Ukraine at Nexus2050: Program Overview

For its inaugural edition, Nexus2050 is honored to welcome Ukraine as the invited country. "We have partnered with the Luxembourg-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce to offer a comprehensive program, including three roundtable discussions, keynotes, and a selection of twenty Ukrainian startups with a focus on Cyberdefense, FinTech, Space & Telecom," notes Mike Koedinger, co-founder of Nexus2050. “We believe in the pivotal role of technology in sustainability, not only as a means to achieve humanity's net-zero goal by 2050 but also as a crucial support for development and business continuity in Ukraine despite ongoing challenges.”

The program dedicated to Ukrainian speakers aims to highlight the nation's innovation and resilience in the face of adversity. Here is a detailed look at the sessions featuring Ukrainian expertise and perspectives.

Finance Stage – June 26
09:00 – 09:25
Panel: Guest Country Ukraine: Cybersecurity

The panel discussion on Cybersecurity will bring together leading experts from Ukraine to explore the evolving landscape of cyber threats and defense strategies. This critical conversation will feature Dr. Oleksii Baranovskyi (PhD in Cybersecurity, professor in institutions the National Technical University of Ukraine “Ihor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute” and Blekinge Institute of Technology, Sweden), Mykhailo Verych (CRDF Global regional director) and Serhii Prokopenko (Head of NCSCC Operations Department - Deputy Head of Information Security and Cybersecurity Directorate at the Staff of the NSDC of Ukraine) who will discuss the latest advancements in cybersecurity technology and practices.

The panel will examine the current threat environment, highlighting the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks and the need for robust defense mechanisms. Key topics will include the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in threat detection and response, the importance of securing critical infrastructure, and the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing cyber resilience.

Panelists will also address the challenges of implementing effective cybersecurity measures in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The discussion will emphasize the need for continuous innovation and collaboration to stay ahead of cyber adversaries.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into the best practices for safeguarding data, networks, and systems, and the strategic importance of cybersecurity in protecting national security and economic stability. This session aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future direction of cybersecurity.

Skills Stage – June 26
09:25 – 09:50
Panel: Guest Country Ukraine: Defence and MilTech

The panel discussion on Defence and MilTech will delve into the cutting-edge advancements and strategic innovations driving the future of military technology. Esteemed experts from the defence sector Alexander Dmitriev - Advisor on unmanned automated systems and IT to the Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and Volodymyr Ben - Head of the State Space Agency of Ukraine will converge to explore a range of critical topics. The discussion will highlight Ukraine’s significant progress in military technology, showcasing how emerging technologies are being integrated into defense systems to enhance operational capabilities.

Panelists will examine the intersection of artificial intelligence, cyber defense, and space technologies. The conversation will also address the collaborative efforts between Ukraine and international partners, particularly Luxembourg, in developing and deploying technologies for defense purposes.

The session aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current trends, challenges, and future prospects in the defence and miltech landscape. Attendees will gain insights into the innovative strategies and technological solutions that are shaping the defense industry, fostering a deeper appreciation of the role of advanced technology in ensuring national and global security.

Main Stage – June 26
10:27 – 10:37
Opening Ceremony Speech: Mr. Igor Zhovkva (Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Deputy Head of Office of the President of Ukraine, Diplomatic Advisor to the President of Ukraine)

Skills Stage – June 27
17:40 – 18:05
Panel: Guest Country Ukraine: GovTech

The panel discussion on GovTech will bring together key figures in Ukraine's digital transformation:

Serhii Demediuk, Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, will discuss the integration of advanced technologies to bolster national security and defense. His insights will focus on the importance of cybersecurity and digital infrastructure in protecting national interests.

Nadiya Bigun, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, will explore how digital transformation can drive economic growth, streamline government operations, and enhance public services. She will address the economic benefits and challenges of implementing GovTech solutions.

Oleksandr Porkhun, Acting Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, will delve into the vitality of transforming city services through digitalization. He will highlight strategies for managing city services more efficiently, enhancing public safety, and promoting e-democracy to create a resilient ecosystem capable of withstanding challenges. The discussion will emphasize the potential of digital solutions in paving the way for a thriving and sustainable urban future.

This panel will provide a comprehensive view of how GovTech can revolutionize governance and improve the quality of life for citizens.With the participation of (Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine), (Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine), (Chief Digital Transformation Officer of Kyiv City (CDTO) and Deputy Mayor of Digitalization of Kyiv)