"BUIDL HERE" It is our invitation to come to our island to BUIDL, work and collaborate, so that together we can use emerging tech to create "the future." Previously, we held conferences HODL HERE 2021 and BUIDL HERE 2022.

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We are excited to bring BUIDL HERE back in 2025. This year will be our best yet, our audience ranges from local engineering students and heads of universities to industry leaders and DC insiders. Topics this year will include tax advantages of moving to Puerto Rico, talking agency changes with Don McGahn, former White House Counsel, Jonathan Jachym, Head of Global Policy at Kraken, and spotlighting local talent, Juan Salgado, NFT & celebrity tattoo artist.

This year, we are also collaborating with Porzio, Bromberg, and Newman for their annual Law and Compliance Summit, Tuesday February 4th. This year their summit will be focused on emergent technology.

2025 Sponsors

BUIDL Speakers 2025

Partner, Jones Day

Don McGahn

Don McGahn, former White House Counsel under President Donald Trump, specializes in government regulation and high-stakes litigation. With over 25 years of experience, he advises leaders on navigating complex regulatory and enforcement challenges.

Donald McGahn is a highly regarded attorney with over 25 years of experience in government regulation, high-stakes litigation, and navigating the complexities of federal investigations. Currently a partner at Jones Day, McGahn specializes in advising clients on regulatory, oversight, and enforcement matters, often representing CEOs, Supreme Court Justices, and Cabinet members in high-profile Congressional hearings and investigations. His deep understanding of government authority and legal risk management makes him a trusted advisor for navigating challenges in all three branches of government.

McGahn served as White House Counsel under President Donald J. Trump from 2017 to 2018, where he provided strategic legal guidance on constitutional authority, administrative law, and national security issues. He played a pivotal role in judicial nominations, overseeing the appointment of a historic number of federal judges, including two Supreme Court justices. Additionally, he spearheaded the administration's record-breaking deregulation efforts, shaping significant policy changes. His achievements in this role earned recognition as one of the most consequential aides to any president in recent memory.

Before his tenure at the White House, McGahn served as a Commissioner and Chairman of the Federal Election Commission, where he focused on campaign finance law. He also acted as General Counsel to the National Republican Congressional Committee, further deepening his expertise in political and election law. Recognized for his skill in navigating the intersection of law and politics, McGahn continues to be a prominent figure in legal and governmental circles.

Global Head of Policy and Government Relations, Kraken

Jonathan Jachym

Jonathan Jachym is the Global Head of Policy & Government Relations at Kraken. He leads Kraken’s efforts with governments, regulators, and industry stakeholders to shape effective policies for digital asset markets.

Jonathan Jachym is Global Head of Policy & Government Relations at Kraken. He leads Kraken’s engagement with government, regulatory and industry stakeholders to develop effective policy approaches for digital asset markets while advancing Kraken’s mission and business goals.

Prior to joining Kraken, Jonathan spent over a decade in regulatory strategy and government relations roles at the London Stock Exchange Group and CME Group, based in Washington and London. He previously served as legal and regulatory counsel at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Jonathan earned his BS from North Carolina State University and his JD from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law.

Congressman, Virginia's 10th Congressional District

Suhas Subramanyam

Congressman Suhas Subramanyam represents Virginia's 10th Congressional District. A former White House technology policy advisor, he supports comprehensive regulatory frameworks that offer clarity and promote responsible innovation in the crypto industry.

Congressman Suhas Subramanyam represents Virginia's 10th Congressional District and has dedicated his career to enhancing the health, safety, and prosperity of Americans. Before serving in Congress, Suhas was a White House technology policy advisor to President Obama, focusing on initiatives to improve technology infrastructure and accessibility.

In the Virginia House of Delegates and State Senate, he led efforts to pass bipartisan legislation addressing toll reductions, education reform, and public safety improvements. His commitment to collaboration and pragmatic solutions has made him a respected advocate for his constituents.

Suhas holds a J.D. from Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of Law. He lives in Loudoun County, Virginia, with his wife, Miranda Peña Subramanyam, and their two daughters, where he remains actively engaged in his community.

Founder, Color Conspiracy Tattoo Gallery

Juan Salgado

Juan Salgado is a world-renowned Puerto Rican tattoo and multimedia artist with over 150 international awards. Founder of Color Conspiracy Tattoo Gallery and the Tattoo Skullz Society NFT collection, his work bridges traditional art with digital innovation.

