BEVAN SLATTERY CEO OF SODA AND SUBCO
EDITORIAL
HOTSHOTS Magazine - The fourth edition
Welcome to the 4th edition of HOTShots Magazine. The only watchable magazine in the telecom industry!
This issue is packed with game-changing insights, covering everything from cutting-edge subsea innovation to a bold leap into space with satellite broadband. We explore the future of data centers, the explosive rise of AI, the evolution of NaaS (Network as a Service), and spotlight the next generation of talent shaping digital connectivity. Plus, Isabelle unveils her first-ever Super HOTShot and crowns this year’s most stylish telecom pro with the Fashionista Top Dog Award.
Get ready for an exclusive front-row seat to the biggest trends, expert opinions, and the latest shake-ups in the industry. And remember, HOTShots isn’t just a magazine; it’s an experience. Sit back, tune in, and watch the industry’s brightest stars in action. Enjoy!
Shelley Wright Head of Content and Marketing, HOT TELECOM
In his latest interview, Bevan Slattery talks about a bold, game-changing mission-to build 1 million square meters of artificial reef in just eight years. Fuelled by his lifelong passion for the ocean and deep concern over habitat destruction, he’s not waiting for nature to recover, he’s engineering a solution at scale.
This isn’t just conservation; this is high tech marine disruption. AI-driven image recognition analized reef changes over 15 years, so that robotics can ultimately automate the growth of 2 million corals in four years. Advanced materials, 3D printing, and industrial-scale logistics will ensure these reefs are sustainable, scalable, and seamlessly integrated into the environment.
BEVAN SLATTERY CEO AT SUBCO AND SODA
Innovative vision for reef restoration
Bevan Slattery talks about his latest project. Creating artificial reefs using technology to restore ecosystems.
His vision? A cookie-cutter reef model that can be replicated worldwide, transforming marine restoration from slow, small scale efforts into an unstoppable global movement. Labs are already launching, with initial deployments planned in the Pacific Islands.
Bevan and his team are rewriting the future of ocean conservation, proving that when technology and ambition collide, we can rebuild what nature is losing at scale, at speed, and for good.
Don’t miss this exciting interview as Bevan shares how technology, ambition, and innovation are transforming ocean restoration. Could this be the future of marine conservation? Watch now and decide for yourself!
“If we crack the ‘cookie-cutter’ reef model, we can transform marine restoration worldwide”
A bold leap into space
Alberto Grunstein’s game-changing acquisition of an Italian teleport company propels 42com into the satellite era.
Alberto Grunstein, CEO at 42com drops some game-changing news during his Telecom Stars in Cars interview as his company had just acquired a teleport in Italy. Marking a bold expansion into satellite services. This strategic move cements 42com’s position as a one-stop telecom powerhouse while unlocking new, high-value markets.
He reveals that this wasn’t just any deal, it was about recognizing the perfect opportunity. Having worked with the company before, he saw untapped potential and powerful synergies that would inject fresh expertise and efficiency into his team. For Alberto, standing still in telecom is not an option. The industry moves fast, and only those who evolve will stay ahead.
ALBERTO GRUNSTEIN CEO AT 42COM GROUP
His vision is clear: innovate, expand, and disrupt. He believes low Earth orbit satellites will completely transform the market, and he’s determined to be at the forefront of that revolution. With a fearless approach to growth and an eye for strategic expansion, he’s positioning his company to lead the charge.
So, what’s next for telecom? And how is Alberto rewriting the rules of the industry? Watch the full interview—you won’t want to miss this inside look at the future of connectivity!
“In our telecom industry, if we stay still, we’re going to die because market needs are always evolving.”
The future of data centers
Felix Seda reveals how AI is reshaping data centers, with NJFX leading the charge with cooling and connectivity innovation.
Felix Seda, General Manager at NJFX, drops game-changing insights on how AI is turning the data center industry upside down during his Capacity Europe interview. The AI boom isn’t just about training massive datasets - it’s about moving that data fast, and connectivity is the new king. Companies are scrambling for 30 to 50 megawatt sites, but the real challenge? Traditional data centers are obsolete for AI’s extreme demands.
FELIX SEDA GENERAL MANAGER AT NJFX
“If data centers don’t evolve, they’ll be left behind.
Felix reveals a major problem: AI-ready racks are pulling 120 kW each, and outdated cooling tech just can’t handle it. Air cooling is dead - liquid cooling is the future.
