Speakers

Estonia – Colombia
Charlie Moreno-Romero
Originally from Colombia but residing in Estonia, I’m very interested and supportive of innovate educational practices that actively involve young people in their learning. My academic journey spans across disciplines; philology for my bachelor’s, anthropology for my master’s, and a doctorate in education (democratic education and education for social justice and inclusion).
My research and practical expertise relates to democratic education, self-directed learning, language acquisition, media literacy, and fostering social justice through education. Within the realm of social sciences, my curiosity extends to culture, history, media analysis, leisure and identity dynamics, political anthropology, and ethnographic methodologies. I communicate freely in English, Italian and Spanish and possess a proficiency in Estonian and French as well. Currently, I serve as a council member for the European Democratic Education Community (www.eudec.org) and a founding member for the Right-Centric Education Network.
Talks & workshops

Belgium – Colombia
Liliana Carrillo
CollectiveUP
Liliana Carrillo is a Colombian-Spanish professional, playful mother to two teenagers—a daughter (18) and a son (16)—and wife to her Belgian partner. She has lived in Belgium for 13 years, building a career in research and innovation. With a background in computer science, artificial intelligence, and business, Liliana seamlessly integrates her expertise with her passions for education and societal impact. In 2021, she founded CollectiveUP, through which she leads various EU-funded projects, including initiatives focused on Self-Directed Agile Education and other transformative endeavours.
Talks & workshops

Sri Lanka
Nuwan Dissanayaka
I have been involved in democratic education since 2015 and was the main organizer for SLDEC 2018 in Sri Lanka and main organizer for Most innovative Teacher of the year award ceremony. Moreover, I have achieved following national and international awards for my work. Global Teacher of The Year 2019, Gold Award for Outstanding Contribution for Sri Lankan Education in 2020, Best Educational Research 2018 at the World Conference on Education.
Talks & workshops

the Netherlands
Dorianne De Groot & Ruud Van Middelaar
Democratic School De Ruimte Soest
Dorianne and Ruud are co-founders of De Ruimte in Soest in the Netherlands. They have implemented sociocracy right from the start of their endeavour in 2002. With more than 20 years of experience they love to share and introduce this to other people and especially people that are committed to create more democratic schools and more democracy in education.
Talks & workshops

Belgium
Marie Pons
Orvita
Marie is co-founder of Orvita and co-organizer of the IDEC@EUDEC 2025. She worked with Children in a democratic school and still works with them in democratic camps. Orvita wants to restart the school. Orvita works with non violent communication as a basis. Marie is a trainer for self-direction and NVC with children. She is also a therapist, working with the inner children of adults.
Talks & workshops

Germany
Walid Malik
Walid Malik is a human rights advocate specializing in children’s and youth rights, with a strong focus on combating discrimination, antisemitism, and racism. He works as a trainer in historical and political education, delivering workshops that inspire critical thinking and promote social justice. Walid’s expertise lies in empowering individuals and fostering inclusive environments. Through his work, he connects historical contexts with current challenges, encouraging reflection and action. His passion for equality drives his dedication to education, advocacy, and meaningful dialogue
Talks & workshops

United Kingdom
Ian Cunningham
My day job is as a dancer (I am 82, by the way). I also help to run the Centre for Self Managed Learning and within it the Self Managed Learning community. I live in Brighton on the south coast of England. I also write books and articles, I cycle and I spend time with my grandchildren, children and friends. In the past I have been a professor, the Chief Executive of a business school and a chaired an international learning and development consultancy.
Talks & workshops

Belgium
Nathalie Fradin
Nathalie is a dreamer, explorer and alchemist currently teaching French as a foreign language to adults and teenagers in Belgium. With more than 30-year experience in education, coaching and project management in ten countries, she is passionate about education, healthy relationships and holistic wellness. Nathalie is also eager to share her explorations and experience with learning communities in Europe and beyond.
Talks & workshops

Sri Lanka
Yasodhara Pathanjali
Independent Collective School Sri Lanka
Talks & workshops