Juan Salgado is a renowned Puerto Rican tattoo and multimedia artist, celebrated for his visionary style in both color and black & grey tattoos. He has won over 150 international tattoo awards and has been featured in numerous top industry publications. In 2011, he opened his studio, Color Conspiracy Tattoo Gallery, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

In the NFT space, Juan founded the Tattoo Skullz Society, a collection of 5,000 unique NFTs designed to create an artist community. Each NFT offers utilities such as raffle tickets, VIP sessions, tattoos, and original artworks from Juan. His first NFT, "The Lotus Diamond," sold for $32,000, setting a record for the most expensive initial digital art piece by a Puerto Rican artist.

Juan's work in the NFT space aims to empower Latino artists and disrupt the traditional art community by leveraging blockchain technology. He continues to bridge the gap between traditional tattoo artistry and digital art, fostering a more inclusive and innovative art scene.

Senior Advisor & Former Chief Legal Officer, Kraken

Marco Santori

Marco Santori, Kraken’s Chief Legal Officer, is a renowned expert in blockchain law and policy, often called the "Dean of Digital Currency Lawyers." He has served as an advisor to the IMF and as Blockchain Ambassador to the State of Delaware.

Marco Santori is a prominent legal authority in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sector, currently serving as the Chief Legal Officer at Kraken, a leading digital asset exchange. Known as the "Dean of Digital Currency Lawyers," Santori has been instrumental in shaping the legal frameworks that govern digital assets. He played a pivotal role in developing the Simple Agreement for Future Tokens (SAFT), a framework designed to facilitate compliant token sales for blockchain startups.

Before joining Kraken in 2020, Santori held significant positions in the crypto industry. He was the President and Chief Legal Officer at Blockchain.com, a major cryptocurrency wallet provider, where he navigated complex regulatory landscapes. Prior to that, he was a partner at Cooley LLP and Pillsbury Winthrop, advising financial institutions and startups on integrating distributed ledger technology into their operations.

Santori's influence extends beyond corporate roles; he has served as an advisor to the International Monetary Fund and was appointed as the Blockchain Ambassador for the State of Delaware. Additionally, he chaired the Regulatory Affairs Committee of the Bitcoin Foundation, contributing to policy discussions that have shaped the cryptocurrency industry's evolution. His extensive experience and thought leadership have been instrumental in bridging the gap between traditional financial systems and emerging digital asset technologies.

Executive Director, Blockchain Foundation

Cleve Mesidor

Cleve Mesidor is the Executive Director of the Blockchain Foundation and founder of the National Policy Network of Women of Color in Blockchain. An advocate for diversity and inclusion, she brings extensive public affairs experience as a former Obama Presidential Appointee.

Cleve Mesidor is a prominent blockchain advocate and policy leader, serving as the Executive Director of the Blockchain Foundation and a mayoral appointee to the DC Innovation and Technology Inclusion Council. She is also the founder of the National Policy Network of Women of Color in Blockchain, where she works to increase representation and promote equitable access in the Web3 space. Cleve’s advocacy focuses on bridging the gap between emerging technologies and underserved communities through education, public policy, and strategic partnerships.

A former Obama Presidential Appointee, Cleve has extensive experience in public policy and economic development, including roles on Capitol Hill and in the Blockchain Association. Her work emphasizes responsible innovation in blockchain, addressing regulatory challenges, and creating inclusive opportunities in tech. She is a Forbes contributor and the author of The Clevolution: My Quest for Justice in Politics & Crypto, where she explores the intersection of technology, policy, and social impact.

Cleve’s expertise and leadership have positioned her as a key voice in blockchain education and advocacy, with her insights featured in major outlets like CNBC, NPR, and The New York Times. She continues to champion blockchain's transformative potential while pushing for diversity and inclusion in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Chief Legal Officer, Exodus

Veronica McGregor

Veronica McGregor is the Chief Legal Officer at Exodus, specializing in fintech regulations and crypto law. With over a decade of experience, she has held key roles at ShapeShift and the Filecoin Foundation, advocating for legislative clarity and self-custody in crypto.

Veronica McGregor is the Chief Legal Officer at Exodus, a leading cryptocurrency wallet and digital asset management platform. With over a decade of experience in crypto law, she has been instrumental in navigating the complex regulatory landscape of digital assets. Prior to joining Exodus in January 2022, Veronica served as the Chief Legal Officer at ShapeShift from 2018 to 2021, where she managed in-house legal and compliance functions, global legal strategy, governmental relations, and regulatory affairs.

