Jay Graber - Speaker

Jay Graber is an American software engineer and the CEO of Bluesky, a microblogging social platform that aims to redefine the digital landscape. With a background in Science, Technology, and Society from the University of Pennsylvania, Jay has always been at the intersection of technology and societal impact. Her journey from co-founding a student time bank programme to leading a pioneering social media platform highlights her commitment to innovation and community empowerment.

Jay's career began in 2015 as a software engineer at SkuChain, followed by a unique stint soldering bitcoin mining equipment in Washington. Her technical expertise deepened as she worked as a junior developer for Zcash cryptocurrency, and in 2019, she founded Happening, Inc., an event planning website. These experiences laid the groundwork for her role at Bluesky, where she became the first CEO in August 2021.

Initially conceived within Twitter, Bluesky emerged as a public benefit corporation with a mission to create a more open and user-centric social media environment. Under Jay's leadership, the platform officially launched in February 2023, offering an open-protocol operation that encourages user participation and innovation. Her vision for Bluesky is rooted in decentralisation, aiming to give users control over their data and foster a healthier online ecosystem.

Despite her professional focus on social media, Jay maintains a minimalist approach to social platforms in her personal life, valuing intentional and meaningful interactions. This philosophy is reflected in Bluesky's ethos, as the platform seeks to empower users rather than exploit them for profit.

As the digital world continues to evolve, Jay's work with Bluesky represents a significant shift towards a more democratic and user-focused internet. Her leadership and vision have the potential to reshape how we engage with social media, offering a platform that prioritises user choice and independence.