认识我们的主题演讲者
尋根科技的主题演讲者来自世界各地，激励我们对自己的家庭探索。
棚町黛娜是一位纽约市艺术家和设计师，她喜欢过安静的生活，也喜欢用双手工作。 2009 年，黛娜在布鲁克林的乔迁派对上即兴创作了一个粉笔字作品，为她赢得了她的第一份谷歌委托，并掀起了流行的粉笔字潮流以及她的职业生涯。在设计大师 Louise Fili 手下工作后，她开设了 Tanamachi Studio (棚町工作室)，这是一家精品设计工作室，专门为编辑、生活方式、食品和时尚品牌提供排版式和插图。 她已受全球客户的委托，如Target、Nike、USPS、企鹅出版集团、Ralph Lauren、Instagram和West Elm。 她于 2011 年被艺术总监俱乐部评为"年轻枪手"（YG9），并由 How 杂志评为值得关注的年轻创意人，她非常荣幸地为 O、HOW 和时代杂志创作封面艺术。
Ndaba Mandela is an internationally renowned speaker, activist, and author, known for his inspiring talks and his dedication to carrying forward the legacy of his grandfather, Nelson Mandela. With a unique blend of personal experiences, storytelling, and a deep understanding of social and political issues, Ndaba captivates audiences around the world, motivating them to act, create positive change, and embrace their roles as global citizens.
Ndaba Mandela holds a BA degree from the University of Pretoria, majoring in Political Science & International Relations. He is the grandson of the late Nelson Mandela and Evelyn Mase. Growing up in the shadow of his iconic grandfather, Ndaba developed a strong sense of responsibility to continue the work of promoting social justice, equality, and freedom for all.
Ndaba's passion for social justice led him to become an advocate for various causes, including education, youth empowerment, and HIV/AIDS awareness. He co-founded the Africa Rising Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering African youth through education, mentorship, and leadership development. Through his foundation and speaking engagements, Ndaba strives to inspire young people to overcome challenges and become leaders in their communities.
塔拉·戴维斯-伍何 和 洪德·伍何 是一对有着非凡爱情故事的奥运强者夫妇。 他们的决心、爱情和卓越之旅使他们成为当今体育界最具标志性的情侣之一。
在2024年巴黎奥运，塔拉赢得跳远金牌，创造了历史。 她在沙坑里冲向看台跳进洪德的怀里的庆祝表现迅速成为null。 几个星期后，洪德参加了残奥比赛，在400米T62锦标赛中夺得金牌，以及在4x100米世界接力赛获得铜牌，为null
塔拉·戴维斯·伍何（25岁）是卫冕奥运跳远金牌得主，过去两年保持不败。 她是两届奥运选手，世界排名第一，并获得 2024 年世界冠军、2023 年和 2024 年美国全国冠军的称号。 被称为null的塔拉，她的标志性牛仔帽、靴子和具感染力的个性，使她在赛场内外都深受球迷喜爱。 她也是堪萨斯州立大学的助理田径教练。 作为德克萨斯大学前 NCAA 一级运动员，塔拉四次入选全美最佳阵容，打破了两项 NCAA 记录，并在同一周内获得了双纪录打破者的称号。
洪德·伍何（25岁）是三届残奥会运动员和null，重新定义了成为运动员和企业家的意义。 洪德赢得了 5 枚残奥会奖牌，并持有美国 100 米和 400 米（T62）纪录。 洪德出生时患有腓骨半肢畸形症，11个月大时他的双腿膝盖以下被截肢。 他排除万难，成为第一位获得 NCAA 第一级奖学金的双截肢者，代表阿肯色大学参赛，并四次入选全美最佳阵容。
在比赛之外，塔拉和洪德与他们的两只狗米洛和温妮以及他们的猫阿祖拉一起享受生活。 塔拉是精神健康的热情倡导者，她分享自己的抑郁和焦虑经历，以提高人们的意识并支持他人。 洪德的创业精神继续推动他建立和扩大反映他的价值观和热情的业务，例如服装、社交媒体和房地产。
史蒂文·洛克伍德是家谱部门的总经理，也是 FamilySearch International 的总裁暨首席执行官。在加入 FamilySearch 前，洛克伍德曾在许多品牌公司工作，如 MasterCard International、AT&T、Disney、Office Depot 和 Citibank，负责为全球顾客提供独一无二的客服体验。他也曾创立两家公司，后来由大公司收购。最近，史蒂文任职 FamilySearch 国际部门的总监主管。
史蒂文在杨百翰大学取得学士学位，后来在科罗拉多州博尔德的科罗拉多大学取得MBA硕士学位。
他在耶稣基督后期圣徒教会担任过许多召唤，包括全部时间传教士（阿根廷哥多华传道部）、长老定额组会长、主教团、支联会传道部会长团、支联会男青年会长、支联会会长的咨理、男青年会长、福音进修班教师和高级咨议。
史蒂文出生于怀俄明州石泉。他在1985年8月与吉儿·福布斯结婚，他们育有4名子女和3名孙子女。史蒂文和他的妻子吉儿住在盐湖城。
We are Los Chicaneros, an ordinary family who wants to share, through humor, various situations that most families experience.