She has also held positions at the Filecoin Foundation and Parallel Payments Ltd. Veronica holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from San Francisco State University. She is a FinTech lawyer specializing in all aspects of financial services, with an emphasis on payments and lending advice, including state licensing issues, mobile, gaming, and virtual currencies. Throughout her career, Veronica has been a strong advocate for legislative clarity in the crypto space and emphasizes the importance of self-custody for crypto users.

Senior Director of Government Relations, Blockchain Association

Ron Hammond

Ron Hammond is the Senior Director of Government Relations at the Blockchain Association. A former congressional staffer, he authored the Token Taxonomy Act and has been shaping bipartisan crypto regulatory frameworks since 2016.

Ron Hammond serves as the Senior Director of Government Relations and Institutional Engagement for the Blockchain Association, where he leads efforts to advocate for and shape cryptocurrency policy on Capitol Hill. His experience in crafting bipartisan crypto regulatory frameworks began in 2016 as the Financial Services Policy Lead for Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-8). During his time on Capitol Hill, Ron authored significant legislation, including the Token Taxonomy Act, the Federal Reserve Regulatory Oversight Act, and the Derivatives Fairness Act.

Before his tenure in Congress, Ron managed three successful Texas State Senate campaigns, showcasing his ability to navigate complex political landscapes. A graduate of Georgetown University with a B.A., Ron continues to drive the conversation on cryptocurrency and financial regulation, fostering collaboration between lawmakers and the blockchain industry.

Co-Founder and CEO, Horizen Labs

Rob Viglione

Rob Viglione is the co-founder of Horizen and Horizen Labs, pioneering the use of blockchain for a more secure and equitable world. A former U.S. Air Force officer, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association and holds a Ph.D. in Finance.

Rob Viglione is a trailblazer in blockchain and Web3 technologies, co-founding Horizen Labs to advance the adoption of decentralized systems and modular blockchain infrastructure. He is also the co-founder of Horizen, a public blockchain platform focused on privacy and scalability. With a deep understanding of blockchain's potential, Rob has been instrumental in creating tools and platforms that empower developers and users alike in the decentralized ecosystem.

Rob holds a Ph.D. in Finance, an MBA in Finance and Marketing, and a Bachelor's in Physics and Applied Mathematics, which underpin his technical and economic insights into blockchain technology. His professional journey includes roles as an advisor to prominent blockchain projects like Aave and HeroEngine, and he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association. These positions reflect his commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the blockchain space.

Before entering the blockchain industry, Rob served as a U.S. Air Force officer and scientist, bringing discipline and a rigorous analytical approach to his work. His diverse background allows him to bridge gaps between technology, finance, and public policy, making him a sought-after voice in the Web3 community. Rob continues to advocate for blockchain as a tool to build a more secure and equitable world, driving innovation and education across the industry.

Deputy Chief Compliance Officer & BSA Officer, Kraken

Lauren Benjamin

Lauren Benjamin is the Deputy Chief Compliance Officer at Kraken’s US Operating Entity. With over a decade of experience in financial crime compliance, she specializes in anti-money laundering and cryptoasset financial crime prevention.

Lauren Benjamin is currently the Deputy Chief Compliance Officer / BSA Officer for Kraken’s US Operating Entity. In her over 5 years at Kraken, she has served as CDD Sr. Manager, and began her career in crypto in the Enhanced Due Diligence team at Kraken. Before joining the Payward Group in 2019, Ms. Benjamin was a Compliance Officer, AVP, with the Global Governance Group at Bank of the West, where she focused on program and policy development and management, risk assessments and compliance control governance. Throughout her career in Global Financial Crime Compliance, Ms. Benjamin has also served as Senior Investigators with Financial Investigative Units at Bank of the West and Union Bank (MUFG). Ms. Benjamin received her Master of Arts in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies degree from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey (MIIS) and holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, with a focus in International Security and Globalization and Development. Ms. Benjamin is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist with ACAMS, a Certified Cryptoasset Anti-Financial Crime Specialist, and holds a Chainalysis Reactor Certification.
Founder & CIO, Outerlands

Colin Jones

Colin Jones is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Outerlands, applying over a decade of systematic investing research to digital assets. Formerly Head of Strategic Investments at Horizen Labs, he holds a Ph.D. in Finance from Penn State and an M.B.A. from William & Mary.

