Meet CIF 2024 Speakers

Ahmed Mirza is an early-stage investor at Techstars, where he manages the Los Angeles, Healthcare, and Space programs.

Seasoned Foreign Service Diplomat Rivera, with a PhD in international relations, brings extensive diplomatic experience from roles in Mexico and globally. Currently Head Consul at the Mexican Consulate in Santa Ana, CA, she has held various diplomatic positions and worked in academia and research.

Blong Xiong, appointed as the State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency in California by the Biden Administration in 2022, previously led the Asian Business Institute and Resource Center, assisting over 250 small agricultural producers. He was Fresno's first Hmong and Asian Council Member, held roles at The Fresno Center, and contributed to community and economic development initiatives.

Crystal Dilworth, a biochemistry and Chemistry Ph.D., specializes in commercializing new technologies. She is the "Post-carbon Industry Strategist" at Terraform Industries, concentrating on renewable power to synthetic gas tech for decarbonizing natural gas supply and ensuring energy security.

Dolf De Roos is a prominent international real estate investor and a bestselling author known for his expertise in property investment.

Dustin, with 20 years of experience in government and public relations, joined GO-Biz in 2023. He focuses on economic development, cannabis policy, finance, taxation, and land use. Dustin has worked in various roles supporting California's economic future.

Dr. Smith, with over 15 years of experience, is an expert in regulatory affairs and technology development. Skilled in quality management, R&D supervision, product specifications, and registering medical products. Holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of California, Irvine.

Arnab Pal is the principal advisor to Director Shah at the US Department of Energy's Loan Program Office. He has a background in energy provisions, decarbonization programs in California, and resource planning at San Diego Gas and Electric.

Ben Lucchese, from Tehachapi, CA,
had a 40-year career owning
Lucchese Legends Catering and Deli.
He developed Bison Peak Pumped
Storage since 1998.

Bob Spence serves as the Chairman of the California Inland Empire District Export Council (CIEDEC)

Daniel Sieu, Chairman of the William & Stephanie Foundation and the California Investment Forum, has over 30 years of experience in strategic investments and international business development. He has influenced global market connections, AI, and sustainable energy, drawing $1 billion in investments and establishing California as an innovation center.

Dominic Lucchese, former VP at La Frenz Mechanical, specializes in industrial pneumatics and sustainable energy. He now works at Bison Peak Water and Power focusing on creating a sustainable utility company. Dominic also managed Lucchese Legends Catering, demonstrating leadership and innovative supply chain management.

Dr. Emilio Ferrara is a distinguished researcher and professor at the University of Southern California (USC), with appointments in both the Viterbi School of Engineering and the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Jason A. Gahari is the Chairman and founder of A.G. Global Capital (AGGC). Before establishing AGGC, he had an extensive career at General Electric (GE), where he was recognized as one of the top producers.

Arthur van Dijk has been serving as the King’s Commissioner in the province of Noord-Holland since January 7, 2019. In this role, he acts as the chairman of both the Provincial Council and the Provincial Executive.

Bill Klein is a Technology Strategist at Y2AI, where he focuses on leveraging advanced technologies to enhance business operations and deliver superior customer experiences.

Connie Outwater is a Data Analytics Specialist at Google, where she guides customers through their digital transformation journeys using Google’s cloud and AI platforms. She has over 20 years of experience as a cloud, data.

Darlene Chiu Bryant is the Executive Director and founder of GlobalSF, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic growth and job creation through international trade and investment.

Experienced Director in renewables and environment industry with expertise in Sustainable Development, Policy Analysis, and Government. Holds degrees from Netherlands School of Public Policy, The Ohio State University, and Wageningen University.

Fiona Ma is California's 34th State Treasurer, first elected in 2018 and reelected in 2022. She is the first woman of color and CPA to hold this office, responsible for financing infrastructure projects to enhance Californians' lives.