Today, we want to tell you a little bit about our story. We met 36 years ago, and next December, we will celebrate 32 years of marriage. Our family consists of Nelson (the father), Cristina (the mother), Nicolás (the eldest son), and María Antonia (the youngest daughter).
We met at a diving club in Cali, Colombia. We share a love for nature and sports; we fell in love there and decided to join our lives forever because we share the same ideal.
When we got married, we were fully committed to starting a family because we believe it is the place where we can raise our children in an environment of love, values, respect, and honesty, among others. Our main goal has always been our children, doing everything possible to give them everything they need in every aspect and to stay united.
It has been a difficult path, full of sacrifices, but always filled with love, hope, and joy. Although we are not perfect, we have always been clear that we are meant for each other and that, thanks to our great love, we have managed to overcome all the trials that life has thrown our way.
Our obligations as parents were to provide our children with proper education, housing, food, and health. Due to job instability, we were forced to move to many places over the last 20 years. At first, it wasn't too complicated because they were children whom we could take from one place to another, but as they grew older, it became more challenging to stay together. So, Nicolás studied in Colombia for both school and university, and Antonia studied part of her school in Colombia, part in Honduras, and completed her university studies in Honduras, while the parents lived between Nicaragua and Honduras, as we found job stability in these countries.
Marco Lui, also known by his stage name "Mr. Lui," is an Italian mime and comedian born on July 18, 1975, in Milan. With a degree in Physical Education from the University of Verona, Lui began his career as a cabaret artist and Michael Jackson imitator before making his mark in television. His unique comedy style, inspired by classic silent film humor, led to appearances on Mediaset programs like Beato fra le donne, and his signature character, Mr. Lui, became popular on Italia 1, drawing comparisons to Mr. Bean.
Beyond television, Lui has built a diverse career in film production and direction, with notable works like The Book of Life (2010) and Dr. Smith and the Fantastic Castle (2012). As a longtime collaborator with Italian entertainer Fiorello, Lui directed and edited numerous backstage pieces for Fiorello's shows, blending his comedic vision with technical skill. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served as a missionary in the South of Italy and has also participated in cultural projects tied to the church. Today, he continues to engage with Italian media as the presenter for the Zecchino d’Oro selections, where he also contributes his talents as a comedian and voice actor, bringing his signature humor and charisma to the show.
Philippines born singer and songwriter Ysabelle Cuevas got her start releasing covers of popular songs on YouTube. Since 2016, her work has amassed over 700 Million streams, with her biggest release “I Like You So Much, You’ll Know It” collecting over 175 Million streams on YouTube to date. In 2018, she released her first original song “Daunted” through Warner Music Philippines, which has since accumulated millions of streams in SouthEast Asia and North America.
