Last October marked a pivotal milestone for the SiGMA Foundation, as the Women Empowerment Centre in Bonga, Ethiopia, was officially inaugurated. At the heart of this transformative initiative stood Kelly Kehn, a seasoned tech executive and Co-Founder of Defy the Odds. With over 20 years of experience across gaming, ESG, and investment landscapes, Kehn brought to the forefront her signature blend of insight, empathy, and strategic foresight.

In the emotional aftermovie, Kehn delivered an impactful reflection on identity and empowerment. “We are born of a particular gender, a particular race, a particular socioeconomic status, but that has nothing to do with our talents,” she remarked. Her message was clear: the constructs we inherit should not confine the gifts we offer to the world.

For Kehn, empowerment is not just a philanthropic gesture; it is a fundamental economic imperative. Speaking from the site of the new centre, she underscored the importance of enabling women at a foundational level: “They still have gifts, they still have intelligence, they still have confidence and skills that they can bring to the table.” She emphasised that when these abilities are nurtured, the ripple effects are profound, benefiting not only the individual women but also their families, the broader economy, and the social fabric of the community.

The establishment of the Women Empowerment Centre is emblematic of the values Kehn has long championed. Her work consistently seeks to dismantle systemic barriers and foster inclusive growth. Through initiatives such as the All-in Diversity Project and her latest venture, Defy the Odds, a startup accelerator aimed at making entrepreneurship in gaming more accessible, Kehn is actively reshaping the landscape of opportunity.

In Bonga, the vision was not simply to construct a facility. It was to invest in the latent potential of women who, despite adversity, continue to demonstrate resilience and capability. “I think it shows that Bonga believes in its women because they see the future for their community, and it lies with supporting the women,” Kehn said, reinforcing the sentiment that actual progress begins with inclusive empowerment.

A multi-award-winning leader celebrated for her influence in driving cultural growth and strategic partnerships, Kelly Kehn’s role in this project is a testament to her commitment to elevating others. Her presence in Ethiopia was not performative, but purpose-driven, embodying her lifelong dedication to aligning commercial success with social responsibility.

As the SiGMA Foundation continues to roll out projects that uplift underrepresented communities, voices like Kehn’s serve as both compass and catalyst. In Bonga, her message resonates far beyond the walls of the centre: talent knows no borders, and inclusion is not optional; it is essential.