Business Summit
Cyber Smarts & Market Savvy
PREPARE PROTECT CONNECT
The Aurora Chamber Business Summit is an annual event dedicated to driving innovation and fostering success in the business world. This year's summit, Cyber Smarts & Market Savvy, promises to be a game-changer with a lineup of influential speakers.
Mahdi Raza, CEO of siberX will be presenting,
"How To Think Like a Hacker"
This presentation offers SMBs an in-depth look at the hacker mindset, from the history of hacking to the psychology that drives various types of hackers. Attendees will learn about the different classifications of hackers, their methods, and motivations. The session will also cover how businesses can prepare themselves, with practical strategies to strengthen cybersecurity defenses, followed by actionable next steps to protect against potential attacks. By thinking like a hacker, SMBs can better anticipate threats and safeguard their operations.
BDC’s Economic Research Director, Arnaud Franco, will offer valuable knowledge about the four key trends that will shape your business over the next five years and the strategies to navigate them successfully.
- Discover how to tackle rising costs, evolving customer needs, labor shortages, and technological disruptions.
- Receive practical tips and tools to enhance your efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
- Learn strategies to thrive in a dynamic business environment.
- Benefit from the insights and best practices shared by BDC’s valued economist.
In addition to the esteemed speakers, the Business Summit will feature a dynamic panel of local business leaders. This diverse panel will include experts from various industries, sharing their real-world experiences and strategies for success.
This summit is an unparalleled opportunity for networking, learning, and catalyzing innovation.
OUR MC AND PANELISTS
MC - Tracy Smith
Kitchen Table CEOs
Holly Burke
Sunside Marketing
Elena Fordham
Beveridge Marketing
Elliott Raben
Elliott Raben Productions
LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS
Jennifer Copley
Highland GM
Mae Khamissa
Omars Shoes
OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Mahdi Raza, CEO, siberX
Mahdi Raza is an influential figure in the world of cybersecurity, serving as the CEO of siberX, a global leader in delivering high-impact cybersecurity events and immersive experiences. With a deep passion for securing the digital landscape, Mahdi has become a driving force behind innovative solutions that educate both the public and private sectors about the importance of cybersecurity and at the same time building a strong cybersecurity community.
Mahdi is also the founder of Cyber Gamified which uses tabletop games to engage participants in realistic cyber breach scenarios, while Cybersecurity Escape Room delivers fully immersive, gamified training environments using virtual reality and cyber escape rooms. These platforms are designed to make learning both effective and engaging, helping individuals and organizations enhance their cybersecurity readiness in a way that’s memorable and fun.
As the author of “The Art of Selling Cybersecurity,” Mahdi shares his expertise in the sales aspects of cybersecurity, providing professionals with practical tools to generate leads and increase sales in a complex industry. His book has become an essential guide for those looking to thrive in the cybersecurity marketplace.
In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Mahdi is also a respected professor and speaker. He teaches at Seneca College and other prestigious institutions, where he focuses on bridging the gap between academic theory and practical cybersecurity applications. Mahdi regularly speaks at international conferences, where he discusses emerging cybersecurity threats, digital twins, and the future of cyber defense.
Arnaud Franco, Director of Economic Research, BDC
Arnaud Franco was appointed Director of Economic Research at BDC in January 2024.
He leads a team of brilliant economists, tasked with providing real and actionable insights to Canadian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, he keeps senior leaders informed about critical developments in the economic landscape.
Mr. Franco has nearly 20 years of analytical experience and a decade of management and leadership training. He is also a seasoned public speaker, having presented atnumerous global conferences.
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