But here’s the kicker: most data centers today can’t be retrofitted to keep up. NJFX is ahead of the curve, already working with key vendors to crack the cooling crisis before it hits critical mass.
Then comes the bombshell: NJFX isn’t just adapting; they’re leading.
Felix announces a brand-new 7.5MW data hall designed specifically for edge AI deployments, putting NJFX at the heart of the AI revolution. With subsea cables, high-density connectivity, and cuttingedge infrastructure, they’re building the future of AI-driven data movement.
Want to see how AI is rewriting the rules of data centers? Watch this interview now!
AI-ready racks demand 120 kW each - air cooling is dead.
MIKE CUNNINGHAM CEO AT CROSSLAKE FIBRE
Super HOTShot
In her first-ever Super HOTShot interview, Isabelle sits down with Mike Cunningham, CEO and Fergus Innes, CCO of Crosslake Fibre. A company redefining digital infrastructure with a sharp focus on efficiency, innovation, and the future of connectivity.
Mike explains that Crosslake takes a hands-on, white-glove approach, keeping their product offerings streamlined to provide top-tier service. Fergus highlights their commitment to futureproofing networks, ensuring they’re built to handle the next wave of AI, machine learning, and digital growth.
“We’re building infrastructure not just for today, future generations.”
infrastructure today, but for generations.”
Crosslake isn’t just keeping up; they’re setting new benchmarks. From being the first to cross Lake Ontario, to building the first new fibre route under the English Channel in over 20 years, they’re breaking boundaries - both physical and technological.
They also tackle the industry’s biggest challenges, from AI’s rapid evolution to security and sustainability concerns, ensuring their infrastructure can support businesses looking to scale fast without massive upfront costs. Their message? Adaptability and collaboration will define the next era of connectivity.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Watch this interview—because the future of networks is being built right now.
FERGUS
INNES CCO AT CROSSLAKE FIBRE
Bridging digital gaps
Sonia Jorge champions digital inclusion, focusing on affordable access, digital skills, sustainability, and women-led initiatives through a US$80million global fund.
“We are selected
SONIA JORGE FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT GDIP
Sonia Jorge is on a mission to resolve the digital divide by 2030. The Global Digital Inclusion Partnership’s (GDIP) Founder and Executive Director highlights that the real challenge isn’t just building networks - its ensuring people are ready to connect.
That means affordable access, digital skills, and online safety, especially in underserved communities.
She also tackles the hot topic of sustainability, urging the tech industry to embrace renewable energy and rethink our obsession with the “latest” devices. Why upgrade when perfectly good tech can be reused, repaired, or responsibly recycled?
And here’s the big news: GDIP is leading the US$80 million Women in the Digital Economy Fund, backed by major global donors. This initiative fuels women-led digital solutions, policy reforms, and skills training to ensure women aren’t just online but thriving in the digital economy.
From reshaping global connectivity to breaking gender barriers in tech, Sonia is driving real change. Watch the full interview to see how she’s challenging the industry to do better!
“NaaS changes the consumption model by applying cloud concepts to infrastructure, providing on-demand connectivity for enterprises.”
The NaaS revolution
David Ward, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Lumen discusses the impact of Network as a Service, private connectivity fabric, and innovation in AI connectivity.
Join Isabelle at the Global NaaS Event as she chats with David Ward, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Lumen, about the game-changing impact of Network as a Service (NaaS).
David explains how NaaS gives enterprises on-demand, flexible network services, revolutionizing the way businesses consume connectivity.
He talks about Lumen’s innovative Private Connectivity Fabric (PCF), a meshbased solution that replaces outdated MPLS VPNs, cutting costs and boosting
bandwidth while seamlessly integrating data centers and the cloud.
David also discusses how Lumen is driving the AI revolution by constructing massive fiber networks to meet skyrocketing connectivity demands. The company is reinventing the internet infrastructure with optical fiber networks and next-gen metro connectivity, all through an APIfirst platform.
This interview offers an exciting look at the future of network services. Not to be missed.
Shaping global connectivity
Jürgen Hatheier discusses AI’s transformative impact on subsea connectivity, sustainable growth, and global digital inclusion for the future.
NCS helps operators plan, manage, and optimize networks
manage, optimize
In this compelling interview, Jürgen Hatheier, CTO International at Ciena, pulls no punches about the future of AI in the submarine industry. What was once a buzzword is now a US$150 billion force reshaping global connectivity.
