Speakers

You can only achieve the best by working with the best. This is why for the Social Media Conference Suriname 2024 we've put together a team of local and international speakers that are the best at what they do.

SMCS25

Speakers

Keynote Speakers

Jean-luc van Charante

Jean Luc van Charante is an entrepreneur, strategist, and the founder of the Social Media Conference Suriname. With over fifteen years of experience in the digital world, he has built brands, stories, and communities that go beyond likes and followers. As the founder of INEFFABLE NV, a creative agency specializing in social media strategy and content production, he helps businesses turn their online presence into real impact. Jean Luc believes that social media serves a purpose beyond itself, as it is a tool for creating connection, growth, and meaning for both brands and people.

Phil Mershon

Phil Mershon helps organizations design unforgettable experiences that drive engagement, retention, and transformation. As director of experience at Social Media Marketing World and author of Unforgettable: the Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences, Phil brings decades of insight into what makes events truly impactful. He delivers practical inspiration that turns attendees into raving fans.

Michael King

Michael King is a keynote speaker, executive coach, and recording artist who blends creativity, storytelling, and live performance to inspire transformation. As founder of TEAMS.Coach, he has guided leaders from Fortune 500 companies to startups, helping them gain clarity, courage, and influence. Known for weaving his saxophone into powerful keynotes, Michael ignites purpose and equips people to lead with authenticity and impact.

Workshops

John Warren

John Warren Borja Martín Austin, also known as Buhito, is a documentarian and imperfect practitioner of a restorative storytelling methodology. His projects focus on identity, indigeneity, and environment.

Diego Ameerali

Diego Ameerali is a tech-savvy creative with degrees in Electrical Engineering and Business. His expertise spans technology, design, and sustainability, having presented at the UN COP23 conference as a Hack4Climate finalist. With 15+ years in design and visual storytelling, he founded the Confoes Podcast covering entrepreneurship and self-development, which evolved into Confoes Studios. As a certified Notion professional, he established notion.sr for automation solutions. Diego is active in JCI and became a YLAI alumni in 2022. He resides in Suriname, where he enjoys Japanese Sencha tea.

Danielle Bommel

Danielle Bommel inspires leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs by teaching practical strategies for personal and business development, helping them think strategically, act with confidence, and drive growth. She is an entrepreneur, educator, and compliance professional with 14+ years in the financial sector, specializing in regulatory compliance, risk management, change and issue management, and client advisory. As co-founder of Zero Dollar Strategy and Su Yum Foods, Danielle blends corporate expertise with entrepreneurial innovation and is recognized for transforming complex concepts into simple, actionable strategies that create lasting impact in a rapidly changing world.

Mascha Bunt

Mascha Bunt is an HR professional and trainer. Drawing on her experience in retail, logistics, and organizational development, she supports organizations with their HR challenges and delivers interactive workshops that engage and motivate people and teams.

Brian Imambaks

Brian Imambaks is the founder of Technovate NV, a Caribbean tech company transforming how businesses use AI, automation, and digital experiences. He helps companies unlock growth and inspires entrepreneurs to embrace AI for efficiency, creativity, and impact.

Madhavie Radjpalsingh

Madhavie Radjpalsingh is a seasoned HR professional with over 25 years of experience in strategic leadership roles across organizations of all sizes. She led impactful initiatives such as a key project addressing the teacher shortage in The Hague, and contributes her governance expertise as a Supervisory Board member at Theater Dakota. As founder of FonHR advies en training, she helps leaders and employees navigate complex HR challenges with a focus on connection, trust, and transparency. Under her leadership, FonHR has grown into a trusted network organization delivering meaningful results.

Panel Discussions

Diego Ameerali

Consuela Prade

Consuela Prade manages the marketing department at VCBBank. A free-spirited professional, she is deeply engaged with social media both at work and in her personal life. She embraces digital trends with enthusiasm and brings her cheerful personality into her work. Outside the office, she enjoys coffee, wine, and good food, often incorporating these passions into her own content.

Gloria Bottse

As a woman born in Suriname, Gloria Bottse aspires to be the change that contributes to a better Suriname.

Rogér van Bochove

With around 10 years of experience in marketing, communications, event management, and media, Rogér van Bochove is a versatile professional who reaches large and diverse audiences through both traditional and digital channels. An experienced marketing and communications specialist, he is passionate about strategic brand positioning, content creation, and targeted campaigns. Known for translating complex ideas into clear, impactful messages, he combines creative insights with a results driven approach.

