Karim Refaat is the Chairman and Founder of the N Gage Group, and has served as a member of the Egypt France Business Council since October of that year. Previously, he directed Corporate and Regulatory Affairs for British American Tobacco’s North Africa Business Unit, advising on strategic governmental relations from 2010 to 2013. Earlier, he was a Diplomatic Advisor to the Egyptian Minister of Trade and Industry and a diplomat at Egypt’s Embassy in France. Karim began his career with Orascom for Projects and Touristic Development in 1998, followed by work with the UNHCR in Cairo. He holds an M.A. in International Human Rights Law and a B.A. in Political Science and International Relations, both from the American University in Cairo, plus advanced certifications in Multilateral Diplomacy. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, Karim brings deep global insights to his public affairs and government relations practice.

The Honorable Justina Jakstiene is the Vice Minister for Social Security and Labour in Lithuania, where she focuses on inclusive policy initiatives, strategic partnerships, and efficient program delivery. With over two decades of public sector experience, she previously served as Strategical Planning Group Leader at the Central Project Management Agency, spearheading national reforms in integrated strategical planning and capacity building. Earlier in her career, she coordinated EU-funded projects at Vilnius City Municipality and led a range of social infrastructure programs in the areas of crisis response, rehabilitation, and community development. A graduate of Vilnius University with a Master’s in Sociology, Information, and Knowledge Management, she brings a proven track record in fostering sustainable, people-centered governance.

The Honorable Ahmed Ziyan is the Deputy Minister for Housing in the Republic of thee Maldives, recognized for driving public sector reform through digitization and effective government relations. Formerly Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Environment and Energy, he has managed complex policy challenges across multiple agencies. A successful entrepreneur, Ahmed founded Rells App in 2019 and Azar Holdings Pvt Ltd in 2014, leveraging his business acumen to bring fresh solutions to the Maldivian market. He previously led travel ventures at Glow Tours & Trade Pvt Ltd and Exotic Leisure Pvt Ltd, sharpening his strategic planning and marketing skills. As Director of Metro Fitness Group, he advocates holistic well-being alongside a robust professional portfolio. His leadership philosophy is grounded in customer-centric innovation, a global perspective, and a commitment to public service.

The Honorable Dr. Disney Leite Ramos is the current Minister of Economy of São Tomé and Príncipe, bringing over 16 years of international experience in economics, finance, and management across Africa, Europe, and Asia. A strategic innovator, he previously served as a Business Consultant at QUALO Global, helping organizations enhance efficiency, risk management, and revenue growth. His tenure at the International Bank of São Tomé and Príncipe included roles in internal auditing and commercial consultancy, contributing to significant operational improvements and market expansion. Deeply committed to sustainability and inclusive growth, Dr. Ramos integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance principles into his policies and approaches, drawing on his background in Corporate Social Responsibility. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration at Tongji University and holds a Master’s in Business Finance from the University of Évora, reflecting his dedication to continuous learning and his passion for driving transformative economic progress.

Mark Glover is an accomplished communications strategist and leader with over 35 years of experience in public affairs, political campaigning, ethical lobbying, and media relations. He is Chairman of SEC Newgate UK, overseeing a 130-strong team of professionals who advise boards on complex strategic issues. Previously a member of the Global PR Group, SEC Newgate Group Board, and its Global Managers Committee, Mark founded and led the award-winning Newington Communications (merged into SEC Newgate in 2021). He remains a regular name in PR Week UK’s Power Book and a frequent commentator in the British press. Beyond his agency leadership, Mark has held influential roles such as Chair of the UK Public Affairs Industry and was recognized as PRCA Public Affairs Awards Industry Contributor of the Year. He also served as an elected councillor for 12 years, bringing his public-sector insight to his work. Mark holds a BSc in Mathematics and Statistics, is a Fellow of the PRCA, a Freeman of the City of London, and an Honorary Alderman in Southwark.

Pete Mento is Director of Customs and International Trade at DSV, one of the world’s largest transport logistics companies, where he specializes in the reduction and recovery of global duties and taxes. Over 30 years, he has led customs and trade consulting at Ryan, KPMG, and Crowe, and directed global operations for Expeditors, C.H. Robinson, and Crane Worldwide. A Customs House Broker, Pete holds a Master’s in Government (Trade Theory) from Harvard University and undertook doctoral research at the University of Durham on trade law, economics, and geopolitics. Widely published on compliance and programs like C-TPAT and AEO, he is also a sought-after speaker known for blending humor and insight in his talks on global commerce. He has recovered more than $1 billion in duties and taxes throughout his career, helping companies optimize supply chains and manage regulatory risks. His “Trade School” webinars and “Trade Geek” podcast continue to bring fresh perspectives to the global trade community.