Humans of Telecom

"One of my guiding principles in life is a quote by the famous Roman philosopher Seneca 'Many discoveries are reserved for ages still to come'... Be bold and stay curious!" Jason Bryan, CEO at ROCCO Group, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Founder of Humans of Telecom.

In this enriching episode, Jason shares the incredible journey of a man who has truly lived the telecom industry — and lived across the world while doing so!

🌍 From working in the Twin Towers in NYC to living in 7 countries (including Italy, Luxembourg and now Spain — his personal 'paradise')

📊 Over 250 reports on messaging and roaming, and initiatives that now partner with Meta, Google and Apple

🎤 TED Talks, GSMA recognition, and a legacy of driving change through hackathons and industry working groups

🎨 Outside the boardroom? You'll find him painting, doing pottery, writing, or cooking up a storm!

🎉 And yes, he once cut a cake in the middle of a desert to celebrate 30 years of roaming!

His fascination with the 'human side of telecom' led to the creation of #ROCCOIOO — a platform that celebrates achievements of telecom executives from all over the globe!

It was an absolute pleasure hosting Jason — a thinker, a creator, and someone who’s constantly shaping what’s next for our industry!

🎧 Tune in to this inspiring episode on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to follow Humans of Telecom for more such stories from the heart of the industry!

"I tend not to live in regret, because I truly believe every life experience helps shape who we are today."

— Tina Donaldson, VP Strategy at netnumber, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Founder of Humans of Telecom

In this captivating episode, Tina — an early innovator in the world of 'platform communications' — shares how a chance encounter at her mother’s charity baseball game and a lost bet led her into the world of telecom!

She walks us through a remarkable career that includes pioneering work like enabling text and voice capabilities for phone numbers in Google Cloud, helping birth a new era of messaging that went beyond mobile numbers. After holding leadership roles at heavyweights like Google and Twilio, Tina has come full circle and is now leading the charge in redefining how the industry can trust phone numbers across networks.

A firm believer in the power of 'human connection', Tina opens up about her life beyond telecom — including managing a modest count of five children, her newfound love for floristry, and her surreal experience meeting Mother Teresa, who even tried recruiting her to the Missionaries of Charity! And yes, she still plans to visit Antarctica one day!

🎧 Tune in to this inspiring episode on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to follow Humans of Telecom for more such stories from the heart of the industry.

"If I had the power, I’d make the day 48 hours long — just to dive deeper into my passions and build even stronger human connections!” Daniel Kurgan, CEO at Arelion, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Founder of Humans of Telecom.

In this engaging episode, Daniel reminisces his journey in telecom which spans over 25 years. Starting as an account manager and rising to top leadership role of CEO and Chairman, Daniel has an extremely inspiring story to share, which includes his days of overseeing the JV between Proximus Group, Swisscom and MTN leading to the formation of what we now know as BICS!

Though originally from Belgium, Daniel now calls the vibrant city of Stockholm as his 'new home' from where he steers the ship of Arelion with vision and passion! Daniel is a true epitome of work-life balance, which includes his deep love for sports, movies and reading French literature! A national-level competitive bridge player, Daniel also excelled in tennis, table tennis, and field hockey during his youth! Not only that, his love for skiing in the Alpines has led to over two cumulative years on the slopes... and Daniel is far from done!

Tune in to this super-inspiring episode on your preferred podcast channel and follow Humans of Telecom for more!

"Few people can say they’ve explored over 50 countries, earned 10 million Google views, and built a thriving career in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. There’s more to me than meets the eye!” Romina Kaboorani, Director at G729, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this engaging episode, Romina — a powerhouse in the telecom industry with nearly a decade of experience — shares her fascinating journey. Starting her career in the Middle East, her path took an unexpected turn after an encounter with Fernando Espada Alonso in Europe, which led her to Spain. There, she now leads a thriving team that began with just three members. As the Director at G729, Romina is respected for her leadership, strategic vision, and ability to inspire those around her.

Her social media reflects a storybook wanderlust, filled with breathtaking landscapes and historic sites from around the world. Yet, beyond these images, her journey is one of determination, curiosity, and growth. She was recently ranked as one of the most influential female leaders in telecom at the Antonio Meucci Global Telco Awards. A lifelong learner with two master’s degrees, she constantly seeks new horizons in her field.

Beyond her professional achievements, Romina is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting education and healthcare initiatives for children in need. Known for her positive energy and ability to seamlessly balance leadership demands, extensive travel, and a zest for life, Romina is truly an inspiring figure in the industry.

"From freelancing as an entertainment writer to becoming the editor of Capacity Magazine, my journey has been anything but ordinary!" Matthew Whalley, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Ilex Content Strategies, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this engaging episode, Matthew takes us on a journey through his life—from growing up in Vancouver to making his way to London, where a life-changing phone call at a club set him on a new path. He reflects on the rich blend of Canadian, Italian, and Japanese influences that shape his identity and shares his passion for collecting vintage vinyl records from every corner of the world, especially when he's out at events around the world! And if life had taken a different turn, he might have pursued a career as a Michelin-star chef!

