Edwin Liava'a's Linkedin Analytics

Your go-to guy, get things done tech trailblazer with 30+ years driving connectivity and innovation across the Pacific Islands. I have cultivated partnerships and advocated for emerging technologies to bridge the digital divide. As former CEO of Tonga Cable Limited, I spearheaded deployment of affordable high-speed internet through submarine fiber optic networks. As CTO of PowerPlay, I built blockchain-enabled solutions for renewable energy adoption. As former Corporate Development and Regional Director of Kacific Broadband Satellites Group expanding satellite internet coverage across the Pacific Islands. I also served as the Objective 4 Lead for USAID's Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership Project, enhancing digital skills of civil servants and supporting the next generation of ICT specialists. Currently, an independent consultant as GIS Specialist but I remain passionate about the mission of "Leaving No One Behind" through broadband internet access. I am deeply motivated by leveraging technologies like AI, blockchain, geomatics and satellites to drive sustainable development. An active open source contributor, I develop GIS and mapping applications, work on blockchain interoperability with decentralized oracle networks. I am a lifelong learner, currently expanding my skills in areas like prompt engineering and pair programming with AI systems. I believe emerging innovations can transform opportunity when guided by ethics and a commitment to economic empowerment for all. When I'm not building technology, you can find me mentoring people of all ages, advocating for progressive policies, and exploring partnership opportunities that harness technology responsibly to uplift communities. Selected Achievements: • Spearheaded upgrades of a nation's first international and domestic fiber optic submarine cable network. • Spearheaded response to national security, redundancy and connectivity using satellite internet broadband. • Advises governments and regulators on national ICT policy by removing barriers to connectivity. • Earned multiple AI, blockchain certifications and a Chainlink Fall 2021 Hackathon top quality project winner. • Developed cutting-edge geospatial information systems for utilities and public sector organizations. • Strong technical skills in QGIS, ArcGIS, MapInfo, PostgreSQL/PostGIS, Linux, Blockchain, Smart Contracts.