Colin is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Outerlands. After spending over a decade researching systematic investing, Colin launched Outerlands on the thesis that robust, well-researched systematic investing strategies can and should be applied to digital assets. Prior to the spinout, Colin was Head of Strategic Investments at Horizen Labs, a successful blockchain development company, where he evaluated a variety of private investments and special situations, advised on tokenomics, and invested the balance sheet across both crypto and traditional investment vehicles. Prior to Horizen Labs, Colin spent over a decade in academia researching and teaching investments, most recently as a professor at the University of Notre Dame and as the Faculty Director for the Notre Dame Institute for Global Investing. Prior to his academic career, Colin worked in startups, economic development, and venture capital. Colin holds a Ph.D. in Finance from Pennsylvania State University, and an M.B.A from the College of William & Mary.
Founder & General Partner, Azure Capital Partners

Paul Weinstein

Paul Weinstein is a seasoned investor with 37 years of experience across cloud, blockchain, and SaaS technology sectors. Founder of Azure Capital Partners and Advisory Partner to Interblock Capital Partners, he serves on the boards of PRBTA and Horizen Labs.

Founder and General Partner Azure Capital Partners, an early-stage VC firm in Silicon Valley, Founder and Managing Partner of Starlight Management, a technology consulting firm, General Partner at Interblock Capital Partners, a blockchain focused hedge fund, and Board Member of Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association and Board Member of Horizen Labs, a Web 3 company providing innovative ZK Proof technology. Paul has been responsible for investments across the IT landscape including: enterprise, data center, cloud, analytics, communications infrastructure, SaaS, Internet infrastructure, blockchain and fin tech sectors. Prior to founding Azure Capital Partners in 2000, Paul was a Managing Director at Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, PaineWebber and Kidder Peabody, where he was responsible for equity research in the data networking, software, semiconductor, storage and internet communications segments.

Current board and advisory responsibilities include: Decision Next, Horizen Labs, PepTalk, Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association, ScreenMeet, Selector, Virtana; other active investments include Ginkgo Bioworks, Magic Cube, and NativeVoice. Prior investment responsibilities included; Broadlight (acquired by Broadcom), Convercent (acquired by OneTrust), K2 Software (acquired by Nintex), NeoNova (acquired by NRTC), Parama (acquired by BayMicro), Pliant (acquired by IBM), Prediction IO (acquired by Salesforce.com), Sylantro (acquired by BroadSoft), Tutum (acquired by Docker), Unitas (acquired by Digital Alpha), World Wide Packets (acquired by Ciena), Vapps (acquired by Citrix).

Paul has a BA in Finance and Accounting from Babson College. Professional affiliations have included: National Venture Capital Association (NVCA); Ericsson Advisory Board Member; Citrix Advisory Board Member; Olympic Club member; Society of Charted Financial Analysts.

Head of Government Affairs, U.S. and Europe, Filecoin Foundation

Jacob Hample

Jacob Hample is the Head of Government Affairs for the U.S. and Europe at the Filecoin Foundation. Formerly with the Blockchain Association, he specializes in blockchain policy, advocating for decentralized web technologies and regulatory clarity across global markets.

Jacob Hample serves as the Head of Government Affairs for the U.S. and Europe at the Filecoin Foundation. In this role, he is the primary representative of the foundation in key policy hubs, including Washington, D.C., Brussels, and London. Jacob focuses on educating lawmakers and regulators about the transformative potential of decentralized web technologies while addressing the complex regulatory landscape faced by the blockchain ecosystem.

A seasoned blockchain policy expert, Jacob was one of the first employees at the Blockchain Association, helping to shape its early advocacy efforts. His career also includes experience with lobbying firms and governmental positions in the U.S. and internationally, giving him a well-rounded perspective on public policy and blockchain innovation. Through his work, Jacob continues to drive awareness and adoption of decentralized technologies while ensuring regulatory clarity for the industry.

Lead Blockchain Developer, Polkadot

Shawn Tiblizi

Shawn Tabrizi is a lead developer for Polkadot with nearly 7 years of blockchain development experience. Previously, he worked at Microsoft on Digital Identities and Azure Cloud and holds a degree in Physics and Mathematics from UC Santa Barbara.