Matthew leaves us with a fitting mantra for life: an Italian quote that says, "It’s better to die of drink than of thirst," capturing his adventurous spirit and zest for new experiences!

Tune in to this episode right now on your preferred podcast channel and follow Humans of Telecom for more!

"I would want to be remembered as someone who didn't 'give crumbs'... To quote from a poem - joy was not made to be a crumb!" – Anzelle Robertson, Programme Director at Mobile Ecosystem Forum (MEF).

In this engaging episode, Anzelle – an expert in Mobile Payments and Digital Content – recounts her unexpected start at a law firm specializing in road accident claims. Passionate about public speaking from childhood, she initially pursued law, but a new brief from her principle attorney brought telecom on her radar!

A national cricket champion, Anzelle is a 'Jill of all trades' with interests in a medley of areas that include surfing, mountain biking, golfing and playing the guitar! Also, a self-proclaimed 'raging introvert', Anzelle shares highlights from the road that led her from a bushveld farm in South Africa's rural North-West Province, via the continent's richest square mile in Johannesburg, with stops at skateparks and cricket fields, New York's Broadway, being airlifted from Mobile World Congress Barcelona and running laps around the Emirates all the way to The Hague in Netherlands!

"A chance encounter thanks to a previous part-time job at a souvenir shop led to my entry into telecom... And there's been no looking back since!" Vladimir Smal, Co-Founder & CEO at AVISO Messaging, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this insightful episode, Vladimir - one of ROCCO IOO's top 25 influential professionals globally - shares his unique journey which began at a young age of 17. It was a seemingly random encounter that opened the doors to the world of Voice and Messaging, setting him on a path that would define his career. Vladimir reflects on his emotional departure from LANCK Telecom after 15 years, a company where he grew professionally and personally. He also discusses the challenges of transitioning from Voice to Messaging, a move that tested his resilience and adaptability!

Coming from a family of four children, Vladimir shares an intriguing story about his birth and the special connection he shares with his father, from where he got his name. In a romantic twist, Vladimir reveals how he eventually married his ex-classmate, adding a personal touch to his narrative. A true explorer at heart, Vladimir has traveled to 60 countries, enriching his life with diverse experiences and cultures!

"I have always believed that the voyage through life is more important than the destination... Experiencing and conquering the most difficult obstacles enriches us with wisdom, knowledge and maturity!" Nassia Skoulikariti, Founder & CEO at Apiro Data, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this exciting episode, Nassia takes us through her remarkable journey from Greece to USA, and now the UK, with nearly three decades of experience in the telecom industry. Starting her career by 'figuring things out' at iBASIS, Nassia has since held prominent positions at Global Telco Consult (GTC) and the Mobile Ecosystem Forum, as well has started her own venture. Throughout her career, her dedication and insights have cemented her status as a thought leader, even earning her the recognition of 'LinkedIn Top Voice' in the telecom space!

Nassia even recites a captivating poem during the podcast, encapsulating her life's philosophy of 'enjoying the journey'. She is a strong advocate for 'humanizing technology', believing that the true power of innovation lies in connecting people. But her interests go beyond the telecom world - Nassia is a versatile painter, a gadget enthusiast, an avid kickboxer, and a biker at heart! And to top it off, she’s done some extraordinary things, including flying a helicopter and even working in a Hollywood movie!

"From trading Pokémon stickers in elementary school to revolutionizing the industry with my current startup, life has truly come a long way!" Adis Ceman, Co-Founder & COO at GramBell, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this amazing conversation, Adis shares his rich blend of cultural experiences: born in Croatia to Montenegrin parents, holding a Bosnian passport, growing up in Egypt, and now based in Dubai. His career journey is as diverse as his background, beginning with early business acumen gained through trading Pokémon stickers, moving into technology by working in an IT hardware store, and even exploring the arms and weapons industry!

Adis’ creative flair shines through in his current venture, which was recognized as the 'Most Innovative Startup in 2023' by industry body GSMA. A passionate photographer, he fulfilled his dream of owning a professional camera through various odd jobs, and that combined with his love for hiking helps him now reconnect with nature. Adding a thrilling twist, Adis also recounts a gripping story of being held at gunpoint by European armed forces, offering a glimpse into his extraordinary life!

"A conversation with Mountasser Hachem profoundly impacted my career when he asked if my hobby was merely collecting certificates and degrees!" Amira Akra, Product Manager (Messaging) at Vodafone Germany, in conversation with Anurag Aggarwal, Chief Revenue Officer (Enterprise) at GMS.

In this captivating episode, Amira shares insights into her Lebanese and German roots, her experience growing up in the Middle East, and her eventual move to Europe. A true technology enthusiast, Amira began her journey with academic pursuits, earning a Master’s in Computer & Communication Engineering from Beirut and pursuing a PhD in 5G. As a voracious reader and an 'unplanned mom' who has developed a deep affinity for children, Amira opens up about her life experiences, and also reveals thrilling moments, such as skydiving at The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai during her honeymoon and her love for bold hair colors!