From Child Coding Genius to Continental Tech Leader
In a continent rapidly embracing artificial intelligence and digital transformation, few young innovators have captured the imagination of Africa’s technology sector quite like Betelhem Dessie. The Ethiopian entrepreneur, software developer and AI advocate has become one of Africa’s most influential young voices in technology, dedicating her career to equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
Dessie first gained international attention after demonstrating extraordinary coding abilities at a young age. Her talent saw her working on software development projects while still a child, laying the foundation for a career that would position her among Africa’s most respected young technology leaders.
Building Africa’s Future Through AI Education
Today, Dessie serves as the Chief Executive Officer of iCog Anyone Can Code, a technology education initiative focused on teaching children and young people coding, robotics and artificial intelligence. The programme was created to democratise access to technology education and ensure that young Africans are not left behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Through workshops, training programmes and innovation challenges, the initiative has reached thousands of young people across Ethiopia, helping them develop practical skills in emerging technologies while encouraging entrepreneurship and problem-solving. According to reports, the organisation has trained more than 26,000 children and young adults through its various programmes.
Championing Girls in STEM
Beyond technology education, Dessie has become a passionate advocate for increasing the participation of girls and young women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Through projects such as Girls Can Code and Solve IT, she has worked to break down barriers that often prevent young women from pursuing careers in technology.
Her work has focused not only on teaching technical skills but also on creating pathways for young innovators to develop solutions to real-world challenges affecting their communities.
A Vision for Africa’s Digital Future
Dessie has consistently argued that Africa’s greatest asset is its youthful population and that technology can serve as a powerful tool for economic growth and social development. Through her work with AI and robotics education, she continues to inspire young Africans to see themselves not just as consumers of technology, but as creators and innovators capable of shaping the continent’s future.
