Samaddin Asadov is the Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

With a strong background in finance and strategic management, he has held several senior leadership roles in the country’s communications and space sectors.

Before his current appointment, he served as the Chairman of the Board of the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos), where he oversaw the agency’s strategic transformation and financial sustainability.

Earlier in his career, he led the Finance Department at Azercosmos and worked at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technologies, contributing to national policy and financial reforms in the telecommunications sector.

Mr. Asadov holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Finance and Credit from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics and has completed advanced executive programs at ADA University, Maastricht School of Management, and Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Dr Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava took office as Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 1 January 2023.

With more than 30 years in telecommunications, including over 20 years in ITU’s Development Sector, Dr Zavazava has promoted and implemented impactful information and communication technology projects around the world.

Prior to his election as BDT Director, he served as ITU’s Chief of Partnerships for Digital Development, overseeing development-related projects, strategic partnerships, and resource mobilization between 2019 and 2022, while launching new initiatives that have boosted the engagement of industry, private-sector and academia members in ITU’s work.

Roxana WIDMER-ILIESCU heads the Digital Inclusion Service at the Development Bureau of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), where she has dedicated over 27 years to advancing the global digital inclusion agenda. She advises ITU Members on inclusive digital policies and strategies that enable everyone’s participation in the digital society, economy, and environment.

A passionate advocate for ICT and digital accessibility, Roxana promotes human-centred technologies and equitable digital opportunities for all—regardless of age, gender, ability, or location. To support global efforts toward building a digitally inclusive world where no one is left behind, she has spearheaded the development of more than 75 ITU-D key resources aimed at fostering the implementation of available, affordable, and digitally accessible technologies.

Before joining ITU, she served in the International Relations Department of the Romanian Parliament. She holds computer science and legal background with a specialization in strategic management of telecommunications, and is fluent in English, French, Romanian, and Spanish.

Imran Mukhtarov is the Head of the SPACE Academy at the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos).

He leads national space education and outreach initiatives, promoting STEM learning and coordinating Azerbaijan’s international space engagement, including the country’s participation in the International Astronautical Congress.

Imran’s career spans leadership roles in international relations, education, and diplomacy, including positions at Baku International Sea Trade Port, the Azerbaijan Badminton Federation, and Sorbonne Business School.

As a SALTO-certified facilitator, he has collaborated with institutions such as the British Council, NATO, and the European Union, fostering youth leadership and intercultural dialogue.

Fluent in six languages, he is recognized for his commitment to advancing global cooperation through education, innovation, and the space sciences.

Dr Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava took office as Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 1 January 2023.

With more than 30 years in telecommunications, including over 20 years in ITU’s Development Sector, Dr Zavazava has promoted and implemented impactful information and communication technology projects around the world.

Prior to his election as BDT Director, he served as ITU’s Chief of Partnerships for Digital Development, overseeing development-related projects, strategic partnerships, and resource mobilization between 2019 and 2022, while launching new initiatives that have boosted the engagement of industry, private-sector and academia members in ITU’s work.

Farida Asgarzade is a business development and innovation strategist from Azerbaijan, a UN Youth Advocate, and a social entrepreneur focused on inclusive digital transformation and youth leadership. As the Founder of the Human Foundation, she leads initiatives that advance youth empowerment, sustainability, and social impact across the Caucasus and Central Asia.

With experience in cross-border growth and tech-enabled models, Farida supports international companies entering the region while promoting innovation for social good. She has delivered keynote speeches and moderated discussions in both local and global arenas, including major innovation, business, and sustainability forums. Farida continues to champion youth-driven solutions in connectivity, digital inclusion, and sustainable development — amplifying young voices and shaping more inclusive growth in the digital future.

Vice Minister of Communications, Ailyn Febles Estrada

Doctor of Technical Sciences,

She is a Full Professor at the University of Computer Sciences (UCI) and visiting professor at several Cuban and foreign universities.

She began working in 1997 at EMPROY#2 of the Ministry of Construction (MICONS) as a Professional Technician in training in the computer department.

