Episode 24 Rehgan Avon: Why data needs diversity

In my 24th episode I speak to Women in Analytics (WIA) CEO and founder Rehgan Avon! We talk about: 1) Her background and what she's up to now 2) Women in Analytics and the catalyst for founding it 3) Where next for the WIA community  4) The challenges of diversity in the analytics industry 5) Why "model bias" needs greater diversity and transparency 6) Difference between the data scientist vs. data engineer 7) The practicalities of working in the data engineering space 8) The "last mile" of analytics and getting it right 9) Cognitive engineering and why it's required in defining the user experience 10) The make-up of the team required for an analytics project 10) Rehgan's observations about the trends in the data industry post the WIA conference 11) The need for regulation around AI & Ethics 12) How to get involved in WIA About Rehgan: Rehgan is the CEO & Co-Founder of Ikonos Analytics and has a background in integrated systems engineering and a strong focus on analytical technology, Rehgan has worked on architecting solutions and products around operationalizing machine learning models at scale within the large enterprise. Rehgan was a critical piece in developing the fundamental process architecture for one of the leading product companies in model operations, ModelOp. Rehgan’s previous experience has been fueled by a passion for early-stage startups and product development.  She is also Founder & CEO of Women in Analytics, a global community to support the visibility of women making an impact in the analytics field. About Samir Samir is a data strategy and analytics leader, CEO and Founder of datazuum. He has a history of helping data executives and leaders craft and execute their data strategies. His passion for data strategy led him to launch the Data Strategy & Analytics Coaching Programme, and is host of the Data Strategy Show. After a career in both private and public sectors Samir launched the datazuum brand in 2012, with a view to working with executives to deliver data strategy at a time when data was not seen as a business asset. Today datazuum delivers projects across both private and public sectors including: Charities, Financial Services (Banking & Insurance), Government, Housing & Construction, Law Enforcement, Logistics, Media & Publishing, Outsourcing, Postal, Retail, Telecoms, Transport and Utilities. Samir has 20 years of international experience across Europe, North America, and Africa. Is a regular speaker at international conferences, coach / mentor, a charity fundraiser, and youth champion for Working Knowledge - supporting young people to achieve their personal and career goals in life. Samir lives in London with his wife and daughter. Contact: [email protected]