold ideas, confidently tackling questions that challenge even seasoned adults. He’s driven by a relentless work ethic shaped by growing up in a military family, moving constantly, and learning resilience through hardship. By his teens, he was volunteering as non-profit executives, mentoring peers, and taking on projects like building a school in a third-world country—all while balancing leadership roles and intense self-driven learning. Kentarou doesn’t just talk about making a difference—he lives it.

Laina Avegalio

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion

Laina Avegalio resides in Arizona, born in California and proud of her Samoan roots. The merging of cultures is what makes Laina ponder about identity, mindset and culture. How can an individual mindset shift culture? Some of her interests that shape Laina’s character & mindset is her dedication to Brazilian jiu-jitsu (earning major national & world titles), travel, speech and debate, piano, playing board games, art & more. One thing she does not take for granted is spending time with friends and especially family (lots of cousins). Whether they athletically train together or help with the family business, her sense of community is important. Mostly, Laina’s foundation is grounded in her faith, family & Samoan culture. An individual’s mindset to pursue personal betterment can lead to a greater outcome for the collective. She believes, “A rising tide lifts all boats.”

Max Baldauf

Optimization Coach

Max Baldauf is an Optimization Coach and motivational speaker who works with Christian-faith-based business owners and others how they and their employees can optimize not just for money, but for life; and live at the meeting point of effectiveness and efficiency. As a result of living a life filled with change, he developed a framework called The Life Optimization Loop. He’s overcome 5 different addictions, healed relationships with family he shred through verbal abuse, learned how to not take offense to something (even when it’s intended), live without taking on debt, lose weight and keep it off for 7 years and counting, generate ~2 million dollars in revenue in ~2 years in an industry he had no previous experience in, and more! If you're a business owner who fits the description above, feel free to reach out via social media & YouTube @askmaxbaldauf or @optimizeyourinfluence, LinkedIn “Max Baldauf”.

Melisa L. Torres Mejia

Entrepreneur

Experienced entrepreneur with over 13-year track record as Founder and CEO of INDUSTRIAS MT S.A.S., and the intellectual creator of the innovative product VIOX, recognized as the 9th best water in the world at Berkeley Springs (USA, 2019). Her career is distinguished by seven awards for excellence in innovation, business strategy, and execution. She has delivered multiple entrepreneurship conferences in Colombia and has assisted over 10 entrepreneurs in achieving successful businesses. She also founded her own Ecommerce business in 2020, through which she has processed over 50,000 orders for various products to date. Currently she’s pursuing a Master’s in Global Management with a focus on Data Science, at Thunderbird School of Global Management - Arizona State University.

Nikhil Pandey

Teen Yoga & Mindfulness Coach

Nikhil is a passionate teen yoga and mindfulness coach and a budding neuroscience researcher. In these confusing and fast-paced times plagued by social media, Nikhil empowers the youth in his community by building mental resilience through meditation, mindful breathing and yoga. He believes that being engaged with the present through these practices brings transformative tides of changes, leading to a coherent, connected and compassionate world.

Penny Wu

MBA Student

Penny Wu is pursuing her master’s degree at Thunderbird School of Global Management. As an international student, change has been a constant in her life. At first, she feared uncertainty, but instead of resisting it, she chose to embrace it. Each challenge became an opportunity for growth. This time, she wants to share her journey—how stepping out of her comfort zone transformed fear into confidence and possibility.

Srinidhi Pallera

Student & Nonprofit Founder

Srinidhi Pallera is a high school student, nonprofit founder, and leader dedicated to creating meaningful change. She founded Steps to Impact, a student-led nonprofit empowering communities, and Med Connect, a school club that connects peers with the world of medicine. Inspired by her passion for medicine and commitment to service, Srinidhi demonstrates how even the smallest actions can lead to significant impact, inspiring others to turn their ambitions into meaningful progress.