In 2000, she taught at the Faculty of Industrial Engineering in the Center for Software Engineering Studies at the José Antonio Echeverría Polytechnic Institute (CUJAE). During her time at CUJAE, she served as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Industrial Engineering (2003-2005), where she led the process of universalizing the Computer Engineering program in Havana. In 2001, she defended her Master’s thesis in Applied Computer Science.

In 2005, she began working at the University of Computer Sciences (UCI) as Director of Software Quality. She was appointed Director of the National Center for Software Quality, CALISOFT, from its inception until 2012, when she was appointed Vice-Rector of Production at UCI until 2014. She then became Vice-Rector of Research and Postgraduate Studies, a position she held until 2016.

In 2016, she was elected National President of the Union of Computer Scientists of Cuba at its founding assembly, a position she held until 2025, when she was appointed Vice-Minister of Communications (MINCOM).

She has also held other positions, including Member of National Scientific Degree Examination Boards, Member of Teaching Category Examination Boards, Member of the Scientific Council of UCI, of the Faculty of Industrial Engineering at CUJAE, and of various academic committees for master’s and doctoral programs.

She is also a member of the national expert group of the Council for Computerization and Cybersecurity. (2015-2017).

Head of the National Program for the Development of the Software Industry at CITMA. (2013-2015).

She is a Deputy to the National Assembly of People’s Power and Vice President of the Commission.

Ms. Lara Mohammad ElKhateeb was appointed Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners at the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) by a decision of the Council of Ministers on 21 September 2025.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Jordan and a Master’s degree in International Business Law. Ms. ElKhateeb brings extensive experience in legal and regulatory affairs, government relations, policy development, and public–private partnerships. She has served as Chief Executive Officer for Legal, Regulatory, and Government Affairs at Umniah Mobile Company, providing strategic guidance on regulatory compliance, licensing, data protection, and corporate governance.

She has also served as a Board Member of the Jordanian Student Support Fund under the Ministry of Education.

A strong advocate for women’s economic and political empowerment, Ms. ElKhateeb contributes actively through her roles on the boards of several profit and non-profit organizations. She currently serves as a member of the Jordanian Women’s Committees Union and as a Board Member of “Little Curious Minds,” an initiative under Save the Children, demonstrating her commitment to community development and early childhood education.

Dr. Harmancı is a global health leader with over three decades of experience in public health, spanning academia, policy, and international development. Currently serving as the WHO Representative in Azerbaijan, she has led transformative initiatives in health equity, pandemic preparedness, and health systems strengthening. Her work has shaped global strategies on hepatitis and influenza, and she played a pivotal role in integrating One Health into the COP29 agenda. She has coordinated the health sector response to COVID-19 in Azerbaijan, earning national and UN recognition.

Previously based at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Dr. Harmancı led global programs on medical education, viral hepatitis and pandemic influenza, contributing to landmark WHO guidance documents.

Dr. Harmanci is a Visiting Professor at Koç University, Türkiye, where she teaches Global Health Architecture. She holds an MD and a Doctor of Public Health degrees from Hacettepe University, Türkiye.

Ahmed Riad is Senior Director for Strategy and Industry Development at Huawei Technologies, where he leads the company’s global engagement with international organizations and standardization bodies, including ITU, ISO, and IEC. With over 18 years of international experience spanning digital transformation, innovation, and industry development, Ahmed drives strategic alliances and fosters partnerships that shape the future of the ICT ecosystem.

Nazarbek Dzhunusaliev is a Project Implementation Manager at Razzakov University, a PhD researcher, and the General Director of Baitech, an ICT innovation and hardware-production company established by Razzakov University.

He specializes in project implementation, digital transformation, and the development of youth-driven innovation initiatives. He leads national and international programs aimed at modernizing education, advancing applied research, building innovation infrastructure, and creating opportunities for young engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs.

