Furkan Karayel

Furkan Karayel is a diversity and inclusion speaker, author, and entrepreneur whose career spans software engineering and global DEI advocacy. Karayel holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering from Bahcesehir University and a Master of Science in Software Engineering from Athlone Institute of Technology. She began her career as a system test engineer at Ericsson and later worked in various roles, including support engineer, DevOps engineer, and automation engineer, at multinational technology companies in Ireland. Her experience with organizations such as Microsoft, Ericsson, and HubSpot provides insight into the challenges women face in the technology industry.

Karayel observed that diversity and inclusion were often used as marketing terms by large organizations without meaningful action. This realization led her to found Diversein.com, an inclusive leadership consultancy focused on advancing DEI in the workplace. Through Diversein.com, Karayel works with organizations to implement inclusive leadership strategies and shares her experiences as a woman in technology. Her clients have included Microsoft, Verizon Media, Indeed.com, and Pfizer.

Karayel is the author of the international best-selling book "Inclusive Intelligence: How to be a Role Model for Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace." The book breaks down diversity, equality, and inclusion concepts into actionable steps for leaders and organizations. It has reached number one best seller status in multiple categories. Karayel has shared her diversity and inclusion message in more than 10 countries and over 25 cities, engaging with local DEI advocates.

Karayel lectures in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Master's program at Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology. She is a contributor to Thrive Global, a contributing writer for Irish Independent, an associate of the Irish Management Institute, and a board member for Women For Election. Karayel also serves as Diversity and Inclusion Track Captain for Startup Week Dublin, Dublin Chapter Lead for Sprinters.co, and advisory board member for InspiringSTEM, supporting tech careers for new generations. She has been a featured speaker at conferences including TechCrunch Disrupt, Web Summit, and Women in Tech events worldwide.

Karayel has received recognition with awards such as Speaker of the Year, Diversity and Inclusion Role Model in Business, Trailblazer, and Inclusive Leadership Development. She addresses topics including building a leadership profile as a woman in technology, team engagement, belonging, female entrepreneurship, and strategies for engaging diverse teams.