Shawn Tabrizi is a Lead Developer at Parity Technologies, contributing significantly to the development of Polkadot, a leading blockchain platform. With over seven years in blockchain development, Shawn has been instrumental in advancing decentralized web technologies. Prior to his tenure at Parity Technologies, he worked at Microsoft, focusing on Digital Identities and Azure Cloud services. Shawn holds a degree in Physics and Mathematics from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Currently residing in Puerto Rico, he continues to drive innovation in blockchain infrastructure and decentralized applications.
CEO & Founder, PaltaLabs

Esteban Iglesias

Esteban Iglesias is the CEO and Founder of PaltaLabs, a Latin American development hub specializing in the Stellar Blockchain. A Chilean entrepreneur, he brings expertise in blockchain development and DeFi, with an MSc in Applied Economics and a degree in Electrical Engineering.

Esteban Iglesias is the CEO and Founder of PaltaLabs, a leading Latin American development hub specializing in the Stellar Blockchain. As a Chilean entrepreneur and blockchain developer, Esteban has played a key role in advancing decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions and fostering blockchain innovation across Latin America.

A graduate of École Centrale Paris and Universidad de Chile, Esteban holds an MSc in Applied Economics and a degree in Electrical Engineering. His expertise combines technical knowledge with entrepreneurial vision, enabling him to develop impactful blockchain-based solutions that empower businesses and communities in the region.

Managing Director, Foundation for Interwallet Operability

Luke Stokes

Luke Stokes is the Managing Director of the Foundation for Interwallet Operability and has been active in Bitcoin since 2013. A consensus witness for the Hive blockchain and co-founder of FoxyCart, he focuses on using blockchain for voluntary governance and innovation.

Luke Stokes is the Managing Director for the Foundation for Interwallet Operability. He's passionate about voluntary systems of governance and has been involved in bitcoin since early 2013. He's been a consensus witness for the Hive (previously Steem) blockchain since early 2018 and a custodian for eosDAC, a community-owned EOSIO Block Producer and DAC Enabler, since its inception. With a computer science degree from UPENN, he built, bootstrapped and co-founded the shopping cart software company FoxyCart over a ten year period and is now focused on blockchain technology as a means to create a world we all want to live in. He currently lives in Puerto Rico with his wife and three children and enjoys discussing everything from philosophy, to consciousness, to voluntaryism, to love and awakening.
Dean of the College of Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez

Cristina Pomales-García

Cristina Pomales-García is the Dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and a Professor of Industrial Engineering. A Ph.D. graduate from the University of Michigan, she specializes in engineering education, accreditation, and curricular reform.

Cristina Pomales-García is the Dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and a Professor of Industrial Engineering. With expertise in engineering education, accreditation, and curriculum development, she has led significant reforms in the college's academic programs.

Her leadership includes serving as an ABET evaluator, ensuring the quality and standards of engineering education programs. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, Cristina continues to advance innovation and excellence in engineering education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Executive Director, Evolving Space

Edgar Cruz

Edgar Cruz is the Executive Director of Evolving Space, a nonprofit focused on advancing workforce development in Puerto Rico through education on Web3, AI, and emerging technologies. A mechanical engineer and MBA, he leads initiatives like Web3 Bootcamps and Hackathons to foster innovation and inclusion.

Edgar Cruz is a mechanical engineer and MBA who serves as the Executive Director of Evolving Space, a nonprofit advancing workforce development in Puerto Rico through free education on Web3, AI, and other emerging technologies. He has designed and implemented curricula for technology education and led key initiatives, including the 2022 Web3 Bootcamp, two Web3 Hackathons, and the OESTECH Hackfest 2024, as well as numerous seminars and panels focused on emerging technologies.

With expertise in project management, marketing, and stakeholder collaboration, Edgar drives efforts that empower talent and bridge gaps in technology literacy. As a native Puerto Rican fluent in both Spanish and English, he leverages a deep understanding of regional challenges to promote technology adoption in underserved communities. Recognized for his leadership in grassroots technology-focused communities, Edgar continues to develop impactful programs that foster innovation and inclusion

Chief Innovation Officer, LUMA Energy

Crystal Allen

Crystal Allen is the Chief Innovation Officer at LUMA Energy, where she leads the digital transformation of Puerto Rico's energy infrastructure. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and resilience, she integrates technology to drive innovation and support both customers and employees.

Crystal Allen combines intuition, creativity, and emotional depth to spearhead innovation in the energy sector as the Chief Innovation Officer at LUMA Energy. She plays a pivotal role in guiding the digital evolution of Puerto Rico’s energy infrastructure, ensuring that technology enhances the safety, efficiency, and resilience of the system.