Ysabelle’s incredibly versatile voice and innate mastery of vocal production has allowed her to bridge genres and cultures. A lover of Korean culture herself, Ysabelle has personally translated Korean songs into both Filipino and English. In July of 2020, she was the Grand Prize winner of YG Entertainment’s song cover contest where she performed an English version of “Wayo” by Bang Ye-dam of K-Pop group Treasure. That October, Ysabelle’s cover of “Boy With Luv” was featured on Glamour’s "You Sang My Song" series, featuring positive reactions from original artist and K-pop megastars BTS themselves. Ysabelle has since shifted her focus to her original music, and is currently in the studio writing and recording her next big release.
Tato, a singer and violinist from São Paulo, founded Falamansa in 1998. The band became a major success in forró, releasing several albums and selling millions of copies throughout Brazil.
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Past Keynote Speakers
We are Los Chicaneros, an ordinary family who wants to share, through humor, various situations that most families experience.
Today, we want to tell you a little bit about our story. We met 36 years ago, and next December, we will celebrate 32 years of marriage. Our family consists of Nelson (the father), Cristina (the mother), Nicolás (the eldest son), and María Antonia (the youngest daughter).
We met at a diving club in Cali, Colombia. We share a love for nature and sports; we fell in love there and decided to join our lives forever because we share the same ideal.
When we got married, we were fully committed to starting a family because we believe it is the place where we can raise our children in an environment of love, values, respect, and honesty, among others. Our main goal has always been our children, doing everything possible to give them everything they need in every aspect and to stay united.
It has been a difficult path, full of sacrifices, but always filled with love, hope, and joy. Although we are not perfect, we have always been clear that we are meant for each other and that, thanks to our great love, we have managed to overcome all the trials that life has thrown our way.
Our obligations as parents were to provide our children with proper education, housing, food, and health. Due to job instability, we were forced to move to many places over the last 20 years. At first, it wasn't too complicated because they were children whom we could take from one place to another, but as they grew older, it became more challenging to stay together. So, Nicolás studied in Colombia for both school and university, and Antonia studied part of her school in Colombia, part in Honduras, and completed her university studies in Honduras, while the parents lived between Nicaragua and Honduras, as we found job stability in these countries.
Katie James cantautora colombiana nos comparte su música y vivencias en un evento de FamilySearch realizado en Bogotá, Colombia.
Multi Platinum Recording Artist and Actress, Jordin Sparks, shares her story as a keynote on the Main Stage. Join us to hear Jordin's inspiring message in the opening session of RootsTech.
American actor, Sean Astin, shares his story as a keynote on the Main Stage. Join us to hear how Sean created his legacy as a respected figure in the industry.
Sony Photographer, Me Ra Koh, sponsored by Pictureline, shares her story and speaks to discovering your family's resiliency as a keynote on the Main Stage.
Hear a very special message from His Highness Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi in this exclusive virtual keynote, as he shares insights and stories of how working together, tolerance and uniting helps all people prosper and become family.
Hear a very special message from Mona Magno-Veluz in this exclusive virtual keynote, as she shares her RootsTech message.
Ghanaian boxing legend, Azumah Nelson, shares a message about the importance of identity, heritage, and determination in the pursuit of our dreams.
Stranger Things actor, Matthew Modine, shares the value of story-telling and pursuing your dreams.
Palestinian-American comedian, Maysoon Zayid shares her story of the importance of equality and the power of comedy.
Lorena Ochoa began her professional career in 2002 and has since been honored as the Rolex Player of the Year, the Best Female Golf Player, and the Best International Athlete by the ESPY awards. In 2017, she was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame as the first Mexican golfer, becoming one of the youngest women to receive that honor.
Not only a professional athlete but also a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, Lorena has paved the way for female golfers in Latin America and all over the world. Join us as she shares her journey of following her dreams and her firm belief in giving back.
