Philip Kiracofe is a seasoned global venture builder and investor.
He is the CEO and co-founder of Startupbootcamp AfriTech.
Ari Smith is an accomplished technology leader and AI expert with a foundation in math and computer science from the MIT ecosystem, where he also co-founded and successfully exited a software startup acquired by a major technology company.
He has served in senior technical and strategic roles—including as a Solutions Architect at Microsoft and as CTO of an elite AI engineering firm—while developing patented technologies and advising global organizations.
He is a strategic global leader with over three decades of experience in leadership development and executive engagement.
He is a facilitator and curator of high-impact learning experiences for senior executives and global communities.
Ken is an experienced venture builder, investor, and advisor with over 25 years creating more than $1B in enterprise value across finance, technology, and emerging markets.
He is a leader in Web3, generative AI, and digital asset innovation, serving as Cofounder and Managing Partner of a venture studio focused on next-generation infrastructure.
A turbulent childhood shaped by his mother’s struggle with alcoholism
Early exposure to suffering and insecurity
A curiosity-driven childhood shaped by freedom, responsibility, and a love for learning
A pivotal academic shift from engineering to law to gain broader societal perspective
Growing up in Lebanon amid instability and constant change
Learning adaptability by moving across countries and schools
Lifelong curiosity and passion for mathematics
Bridging mathematics and engineering through hybrid education
The challenges and opportunities within blockchain and DeFi, particularly in enabling global access to financial tools
The critical gap he identified in crypto accounting and compliance, and how CodexDF aims to address it
PhD training under eminent neuroanatomist Dr. Larry Swanson
Viewing intelligence as an emergent property of complex adaptive systems