Her leadership focuses on leveraging advanced digital solutions to meet the unique needs of the island's energy grid while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. Crystal’s work at LUMA Energy reflects her dedication to transforming the energy sector for both the company’s workforce and the customers it serves.

Chief of Staff & Head of Events, BTC Inc.

Brandon Green

Brandon Green is the Chief of Staff to the CEO and Head of Events, overseeing the Bitcoin conference series and the company’s event operations. Starting as an intern in 2017, he now leads the conference arm of the business and serves on the Board of Advisors for the University of Alabama.

Brandon Green is the Chief of Staff to the CEO and Head of Events at BTC Inc., a leading Bitcoin media and events company. Since joining BTC Inc. as an intern in 2017, he has advanced through various roles, including managing internal operations, media, ticket sales, and programming for the Bitcoin conference series. In his current position, Brandon leads the company's conference arm, orchestrating global events that bring together industry leaders and enthusiasts.

He also serves on the Board of Advisors for the University of Alabama, contributing to the development of future professionals. Brandon holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Alabama.

Principal, Porzio, Bromberg & Newman P.C.

Jill Williamson

Jill Williamson is a principal at Porzio, Bromberg & Newman with over 20 years of legal experience specializing in emerging technologies like blockchain, cryptocurrency, and AI. She advises Web3 companies on compliance, anti-money laundering, and global cryptocurrency regulations.

Jill Williamson leverages her extensive experience across various areas of law and industries to provide practical and strategic advice on complex and unique issues. Her in-house experience, including senior positions at both a Fortune 100 company and a mid-sized public company, informs her approach to practice, helping entrepreneurs and leaders of established businesses maximize shareholder value growth while minimizing legal risks.

Jill advises and acts as outside general counsel for several companies in the emerging technology industry, including AI, blockchain and cryptocurrency, and esports. She also assists clients with general business and transactional advice, internal investigations, defense against government investigations, and compliance advice in areas such as anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, export compliance, sanctions, securities, data privacy, and risk management.

She has been working with Web3 companies since 2017, bringing her deep industry experience and training to navigate this emerging sector effectively. Jill is highly skilled in legal issues around blockchain technology and compliance with global cryptocurrency laws and regulations.

Tax, Corporate, and Blockchain Attorney, GEO Tax

Giovanni Mendez, Esq.

Giovanni has extensive experience as a corporate and tax attorney, including compliance, financial reporting, tax preparation, and regulatory matters. Highlighted by the New York Times as Puerto Rico's go-to Blockchain Attorney.

Giovanni Mendez has extensive experience as a corporate and tax attorney, including compliance, financial reporting, tax preparation, and regulatory matters. Admitted to the Puerto Rico Bar and United States Tax Court, Giovanni has advised clients at both the State and Federal levels. His clients have included Fortune 500 companies, pharmaceutical companies, telecommunications firms, financial services companies, e-commerce, technology and software companies, private equity investors, blockchain technology companies, and high net-worth individuals.

Giovanni’s practice includes structuring of tax exempt and taxable operations in Puerto Rico, structuring of complex business transactions, transfer pricing consulting, entity formations, negotiation of tax exemption decrees, tax planning and counsel for Puerto Rican and United States federal international income tax matters, and accounting services.

During the past years, Giovanni has served as advisory counsel for many investors and businesses seeking grants of tax exemption under Puerto Rico’s Acts 20 and 22. As a blockchain technology investor and advisor, Giovanni has played a key role in the development of Puerto Rico as an investment destination for the industry. Giovanni’s unique access to the burgeoning global and local cryptocurrency industry provides his clients with invaluable insight.

Principal and Litigation, Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, P.C.

William J. "Bill" Hughes

William J. Hughes is a corporate attorney specializing in compliance, white-collar defense, and complex litigation in areas like cryptocurrency and cybersecurity. A former Assistant U.S. Attorney and DOJ Trial Attorney, he is an expert in federal investigations and high-stakes legal challenges.

William J. ("Bill") Hughes, Jr. is an experienced corporate counselor and litigator representing and advising clients in compliance, federal white collar investigations and criminal defense, complex commercial litigation in the areas of cybersecurity, cryptocurrency and securities, antitrust, fraud, intellectual property, director and officer (D&O) liability defense, commercial and shareholder disputes.

