Audrey Tang Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Audrey Tang is a prominent technologist and activist renowned for her contributions to open source programming and digital innovation. Born in 1981 in Taiwan, Audrey demonstrated a prodigious aptitude for technology early on. She left formal education behind at the age of 14 to pursue independent learning, immersing herself in the world of coding and software development. By the age of 19, Audrey had already made significant contributions to the Perl community, earning a reputation as a skilled programmer with a knack for creative problem-solving. Her professional journey took a transformative turn when she joined the Taiwanese government as the Digital Minister in 2016. In this role, she broke new ground as the country's first transgender minister, emphasizing inclusivity and transparency in governance. Audrey used her position to advocate for digital democracy, driving initiatives that leveraged technology to foster greater civic engagement and government accountability. Under her guidance, Taiwan became a model for participatory government, exemplified by projects that empowered citizens to contribute to policy-making through digital platforms. Audrey's commitment to free software and open-source principles resonates through her professional ethos. She champions collaboration and openness, believing these are key to driving innovation and societal progress. Her approach has not only influenced Taiwan's digital infrastructure but also served as inspiration for technologists and policymakers worldwide. Audrey's work in promoting open data, particularly through platforms that facilitate data sharing and transparency, has propelled Taiwan to a leadership position in digital governance. Beyond her governmental duties, Audrey has continued to contribute to the tech community as a developer and advocate for ethical technology use. She is a regular keynote speaker at international conferences, where she shares insights on the intersection of technology, society, and governance. Her unique ability to bridge technical and humanistic perspectives makes her a sought-after voice in discussions about the future of technology and democracy. Audrey Tang's story is one of innovation, inclusivity, and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her journey from a self-taught programmer to a pioneering digital leader underscores her belief in the transformative power of technology. Through her work, Audrey has not only reshaped Taiwan's digital landscape but has also made a lasting impact on global dialogues about the role of technology in advancing public good.