“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change” – Wayne Dyer
My name is Elaine, and I am the founder of 5xminority, a company, and social media brand dedicated to empowering women and minorities, especially in tech. As a seasoned technology leader with extensive experience in the education industry, I have dedicated my career to developing innovative digital solutions that drive business growth and enhance stakeholder engagement. I propel digital innovation for a diverse range of clients and spearhead product development strategies and governance that fuel business expansion. As a former CTO and CIO, an esteemed TEDx speaker, and the visionary founder of 5xminority, Inc., my mission transcends my professional accomplishments—I am committed to championing the empowerment and amplification of women and underrepresented minorities within the tech landscape and beyond. I’ve been recognized for staff professional development, change leadership, and talent for communicating with diverse groups of people.
My journey hasn’t been easy. As a Latina immigrant navigating an industry where I was often the only woman—or only person of color—in the room, I know firsthand what exclusion feels like. I’ve faced discrimination, been underestimated, and had to fight through the silence of imposter syndrome. But I’ve also seen the power that comes when someone dares to speak up, take space, and help others do the same.
That belief led me to create 5xMinority—not just a brand, but a calling. A platform dedicated to disrupting the status quo and reimagining what leadership can look like in tech. We champion diversity not as a checkbox, but as a catalyst for innovation. We center equity, inclusivity, and psychological safety as core to high-performing teams.
In my speaking engagements, I bring that same energy and truth. I talk about what it really means to lead—especially when you’re the first or the only. I speak to the courage it takes to stay authentic in rooms that weren’t built with you in mind. I explore how AI is reshaping our future, and why soft skills like empathy, trust, and communication are becoming leadership’s greatest superpowers.
Whether I’m on a keynote stage, a panel, or a fireside chat, my goal is always the same: to move people. To challenge assumptions. To open doors. And to leave every audience not just informed—but transformed.
If you’re building an event focused on inclusion, innovation, leadership, or the future of work, I’d be honored to be a part of it.
Let’s not just talk about change—let’s lead it.
– Elaine Montilla, Founder, 5xMinority