With a background as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Trial Attorney for the United States Department of Justice, Bill has a unique understanding of federal investigations and procedures. In his role as Assistant U.S. Attorney, Bill was responsible for litigating and investigating a variety of cases including: counterfeiting, bank robbery and theft, firearms violations, police bribery, assaults, narcotics cases - including Title III wiretaps and foreign extradition, money laundering, government loan fraud, credit card fraud, and criminal copyright and trademark infringement. As a Trial Attorney for the Department of Justice, Bill was assigned to the Computers and Finance Section of the Antitrust Division where he handled antitrust merger and civil non-merger investigations and litigation.

Prior to joining the Department of Justice, Bill served as a Judicial Clerk with the Honorable John F. Gerry, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey and Chairman of the Executive Committee for the United States Judicial Conference.

Principal, Wealth Preservation & Corporate, Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, P.C.

Deirdre Wheatley-Liss, Esq.

Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss, Esq., is a wealth preservation and corporate law expert specializing in tax optimization, business strategies, and asset protection. She advises clients on succession planning and estate management, while also educating on cybersecurity and wealth transfer.

Deirdre R. Wheatley-Liss divides her practice between representation of business owners and their businesses, counselling individuals and families, and advising non-profit entities.

Ms. Wheatley-Liss counsels business owners on legal and structural issues related to start-up, financing, growth and exit strategy. As a tax attorney, she always keeps an eye on minimizing a business owner's "silent partner" – the IRS. She also advises on director and officer (D&O) liability issues, including business succession and break-ups. By creating the most efficient organizational structures and contractual arrangements during the infancy and growth of a business she has helped clients keep hundreds of thousands of dollars in their pockets upon the sale of the mature business.

To educate both the public and the legal community about issues relating to business ownerships, Ms. Wheatley-Liss is a frequent lecturer to professionals and the public on topics related to start-up, intellectual property, employee and independent contractor issues, wealth transfer, tax minimization, business succession planning and cybersecurity.

The core of Ms. Wheatley-Liss' practice is protecting the wealth her clients have earned and created over a lifetime – from taxes, long-term care costs, ill-equipped beneficiaries, divorce, lawsuits and mis-management by others. To do this she focuses on educating clients about how to make the legal system work to help them meet their goals and then carry out that plan. This may include creating wills and trusts, tax planning, advising an executor of an estate, representing a beneficiary in a disputed estate, crafting a long-term care asset protection plan, elder law counseling, special needs planning or guardianships.

Filmmaker & Founder, Campo Libre

Alana Mediavilla

Alana Mediavilla is an award-winning filmmaker and founder of Campo Libre, an independent film house producing and distributing original content. Renowned for her visionary approach, she is a rising force in the indie film space, creating impactful and profitable films.

Alana Mediavilla
Founder, Campo Libre

Alana Mediavilla is an award-winning filmmaker and the founder of Campo Libre, an independent film house dedicated to producing and distributing original intellectual property. With a visionary approach and a talent for transforming bold ideas into successful ventures, Alana has rapidly emerged as a rising force in the indie film industry. Her work is celebrated for its artistic impact and commercial success, earning her a reputation as a producer who balances creative storytelling with business acumen.

Through Campo Libre, Alana champions innovative narratives and provides a platform for diverse voices, aiming to redefine the independent film landscape. Her films have garnered critical acclaim and accolades, establishing her as a trailblazer in a competitive and dynamic space. Alana’s passion for meaningful storytelling continues to shape her career and the projects she takes on, making her one of the most exciting filmmakers to watch in the industry today.

Tax Attorney, Tax Network USA

CJ Whisnant

CJ Whisnant IV is a California state-barred attorney and U.S. Tax Court practitioner. With expertise in complex tax cases, he brings unique insights from his experience working with a cryptocurrency exchange, ensuring clients navigate ever-evolving tax laws and remain compliant with cryptocurrency regulations.

CJ Whisnant IV is a California state-barred attorney and U.S. Tax Court practitioner with a focus on complex tax cases and cryptocurrency regulations. His experience working with a cryptocurrency exchange equips him with unique insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving tax landscape in the digital asset space.

CJ is dedicated to helping clients stay compliant with tax laws while maximizing their financial outcomes. By combining his legal expertise and industry experience, he ensures that individuals and businesses are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of cryptocurrency taxation and regulation.

Professor of Computer Engineering, Universidad Ana G. Méndez, Gurabo

Yahya Masalmah

Yahya Masalmah is a Professor of Computer Engineering at Universidad Ana G. Méndez, Gurabo, specializing in big data, machine learning, and computer security. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez and is an IEEE Senior Member and ACM member.

