Radia Funna's Location
New York, New York, United States, United States
About Radia Funna
As a futurist and digital transformation expert, I am on a mission to revolutionize how we humans navigate the complex landscape of emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs). With over 25 years of experience in change management, cultural transformation, and digital innovation, I have had the privilege of advising United Nations agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and governments worldwide.My journey from corporate strategist to globally recognized thought leader in EDTs has been driven by a passion for harnessing technology to enhance human potential. As the creator of the xHuman Theory and multiple UN-approved definitions standardizing the metaverse, I bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and human-centered solutions.My passion lies in empowering leaders to embrace the future while prioritizing ethical considerations and sustainable development. Whether I am advising UN agencies on metaverse standardization, helping Fortune 500 companies reimagine their digital strategies, or leading international workshops on innovation ecosystems, I bring a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines technological expertise with deep insights on organizational dynamics.As Chair of multiple IEEE and ITU groups on Artificial Intelligence (AI), metaverse and cybersecurity standards, I am actively shaping the future of technology governance. I have also dedicated my career to fostering safe and sustainable adoption of EDTs through Build n Blaze, my boutique consulting firm. My work spans multiple sectors from shaping global policies to developing practical frameworks that ensure innovation aligns with societal well-being and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.When I am not immersed in the world of digital transformation, you can find me mentoring aspiring technology and policy leaders or exploring virtual worlds to understand their potential for reshaping our global society.You are welcome to join me in building a more equitable, sustainable, and technologically advanced world where everyone can thrive in the digital age. Let us explore how we can collaborate to shape the future of technology and society.
Radia Funna's Current Company Details
Radia Funna Work Experience Details
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Founder And CeoBuild N Blaze, Llc.New York, Ny, Us
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Founder & PrincipalBuild N Blaze, Llc 2012 - PresentGreater New York City AreaAt Build n Blaze, I pioneer the safe and sustainable adoption of emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs) to shape humanity's future. As founder and principal, I leverage my groundbreaking xHuman Theory to guide organizations through digital transformation, ensuring innovation aligns with critical priorities and societal well-being. Our mission is to revolutionize how leaders navigate the complex landscape of EDTs. From co-authoring the UN-approved definition of the metaverse to chairing multiple IEEE and ITU groups on Artificial Intelligence (AI), metaverse and cybersecurity standards, we are at the forefront of shaping global technology governance. In just over a decade, we have built a reputation as trusted advisors to UN agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and governments worldwide. Our interdisciplinary approach combines cutting-edge technological expertise with deep insights on organizational dynamics, cultural transformation, and sustainable development. We are developing frameworks, standards, and best practices that ensure responsible technology deployment. From crafting metaverse strategies to constructing AI sustainability practices, we are challenging the status quo of digital transformation consulting. As we expand our impact, we are not just advising on the future – we are actively creating it. Join us at #BuildnBlaze2025 to build a more equitable, sustainable, and technologically advanced world where everyone can thrive in the digital age.
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Special Advisor, Multi-AgencyUnited Nations Mar 2016 - PresentGreater New York City AreaAs a multi-agency Special Advisor at the United Nations, I leverage my expertise in emerging technologies and digital transformation to drive internal innovation and shape global technology policies for safe and ethical adoption of EDTs aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals on a global scale.Key Accomplishments:• As head of innovation at the UN Office of Information & Communications Technology (2016-2017), led the launch of the UN Secretariat's first innovation unit within three months, creating a platform for integrating external emerging technologies into strategic initiatives.• Developed AI pilot for the International Atomic Energy Agency, leveraging machine learning to enhance inspectors' analysis capabilities for detecting suspicious activities.• Delivered keynote speeches at 10+ high-profile UN events, including the world's largest mission-driven open-source conference (and hackathon) with over 7,000 attendees. -
Group Leader And MemberIeee Standards Association | Ieee Sa Aug 2024 - PresentPiscataway, New Jersey, United StatesThe IEEE Standards Association is a globally recognized organization dedicated to advancing technology for humanity through the development of industry standards and best practices. In various roles, I contribute to shaping critical standards in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies prioritizing environmental sustainability and ethical considerations:• Chair the Methods Workstream (WS1) of the Environmental Impacts of AI Working Group, driving the development of standards to assess and mitigate AI's environmental footprint.• Spearheading scope development for the Digital Forensics on Trusted Learning Systems Working Group, establishing a framework for investigating AI-related incidents in educational settings.• Contributing to the AI Ethics Oversight Working Group, shaping guidelines for ethical AI implementation across industries. -
