This session provides an overview of what to expect at the conference, including guidance on preparing your presentation, publishing opportunities, and ways to engage with IAFOR.

Biographies

Melina Neophytou

Dr Melina Neophytou is the Academic Operations Manager at IAFOR, where she works closely with academics, keynote speakers, and IAFOR partners to shape academic discussions within The Forum, bring conference programmes together, refine scholarship programmes, and build an interdisciplinary and international community. She is leading various projects within IAFOR, notably The Forum discussions and the authoring of Conference Reports and Intelligence Briefings, and she oversees the Global Fellows Programme.

Born in Germany and raised in Cyprus, Dr Neophytou received her PhD in International Development from Nagoya University, Japan, in 2023, specialising in political sociology, the welfare state, and contentious politics. She received an MA in International Development from Nagoya University, with a focus on Governance & Law, and a BA in European Studies from the University of Cyprus, Cyprus.

Dr Neophytou’s research interests currently focus on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the relationship between state and society. Her current work examines technologies such as facial recognition (FRT) and biometric surveillance, and how these tools impact freedom of expression, protest, and social policy

Matthew Chima

Originally from Birmingham, UK, Matthew graduated from the University of Manchester with a degree in Architecture before relocating to Japan in 2014. Now a prominent figure in Nagoya’s international community, he is passionate about the power of events to connect, entertain, and inspire. As Marketing Manager at IAFOR, he leads strategic initiatives to enhance brand visibility, engagement, and growth. In addition to overseeing marketing and communications, he plays a key role in shaping the delegate experience, offering insight into how IAFOR events can be both academically enriching and socially engaging. His expertise in the broader events industry ensures that conferences not only facilitate academic discourse but also provide meaningful opportunities for networking and cultural exchange.

Beyond IAFOR, Matthew has a deep-rooted passion for event production, community engagement, and the music industry. He has founded and managed multiple successful ventures that promote cross-cultural exchange, including organising community events, tours with international musicians, and cultural initiatives. His work continues to bring people together, fostering collaboration and shared experiences across different communities.

About the Presenter(s)
- Dr Melina Neophytou is the Academic Operations Manager at IAFOR.
- Matthew Chima is the Director of Global Engagement at IAFOR.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule

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