Yahya Masalmah is a Professor of Computer Engineering at Universidad Ana G. Méndez, Gurabo, where he specializes in teaching and research on cutting-edge topics such as big data, machine learning, computer security, distributed systems, and networking. A dedicated academic, he is passionate about advancing these fields and mentoring future generations of engineers.

He earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Computing and Information Science and Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, following a B.Sc. in Physics from Birzeit University. Yahya is a member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and holds the prestigious distinction of IEEE Senior Member for his contributions to computer engineering.

In addition to publishing scientific articles across various disciplines, Yahya teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, fostering innovation and critical thinking in his students. His work continues to impact both the academic and professional engineering communities.

Growth Marketing Manager, Stellar Development Foundation

Lindsay Poss

Lindsay Poss is the Growth Marketing Manager at the Stellar Development Foundation, supporting startups and developers in the Stellar ecosystem. She holds an MS in Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon and hosts the Seeking Alpha Podcast on the crypto industry.

Lindsay Poss serves as the Growth Marketing Manager at the Stellar Development Foundation, focusing on onboarding early-stage startups and providing resources for developers working within the Stellar ecosystem. Her efforts are aimed at fostering innovation and growth, enabling projects to leverage Stellar's blockchain technology for impactful solutions.

Before joining Stellar, Lindsay ran her own consulting agency, specializing in crypto infrastructure projects and advising organizations on navigating the evolving blockchain landscape. A passionate advocate for thoughtful regulation and innovation, she holds an MS in Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University and has experience in technology policy.

In addition to her professional work, Lindsay is the host of the Seeking Alpha Podcast, where she dives into the personal and professional journeys of individuals in the crypto space. Her multifaceted experience bridges the gap between technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and community building in the blockchain industry.

Developer Advocate, Lightning Labs

Hannah Rosenberg

Hannah Rosenberg is a Bitcoin and e-commerce web developer, educator, and economist. A passionate advocate for monetary theory and alternative currencies, she founded Velas Commerce in 2014 and teaches blockchain courses at UIC’s College of Business Administration.

Hannah Rosenberg is a Bitcoin and e-commerce web developer with a deep background in economics, holding a degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She became an early Bitcoin adopter in 2012 and later founded Velas Commerce in 2014, blending her technical expertise with a passion for alternative currencies.

Her engagement in the crypto community includes organizing Chicago’s largest blockchain community group, the Bitcoin and Open Blockchain meetup, for five years. As an educator, Hannah has taught blockchain courses at UIC's College of Business Administration. Currently, she works as a Developer Advocate for Lightning Labs, where she helps further the adoption of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.

Artist

Eliezer Fontanez (OWTLW)

Eliezer Fontanez, known as OWTLW, is a Puerto Rican artist specializing in drawing and 3D conceptualization. His work, blending local folklore with contemporary perspectives, has been featured in murals, exhibitions, products, and on the blockchain.

Eliezer Fontanez, also known as OWTLW, is a Puerto Rican artist driven by a passion for culture and technology. Specializing in drawing and 3D conceptualization, Eliezer reimagines local folklore through a modern lens, creating pieces that are both visually striking and culturally rich.

His art has been featured in various mediums, including murals, exhibitions, and products, and he has expanded his reach into the blockchain space, further blending traditional art with innovative digital platforms. Eliezer's work continues to explore the intersection of culture, technology, and creativity, making him a unique figure in contemporary Puerto Rican art.

Managing Editor for Global Policy and Regulation, CoinDesk

Nikhilesh "Nik" De

Nikhilesh De is the Managing Editor for Global Policy and Regulation at CoinDesk, focusing on digital assets, policy, and regulation. He was named Journalist of the Year by the Association of Cryptocurrency Journalists and Researchers in 2020.

Nikhilesh De is CoinDesk's Managing Editor for Global Policy and Regulation, where he covers regulators, lawmakers, and institutions shaping the future of digital assets. He specializes in reporting on the intersection of policy, law, and blockchain technology.

Outside of his work in crypto journalism, Nikhilesh enjoys admiring Amtrak trains and building LEGO models, especially trains. He holds less than $50 in Bitcoin and under $20 in Ethereum. In recognition of his contributions to cryptocurrency journalism, Nikhilesh was named the Association of Cryptocurrency Journalists and Researchers' Journalist of the Year in 2020.