Stephen Odongo

AV Manager, Speke Resort Convention Centre
Kelly Smith - AVIXA

Marketing Manager, US/Canada, AVIXA

Hi! I help connect people to AV education, standards and more resources from AVIXA. I am an expert in finding resources to help you meet your training and certification prep needs to help you reach your goals.
Racheal Aye , CTS

Xchange Advocate EMEA Region / Audio Visual Presales Engineer, Blue crane communications (U) Ltd

About Me I am a Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) with a background in Mobile and Satellite Communication Engineering from the International University of East Africa (IUEA). My passion for technology and curiosity led me to the audiovisual industry during the COVID-19 lockdown. Since then, I’ve supported and led AV projects across Uganda, including digital signage, video conferencing, e-learning studios, and public address systems. I’m dedicated to raising awareness of AV technology in East Africa and hold a Google Digital Marketing certification to enhance the promotion of AV solutions in the region through media. Skills and Expertise Design and Proposal Writing: Crafting comprehensive and tailored AV solutions for clients. Project Experience: Expertise in designing AV systems for stadiums, learning environments, boardrooms, and digital signage. Technical Certifications: AVIXA CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) Dante Certification from Audinate Dante Interests
We’re the Hub for All People and Things AV We are the community for the creative professionals who use technology to create integrated experiences. AVIXA is the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, co-owner of Integrated Systems Europe, and the international trade association representing the audiovisual industry.
Our Community Spotlight highlights some of the most prominent, active users in the AVIXA Xchange community. These quick interviews touch on hot topics within the AV industry right from the minds of experts in their respective fields.
Alexis Bou Farhat, CTS-D, CTS-I

ELV Project Manager, IMAR Trading and Contracting

With over 20 years of experience in the AV and ELV industries, I specialize in AV system design, installation, management, and integration across diverse sectors, including corporate, education, sports, healthcare, hospitality, and government. My career began in 2003 with the AV team at a 5-star hotel in Lebanon, where I developed a passion for AV systems. I hold certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) from PMI, as well as CTS-D and CTS-I from AVIXA, blending technical expertise with strong project leadership. I have extensive experience deploying technologies from leading manufacturers such as Crestron, Extron, Biamp, and many others, while managing vendors and ensuring seamless integration. Currently, I am part of BLINQ, a division of IMAR Trading and Contracting in Qatar, where I serve as the ELV Projects Manager, focusing on ELV systems and immersive AV solutions. I am committed to continuous learning, staying ahead of industry trends, and mentoring emerging professionals to elevate the AV field