Dr. Astrid Tuminez became the seventh president of Utah Valley University in 2018. Born in the Philippines, she grew up with her family in the slums of Iloilo City, where her parents continuously sought better educational opportunities for President Tuminez and her siblings. Her pursuit of education eventually took her to the United States, where she received a bachelor’s and master’s degree, as well as a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
From her humble beginnings in the Philippines, to becoming the first female president of Utah Valley University, education has been the way forward for Astrid Tuminez. Listen in as she shares intimate stories of her ancestors and upbringing, and the powerful influence of women. Watch all of our May 2023 Mothers/Women in Genealogy content null
Will Hopoate began playing for the Professional Rugby League when he was just eighteen years old. After a year, he decided to pause his rugby career in order to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Following his two years of service, Will returned to NRL, and currently plays fullback for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
Through the years, Will has overcome obstacles on and off the rugby pitch. Here he takes us through the ups and downs of footy and shares his own personal journey of prioritizing family and values—while still intensely dominating on the field.
Francesco Lotoro, an Italian pianist, composer, and conductor, has tirelessly recovered and promoted thousands of works of music composed by individuals in the concentration camps of World War II. He is the author of several volumes of musicology and currently works as a professor at the U. Giordano Music Conservatory in Foggia.
An artist like none other, Francesco Lotoro has given a voice to those silenced by the atrocities of war. Here Francesco shares his journey of relentless devotion to preserving the story of humanity, proving that history lives on through music and connects the past, present, and future.
Sunetra Sarker first rose to fame as a teenager, playing Nisha Batra in the cult soap Brookside. Over the ensuing three decades, Sunetra has become a BAFTA member and a stalwart of British television. She is currently filming the fourth series of the hit drama Ackley Bridge, for which she has received significant praise for her pioneering role of Kanees.
Raised in England by parents who had come from India, Sunetra quickly became an actress of two worlds. In this keynote, she shares her inspiring journey of exploring and embracing her rich multicultural heritage.
Sharon Leslie Morgan is a genealogist, author, and the founder of Our Black Ancestry, an online community dedicated to providing resources for African American genealogical research. In 2019, she received the James Dent Walker Award from the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, the highest honor given to genealogists in her specialty.
Sharon has not only devoted her life to genealogy but has also actively fought racism head-on, as detailed in her book “Gather at the Table,” co-written with Thomas DeWolf, a descendent of one of the largest slave-owning families in United States history. Join us as Sharon details her journey of seeking healing, discovering family, and paving a path toward conciliation.
Erick Avari, an award-winning film and stage actor, has contributed to a variety of finely crafted performances in grand operas, soap operas, hit television series, award-winning independent films, and some of the highest-grossing cinematic works in Hollywood. Specifically known as a trailblazer for a generation of South Asian actors, Erick has played more than two dozen different ethnicities with authority and authenticity in his fight against stereotypical casting.
A man of the stage and film, Erick describes his journey of acting, stories of his family and childhood in India, as well as his thoughts on kindness and the duty we owe each other.
Nick Vujicic, an Australian American born without arms or legs, faced incredible trials throughout his life, but through perseverance and hope, he discovered purpose, strength, and the power of kindness and empathy. Now, he travels all over the globe, sharing his message of hope through inspirational speeches and powerful coaching.
Come join us and listen in as Nick shares an inspirational story of turning obstacles into opportunities and his ever-powerful message: you matter.
The brilliantly talented chorus and dance group from Japan, bless 4, made their major debut in 2003 with “Good Morning! Mr. Sunshine.” Eighteen years later, they have hosted performances across the globe, and have continued to impress audiences with their talent.
From Tokyo to the U.S. and back, bless4 describes their journey of coming together as a family to share their music and creativity. Tune in for a few songs along the way!
Diego Lugano, a former professional soccer player from Uruguay, has become known as one of the most talented athletes in the sport. His career lasted over a decade, from 2003 to 2014, and included 95 matches and two world cups. He was given the honor of being named the best captain in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
With a long history in leadership, Diego describes bringing teams together around the world, raising a young family in different countries, and inspiring new generations of athletes.
Considered one of the best players in the history of Brazilian soccer, Tita entered the professional league with Flamengo, the most popular team in Brazil at the time, when he was just eighteen years old. Two years later, Tita was named Brazil’s Soccer Selection, an immense honor, and continued on to participate in the 1990 World Cup.
From Brazil to Germany, Italy, Mexico, and Guatemala, Tita has had a fantastic career in the sport of soccer. Join us as he shares his love of family and stories of playing with legends like Zico, helping Bayer Leverkusen win its first cup, and supporting Flamengo in their most successful season.