Jürgen reveals how submarine cables are the unsung heroes enabling AI’s rise, connecting data centers to users worldwide and driving the global economy forward.
But he doesn’t stop there. He also explores Ciena’s game-changing use of AI in their Navigator Network Control Suite (NCS), revolutionizing network management to deliver faster, smarter, and more reliable services. As AI’s power demands skyrocket, Jürgen calls on the industry to build sustainable subsea cables powered by renewable energy.
JÜRGEN
HATHEIER
CTO INTERNATIONAL AT CIENA
Looking to the future, Jürgen predicts explosive growth in the subsea sector, with Ciena at the forefront, creating highcapacity solutions that bring the world closer together. But it’s not just about technology - it’s also about connecting every corner of the globe, especially the underserved regions, and taking responsibility for making the digital world accessible to all.
If you want a glimpse into the future of AI and subsea connectivity, don’t miss this interview. Jürgen’s vision will leave you thinking differently about the future of our connected world.
Transforming Networks
Roary Stasko discusses AI’s transformative role in networks, dynamic planning, traffic management, and Telstra’s strategic innovations.
Roary Stasko, International CEO of Telstra Enterprise, is shaking things up with his bold vision for AI’s role in the future of networks. During his latest interview he discusses two
game-changing applications: dynamic network planning and real-time traffic
In his view, AI isn’t just a buzzwordit’s about turning networks into selfoptimizing, autonomous powerhouses that adapt in real-time to meet the growing demands of customers.
But he also pulls no punches, acknowledging the huge challenge of cleaning up legacy data to unlock AI’s true potential.
At Telstra, AI is woven into the fabric of everything they do. From tackling cyber threats and network faults with lightningfast rerouting, to empowering frontline employees with the cutting-edge “Ask Telstra” AI tool.
The company is on a mission to lead the charge through innovtion and the implementation of new technologies.
ROARY STASKO
INTERNATIONAL CEO AT TELSTRA ENTERPRISE
If you’re serious about the future of networks, this interview is a wake-up call. Roary’s take on AI and the industry is disruptive, visionary, and will leave you rethinking how you approach technology. Don’t miss it. Watch now!
Special Feature Article
Top Dog Awards The Fashionista
Excited to announce the latest recipient of the Top Dog Award: Nigel Bayliff!
Why Nigel?
He was recognized for his incredible contributions to the subsea industry over the past 30+ years.
Award Category
As a result, Isabelle is proud to present him with ‘The Fashionista’ Top Dog Award, also celebrating his bold and eye-catching dress sense.
Top Dog Title
And just when you think it couldn’t get any better, Nigel is given a brand-new title: Nigel “Sea Dog” Bayliff!
Join us in celebrating Nigel’s amazing achievements. Stay tuned, because the next Top Dog Award might just have your name on it!
NIGEL BAYLIFF SENIOR DIRECTOR, SUBMARINE CABLE NETWORK, GOOGLE
The global NaaS ecosystem
Kevin Vachon discusses the future of NaaS, emphasizing collaboration, automation, AI, and ecosystem growth.
Kevin Vachon, COO of the MEF Forum, takes center stage to reveal bold moves shaping the future of Network as a Service (NaaS).
The MEF Forum is transforming into a powerhouse, not just discussing NaaS, but actively building the global ecosystem needed to bring it to life. Kevin talks about the importance of collaboration, revealing how the MEF Forum is aligning the industry with groundbreaking initiatives like the new NaaS blueprint - setting the stage for a unified vision.
Bringing together a global NaaS ecosystem
Kevin talks about the core challenges and opportunities for NaaS, from product strategy to the critical role of AI, automation, and APIs. He stresses that as companies move through different stages of NaaS adoption, these elements will drive the next wave of innovation.
Kevin reflects on the event’s success, noting how the broader ecosystem, from data center operators to system integrators, came together, proving that NaaS is no longer just a vision, it’s happening now.
With fresh insights, a dynamic ecosystem, and powerful networking, this event was transformative. If you’re ready to be part of the future of NaaS, don’t miss this interview. Stay tuned for what’s next.
“We’re repositioning ourselves as an organization towards being a platform to bring together an entire NaaS ecosystem.”
