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Dr Rana el Kaliouby is a globally respected cyber security and artificial intelligence leader, renowned for her mission to humanise technology before it dehumanises us. An Egyptian-American scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author, Rana is the Co-Founder and CEO of Affectiva, an MIT Media Lab spin-off that defined the field of Emotion AI. Under her leadership, the company raised over $50 million in venture capital, deployed technology in more than 90 countries, and pioneered applications of Emotion AI across sectors including automotive, mental health, and education. Following Affectiva’s success, Smart Eye was born, and Rana now serves as a Deputy CEO on a mission to scale the company into a global AI powerhouse.
With a Ph.D. from Cambridge and a postdoctoral fellowship from MIT, Rana blends academic rigour with entrepreneurial vision. She is a dynamic speaker and Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School, where she teaches on AI, startups, and ethical innovation. Her thought leadership is sought across the globe—from the World Economic Forum to the TED stage—and her memoir “Girl Decoded” charts her journey from Cairo to becoming one of the most influential women in technology. She also co-hosts the “PBS NOVA” series on AI and the “Pioneers of AI” podcast, helping shape public understanding of AI’s societal impact.
What sets Rana apart in the cyber security space is her holistic, ethics-first approach to artificial intelligence. She is a strong advocate for data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and inclusive AI design. As a member of the Partnership on AI, the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders, and the Mass Technology Leadership Council, she actively works to shape responsible AI policy and practice. Rana also champions diversity in tech, serving on boards including All Raise, the American University in Cairo, and Boston Children’s Hospital’s SIMPEDs. Her leadership helps ensure cyber security strategies are not only technically robust but also socially responsible.
Dr Rana el Kaliouby believes in the power of human connection at the heart of technology. Her vision for “wholesome AI” – ethical, inclusive, and impactful – positions her as an essential voice in the cyber security conversation. If you’re looking for an expert who can inspire, educate, and drive meaningful change, hire Rana el Kaliouby via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency.
Rana El Kaliouby is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:
“What impresses me the most about Rana is how down to earth she is. From the first time we spoke, I felt like I had know her forever. She is incredibly intelligent, gentle, and above all, is very eager to guide the next generation. Rana delivered a keynote speech and was a judge during the Harvard Extension Business Society’s Pitch Competition. She allowed attendees to come up and use Affectiva’s facial recognition software, and our guests had a great time making faces at the camera. Her speech was inspiring and showed the audience that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. We were so fortunate to have Rana take part in the conference and I look forward to crossing paths with her again.”
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