Member, Trust And Safety Teaching ConsortiumStanford Internet Observatory May 2023 - PresentStanford, California, United StatesThe Stanford Internet Observatory is a cross-disciplinary program of research, teaching, and policy engagement for the study of abuse in current information technologies. As part of the Trust and Safety Teaching Consortium, I contribute to shaping the future of online safety and digital ethics education:• Develop curriculum content for the Emerging Technologies module, focusing on the ethical implications of AI and metaverse technologies in online safety. [add link]• Author career advice materials for students aspiring to enter the trust and safety field, leveraging my extensive experience in digital transformation and technology governance.• Collaborate with leading academics and industry professionals to create comprehensive, cutting-edge training materials for trust and safety practitioners. -
Member, Alfred Lee Loomis Innovation CouncilThe Stimson Center Apr 2023 - PresentWashington Dc-Baltimore AreaThe Stimson Center is a nonpartisan policy research center working to solve the world's greatest threats to security and prosperity. As part of the Alfred Lee Loomis Innovation Council, a prestigious group of thought leaders and innovators dedicated to advancing breakthrough technologies and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, I contribute to shaping the future of emerging technologies and their responsible adoption:• Participate in high-level discussions on the intersection of AI, metaverse, and other emerging technologies with global security and prosperity.• Collaborate with fellow council members to develop strategic recommendations for ethical technology implementation in international policy contexts.• Engage in initiatives that bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical policy applications in international security and development. -
Board Of Advisors, Model United Nations ProgramLebanese American University Jul 2017 - PresentBeirut District, LebanonThe Lebanese American University's Model United Nations Program is a prestigious initiative that empowers students to engage in global diplomacy and international relations. As a Board Advisor, I contribute my expertise to help shape the program's curriculum and prepare students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape:• Mentor students at the intersection of technology policy and sustainable development goals.• Leverage my experience with UN agencies to provide students with authentic insights into international diplomacy and policymaking. -
Chair And Co-Chair, Focus Group On Metaverse Wg/TgsInternational Telecommunication Union Mar 2023 - Jun 2024Geneva, SwitzerlandAt ITU, a specialized UN agency that coordinates global telecommunication standards and policies; I led global efforts to develop international standards for the metaverse, shaping the future of immersive technologies:• Co-authored and led the adoption of the UN-approved metaverse definition, ratified by 193 Member States in 2023, setting a global standard for metaverse governance.• Founding Chair of UN Virtual Worlds Day, bringing together 15+ UN agencies (including World Bank and UNICEF) to explore the potential of virtual worlds for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.• Pioneered UN meetings in the metaverse by creating a digital twin of the focus group, enabling virtual gatherings and showcasing the innovative approach in an online exhibition.• Chaired multiple working groups and task groups, driving consensus among diverse stakeholders on critical issues such as security, data protection, and ethical considerations in the metaverse.• Authored and co-authored key technical reports and specifications, including: - “Glossary for metaverse” (ITU, June 2024) - "Near-term and long-term Implications for people in the metaverse" (ITU, June 2024) - "A framework for confidence in the metaverse" (ITU, March 2024) - "Considering online and offline implications in efforts to build confidence and security in the metaverse" (ITU, March 2024) - "Guidelines for consideration of ethical issues in standards that build confidence and security in the metaverse" (ITU, October 2024)• Contributed to the "Executive briefing on the metaverse" (ITU, April 2023) and the "UN Executive Briefing on Unlocking the potential of virtual worlds and the metaverse for the Sustainable Development Goals" (ITU, June 2024). -
Fellow, World Innovation OrganizationWorld Summit On Innovation & Entrepreneurship Apr 2017 - Dec 2019New York, New York, United StatesThe World Summit on Innovation & Entrepreneurship is a global platform that brings together leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to explore solutions for pressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration. As a Fellow, I contributed my expertise in emerging technologies and digital transformation to drive impactful discussions and initiatives:• Collaborated with international thought leaders to develop strategies that harness innovation for sustainable development and economic growth.• Supported the development of key initiatives aimed at promoting responsible technology adoption and shaping the future of sustainable development through collaborative efforts. -
Board And Working Group Member, Responsible Capitalism ProjectWorld Economic Forum Oct 2010 - Nov 2011Geneva, SwitzerlandInvited by WEF to join the Steering Board and Working Group of the Responsible Capitalism Project, driving global discussions on economic stimulation and talent development: • Contributed to shaping policies that promote talent mobility and address global talent risks, impacting strategies of Fortune 500 companies and government agencies.• Collaborated with international leaders to develop frameworks for fostering economic opportunities in emerging markets. -
