Born and raised in the historic city of Harar, Ethiopia, Betelhem Dessie’s journey into the world of technology began at the remarkably young age of seven. A computer in her father’s electronic shop sparked a lifelong fascination that would soon blossom into mastery. By ten, she was already coding. By nineteen, she had become a nationally recognized prodigy and was hailed by CNN and BBC as the youngest pioneer in Ethiopia’s fast-emerging tech scene. But Betelhem was just getting started.
With six software programs already patented under her name by the age of twenty and contributions to global projects like Sophia the robot, Betelhem has never seen technology as a distant dream—only a tool for empowerment. That belief inspired her to found iCog-Anyone Can Code, an initiative aimed at democratizing access to technology by teaching coding to young people, especially girls. Her mission is clear: to ensure that the next generation of African innovators doesn’t just consume technology—they create it.
“Teaching young girls coding and seeing them become confident and inspired reminded me of how I felt when I started coding,” Betelhem shares. “As a young woman, coding made me feel independent and free, and that’s something I want to give other people.” These words are more than just a reflection—they’re a blueprint for her life’s work. Whether through workshops, mentorship, or nationwide tech bootcamps, Betelhem continues to plant the seeds of innovation across Ethiopia.
Her Solve IT programme is a standout example of this impact, bringing together young minds to develop real solutions to local community problems using technology. From mobile health tools to climate adaptation apps, Betelhem believes innovation should be born where it’s needed most. And she’s not afraid to roll up her sleeves—traveling across the country to host hands-on sessions, inspire students, and nurture ideas into impact.
Now just 24, Betelhem Dessie is more than a tech leader—she’s a visionary redefining what’s possible for Africa’s digital future. Through her work, she’s proving that coding is not just a skill—it’s a source of confidence, independence, and opportunity. And thanks to her, thousands of young Africans, especially girls, are beginning to see their place in tech—not as spectators, but as leaders.