As the General Director of Baitech, established by Razzakov University, he contributes to the development of domestic ICT solutions and strengthens collaboration between academia, industry, and public institutions to support technology-driven growth in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Mrs Regina Fleur BESSOU, Corporate Lawyer, Expert in Digital Regulation, Gender Engineer, is the Officer of the Order of Merit in Telecommunications and Posts of Côte d’Ivoire, and:

– Technical Advisor to the Director General of the Telecommunications/ICT Regulatory Authority of Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI)
– Chair of ITU development sector Study Group 1
– Vice-Chair of the Telecommunication Development Advisory Group (ITU)
– Africa Representative of the Network of Women in ITU-D (NoW in ITU-D)
– Chair of the African Preparatory Group of the African Telecommunication Union (ATU) for the upcoming ITU World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025
– Founder and Executive President of the International Network of Women Experts in Digital (RIFEN)

Mrs. BESSOU Assoumou Regina Fleur holds degrees in Legal, Administrative, and Fiscal Sciences, a specialized Master’s degree (BADGE) in Telecom/TIC Regulation, and expertise in Gender Engineering from the UNESCO/EFPOD Chair (Gender Audit option). She has been working in the telecommunications/ICT and postal sector since August 2001, accumulating 24 years of professional experience. She currently serves as the Technical Advisor to the Director General of the Telecommunications/ICT and Postal Regulatory Authority of Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI). Mrs. BESSOU is the Chair of Study Group 1 in the Development Sector of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-D), re-elected since the last World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) in 2021 in Kigali. She is the first African to hold this position. Additionally, she serves as Vice-Chair of the Telecommunication Development Advisory Group (TDAG) and Africa Representative in the steering committee of NoW4WTDC (Network of Women for ITU-D). She currently chairs the African Caucus preparing for WTDC-25, following her tenure as Vice-Chair of Study Group 1. Her regional contributions include guiding conference preparations and capacity-building for African experts in ITU leadership roles.

Carlos Baca has been working since 2012 in the design and facilitation of capacity-building processes and in supporting organizations working with rural, remote, and Indigenous communities in the development of telecommunications and community communication projects. Since 2019, he has worked as an expert consultant for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), leading capacity-building programmes that support Indigenous, rural, and remote communities in developing their own connectivity and communication initiatives, such as the Training Programme in ICT Network Management in Latin America and Africa. Since 2020, he has coordinated the capacity-building area of the LocNet, a global initiative led by APC and Rhizomatica in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, which works to strengthen community-led approaches to digital inclusion and local network development. Carlos holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Sociology from the Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities “Alfonso Vélez Pliego” (BUAP), and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences from UDLAP.

Maitha Al Jamri is a Senior Officer specialized in International Negotiation and Representation at the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority of the United Arab Emirates, and represents the UAE in key ITU conferences and meetings, advancing national positions and contributing to shaping global digital policy.  She is also an ITU-D Generation Connect Youth Envoy and a Board Member at the ITU Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Board, who has gained an extensive insight on youth discussions in the digital field and contributes to shaping inclusive and forward-looking ICT strategies within the ITU framework. Through these roles, her work bridges the perspectives of policymakers and young innovators, emphasizing equitable access, digital youth empowerment, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

Paulo Glowacki is a Master’s candidate in International Law at the Geneva Graduate Institute, he focusses on the interplay of international law and technology, with a keen interest in digital governance. His interdisciplinary background, forged through practical experiences at the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC) and the Permanent Mission of Germany to the UN in New York, has provided him with in-depth knowledge of international law, digital transformation, and multilateral cooperation. 

Paulo has served as a lead penholder for the “Declaration of the ITU Generation Connect Youth Envoys from Europe, Regional Priorities for Europe Towards 2030” drafting a consensus document on the priorities of young people in the digital realm. 

Je suis ETSAGA SENDZE ABORI Erina Eunis Adria, jeune professionnelle gabonaise passionnée par les technologies et la transformation digitale. Diplômée en communication et marketing digital. En tant que communicante mon rôle est de developper des stratégies digitales inclusives, impactant, et engageant.   

Roman Shcherbakov is a Research Assistant and PhD student in Sociology at the Higher School of Economics in Moscow. His research focuses on digital inequality, cybersecurity behavior, and the social risks associated with digitalization. His doctoral project explores how individuals experience and manage digital risks in their everyday lives. Beyond academia, Roman has been involved in projects on collecting and analyzing statistics on ICT access and use, digital skills, and exposure to online risks. As a Generation Connect Youth Envoy, he is passionate about applying academic expertise to promote equitable access to digital opportunities and to bridge research with policy and practice. 

