Hi, My Name is Rafael
Assistant Deputy Minister, Innovation and New Technology at Government of Manitoba
President, PMI Manitoba | AI Enthusiast | MSc in Blockchain Technology
Empathetic IT Leader | Educator | Keynote Speaker
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Empowering Innovation, Leadership, and the Future of Project Management
Rafael Vitorelli is an award-winning IT leader, project management expert, AI enthusiast, and keynote speaker who believes that at the heart of every breakthrough lies the power of people. His mission is simple yet profound: to make people feel valued, heard, and empowered to be their best selves, fueling innovation, collaboration, and growth.
Currently serving as the Assistant Deputy Minister for Innovation and New Technology at Government of Manitoba and leading the PMI Manitoba Chapter as its President, Rafael is a trusted voice at the intersection of AI innovation, strategic leadership, and transformative project management. His leadership style is grounded in active listening, empathy, and creating spaces where creativity and performance thrive.
With over 15 years of experience spanning global tech initiatives, business growth strategies, and educational leadership, Rafael has successfully navigated organizations through the waves of technological disruption, from blockchain and digital transformation to the emerging frontiers of generative AI.
Why Audiences Connect with Rafael
Rafael doesn’t just speak about technology and leadership—he brings them to life with stories of resilience, practical innovation, and community building. As a sought-after speaker at PMI conferences across North America, including PMI Minnesota, PMI Saskatchewan, and PMI Nova Scotia, Rafael empowers audiences to:
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Harness the potential of AI and innovation for smarter project risk management and strategy
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Lead with empathy, resilience, and futuristic thinking in a rapidly changing world
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Align technology, product, and sales for transformational business growth
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Build people-centered, future-ready project organizations that thrive amid disruption
Expertise and Credentials
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MSc in Blockchain Technology (University of Nicosia)
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MBA (University of Tampa and FGV)
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Certified: PMP®, PMI-ACP®, PRINCE2®, Prosci® Change Practitioner, ITIL V4, Generative AI for PM
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Adjunct Lecturer: University of Toronto (Health Informatics) and Sessional Instructor at the University of Winnipeg
A Global Voice with a Personal Story
Born in Brazil and now thriving in Canada, Rafael brings a multicultural perspective to leadership and innovation. His journey, overcoming personal challenges such as dyslexia, fuels his passion for diversity, continuous learning, and championing professional development at every stage.
When he’s not leading transformation or inspiring future leaders, you might find Rafael enjoying the Canadian winters he grew to love, especially downhill skiing.
Dyslexia, Diversity, and Professional Development: My Brazilian-Canadian Journey with PMI Manitoba