Maren Ahlers passionately advocates for active mobility, social inclusion, and climate justice. Based in Addis Ababa, she co-founded Egre Menged Impact (EMi), a community-based organization using bicycles as tools for empowerment, sustainability, and economic opportunity; especially for women, girls, and marginalized communities. Maren coordinates inclusive training programs and collaborates with universities, grassroots groups, and international networks to redesign urban spaces with care for people and the planet at the center. She was awarded the title of ‘Bicycle Mayor of Addis Ababa’ by the Netherlands-based NGO BYCS and the title of ‘Remarkable Young Voice in Transport 2025’ by the TUMI initiative.
Presentation title: Bikelash in Ethiopia’s Capital – How Cycling Got Politicized