Mariangel Calderón Martínez is a Dominican young leader with experience in digital governance, telecommunications, and international cooperation. She serves as a Generation Connect Youth Envoy for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in the Americas region and was recognized as a Global Youth Leader 2024 by the World Internet Conference (WIC). She holds a Law degree from Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Economics, Regulation, and Competition in Public Services, specializing in Network Services (Energy and Telecommunications) at the University of Barcelona. At the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (INDOTEL), she works as a Multilateral Relations Analyst, promoting inclusive digital policies and youth participation in advancing sustainable connectivity in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Julius is a youth leader and digital inclusion advocate from the Philippines committed to empowering communities through technology, education, and creativity. Growing up in a remote island province, he experienced firsthand the challenges of limited access to learning and digital opportunities – a journey that fuels his mission to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age. 

He has led and supported capacity-building and community empowerment programs that have trained thousands of individuals, including students, educators, and underserved groups, in digital skills, innovation, and future-ready competencies. Through leadership roles and passion, Julius champions inclusive and ethical technology, youth empowerment, and community-driven development to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. 

Imran Mukhtarov is the Head of the SPACE Academy at the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos).

He leads national space education and outreach initiatives, promoting STEM learning and coordinating Azerbaijan’s international space engagement, including the country’s participation in the International Astronautical Congress.

Imran’s career spans leadership roles in international relations, education, and diplomacy, including positions at Baku International Sea Trade Port, the Azerbaijan Badminton Federation, and Sorbonne Business School.

As a SALTO-certified facilitator, he has collaborated with institutions such as the British Council, NATO, and the European Union, fostering youth leadership and intercultural dialogue.

Fluent in six languages, he is recognized for his commitment to advancing global cooperation through education, innovation, and the space sciences.

Afgan Bakhishov is an Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) and Head of the Financial Law Group of the Azerbaijan Bar Association.
He brings extensive expertise in financial law, regulatory policy, and corporate governance, with a distinguished career across the public and private sectors.
Previously, he served at the Ministry of Justice, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Financial Markets Supervision Chamber, where he chaired key regulatory commissions.
A Chevening Scholar and recipient of the British Council Alumni Award for Professional Achievement, Mr. Bakhishov holds master’s degrees from Baku State University and the University of Manchester and is currently pursuing a PhD.
He is also a dedicated academic, teaching legal and governance disciplines at leading Azerbaijani universities.

Sona Abbasova is the Director of Corporate and Marketing Communications at Azercell, Azerbaijan’s leading telecommunications operator.

She is a seasoned communications strategist with over 20 years of experience in shaping brand identity, stakeholder engagement, and corporate reputation across international markets.

Before joining Azercell, she held senior roles at PASHA Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), leading initiatives in sustainability reporting, policy engagement, and media relations across Europe and Central Asia.

An alumna of IE Business School with an Executive Master’s in Corporate and Business Communications, Ms. Abbasova continues to champion purposeful communication that connects business impact with social responsibility.

Aysel Suleymanova is the Director of Communications at Bakcell, Azerbaijan’s first and largest private telecommunications company.

With over two decades of leadership experience in strategic marketing, communications, and stakeholder relations, she has successfully guided corporate transformation and brand positioning across multiple industries.

She also serves as the Founder and Chair of the Marketing, Communications, and Business Development Committee at the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham), fostering private–public collaboration and thought leadership.

Previously, she led communications at Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) and PwC Azerbaijan, where she strengthened brand reputation and stakeholder engagement.

Ms. Suleymanova is recognized for her strategic vision, integrity, and commitment to advancing communications excellence in Azerbaijan and beyond.

Ms. Leyla Seyidzade is a development and innovation leader with more than 20 years of international experience in human capital development, women’s economic empowerment, and social entrepreneurship.

She currently heads the Azad Mirzajanzade Development Program, directs the Women in Tech Azerbaijan Chapter, and hosts the television program “Qadın Faktoru” (The Female Factor) on CBC.

Throughout her career, she has contributed to transformative initiatives at organizations such as Procter & Gamble, Carlsberg, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

A graduate of the University of Southern California in Communication and Journalism, she is also a fellow of the Edmund Hillary Fellowship and a participant in the U.S. Department of State’s IVLP “Women in STEAM” program.