Emmitt Smith, the National Football League’s all-time leading rusher and Super Bowl champion, is coming to RootsTech! During his long career, Emmitt Smith broke Walter Payton’s league rushing record and played for three Super Bowl-winning Dallas Cowboys teams. He’s the only running back to ever win a Super Bowl championship, the NFL MVP award, the NFL rushing crown, and the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player award in the same season. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from one of the world’s premier athletes!
David Kennerly presents in the General Session at RootsTech 2020.
Actress Patricia Heaton tells her story to the RootsTech 2019 audience.
Author Saroo Brierley shares his heartfelt story of reconnecting with his biological family.
World-renowned ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro shares his story and his art at RootsTech 2019
Mexican pop-rock singer and songwriter, Natalia Lafourcade shares personal stories and song at RootsTech 2018
Dr. Henry Louis "Skip" Gates Jr shares stories and insights about helping many discover their roots at RootsTech 208
Brandon Stanton, photographer and storyteller talks about the stories he has found and told in his blog "Humans of New York"
Scott Hamilton is the living example that good guys CAN finish first! He is an Olympic champion, cancer survivor, television broadcaster, speaker, author, husband/father, and eternal optimist!
Buddy Velastro, baker and television personality shares his thoughts on food and family at RootsTech 2017. null
Drew and Jonathan Scott, The Property Brothers, took the stage at RootsTech 2017 to share stories of family and building together.
David Isay, founder of StoryCorp shares insights and moving stories at RootsTech 2016
Paula Madison addresses the audience at RootsTech 2016 and shares her genealogical journey from Jamaica to China.
The Friday keynote session of RootsTech 2016 featuring Josh and Naomi Davis and David Isay, founder of StoryCorp.
While many of us may not be genealogical experts, Donny Osmond reminds us why we don't need to be. "What I love about Family History, is anyone can do it."
Best selling author and New York Times family columnist Bruce Feiler presents at RootsTech 2016
AJ Jacobs reminds us that we are all connected to something bigger than ourselves. "Family History is the ultimate social network," he says. Come learn why it is so important to be connected.
塔拉·戴维斯-伍何 和 洪德·伍何 是一对有着非凡爱情故事的奥运强者夫妇。 他们的决心、爱情和卓越之旅使他们成为当今体育界最具标志性的情侣之一。
在2024年巴黎奥运，塔拉赢得跳远金牌，创造了历史。 她在沙坑里冲向看台跳进洪德的怀里的庆祝表现迅速成为null。 几个星期后，洪德参加了残奥比赛，在400米T62锦标赛中夺得金牌，以及在4x100米世界接力赛获得铜牌，为null
塔拉·戴维斯·伍何（25岁）是卫冕奥运跳远金牌得主，过去两年保持不败。 她是两届奥运选手，世界排名第一，并获得 2024 年世界冠军、2023 年和 2024 年美国全国冠军的称号。 被称为null的塔拉，她的标志性牛仔帽、靴子和具感染力的个性，使她在赛场内外都深受球迷喜爱。 她也是堪萨斯州立大学的助理田径教练。 作为德克萨斯大学前 NCAA 一级运动员，塔拉四次入选全美最佳阵容，打破了两项 NCAA 记录，并在同一周内获得了双纪录打破者的称号。
洪德·伍何（25岁）是三届残奥会运动员和null，重新定义了成为运动员和企业家的意义。 洪德赢得了 5 枚残奥会奖牌，并持有美国 100 米和 400 米（T62）纪录。 洪德出生时患有腓骨半肢畸形症，11个月大时他的双腿膝盖以下被截肢。 他排除万难，成为第一位获得 NCAA 第一级奖学金的双截肢者，代表阿肯色大学参赛，并四次入选全美最佳阵容。
在比赛之外，塔拉和洪德与他们的两只狗米洛和温妮以及他们的猫阿祖拉一起享受生活。 塔拉是精神健康的热情倡导者，她分享自己的抑郁和焦虑经历，以提高人们的意识并支持他人。 洪德的创业精神继续推动他建立和扩大反映他的价值观和热情的业务，例如服装、社交媒体和房地产。
