This webinar, on 15 May, 2025, will explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across security, finance, and education. Three practitioner experts provide their insights and experience on how AI is addressing three critical areas relevant to the World Academy’s agenda on Human Security for All.
Moderator: Ketan Patel, Chair, Force for Good; Member, Board of Trustees, World Academy of Art and Science
Panelists:
Ren Ito
Former diplomat, AI entrepreneur. Ren Ito is the Co-Founder and COO of Sakana AI, a Tokyo-based company pioneering nature-inspired foundational AI models. Founded in 2023, Sakana AI became Japan’s fastest unicorn, backed by Nvidia and a broad spectrum of Japanese industry leaders, including the three megabanks. Previously, Ren led the global expansion of Mercari, Japan’s first unicorn, serving as CEO of Mercari Europe and overseeing its $6bn IPO. Prior to entering tech, he spent 15 years as a Japanese diplomat, negotiating major international agreements and representing Japan at the World Bank. He is currently a Senior Fellow at NYU School of Law and the youngest member of the Trilateral Commission. Ren holds law degrees from NYU and the University of Tokyo, and an MA in East Asian Studies from Stanford University.
Annika Monari
AI and crypto entrepreneur. Annika is the Co-Founder and CEO of CleeAI, an AI-powered search platform designed to deliver trustworthy, cited answers in natural language. A physicist by training, she earned her MSc in Physics from Imperial College London, where she applied machine learning to particle decay research at CERN. Recognised by Forbes as a “30 Under 30” honouree in 2021, Annika has founded multiple ventures at the intersection of AI and blockchain, including Aventus, Artos Systems, and Coral. Her work focuses on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in digital infrastructure and enterprise systems.
Rahul Attuluri
EdTech entrepreneur. Rahul is the Co-Founder and CEO of NxtWave, and is an innovative and visionary leader committed to harnessing advanced technologies to transform education and prepare individuals for the 21st-century workforce. He has built India’s largest online employability platform, equipping thousands of students with in-demand, industry-ready skills. With a strong technical foundation, Rahul focuses on emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and blockchain to drive meaningful change in tech education. He holds a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering from the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Hyderabad, and continues to inspire as a technologist dedicated to scalable impact and inclusive innovation.
