“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change” – Wayne Dyer
My name is Elaine Montilla. I’m the founder of 5xMinority, a company and platform dedicated to empowering women and underrepresented communities, particularly in technology.
I’m a seasoned technology executive with more than two decades of experience, primarily in education and edtech. Throughout my career, I’ve led large-scale digital transformations, developed innovative products, and built governance models that drive growth while strengthening trust with stakeholders. I’ve served as both CTO and CIO, am a TEDx speaker, and have been recognized for my leadership in change management, talent development, and my ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences.
But my work has never been just about technology.
As a Latina immigrant in an industry where I was often the only woman or the only person of color in the room, I know firsthand what exclusion feels like. I’ve faced discrimination, been underestimated, and navigated the quiet weight of imposter syndrome. I also know the impact that comes from choosing to speak up, take space, and create room for others to do the same.
That conviction led me to create 5xMinority. Not as a brand, but as a calling. A platform built to challenge the status quo and reimagine what leadership can look like in tech. We treat diversity not as a checkbox, but as a driver of innovation. We center equity, inclusion, and psychological safety as essential ingredients of high-performing teams.
In my speaking engagements, I bring this perspective with honesty and clarity. I talk about what it truly means to lead, especially when you’re the first or the only. I explore the courage required to remain authentic in systems that weren’t designed with you in mind. I also speak about the future of work, the responsible adoption of AI, and why skills like empathy, trust, and communication are becoming leadership’s most critical capabilities.
Whether I’m delivering a keynote, participating in a panel, or leading a fireside conversation, my goal is always the same. To move people. To challenge assumptions. To open doors. And to leave audiences not just informed, but changed.
If you’re building an event focused on inclusion, innovation, leadership, or the future of work, I would be honored to contribute.
Let’s not just talk about change. Let’s lead it.
Elaine Montilla
Founder, 5xMinority