KEVIN VACHON COO AT MEF FORUM
Leading the wave of digital disruption
Maxime Anne-Archard discusses AI-driven infrastructure, inter-regional networks, and how non-hyperscalers
connectivity.
can disrupt subsea
Maxime Anne-Archard, VP Digital Infrastructure at Orange Wholesale International, isn’t here to follow the crowd. While hyperscalers dominate the transatlantic and transpacific subsea routes, he sees opportunity for non-hyperscalers to step up. To that effect, Orange Wholesale International is making bold moves with their inter-regional network project connecting Ireland, France, and Portugal - paving the way for new players to shake up the market.
Maxime also explores the future of terrestrial infrastructure, where AI is fuelling the demand for ultraresilient, hyper-scalable networks. The pressure is on, but Orange Wholesale International is gearing to future-proof their networks for the next generation.
MAXIME ANNE-ARCHARD VP OF DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE AT ORANGE WHOLESALE
wave disruption
What makes them stand out? It’s not just their physical assets, but their unrivalled expertise and long-term vision. Maxime emphasizes that they aren’t just playing the game, they’re changing it. Stability and forward-thinking partnerships are at the core of their strategy, ensuring they’re not just a partner for today but for tomorrow’s digital world.
This interview will challenge your thinking on the future of digital infrastructure. Maxime’s vision is disruptive, and if you want to know what’s next, don’t miss it!
INTERNATIONAL
“Hyperscalers are playing a significant role and will continue to be the dominant player.”
“We are reinventing ourselves by going back to the basics, doing what people expect us to do reliably and on time.”
Neven Dilkov shares why reliability, trust, and an old-school approach still drive success in the evolving telecom industry.
Formula for success
NEVEN DILKOV, CEO AT NETERRA
Neven Dilkov, CEO of Neterra, sits down with Isabelle in the Telecom Stars in Cars interview series to discuss what truly drives success in telecom. His focus? Reliability, responsiveness, and delivering real value to customers - not just chasing the latest trends.
He explains that while AI and automation are exciting, they can’t replace the core principle of dependable service. In fact, Neven prides himself on taking an oldschool approach to telecom, doing the basics right and building trust through reliable service.
Neven shares a memorable story about a customer who calculated their exact financial loss every time their service went down, down to the penny. This level of accountability highlights how businesses today rely on connectivity as much as they do on air or water. Trust and fast action are non-negotiable.
He also discusses Neterra’s recent investments in AI, automation, and a new Chief Product Officer to enhance their offering.
For an honest look at the future of telecom and why reliability is key, watch this must-see interview.
Celebrating 15 years of innovation
Anup Gupta discusses AI’s transformative impact on subsea networks, highlighting projects in Bangladesh, as well as AP Telecom’s ambitious future.
Anup Gupta, President of South Asia at AP Telecom, shares his insights into the future of subsea networks. AI isn’t just a buzzword, it’s transforming subsea, making networks faster, smarter, and more flexible. AP Telecom is leading this revolution, collaborating with customers to deliver cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of global connectivity.
Anup unveils an ambitious project in Bangladesh. A feasibility study for a new submarine cable aimed at connecting over 170 million underserved people. It’s a bold move to bring resilient, reliable connectivity to a region that desperately needs it.
As the company celebrates 15 years of success, with 34 completed cable projects worldwide, Anup hints that this is just the beginning. They’re not slowing down; they’ve got massive plans in motion, and bigger announcements are on the horizon.
Don’t miss this interview to get a sneak peek into how AP Telecom is reshaping subsea networks and revolutionizing global connectivity. It’s disruptive, it’s transformative, and it’s the future you’ll want to be part of.
ANUP GUPTA PRESIDENT OF SOUTH ASIA
“AI is changing the game, and subsea networks are no exception, transforming how they operate.”
Next-Gen visionaries
Isabelle sits down with two trailblazing UC Berkeley students, Ella Herbert and Michael Brand, who are ready to shake up the subsea industry.
Ella, new to the field, is struck by the industry’s surprising openness to young voices, especially when it comes to sustainability. She talks avout how energy efficiency, material use, and water consumption in cable landing stations are just the tip of the iceberg.
But it’s the industry’s need for strong policies and clear sustainability metrics that excites her most.
ELLA HERBERT STUDENT AT UC BERKELEY
“Learn more, get and help build sustainable digital infrastructure future generations.”
get involved, sustainable infrastructure for generations.”
