Advisor on Tech & Democracy.
Speaker. Multi-Award Winning Founder. Author.

Pronounced Shay-Yee Aki-Wo-wo

Seyi Akiwowo is a leading social entrepreneur and international advocate focused on creating ethical tech and tackling one of the world’s biggest issues-  online harms. With a proven track record in systemic change in tech policy, Seyi is passionate about demonstrating how responsible technology can drive meaningful impact for society, democracy as well as industry’s bottom line.

As the founder and former CEO of Glitch, an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to ending online abuse and promoting digital citizenship, Seyi has transformed the global conversation on digital safety. What began in 2017 as a campaign movement has grown into a medium-sized charity that has changed how technology companies, governments, and communities address online abuse. Under her leadership, Glitch has influenced international policies, including contributions to the UN Convention and UK regulations, and redefined how tech companies such as BT and EE design platforms to prioritise women’s safety. Through transformative workshops delivered to over thousands of people worldwide, Seyi has equipped individuals and organisations with the tools to navigate the digital world with confidence, resilience, and allyship.

Seyi’s expertise extends beyond founding Glitch. As the author of the critically acclaimed How to Stay Safe Online, published by Penguin in 2022, she has created a practical toolkit for individuals and organisations committed to safer digital spaces. Her thought leadership has appeared in leading media outlets, including New York Times, Wired and MSNBC. Seyi has also contributed or been cited in academic journals and papers such as Yale and Columbia Universities further cementing her reputation as a trusted voice as a leader in responsible tech.

Alongside being appointed to TikTok and Twitter’s European Trust and Safety Council, Seyi was voted Digital Leader of The Year in 2019, has featured as one of WIRED’s Global Changemakers and sits on the Board of Multitudes Foundation to support changemakers across Europe to reimagine who holds political power. In 2019 she was appointed on to Yoti’s Guardian Council, the Ethical Board of the world-leading age verification app. Three years later Seyi was offered an MBE as recognition of her work but made the decision not to accept.

As one of East London’s youngest Black female politicians, Seyi brought her pioneering leadership to the forefront of community change, using her platform to advocate for equity and community-driven solutions.

Proud of her Nigerian heritage, Seyi integrates her lived experiences into her work, inspiring leaders and changemakers across industries to rethink how technology can foster joy, safety, and inclusion for all. Whether writing, speaking, or consulting, Seyi is dedicated to creating a safer, responsible tech future.