FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 17, 2024
Women Leaders in Data and AI (WLDA) Announces its winners for 2024 WLDA Awards Gala
After the conclusion of the 2024 WLDA Summit, attendees gathered for the 2024 WLDA Awards Gala at The 48th Events Place in New York City. The event celebrated leaders and trailblazers in tech, data, and AI who have significantly advanced their organizations while fostering innovation and inclusivity. These honorees have made remarkable strides, pushing boundaries and inspiring future leaders in data and AI.
Here are the recipients of this year’s awards:
Corporation of the Year
Award Winner: KPMG
KPMG’s impactful initiatives for advancing women in data and AI have set a benchmark for corporate excellence. The release of their groundbreaking white paper titled Career Outlook for Women in Data, Analytics, and AI in collaboration with Women Leaders in Data and AI and Revelio Labs, highlights their leadership in driving gender inclusivity. Through innovative recruitment, retention, career advancement, and leadership training programs, KPMG has demonstrated measurable success in elevating women within the industry, solidifying its commitment to diversity and innovation.
The Corporation of the Year Award recognizes organizations that achieve exceptional progress in fostering gender diversity and equity in data and AI through robust initiatives that generate tangible results.
AI Leader of the Year
Award Winner: ANNE FLANAGAN​ – Vice President for Artificial Intelligence ​and Head of the FPF Center for AI, Future of Privacy Forum​​
Anne Flanagan’s visionary leadership has revolutionized AI innovation at the Future of Privacy Forum. Her relentless dedication to advancing the field has positioned the organization at the forefront of AI, fostering groundbreaking advancements that inspire the entire industry.
This award honors a woman who has transformed the AI landscape with pioneering contributions, helping the industry evolve and thrive.
Data Leader of the Year
Award Winner: LAURA MADSEN – Chief Blow Shit Up Officer, Moxy Analytics
Laura Madsen has redefined leadership in data strategy. Her transformative work at Moxy Analytics has set new industry standards, reshaping data methodologies and paving the way for tech-driven banking innovations.
The Data Leader of the Year Award recognizes exceptional leaders whose contributions have revolutionized data fields, driving industry-wide success.
Changemaker in the Field of Data
Award Winner: PEGGY TSAI – CDO, BigID
Peggy Tsai’s innovative approaches to data and technology have established her as a changemaker in the industry. Her transformative strategies and dedication to advancing data practices have set new benchmarks and fostered significant progress in the field.
This award honors those who bring transformative change to data through innovation and leadership.
Changemaker in the Field of AI
Award Winner: RONISHA CARTER – DAF Cyber Warfare & Artificial Intelligence Fellow, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology
Ronisha has redefined AI with pioneering solutions that shape the future of technology. Her contributions are instrumental in propelling AI advancements, setting her apart as a leader in the field.
The Changemaker in AI Award recognizes individuals who have revolutionized the AI landscape with groundbreaking innovations.
WLDA Woman Leader of the Year
Award Winner: SANDY CARTER – COO, Unstoppable Domains
Sandy Carter’s transformative leadership at Unstoppable Domains has set new industry standards. Her visionary advancements have driven remarkable change, inspiring teams and elevating the company to new heights.
This prestigious award celebrates women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and influence within their organizations and the broader industry.
Best Motivator
Award Winner: KAVERI JAYANNA– Director- PwC
Kaveri Jayanna has inspired countless women in tech through her mentorship, motivation and guidance. Her exceptional dedication to empowering others has created a lasting impact on the next generation of leaders.
This award honors leaders who have gone above and beyond to mentor and motivate women in tech.
Executive Champion of the Year
Award Winner: STEVE WANAMAKER– Founder and Publisher, CDO Magazine
Steve’s visionary leadership has driven CDO Magazine into new markets and inspired innovation. His advocacy for women in data and AI is instrumental in fostering a more inclusive industry.
This award celebrates executives who have guided their companies to measurable growth while championing the advancement of women in data and AI.
Rising Star (sponsored by Argano)
Award Winners:
Rising Star with more than 10 years of work experience
MOLLY KOHRS – Director, KPMG
Rising Star with Less than 10 years of Work Experience
TEEVYAH YUVA RAJU​ – Business Strategist & Communications Lead, ​Office of the COO (Data and AI)​, BlackRock​
Molly and Teevyah’s groundbreaking work in data science at their respective companies has reshaped industry practices and inspired future leaders. Their dedication to innovation and excellence has established her as a trailblazer in the field.
The Rising Star Award recognizes emerging leaders who are making significant contributions to data and AI.
We also gave three awards to three WLDA members who have given their time and effort to uplift our values and mission:
WLDA Ally Leader of the Year
ROBERT PARR – Chief Data Officer for KPMG US Advisory, KPMG
Robert Parr has been a staunch advocate for inclusivity and equity in data and AI, making him a true ally in fostering a diverse and inclusive professional environment. His commitment to diversity serves as an inspiration across the industry.
This award honors male senior leaders who have actively supported and championed the advancement of women in data and AI.
WLDA AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR
SETH DOBRIN – Founder & CEO​, QANTM AI​
Seth Dobrin’s leadership has redefined WLDA, inspiring teams with his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. His groundbreaking initiatives exemplify leadership excellence and have left a lasting impact on WLDA’s mission.
This award celebrates exemplary leadership and dedication to WLDA’s values and vision.
WLDA Distinguished Leader of the Year
ELLEN NIELSEN – Executive Director, WLDA
Ellen has been honored with the prestigious Distinguished Leader of the Year Award for her extraordinary contributions to the data and AI industry. As the former Chief Data Officer of Chevron, Ellen has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, transforming data strategies into actionable insights that drive innovation and success across her organization. Her efforts in fostering inclusive teams and championing diversity have not only propelled her company forward but have set a benchmark for leadership in the field.
The Distinguished Leader of the Year Award is presented to a visionary leader who has made outstanding contributions to the field of data and AI. This individual exemplifies excellence in strategic leadership, innovation, and the cultivation of an inclusive and forward-thinking organizational culture.
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Colonia, NJ
Email: events@WLDA.tech
