FiNext Awards & Conference USA 2026

Azhar Abdul Wahab is a visionary leader in the fintech and digital transformation space, known for spearheading initiatives that bridge the gap between traditional banking and the digital era.

Seasoned expert in financial planning, corporate treasury, and fintech with over 22 years of experience across banking, insurance, telecom, retail, and fintech. Holds a B.A. in Economics and Business Administration and a master’s degree in accounting. Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Sean Ong is the CEO of IPP Financial Advisers (IPPFA), Singapore’s first comprehensive financial planning company. With over 20 years of experience, he is a Certified Life Coach, Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and a Chartered Financial Consultant. He is also the founder of InsuranceGuru.com.sg, an InsurTech platform, and is involved in mental wellness initiatives using AI.

Suji Gopalakrishnan brings over two decades of rich experience in the banking sector, particularly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). His expertise spans across retail and commercial banking, where he has been at the forefront of product management, sales, customer retention, and portfolio growth. Currently serving as the Head of Retail Assets at Deem Finance, Suji plays a pivotal role in overseeing the full profit and loss (P&L) responsibilities for retail products.

A dynamic professional with an impressive background in sales, customer relations, and financial services. Expertise spans banking, wealth management, and account management, with a focus on fostering meaningful client relationships. Member of 100 Women in Finance.

A distinguished academician, researcher, and advocate of sustainable development through social business, known for his work on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and collaboration with Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus.

A multifaceted professional and academic with a career spanning financial markets, renewable energy, and corporate governance. He holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, an MBA in Finance, and a PhD in Corporate Governance.

With over 15 years of leadership spanning Retail, Sustainable Banking, Finance, and Telecommunications, Melodi is the CEO of Satocci and a pioneer in Social Fintech and retail technology.

Kaavyanjali is a dynamic marketer with over 8 years of experience, reshaping the marketing landscape across UAE, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and India. Expertise in Marketing Analytics, Performance Marketing, Content Strategy, and Go-To-Market execution. Armed with tools like Google Suite and AppsFlyer, she has helped brands optimize resources and achieve measurable results.

With over 30 years of expertise in General Insurance and Reinsurance, Srinivasan Chalapathi has carved an indelible mark in the global insurance landscape. From India to the GCC, his leadership has transformed businesses, revitalized operations, and introduced groundbreaking products. As the Executive Director at Solus Insurance Brokers DMCC, Chalapathi continues to drive innovation and excellence in the insurance sector, particularly in the realms of Reinsurance Treaties, product conceptualization, and General Insurance operations. Renowned as an Aviation Specialist, his expertise extends beyond traditional insurance domains into Cyber Insurance, Directors & Officers (D&O) Liability, and other specialized liabilities. His career includes leadership roles at Howden Insurance Brokers, JdV Insurance Brokers, Avon Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, CEO of Driesassur Middle East, and SEO for Bahrain National Insurance. He is a regular keynote speaker at international insurance summits and has published articles on insurance, claims consulting, and emerging risks.

Nadine Koerselman is a trailblazing professional known for her passion for innovation and her dynamic approach to leadership. She is a visionary with innate curiosity and unrelenting determination, continuously transforming challenges into opportunities. Her ability to foster collaboration and deliver exceptional results makes her a sought-after voice in industries that thrive on innovation and adaptability.

Laura Szabo is a renowned product strategy expert with over 12 years of experience delivering transformative solutions in proptech, digital marketplaces, and fintech. She has served as Chief Product Officer at ingatlan.com, Head of Real Estate at OLX Portugal, and shaped real estate monetization strategies for OLX Poland. She is a trusted advisor to startups, a Mensa member, and holds a Master's degree in e-business from Corvinus University of Budapest.

Jane leads innovation at FoodTech Inc., focusing on sustainable food solutions.

Alice Johnson drives retail innovation with a focus on customer experience and digital transformation.

With an impressive background in project management, corporate structuring, and team building, Sary’s leadership has been instrumental in redefining healthcare technology in the MENA region. His journey includes experience at Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) and Drees & Sommer. As co-founder of Toothpick, he has driven market expansion, collaborations, and innovative healthcare solutions. Currently spearheading operations in UAE and KSA.