Leyla’s mission centers on empowering people through innovation, education, and inclusive growth.

Sitara Mehdiyeva is the Head of the Spectrum Management Division at Azercosmos, bringing over 13 years of experience in satellite engineering and spectrum operations.
A graduate of Baku State University in Physics and Microelectronics, she combines strong academic foundations with hands-on expertise in frequency coordination and regulatory compliance.
Sitara plays a key role in managing spectrum allocation, mitigating interference, and aligning national systems with international standards.
Beyond her technical leadership, she actively contributes to workforce development through specialized training programs in spectrum management for industry professionals and government agencies.

Ilkin Aliyev is a Radiofrequency Coordination Engineer at Azercosmos, specializing in satellite frequency management and international coordination under ITU Radio Regulations.
A graduate of the National Aviation Academy with a degree in Space Technique Engineering, he combines technical precision with a commitment to advancing spectrum efficiency and compliance.
Ilkin began his career as a Satellite Operations Engineer before moving into frequency coordination, where he contributes to optimizing the coexistence of geostationary and non-geostationary satellite networks.
His analytical rigor and dedication play a vital role in supporting Azerbaijan’s leadership in space technology and communications.

Dumitru-Dorin Prunariu is a pioneering Romanian astronaut and aerospace engineer, recognized as the first Romanian to travel to space.

In 1981, he spent eight days aboard the Soyuz-40 spacecraft and the Salyut-6 space station, contributing to scientific and technological advancements in human spaceflight.

Dr. Prunariu is a founding member and former president of the Association of Space Explorers (ASE), where he continues to advocate for international cooperation in space.

He has also served as President of the Romanian Space Agency, Ambassador of Romania to the Russian Federation, and Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS).

For his lifelong dedication to space exploration, an asteroid — “10707 Prunariu” — was named in his honor.

Alper Gezeravcı is Türkiye’s first astronaut, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s space exploration journey.

Born in Silifke in 1979, he holds a degree in Electronic Engineering from the Air Force Academy in Istanbul and a master’s from the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology.

A seasoned fighter pilot with over 18 years of experience across multiple aircraft, Gezeravcı has also served in leadership roles within the Turkish Air Force and Turkish Airlines.

In 2024, he successfully completed Türkiye’s first crewed space mission to the International Space Station, becoming the 275th astronaut to fly to space and the 610th in human history.

Beyond his achievements, he continues to inspire new generations toward science, technology, and exploration.

Tuva Cihangir Atasever is a Turkish astronaut and aerospace engineer serving under the Turkish Space Agency (TUA).

A graduate of Bilkent University in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, he pursued postgraduate studies in photonics in the United States.
Before joining Türkiye’s astronaut corps, he worked at Roketsan as an avionics systems engineer and payload integration manager, contributing to satellite launch vehicle projects.

After training with NASA and SpaceX as part of the Axiom Space program, he flew aboard Virgin Galactic’s VSS Unity (Galactic 07) mission in June 2024, conducting seven scientific experiments in microgravity.

Atasever continues to engage in outreach efforts inspiring youth toward STEAM education and space careers.

Samaddin Asadov is the Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

With a strong background in finance and strategic management, he has held several senior leadership roles in the country’s communications and space sectors.

Before his current appointment, he served as the Chairman of the Board of the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos), where he oversaw the agency’s strategic transformation and financial sustainability.

Earlier in his career, he led the Finance Department at Azercosmos and worked at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technologies, contributing to national policy and financial reforms in the telecommunications sector.

Mr. Asadov holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Finance and Credit from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics and has completed advanced executive programs at ADA University, Maastricht School of Management, and Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Dr Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava took office as Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 1 January 2023.

With more than 30 years in telecommunications, including over 20 years in ITU’s Development Sector, Dr Zavazava has promoted and implemented impactful information and communication technology projects around the world.

Prior to his election as BDT Director, he served as ITU’s Chief of Partnerships for Digital Development, overseeing development-related projects, strategic partnerships, and resource mobilization between 2019 and 2022, while launching new initiatives that have boosted the engagement of industry, private-sector and academia members in ITU’s work.

