Member Highlight: Merkeb Debessay

What do you do as a Woman in Tech?

As a woman in tech, I’m currently building an app designed to make travelling easier and more personalized. I’ve noticed that today’s navigation apps don’t offer a truly hands-free, interactive experience, especially one that can provide guidance and tips as you drive. That’s the gap I’m exploring with my app.

At the same time, law studies are on my horizon. I’m really interested in how law will shape the next wave of innovation, particularly within tech, and how we can maintain strong regulation while still allowing new ideas to grow.

What made you choose tech?

Tech for me wasn’t something I deliberately chose. It was something I became aware of. I realized we live in a fully digital world, constantly interacting with tech solutions throughout the day. That sparked my curiosity about what tomorrow might look like, especially as the tech space evolves so quickly. I wanted to be part of shaping what our daily lives will look like in the future.

What does the Women in Tech community mean to you?

The Women in Tech community means a lot to me because it’s incredibly diverse in both roles and backgrounds. Every time I’m part of it, I learn something new and have conversations with people I wouldn’t have crossed paths with otherwise. It has really broadened my perspective and given me fresh insights into how differently people approach problems and innovation.

Volunteering at my first Women in Tech event was especially meaningful. Seeing so many passionate, driven people in one place made me feel inspired and part of the solution, ensuring women are involved in creating tomorrow’s digital infrastructure. It showed me how important it is to have a community that uplifts and represents women across all areas of tech.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring woman in tech, what would that be?

Great question!

If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to put yourself in the rooms where the people who inspire you already are. For me, that started with volunteering at different events. When you do that, unexpected conversations happen, your world expands, and you grow much faster than you think. You don’t need to have everything figured out, working in tech means learning on the go.

What’s a hobby or interest you’re passionate about outside of work?

I have a huge interest in the space industry. I follow space tourism developments closely, along with the discussions around territorial claims in space and the responsibility for space debris. It’s incredibly exciting to think about an entire world beyond Earth, and it gives me new perspectives on what’s possible here at home.
I also love being out on the water, and getting a sailing certificate is definitely on my radar. There’s something about both space and the ocean that inspires me as they’re vast, unknown, and full of possibility. They remind me to keep learning and stay curious.