Betelhem Dessie born 1999 is a trailblazing Ethiopian web and mobile technologies developer. She is the Founder and CEO of iCog – Anyone Can Code (ACC) and holds four patents individually, along with three collaborative patents. CNN has dubbed her “the youngest pioneer in Ethiopia’s fast emerging tech scene.”
Early Life and First Steps in Technology
Born and raised in Harar, Ethiopia, Betelhem’s passion for technology began at the age of nine. Her father, who owned an electronics shop, played a significant role in nurturing her interest.
When Betelhem asked for money to celebrate her 9th birthday, her father explained he couldn’t spare any due to work commitments. Undeterred, she decided to work in his shop, where she earned 1,600 Ethiopian birr by helping customers with audio and video file transfers.
This experience sparked her curiosity. She soon began exploring video editing, computer maintenance, and cellphone software installation. By the age of ten, she had taught herself HTML coding and started teaching basic computer skills to her classmates.
Early Recognition and Government Work
Her early contributions to tech earned her recognition from local and national media. After relocating to Addis Ababa, Betelhem joined the Ethiopian Information Network Security Agency (INSA) as a developer at just twelve years old, working there from 2011 to 2012.
Founding Anyone Can Code (ACC)
Betelhem is now the Founder and CEO of Anyone Can Code (ACC), a program under iCog Labs, an Ethiopian AI research and development firm. ACC is designed to train children aged 6 to 13 in areas such as:
- Programming
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence
Through ACC, Betelhem seeks to make coding and technology education accessible to all, especially the youth.
Empowering Youth Through Tech Initiatives
Beyond ACC, Betelhem is involved in several impactful programs:
- Solve IT: A tech-driven problem-solving initiative involving over 80 young innovators.
- Girls Can Code: A U.S. Embassy-backed program where Betelhem has trained 40 girls in programming.
She often speaks about the lack of female role models in tech, stating:
“Unless you really are in the industry, there is no one to look up to in technology.”
Software Contributions and Innovations
Betelhem has contributed to several government-related software projects, including a mapping application for irrigation projects across Ethiopia. Her work reflects a commitment to solving real-world problems using technology.
Academic Journey and Global Recognition
As of 2018, Betelhem was a third-year Software Engineering student at Addis Ababa University. Her accomplishments have earned her international recognition, including being named one of Quartz Africa’s “Young African Innovators to Watch” in 2019.
Legacy and Impact
Betelhem Dessie stands as a role model for young Africans, especially girls, who aspire to enter the tech world. From humble beginnings in Harar to becoming a tech leader and educator, her journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose-driven innovation.