Doreen Bogdan-Martin took office as Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on 1 January 2023.

Ms Bogdan-Martin has held leadership positions in the field of international telecommunications policy for over two decades, with a track-record of brokering innovative partnerships to expand digital inclusion and connectivity for everyone around the world. Following her historic election by ITU Member States in September 2022, she became the first woman ever to head the organization, which was first established in 1865 and became a UN specialized agency in 1947.

As ITU Secretary-General, she aims to drive innovative solutions, maximize ITU’s relevance for its 193 Member States, intensify global cooperation on connecting the unconnected, and strengthen the alignment of ITU’s programmes with the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations. Ms Bogdan-Martin has consistently emphasized the need for digital transformation to achieve economic prosperity, job creation, skills development, gender equality, and socio-economic inclusion, as well as to build circular economies, reduce climate impact, and save lives.

As Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau for a four-year term starting in 2018, she helped put sustainable digital development at the forefront of international cooperation, including with the private sector and civil society. Among other ITU development priorities, she actively promoted the Partner2Connect initiative, which has mobilized unprecedented pledges of funding and support for meaningful Internet connectivity in developing countries.

She was previously instrumental in establishing the ITU-UNESCO Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, serving as its Executive Director for more than a decade; contributed to the success of ITU’s Global Symposium for Regulators as the pre-eminent worldwide meeting for digital policy makers; and led ITU’s youth engagement strategy. She also pioneered ITU’s ongoing contribution to the EQUALS Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age and initiated ITU’s collaboration with UNICEF on the Giga project to connect every school worldwide to the Internet.

Within ITU, she has promoted gender equality and encouraged bringing more women into the workforce, as well as helping women grow professionally and contributing to networks of women pursuing gender-balanced participation in conferences and policy making.

From 2008 until 2018, Ms Bogdan-Martin served as Chief of ITU’s Strategic Planning and Membership Department, overseeing corporate communications, external affairs, corporate strategy, and membership. Earlier, she headed the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau’s Regulatory and Market Environment Division and Regulatory Reform Unit.

Before joining ITU in 1994, she worked at the U.S. Department of Commerce as a Telecommunication Policy Specialist in the National Telecommunication and Information Administration.

Ms Bogdan-Martin holds a Master’s in International Communications Policy from American University in Washington, DC, a post-graduate certification in Strategies for Leadership from the Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland, and a certification in Accountability and Ethics from the UN Leaders Programme. She is also a qualified amateur radio operator.

Ms Bogdan-Martin is married with four children.

Imran Mukhtarov is the Head of the SPACE Academy at the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azercosmos).

He leads national space education and outreach initiatives, promoting STEM learning and coordinating Azerbaijan’s international space engagement, including the country’s participation in the International Astronautical Congress.

Imran’s career spans leadership roles in international relations, education, and diplomacy, including positions at Baku International Sea Trade Port, the Azerbaijan Badminton Federation, and Sorbonne Business School.

As a SALTO-certified facilitator, he has collaborated with institutions such as the British Council, NATO, and the European Union, fostering youth leadership and intercultural dialogue.

Fluent in six languages, he is recognized for his commitment to advancing global cooperation through education, innovation, and the space sciences.

Léa Roubinet is a French digital policy analyst with expertise in cybersecurity and digital safety. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Sciences Po Paris and has worked across digital diplomacy, think tanks, innovation hubs, and trade associations. As a Generation Connect Youth Envoy for Europe, she advocates for a digital transformation that is inclusive, secure, and empowering for all citizens. 

Juan Martín Alonso Decoud is a Generation Connect Youth Envoy from Paraguay passionate about digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and innovation. He has served as speaker and moderator in several ITU youth events, promoting dialogue on education, employment, and technology for development. Juan Martín leads initiatives such as Ñandutí Tech and Mbarete IA, projects focused on fostering digital literacy and artificial intelligence training in underserved communities. Through his active engagement, he strives to bridge the gap between technology and youth opportunities, advocating for meaningful participation of young people in global digital transformation processes. 

