Paul J. Thanos

Global Trade and Investment Fellow, Wilson Center for Scholars

Department of Commerce fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center researching international trade and investment policy issues including inclusive capitalism, impact investment, international trade in services, and financial technology. Link to published articles. The Wilson Center is a non partisan policy forum for addressing global issues through independent research and open dialogue.

Matt Bird

CEO & Editor-in-Chief, ESG News

Matt is the CEO & Editor-in-Chief at ESG News.

Mamadou Kwidjim Toure

Chiaman, Africa House, CEO of Ubuntu Group, Board Member, WEF

He is a seasoned finance and impact investment executive with over two decades of global experience across investment banking, development finance, and sustainable innovation across Africa. He began his career as an Audit Consultant at KPMG France (1998–2000), followed by roles in investment banking and government advisory at BNP Paribas Fortis (2000–2004). He then spent eight years at the International Finance Corporation (IFC – World Bank Group), leading investments in telecoms, media, and technology across Sub-Saharan Africa. From 2012 to 2015, he served as Managing Director at GE Global Growth Operations, overseeing investments and project finance across 48 countries in sectors including power, mining, and healthcare. He is the Founder of the Africa 2.0 Foundation (est. 2010), the Ubuntu Group (est. 2016), and Ubuntu Tribe (est. 2019), organizations focused on inclusive growth, sustainable development, and digital financial inclusion across Africa and emerging markets.

Kristina Wyatt

Chief Sustainability Officer, Persefoni

Kristina is the acting GC and Chief Sustainability Officer at Persefoni - overseeing AI technology company responsible for AI governance and compliance, sustainability, corporate governance, client counseling and supporting clients with climate disclosures and regulatory compliance. Previously held senior positions in top global law firm and US Securities and Exchange Commission. Led the drafting of the SEC's climate disclosure rule. Previously Assistant GC at Food Lion, Inc. Proven leader and frequent speaker.

Kristen Siemen

Moderator: Fomer Chief Sustainability Officer, GM

About Kristen: Former Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors, Kristen spearheaded GM’s global sustainability and facility initiatives, guiding the company toward a zero-emissions future with a goal of carbon neutrality by 2040. Kristen prioritized efficiency improvements and value growth while integrating sustainability across all business operations. Kristen leadership led to significant strides in energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable materials. Under my direction, GM achieved its goal of being powered by 100% renewable energy in the U.S. by 2025 and globally by 2035, and earned numerous recognitions for our sustainability practices. Additionally, Kristen's oversaw global facilities and construction projects, including the transition to EV and battery cell manufacturing plants, and managed GM’s global facilities capital and operations budget.

Ketan Patel

Chairman, Force for Good

The Force for Good Initiative’s mission is to mobilize the deployment of capital as a force for good in the world.

Amy Springsteel

Former Chief Sustainability Officer, Bloomberg