Ethiopia – Like Her

Yetnebersh Nigussie

Yetnebersh Nigussie, an Ethiopian lawyer and disability rights activist, has dedicated her life to promoting the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Despite losing her eyesight at a young age, Nigussie pursued an education and went on to earn a degree in law and a master’s in social work. Her inspiring work has earned her numerous awards, including the Right Livelihood Award, for her efforts in changing mindsets and empowering those with disabilities. Nigussie’s commitment to equality and inclusion has made her a significant figure in women’s history and a champion for the rights of persons with disabilities.

EthiopiaBusinessComputer Scientist

Betelhem Dessie

Betelhem Dessie is an Ethiopian web and mobile technologies developer. Founder and CEO of iCog- Anyone Can Code (ACC) and holder of several patents, she is known as the “youngest pioneer in Ethiopia’s fast emerging tech scene.”

EthiopiaUnited StatesComputer Scientist

Rediet Abebe

Rediet Abebe is an Ethiopian computer scientist known for her groundbreaking work in algorithms and artificial intelligence. She focuses on developing frameworks to address issues of inequality and distributive justice. Abebe co-founded the multi-institutional research initiatives MD4SG and Black in AI. She completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Harvard University, and her PhD at Cornell University, becoming the first Black woman to complete a PhD in computer science at Cornell. Abebe is currently an assistant professor at the University of California, Berkeley.

EthiopiaArcherComputer Scientist

Timnit Gebru

Timnit Gebru is an Eritrean Ethiopian-born computer scientist known for her significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence (AI). She has conducted groundbreaking research on algorithmic bias and data mining and has been a strong advocate for diversity in technology. Gebru’s career has been marked by impactful projects and her efforts to advance women in STEM fields.

EthiopiaPolitician

Taytu Betul

Taytu Betul, also known as Empress Taytu, was an influential figure in Ethiopian history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Semien, North Gondar in the Ethiopian Empire in approximately 1851, Taytu was part of the ruling family of Semien, claiming descent from the Solomonic Dynasty through Emperor Susenyos I. Her father, Ras Betul Haile Maryam, was a prominent member of the ruling family, and her uncle, Wube Haile Maryam, governed the Semien and Tigray princedom.

EthiopiaMarathon RunnerRunner

Tiki Gelana

Erba Tiki Gelana, born in 1987 in Jijiga, Ethiopia, is an Ethiopian professional long-distance runner known for her exceptional performances in marathon races. Gelana has left an indelible mark on the sport with her remarkable achievements and impressive records. She won the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, setting a new Olympic record in the process. Her resilience and dedication have made her one of Ethiopia’s greatest athletes and an inspiration for future generations.