My name is Coreen Samuelu from the beautiful island of Samoa within the South Pacific. I am 26 years of age and I am married with 4 kids. I am currently working as a marketing officer at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology under the Broadcasting Division and I love to read and play sports. Being a part of the Youth Connect Envoy has been a game-changer for me. It’s allowed me to connect, and share some knowledge and experiences. I am all about empowering the youth and promoting Samoa’s development. I am loving the journey so far, and I am excited to see what the future holds.   

Innocent Tadiwanashe Mudzingwa is a passionate digital inclusion advocate from Zimbabwe and a Generation Connect Youth Envoy for Africa. He serves as the National Scout Youth Forum Chairperson and Programs Manager at Hustlepreneur Network, where he promotes youth empowerment, digital literacy, and innovation. As part of Digital Skills for Africa Youth Initiative, he supports digital skills development for women and youth across Africa. Innocent is dedicated to leveraging technology for sustainable development, focusing on youth participation in digital transformation and community impact through digital education initiatives. 

I am Alexey Levkin, a graduate of the Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics (MTUCI), specializing in applied computer science. I currently work at Mobile TeleSystems (MTS), where my focus in on supporting business systems. As a Generation Connect Youth Envoy, I am committed to dedicating my experience and knowledge to contributing to the development of digital technologies for global digitalization.

Khalil Gaha (born 12 August 2003 in Tunis, Tunisia) is a Master’s student in High-Frequency Electronics and Photonics at the University of Limoges, holding a dual background in Applied Physics and Telecommunications. As a Generation Connect Youth Envoy with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), he contributes to global initiatives fostering digital inclusion, innovation, and youth empowerment. His technical expertise covers RF and microwave engineering, network administration, and advanced circuit design. He has participated in ITU-led leadership workshops and innovation programs addressing sustainable digital transformation. Passionate about the intersection of technology and social impact, Khalil is committed to advancing inclusive development through interdisciplinary collaboration, emerging technologies, and youth-driven action for a more connected and equitable future. 

Rodion Immel is the Regulatory Matters and International Organizations Liaison Manager at the Intersputnik International Organization of Space Communications. With a background in legal, technical and AI-focused education, he specializes in satellite communications regulation, spectrum management and international cooperation.

He represents Intersputnik in the ITU-R’s Working Party 4A, participated in WRC-23 and is currently leading preparation of an agreed position of Intersputnik on the WRC-27 agenda, while also contributing to the ITU-D through participation in the ITU CIS Regional Development Forum 2025 and the CIS Regional Preparatory Meeting for WTDC-25.

Rodion shares his expertise through public speaking on international radio-frequency regulation and the use of AI in satellite communications at Intersputnik’s workshops, as well as through mentorship in the Youth Far Beyond Borders project, supporting young specialists with training and international exposure at IAF, SGAC and ITU events, including the Global Youth Summit 2025.

Shen Liang , 35 years old, currently serves as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of ZTE Kazakhstan. With 13 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, his career has spanned roles in both research and development as well as marketing, providing him with extensive expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the communications industry. 

Khadija Huseynli is currently pursuing a degree in Process Automation Engineering at Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University (SABAH Groups). She serves as an intern at the Space Academy of Azercosmos and conducts research within the IMEche ASOIU Student Chapter. Khadija is a recipient of the “Digital Youth” scholarship program organized by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. She has presented her research at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2024 in Milan and IAC 2025 in Sydney, with her papers published in international scientific journals. Khadija has volunteered with ASAN and COP29 and continues her volunteer work with the Azerbaijan Engineers Union. She has also earned the opportunity to serve as a volunteer at the STEAM Azerbaijan Festival 2025 and is currently leading her own startup project.

Astronaut Fincke has received numerous awards, including three NASA Distinguished Service Medals, the highest honor bestowed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

He was awarded his first two for his long-duration missions aboard the International Space Station, and his most recent in May 2025 in recognition of his five years of service on the Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test crew and his exceptional contributions to human spaceflight development and flight test operations.

His additional NASA recognitions include three NASA Spaceflight Medals and the first International Space Station Leadership Award. His military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and multiple Meritorious Service Medals.

He is a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Air Force ROTC, Squadron Officer School, and U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School programs, and he received the Col. Ray Jones Award as the Top Flight Test Engineer/Flight Test Navigator in Test Pilot School Class 93B.