MICHAEL BRAND STUDENT AT UC BERKELEY
Michael, equally passionate about sustainability, stresses that attracting young talent goes beyond talking about cables. It’s about addressing global challenges such as geopolitics and supply chains that resonate with today’s youth.
He echoes Ella’s sentiment on how the industry’s global, collaborative vibe is a major draw.
Both Ella and Michael urge viewers to get invovled in the digital infrastructure space, shaping a future where sustainability and innovation thrive. This is the next generation of the industry: bold, visionary, and ready to lead the charge. Don’t miss it!
Supercharging digital infrastructure
Mike Constable reveals how geopolitics, data sovereignty, and private equity are transforming submarine networks. Driving strategic investments and consolidation.
MIKE CONSTABLE PRINCIPAL AT
INFRA-ANALYTICS
Mike Constable, indsutry veteran and Principal at Infra-Analytics, doesn’t hold back on the forces reshaping submarine networks.
He reveals the raw truth about geopolitics, and how Chinese-led infrastructure projects are carefully choosing partners who bring more than just money.
Think payment security and strategic influence. With massive projects already linking Asia, Europe, and South America, geopolitical shifts are rewriting the rules of global connectivity.
“Regulators are saying data generated or collected from our citizens must remain in-country, influencing data center investments.”
Then, there’s digital sovereignty. More like data sovereignty, as Mike clarifies. Governments want their citizens’ data to stay put, forcing a surge in data center investments. The result? A new era where cables and data centers are inseparable, driving record-breaking deployments.
And what about private equity? Forget the idea of them bankrolling fresh subsea cable - Mike calls that a myth. Instead, these giants are buying up existing networks, merging, acquiring, and scaling fast to dominate the digital infrastructure space. It’s all about power plays and compounding value across portfolios.
This isn’t your standard industry talk. Mike is laying out the future of submarine networks in real-time. If you want the inside scoop on where this market is headed, this is the interview to watch.
Shattering the cybersecurity playbook
Senthil Ramakrishnan discusses the growing cybersecurity threats, AT&T’s innovative defense solutions, and the future of network security.
Isabelle sits down with Senthil Ramakrishnan, AVP Cybersecurity at AT&T, to explore the role of cybersecurity in digital transformation.
Senthil breaks down how the shift from private networks to internet-based services has drastically expanded the threat surface for businesses. Traditional on-prem security is no longer enough to fend off new, sophisticated threats.
He reveals why embedding security directly into the network is a total gamechanger, transforming it into the first line of defense. With AT&T’s security services integrated at the network edge, malicious traffic is intercepted before it even reaches the customer, providing fast, efficient, and seamless protection.
SENTHIL RAMAKRISHNAN AVP OF CYBERSECURITY AT AT&T
Senthil’s excitement shines through as he discusses AT&T’s Dynamic Defense, which offers built-in security for every AT&T connection - whether mobile or wireline. No extra security measures needed; with AT&T, you’re always protected.
This is the future of cybersecurity: innovative, fast, and smarter than ever. Don’t miss out, watch the full interview to see how AT&T is leading the charge in protecting businesses in a rapidly changing digital world.
“The network becomes your security service, your first line of defense.”
Tackling surcharges and innovation
Ercan Mustafa shares insights on voice evolution, surcharges, industry consolidation, and IDT Global’s innovative telecom strategies.
Ercan Mustafa, VP EMEA at IDT Global, is here to shake things up. In this noholds-barred interview, he shares his views about the evolving telecom space, tackling the age-old claim that “voice is dead” head-on.
Spoiler alert: it’s not. In fact, voice is transforming, with surcharges becoming a game-changer, especially across the Middle East and Africa. But with complexity comes chao: billing disputes, routing headaches, and a need for smarter solutions.
Ercan calls out the industry’s next big wave: consolidation. Mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships are reshaping the landscape as companies fight for dominance and expand their global footprints. And IDT Global is leading the charge.
By leveraging bold strategies such as all-you-can-eat bundles and crossproduct trading (voice + SMS), they’re rewriting the rules of engagement and finding new ways to drive value.
ERCAN MUSTAFA VP EMEA AT IDT GLOBAL
This isn’t just another telecom interview, it’s a wake-up call for the industry. If you want the inside track on where the market is headed, you need to hear what Ercan has to say. Watch the full interview and get ahead of the curve.
“Too many people have been talking about voice dying for so many years. But voice is still alive.”
