Nicholas Rowe

“Can dancing prepare democracy for dystopia?”

Nicholas Rowe is UNESCO Chair of Dance and Social Inclusion and bridges the worlds of dance, community, and politics through research, teaching, and creative practice. A graduate of the Australian Ballet School with a PhD from the London Contemporary Dance School, Nicholas has performed and choreographed internationally with leading companies including The Finnish National Ballet, Australian Ballet, and Royal New Zealand Ballet. His work in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and other global communities highlights dance as a powerful medium for social change and cultural dialogue. Nicholas is the author of several acclaimed books and an award-winning filmmaker, exploring themes of creativity, cultural identity, and political expression in dance. His talks illuminate the intersection of art, politics, and community, emphasizing the urgent conversations around cultural hegemony and appropriation.

Marit Helene Thoresen

“Reimagining the Arctic: Culture, Collaboration, and the Power of Welcome”

Marit Helene Thoresen is a communications advisor with extensive experience in international marketing, strategic communication, and community development. Marit has led key projects for Bodø 2024 European Capital of Culture, managed sponsorship relations, and developed marketing strategies. With a background in international marketing and a history as an international model, she brings a unique blend of creativity, coordination skills, and global perspective to her work.

Hannah Sabo

“How to stop fearing mistakes and start celebrating them”

Hannah C. Sabo holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from the University of Maryland (2021), with a B.S. in Physics and Applied Mathematics from Seattle Pacific University. She has taught physics at both the University of Maryland and Seattle Pacific, focusing on inquiry-based instruction for future educators. Her research explores students’ conceptual understanding in physics and how STEM faculty integrate and assess computation in their teaching. Hannah has published in Physical Review Physics Education Research and contributes to research on computational thinking in science teacher education.

Marianne Mørck Danielsen

“Not easy to forget: How dementia redefines love, identity, and presence“

Marianne Mørck Danielsen is a dynamic communicator, strategist, and organizational developer with over two decades of experience helping people and organizations grow through culture, communication, and leadership. Based in Trondheim, Norway, she is also a passionate advocate for dementia awareness, drawing from her deeply personal journey as a caregiver to her mother. As an independent consultant, author, and host of the podcast Ikke lett å glemme, Marianne brings together professional insight and human storytelling to inspire change in how we lead, care, and connect.

Mark Costello

“Myths, Zombies and Marine Protected Areas”

Dr. Mark Costello, is a world-leading ecologist specializing in marine biodiversity, climate change impacts, and nature conservation. He pioneered global efforts to map and understand ocean life, co-founding major databases like the World Register of Marine Species and Ocean Biodiversity Information System. Mark’s research shapes international policies and informs global climate action through his work with the IPCC. Currently a professor at Nord University, Norway, he is dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.

Nayr Ibrahim

“How I embraced my imperfect multilingual life“

Dr. Nayr Ibrahim is an internationally recognized educator, researcher, and thought leader in multilingualism, early language learning, and children’s rights in education. With over 30 years of experience across Europe, Africa, and Asia, Nayr is currently Associate Professor of English Subject Pedagogy at Nord University in Norway. Her work bridges research, policy, and classroom practice, advocating for inclusive, multilingual approaches that empower young learners to express their identities through language. As a speaker, author, and advisor to institutions across Europe, she continues to inspire educators to reimagine language education for a diverse and interconnected world.

Sami Rintala

“In the making”

Sami Rintala is an internationally acclaimed architect and professor known for innovative projects that blend architecture, art, and landscape across the globe. With a Master’s from Aalto University and extensive teaching roles at prestigious institutions including NTNU and Cornell University, Rintala has led impactful designs from public pavilions and cultural installations to eco-friendly community spaces in Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond. Through a unique approach that combines design management, collaboration, and teaching, Sami Rintala continues to shape the future of architecture worldwide.

Emilia Nygård

“Between the Streets and the Seats of Power – The Power of Youth in Climate Action“

Emilia Nygård is a passionate advocate for sustainability, social change and community engagement. With extensive experience as a student ambassador, moderator, and project manager, Emilia inspires and supports others to create a better tomorrow. Her work spans sustainability training, student governance, and coordinating large-scale events — all while nurturing wellbeing as a responsible swimming instructor. Emilia’s commitment to empowering individuals and fostering sustainable practices shines through her diverse roles, making her a dynamic voice for positive impact.

Simon Flack

“Norway’s Space Odyssey: My Experience Driving Regional and Industrial Development (in a New Era of European Access to Space)“

Simon Flack is a technology strategist and business developer with over 20 years of international experience spanning smart cities, space and defence, green energy, and digital infrastructure. As Special Advisor at Innovation Norway, he leads efforts to attract foreign investment and build global partnerships. With a background in engineering, IT, and business, Simon bridges sectors and disciplines to drive innovation in complex, high-impact projects.