当世界第一次见到艾美奖得主、多白金唱片艺术家、歌手、作曲家瑞秋·普拉滕时，她以自我宣言的形式出现。 无论是需要它的人还是不知道自己需要它的人，〈战斗之歌〉都是成为一首颂歌，它轰动了全球，是一首无法回避的战斗号角，现在已经被播放了超过 10 亿次，与现代文化密不可分。
但 〈战斗之歌〉只是一首歌，一个人，瑞秋·普蕾顿还有很多话要说，还有更多自己可以展示。 如今，如果你一头扎进瑞秋丰富且不断增长的曲目中，你很有可能听到一首像她最热门的歌曲那样震撼人心的颂歌，一首反省自我、带有伤痕、歌词丰富，讲述了母爱、内疚、哀悼、期望、重生、心理健康，以及我们所需要的支持系统的歌曲，来度过生活中最惊天动地且突如其来的难关。
棚町黛娜是一位纽约市艺术家和设计师，她喜欢过安静的生活，也喜欢用双手工作。 2009 年，黛娜在布鲁克林的乔迁派对上即兴创作了一个粉笔字作品，为她赢得了她的第一份谷歌委托，并掀起了流行的粉笔字潮流以及她的职业生涯。在设计大师 Louise Fili 手下工作后，她开设了 Tanamachi Studio (棚町工作室)，这是一家精品设计工作室，专门为编辑、生活方式、食品和时尚品牌提供排版式和插图。 她已受全球客户的委托，如Target、Nike、USPS、企鹅出版集团、Ralph Lauren、Instagram和West Elm。 她于 2011 年被艺术总监俱乐部评为"年轻枪手"（YG9），并由 How 杂志评为值得关注的年轻创意人，她非常荣幸地为 O、HOW 和时代杂志创作封面艺术。
Marco Lui, also known by his stage name "Mr. Lui," is an Italian mime and comedian born on July 18, 1975, in Milan. With a degree in Physical Education from the University of Verona, Lui began his career as a cabaret artist and Michael Jackson imitator before making his mark in television. His unique comedy style, inspired by classic silent film humor, led to appearances on Mediaset programs like Beato fra le donne, and his signature character, Mr. Lui, became popular on Italia 1, drawing comparisons to Mr. Bean.
Beyond television, Lui has built a diverse career in film production and direction, with notable works like The Book of Life (2010) and Dr. Smith and the Fantastic Castle (2012). As a longtime collaborator with Italian entertainer Fiorello, Lui directed and edited numerous backstage pieces for Fiorello's shows, blending his comedic vision with technical skill. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served as a missionary in the South of Italy and has also participated in cultural projects tied to the church. Today, he continues to engage with Italian media as the presenter for the Zecchino d’Oro selections, where he also contributes his talents as a comedian and voice actor, bringing his signature humor and charisma to the show.
Philippines born singer and songwriter Ysabelle Cuevas got her start releasing covers of popular songs on YouTube. Since 2016, her work has amassed over 700 Million streams, with her biggest release “I Like You So Much, You’ll Know It” collecting over 175 Million streams on YouTube to date. In 2018, she released her first original song “Daunted” through Warner Music Philippines, which has since accumulated millions of streams in SouthEast Asia and North America.
Ysabelle’s incredibly versatile voice and innate mastery of vocal production has allowed her to bridge genres and cultures. A lover of Korean culture herself, Ysabelle has personally translated Korean songs into both Filipino and English. In July of 2020, she was the Grand Prize winner of YG Entertainment’s song cover contest where she performed an English version of “Wayo” by Bang Ye-dam of K-Pop group Treasure. That October, Ysabelle’s cover of “Boy With Luv” was featured on Glamour’s "You Sang My Song" series, featuring positive reactions from original artist and K-pop megastars BTS themselves. Ysabelle has since shifted her focus to her original music, and is currently in the studio writing and recording her next big release.