Jerrel Harderwijk

Jerrel Harderwijk is a Surinamese journalist, host, and communication expert, best known for his work at DTV-Express on programs such as De Nieuwe Politiek Live, Interactief, and Mijn Verhaal. With his sharp interview style and focus on current issues, he gives a voice to society and makes complex topics accessible. Beyond media, he is active as an event organizer and master of ceremony, combining professionalism with a passion for storytelling, culture, sports, and politics.

Riano Gunther

Riano Gunther is a professional photographer and videographer from Suriname, passionate about capturing moments that tell powerful stories. With an eye for detail and creativity, he specializes in creating timeless, high quality visuals for businesses, companies, events, brands, and personal projects. His work blends artistry and authenticity to deliver lasting impressions.

Jaanam Bhojwani

Jaanam Bhojwani, born in Jamaica and raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands, has a degree in psychology from Boston University. In 2000, she and her husband founded Home Shopping & Delivery Service (HSDS), where she currently serves as Chief Operating Officer and Marketing Director. In 2016, she established an internal marketing department at HSDS, focused on building and strengthening the company’s brand image.

Nisha Soekha

Nisha Soekha is a Commercial Affairs Manager with over 7 years of experience in business development and strategy. She has helped companies grow, built lasting partnerships, and led initiatives that drive innovation and create opportunities. Passionate about connecting people and shaping creative solutions, she focuses on strategies that deliver real value.

Danielle Phang

Danielle Phang, born and raised in Suriname, has a passion for connecting with people through sales and marketing. After studying International Business in the Netherlands and starting her career in France, she returned home in 2007 to build businesses and contribute to Suriname’s growth. As Commercial Manager at NV CIC, she mentors sales & marketing teams and shares Suriname’s excellence across the Caribbean, Central America, and Europe.

Ian Inzaghi

Ian Inzaghi is a content creator and digital storyteller known for his sharp comedic timing, innovative VFX work and creative takes on life. Blending humor with cinematic flair, Ian has built a unique presence across social media. His aesthetic blends modern creativity with a timeless, refined edge, often drawing comparisons to classic film icons. Ian continues to push boundaries in short form entertainment while connecting with audiences through wit originality and a visionary approach to storytelling.

Monique Ceuppens - Bledoeg

Monique is a creative marketing leader with over 20 years of experience in Suriname’s FMCG sector. As the commercial lead for Coca-Cola since 2015, she guided her team through major challenges, including the Fernandes Bottling Company’s recovery, achieving a strong comeback in 2023. Guided by her mantra, “Change is the only constant in life,” she turns setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Ritesh Sardjoe

Ritesh is a digital marketing strategist with over 7 years of experience driving Telesur’s online growth and audience engagement. He has developed impactful digital-first marketing strategies that not only enhance customer connection and brand positioning but also align with Telesur’s broader digital transformation strategy.

Aleksandrs Barkans

Aleksandrs Barkans, originally from Latvia, is a goal-oriented professional with a passion for ICT developments both globally and in Suriname. After earning his bachelor's degree in the Netherlands, he moved to Suriname to pursue and further develop his career in the ICT sector. A proud father of two, he balances his professional ambition with the joys of family life.

Anwar Jap-A-Joe

Anwar Jap-A-Joe was born in Suriname and educated in the Netherlands. He worked for seven years as a project manager near Rotterdam and is now contributing to Suriname’s digital progress at Hakrinbank, focusing on mobile and digital payment innovations. He is passionate about using technology to promote financial inclusion and bridge the gap between traditional and modern payment systems.

Maya Matawlie

Maya Matawlie does what she loves and loves what she does. Having mastered the art of Ikigai, she embodies a rare blend of passion, purpose, and skill. That’s what makes her a unicorn.

Nilesh Bishesar

Nilesh Bishesar is an accomplished executive with over 20 years of experience in the Oil & Gas, ICT, Telecom, and Business Consulting sectors. As Managing Director of Qualogy Caribbean, he leads digital transformation and innovation initiatives across the region. He also serves as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of De Surinaamsche Bank N.V., reflecting his strong governance and strategic leadership. Nilesh holds an MSc in Aerospace Engineering from Delft University of Technology and an MBA in Competitive Strategy from the FHR Institute and Maastricht School of Management.

Janine Den Hartog-Parisius

Ir. Janine den Hartog-Parisius is the founder and director of Symbiont Consulting and has been helping people and organizations grow for over 30 years by making change more human. With her sharp vision, energy, and extensive experience, she inspires people at every level of an organization. Janine believes that real change begins with behavior and that connection is the key between generations, even online.