World Economic Forum Global Partnership Head | Global Ceo & Board Practice ManagerHeidrick & Struggles 2009 - 2011Greater New York City AreaAt Heidrick & Struggles (H&S), a premier global executive search and leadership consulting firm, I led two key areas that contributed to strengthening the organization's position as a renown and trusted advisor in culture shaping and organizational transformation:World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Partnership Head:• Spearheaded H&S' global relationship with WEF, reporting directly to the CEO.• Oversaw corporate partnerships across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas, fostering strategic connections with global leaders.Global CEO & Board Practice Manager:• Facilitated worldwide execution of strategic priorities for the CEO & Board Practice.• Administered top global strategic partnerships with Fortune, Financial Times, NYSE, and Women Corporate Directors.• Managed high-profile search portfolios for clients including KKR, Goldman Sachs Capital, Blackstone, Bacardi, and Time. -
Global Consumer PracticeSpencer Stuart 2007 - 2009Greater New York City AreaAt Spencer Stuart, a premier global executive search and leadership consulting firm specializing in finding, recruiting, and developing top-tier talent for organizations worldwide; I managed a diverse portfolio of global Fortune 500 clients, including KKR, Unilever, MetLife, Allstate, and Clorox, cultivating long-term relationships that led to increase in repeat business. -
Global Marketing, Calvin Klein FragrancesCoty Prestige 2005 - 2007I played a crucial role in supporting the Vice President's vision and facilitated the execution of global strategic initiatives across Calvin Klein Fragrances—the fragrance franchise of one of the world's leading fashion brands—driving efficiency and facilitating high-level decision-making. Calvin Klein Fragrances was acquired from Unilever Cosmetics Company by Coty Prestige during my tenure. -
Chief Of StaffAdvertising Research Foundation 2004 - 2005Greater New York City AreaI played a pivotal role in shaping company strategy and driving organizational transformation at this leading industry association that brings together advertisers, agencies, media companies, and research firms to advance the science of advertising and marketing. • Spearheaded change management efforts for a major restructuring, achieving 95% employee buy-in and reducing transition time by two months.• Managed high-priority projects from conception to completion, consistently meeting or exceeding deadlines and budget constraints.• Acted as a trusted advisor and proxy for the CEO, representing executive interests in key stakeholder meetings and negotiations. -
Operations, Regional Marketing EastNike 2003 - 2004Greater New York City AreaFacilitated strategic initiatives to enhance brand visibility and market penetration on the U.S. East Coast for this global leader in athletic footwear and apparel, renowned for its commitment to innovation and performance.• Led contract negotiations and managed regional budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for marketing campaigns and product seeding efforts.• Procured premium products for promotional activities, successfully increasing brand awareness among local athletes and influencers.• Coordinated events and partnerships with athletes and vendors, resulting in increased market share within the region.• Developed and executed marketing strategies that effectively communicated Nike's brand values and engaged target audiences. -
Associate Director, Regulatory Affairs & ComplianceHorizon Blue Cross Blue Shield Of New Jersey 2000 - 2002I managed the United States Federal Medicaid program for the State of New Jersey ensuring compliance and operational excellence at this leading health insurance provider dedicated to improving the health and well-being of communities across the U.S.• Established the first Medicaid contract awarded to a New Jersey commercial entity and streamlined its administration.• Cultivated strong relationships with State and Federal agencies and established a comprehensive compliance monitoring system to enable proactive identification and reporting of potential issues.• Spearheaded the development and implementation of compliance education tools to increase staff understanding of regulatory requirements and reduce compliance violations.• Successfully integrated HIPAA requirements into the compliance program, achieving 100% compliance with State and Federal regulations ahead of deadline. -
Sample AccountabilityInventiv Health 1999 - 2000At inVentiv Health, a global provider of comprehensive biopharmaceutical services, specializing in regulatory compliance, policy development, and strategic consulting for the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries; I led regulatory compliance initiatives for major pharmaceutical clients, driving significant improvements in field operations and sample accountability:• Developed and implemented a comprehensive field training program that increased compliance rates across 800+ sales representatives and managers for clients including Eli Lilly and Pfizer.• Designed and rolled out a systematized documentation process for monitoring field drug sample transactions, reducing reporting errors and improving overall accountability.• Spearheaded the creation of client project start-up policies and procedures, reducing implementation time and ensuring consistent regulatory adherence across seven major client projects.• Implemented a field sample accountability system that achieved 99% accuracy in tracking and reporting, surpassing industry standards and client expectations.
Radia Funna Education Details
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Consulting -
English: Poetry And Pre-Law Concentrations | Minor: Theatre Arts (Playwriting)
Frequently Asked Questions about Radia Funna
What company does Radia Funna work for?
Radia Funna works for Build N Blaze, Llc.
What is Radia Funna's role at the current company?
Radia Funna's current role is Founder and CEO.
What schools did Radia Funna attend?
Radia Funna attended Harvard Extension School, The Catholic University Of America.
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