Pioneers Unveiled: The Trailblazing Keynote Speakers of Apex 2023
Published: 2023-08-03 20:59:46

As we get set for the most exciting dev summit to date, welcoming builders to collaborate on innovative new [XRP Ledger (XRPL)](https://www.xrpl.org/) projects, we’re thrilled to reveal just some of the speakers you can look forward to seeing.

The esteemed keynote speakers gracing the stage at Apex 2023, the much-anticipated developer summit hosted by [Ripple](https://ripple.com/) and the [XRP Ledger Foundation](https://foundation.xrpl.org/), represent some of the leading lights across the ecosystem. These visionary leaders will share their expertise, and experiences, exposing attendees to invaluable insights and setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable event. 

###Meet Our Speakers###
Get ready to be inspired as we introduce you to our remarkable line up of keynote speakers. 

- [David Schwartz](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjoelkatz) is Chief Technology Officer at Ripple. David is one of the original architects of the Ripple consensus network and XRP. Prior to joining Ripple, David Schwartz was Chief Technical Officer for WebMaster Incorporated, a Santa Clara software developer. He developed encrypted cloud storage and enterprise messaging systems for organizations like CNN and the National Security Agency (NSA). Known as “JoelKatz,” he is a respected voice in the digital currency community.
- [Scott Branson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jscottbranson) is a long time member of the XRP Ledger ecosystem, and runs critical infrastructure. As an educator, Scott has been focused on how both academics and students can benefit from the XRP Ledger and develop solutions that go beyond just transactions. Scott leads the various partnerships the Foundation has with Universities.
- [Aanchal Malhotra](https://www.linkedin.com/in/aanchal-malhotra-phd-91005319) serves as the Head of Research at Ripple, where she leads the research and development efforts in Defi protocol design and cryptography. In her role, she drives various company-wide initiatives and collaborates on technical papers aimed at introducing native support for non-fungible tokens (NFTs), Automated Market Maker (AMM), and Decentralized Identity (DID) on XRPL. With her expertise in cryptographic primitives such as Threshold signatures and Zero-Knowledge SNARKS, Aanchal has dedicated almost four years to enhancing the scalability, privacy, and interoperability of XRPL. Additionally, she holds a position on the Board of Directors for the Travel Rule Information Sharing Alliance (TRISA), an organization committed to facilitating the secure and lawful exchange of digital assets. Aanchal holds a PhD in Computer Science from Boston University.
- [David Bchiri](https://fr.linkedin.com/in/davidbchiri), has recently launched XRPL Commons, an open-source not-for-profit initiative based in Paris that is working toward nurturing a strong and vibrant XRPL ecosystem. Prior to this David Co-Founded DFC, La Thé Box, Revelessence and Zogma.
- [Aaron McDonald](https://nz.linkedin.com/in/aaron-mcdonald-7b860ba?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F) is a 20+ year technology industry veteran and serial entrepreneur with experience managing portfolios with over $1B in revenue. Aaron has long been an innovator with his eye on the future – from leading the market in telecommunications to now leading innovation in Web3. Aaron is the founder of multiple metaverse companies developed independently, but now rolled up under one umbrella entity, an open metaverse powerhouse, Futureverse.
- [Rachel Wolfson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachwolf/) is a journalist, public speaker, and podcast host. She has over 10 years of experience writing about technology and has been covering the blockchain and cryptocurrency space since 2017. She is currently writing a book on enterprise blockchain.
- [David Chreng](https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidchreng/) is a founding partner at LeadBlock partners. With a strong focus on FinTech and Digital Assets, David actively explores transformative deals in this domain. His belief in the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize business models and stimulate market dynamics drives his passion. Before his venture into the fund, David excelled as an equity analyst at Goldman Sachs, specializing in the Commodities and Energy sector. His expertise in providing investment insights and ideas to global fund managers adds valuable depth to his perspective.

The keynote speakers scheduled for Apex 2023 represent a diverse range of expertise and perspectives within the XRP ecosystem, and there are many more for you to meet. You can check out the full line up [here](http://apexdevsummit.com/speakers). 

From the visionary leadership of David Schwartz and Scott Branson to the vital insights offered by Aanchal Malhotra, David Bchiri and Aaron McDonald, each speaker brings a unique perspective that will ignite your imagination and broaden your understanding. Join us at Apex 2023 and seize the opportunity to learn from these industry luminaries as they shape the future of blockchain technology and its limitless potential. 

Make sure you’re part of an immersive experience as [Ripple](https://ripple.com/) and the [XRP Ledger Foundation](https://foundation.xrpl.org/) come together to host the highly anticipated 2023 summit at the prestigious Leonardo Royal Hotel in Amsterdam. Mark your calendars for September 6th to 8th, and enjoy unparalleled opportunities to learn from, network with, and collaborate with industry leaders in the XRPL Community.

Don’t miss out on Apex 2023, [sign up today](https://register.apexdevsummit.com/2023/index) to secure your spot and unlock a discounted rate for your stay. Join us in embracing a rewarding journey of collaboration, learning and exploration. Seize your chance to be part of Apex 2023 by signing up now!