Priyanka Kumari

Priyanka Kumari is the ICT Program Manager at PTC Suriname, where she oversees programs and initiatives connecting students, faculty, and curriculum. With master’s degrees in Data Science and Business Administration, she bridges innovation and education, believing that true learning empowers students to apply knowledge in real-world ways.

Furgell Pinas

Furgell Pinas is a visionary leader driving Suriname’s digital transformation. As Chairman of the ICT Association and Business Innovation & Development Manager at Telesur, he promotes a sustainable, tech-driven future through ICT and AI. Combining scientific curiosity with spiritual depth, Furgell inspires progress grounded in service, inspiration, and continuous improvement. His mantra “Believe, and you will achieve” reflects his mission to shape Suriname’s digital economy and empower transformative leadership.

Meroeva Konter - harry

Meroeva Konter is a Senior Management Consultant and Trainer with over ten years of experience in leadership development, strategy, and recruitment. She creates and facilitates programs that help individuals and teams grow with confidence and direction. Holding a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Competitive Strategy, she combines strategic insight with energy and depth. Her motto: “If you do something, do it with all your heart and do it well.”

Kurt Van Essen

Kurt van Essen is an accomplished Director and Chief Commercial Officer at Kersten Group of Companies. He combines strategic vision with hands-on leadership in marketing, operations, and business development. With a Master’s degree in Strategic and Information Management from Erasmus University Rotterdam, he brings extensive cross-industry experience spanning banking, automotive, industrial, and construction sectors.

Individual Speakers

Quinten Lambregtse

Quinten Lambregtse is a creative and entrepreneurial Digital Marketing Manager and Content Specialist with experience in e-commerce, storytelling, and brand strategy. He works with companies to enhance their online presence and drive growth through data-driven campaigns, social media, and SEO. In addition to his marketing expertise, he develops ventures in the automotive and fashion sectors, driven by innovation, creativity, and results.

Taku Mizusawa

Taku Mizusawa, born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, is a professional in digital marketing and the CRM field. At Commune, he helps provide an advocacy community platform that engages brands and customers in a new way of marketing.

Kevin Danoe

Kevin Danoe is a certified life coach, trainer, and creative professional, passionate about helping individuals and teams step out of self-doubt and into self-confidence. As founder of INIMI Life Coaching, he provides empowering spaces through personal guidance, workshops, and adventurous coaching methods. Kevin transforms “Am I good enough?” into “I am more than enough,” inspiring people to embrace their strengths and live with confidence.

Rudolf Elias

Rudolf Elias, born in the Netherlands and raised in Suriname, obtained a master’s degree in Business Administration and Civil/Construction Engineering from the Eindhoven University of Technology. He worked 20 years at Ballast Nedam International on major projects and later served as Project Director and Vice President at BHP Billiton. In 2009, he joined Staatsolie, overseeing the construction of a new oil refinery and becoming CEO in 2015. Since retiring in 2021, he advises Ernst & Young on oil, gas, and renewable energy projects and raises awareness about the challenges of oil wealth.

MC's & Moderators

Ferranto Dongor

Ferranto Dongor is the founder of Synergy and the official Master of Ceremonies for the Social Media Conference Suriname.

Jill-Joy Landburg

Jill-Joy Landburg is a dynamic professional with over 19 years of experience in communications, brand development, and digital marketing. As Executive Director of Creative Communications & Marketing NV (CCMnv) and shareholder of DJ Liquor Store, she combines strategic thinking with creativity to transform the branding of various companies. Passionate about collaboration and AI-driven strategies, she focuses on boosting customer satisfaction and enhancing business growth.

Whitney De Rijp

Whitney De Rijp is a Business Advisor at Partners Plus Consultancy with expertise in IT project management, business development, and digital transformation. She lectures at Polytechnic College Suriname (PTC), guiding students in ICT, leadership, and entrepreneurship, and also serves as a moderator and MC at high-level conferences. Passionate about innovation and growth, she focuses on building partnerships and empowering organizations and people in a digital world.

Gladys Findlay

Gladys Findlay is a Surinamese journalist and news manager at Dagblad De West, the country’s oldest newspaper. A third-generation member of her family and the first woman to carry the Findlay name at the paper, she continues its 116-year legacy with a modern vision for independent and impactful journalism. She enjoys writing, reading, speaking, and exploring art through painting, and is a proud mother of two daughters.

Manuella Ronokarijo

Manuella Ronokarijo is the Co-Founder of Ineffable N.V. and serves as CSR & Branding Manager. With over 15 years of experience in social media design, photography, and videography, she combines creativity and strategy to bring meaningful ideas to life through storytelling. She also contributes to the Social Media Conference Suriname, inspiring the next generation of digital thinkers.