I remember my first conference. I was fresh out of college, wearing an ill-fitting suit that made me feel like a kid playing dress-up. I shuffled nervously between booths, pretending to understand buzzwords like “synergy” and “disruptive innovation.” Honestly, I was mostly there for the free snacks. But then, amidst the sea of jargon, I stumbled into a session led by a speaker who was genuinely excited about the future. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and suddenly, the conference wasn’t just about business cards and keynote speeches—it was about ideas that could change the world. Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on the energy of conferences, especially when they bring together the kind of visionaries who don’t just talk about change—they make it happen. And this year, INNOVATE North America 2025 has five of them.

“”Innovation is the catalyst that propels the energy industry into a sustainable future” — Gavin McClafferty

INNOVATE North America 2025 isn’t your average conference. It’s where bright minds come together to share ideas, spark curiosity, and inspire action. But this year, five rising stars are stealing the spotlight with insights that aren’t just forward-thinking—they’re downright game-changing. From revolutionizing energy with AI to reshaping customer experiences with digital transformation, these speakers are doing more than giving presentations—they’re paving the way for the future. Here’s a look at who they are and why you won’t want to miss a word they say.

1. Gavin McClafferty – Energizing the Future with AI

Gavin McClafferty from Subsea7 isn’t just leading innovation at Subsea 7—he’s redefining what’s possible in the energy industry. Armed with an MBA specializing in AI and emerging technologies, Gavin is driving initiatives that blend artificial intelligence with energy solutions. He doesn’t just talk about change; he engineers it, showing how technology can power a more sustainable future.

One of Gavin’s standout ideas is his approach to predictive maintenance using AI. By leveraging data analytics to anticipate equipment failures, he’s minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency in energy production. It’s not just smart—it’s revolutionary. And it’s setting a new standard for how the energy sector can become cleaner, greener, and more efficient.

2. Ninetta Kosswig – Leading Innovation Across Industries

As the Director of Professional Services at HYPE Innovation, Ninetta Kosswig is all about making innovation practical. She leads a team dedicated to implementing innovation management solutions that don’t just sound good—they actually work. Ninetta believes that great ideas are only as valuable as their execution, and she’s helping organizations bring their best ideas to life.

Her secret weapon? A data-driven approach that turns creativity into actionable strategies. Ninetta’s innovation management solutions provide a roadmap for organizations to navigate complex challenges with confidence. Whether it’s improving efficiency or launching a groundbreaking product, she’s helping companies do more than innovate—they’re thriving.

3. Vlora Muslimi – Transforming Banking with Personalization

“”Embracing digital transformation allows us to craft personalized experiences that resonate with our customers’ unique needs” — Vlora Muslimi

Vlora Muslimi is shaking up the banking world at TD Bank, where she leads the iD8 Program and Colleague Innovation. Her secret? Using digital transformation to create personalized customer experiences that feel less like banking and more like a conversation with a trusted friend. It’s about making technology human, and Vlora is a master at it.

A key highlight of her work is the development of AI-driven customer insights that help TD Bank tailor services to individual needs. Imagine a banking app that understands your financial habits and offers personalized advice—Vlora is making that happen. Her vision is clear: to transform banking from transactional to relational, creating value that goes beyond dollars and cents.

4. Leah Grateraux – Guiding Strategic Innovation

Leah Grateraux is the strategic mind behind HYPE Innovation’s solutions, providing expert guidance to organizations looking to up their innovation game. Her insights aren’t just about tools—they’re about transforming mindsets. Leah understands that real innovation comes from people, and she’s helping teams harness their collective creativity for maximum impact.

Leah’s approach revolves around building innovation ecosystems where ideas flow freely and strategically. By integrating innovation management platforms, she’s enabling organizations to capture, evaluate, and execute ideas more effectively. It’s not just about thinking outside the box—it’s about designing a whole new box.

5. Ludwig Melik – Driving Growth Through Leadership

Ludwig Melik is all about growth—both in revenue and in ideas. As the President of Operations North America and Chief Revenue Officer, he’s leading the charge in market expansion and customer engagement. But Ludwig’s real magic lies in his leadership style, which empowers teams to innovate boldly and execute flawlessly.

His strategy focuses on aligning innovation with business goals, ensuring that every creative idea contributes to tangible growth. Ludwig isn’t just talking about the future of business—he’s building it, one strategic move at a time. His vision is simple but powerful: innovate with purpose and lead with passion.

Conclusion: Don’t Miss These Rising Stars

INNOVATE North America 2025 is set to be an unforgettable event, thanks to these five rising stars. They’re not just presenting ideas—they’re sharing blueprints for the future. Whether you’re looking to revolutionize your industry or simply curious about where the world is headed, these visionaries have insights that will inspire and ignite your imagination. Ready to be inspired? These leaders are ready to show you what’s next.

To get even more inspiration check out 7 Small Businesses in NYC Revolutionizing Sustainable Fashion with Zero Waste and 5 Local Boutiques in Montreal Bringing Unique Home Decor Designs to Life.

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