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left to apply
When Eden Tadesse was a child in Addis Ababa, she watched the news with a mix of heartbreak and determination. Story after story — of war, displacement, and injustice — sparked a promise within her: one day, she would help rewrite those stories.
Today, Eden is fulfilling that promise. As the Founder and CEO of Invicta, a global platform connecting displaced youth to education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities across 100+ countries, she is redefining digital inclusion for refugees worldwide. Invicta bridges the gap between technology and human rights, ensuring that displaced people are not left behind in the digital age.
Her courage lies in choosing impact over comfort, and empathy over indifference — using innovation as a tool for justice.
This programme has been both action-oriented and deeply inspiring. The “homework” we do is not just theoretical but practical, helping me grow as a leader and entrepreneur. The chance to connect one-on-one with such dedicated fellows has been amazing, as each brings unique energy and impact. It feels like a space where purpose truly meets action.
Courage means making decisions that are uncomfortable but necessary, even when the outcome is uncertain. I constantly step outside of my comfort zone, take risks without waiting for guarantees, and pursue impact even when there is no immediate reward. For me, courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the determination to act in spite of it.
Through Invicta, I work to close the gap in access to digital opportunities for refugees. Millions of displaced people face barriers to education and work, leaving them excluded from shaping their own futures. This exclusion is unjust and dangerous, as it perpetuates poverty and vulnerability. Digital inclusion is the foundation for dignity, equity, and resilience.
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We collaborate with refugees and displaced communities worldwide. Our approach is deeply participatory—partnering with NGOs, municipalities, and governments to ensure our solutions are accessible, relevant, and sustainable.
While Invicta has reached refugees in over 100 countries, the impact I’m most proud of comes from individual stories. One young Syrian woman in Turkey secured a role as a Project Manager through Invicta. She told us the opportunity gave her both financial independence and restored dignity. It’s stories like hers that remind me why this work matters.
My family, close friends, and creative passions keep me grounded. Music, writing, and self-care recharge my spirit. Above all, I stay hopeful by remembering that change is possible—and even small wins can ripple outward to transform lives.
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I’ve learned that we are the architects of our own destiny. No one hands us a guidebook—we must define our path with courage and clarity. The only real competition is with ourselves, and success means staying true to our purpose.
Eden envisions a world where refugees are not seen as recipients of aid, but as co-creators of innovation. Over the next decade, she aims to expand Invicta’s digital infrastructure and policy advocacy to make digital inclusion a human right — ensuring displaced youth everywhere have access to opportunity, education, and dignity.
Eden’s leadership reflects the essence of GFiC: courageous leaders transforming systems for human rights and gender justice. From refugee camps to the global stage, she proves that when innovation meets compassion, entire communities rise.
