Emma Obanye: Championing Diversity and Innovation in the Tech World

Introduction

Emma Obanye is a name synonymous with purpose-driven innovation, inclusive leadership, and the transformation of the UK tech scene. As a British entrepreneur, tech leader, and CEO of OneTech, she has carved a path that inspires countless others—especially underrepresented founders and Black women in tech—to pursue their ambitions in a rapidly evolving digital world.

This article explores Emma’s journey, her impactful ventures, and how she continues to shape the narrative for diversity in tech and equity and inclusion on a global scale.

Emma Obanye: A Trailblazing Tech Leader

Early Life and Background

Emma Obanye was born in Leeds and raised in Hackney, London, by a Nigerian single mother. Her Nigerian heritage, combined with the vibrancy and challenges of growing up in Hackney, fueled her resilience and drive to succeed. She holds an engineering background from Brunel University London and pursued further studies in e-commerce at Queen Mary University of London. This foundation equipped her to navigate and excel in the competitive tech landscape.

Personal and Professional Growth

After gaining experience in various technical roles, Emma’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found her first startup. Her journey exemplifies what it means to be a startup founder, public speaker, advisor, and thought leader. Today, she balances her career while being a mother of twins, living in Barcelona, and leading teams remotely—proof that women can excel in leadership without sacrificing personal aspirations.

Career Milestones and Ventures

Co-Founder of BuddyBounce

In 2013, Emma co-founded BuddyBounce, a music-focused loyalty and influencer platform. It connected fans to their favorite artists and brands, gaining significant traction with over 70,000 users and collaborations with major names like Cheryl Cole and Penguin Random House. This successful venture was eventually acquired by Crowdmix, marking Emma as a notable post-exit founder.

CEO of OneTech

Following her first venture, Emma launched OneTech in 2018—a game-changing nonprofit organization aimed at closing the gap for underrepresented founders in the London tech ecosystem and beyond. Under her leadership, OneTech has supported over 1,000 diverse entrepreneurs, helping them raise over £34 million in funding and generate hundreds of new jobs.

Her work as a startup ecosystem enabler and social impact advocate has made her a prominent inclusion advocate and mentor to aspiring founders from marginalized communities.

Related Projects and Innovations

Mindful Team and The Retrospective Game

Emma has also contributed to tools that enhance team culture and performance. Through platforms like Mindful Team and The Retrospective Game, she champions better communication, mental wellness, and agile collaboration—highlighting her belief in mental health in entrepreneurship.

Journe

With Journe, Emma explores the importance of shared experiences and knowledge transfer in business. This platform helps leaders and innovators share “knowledge recipes,” promoting growth through storytelling and mentorship.

Recognition and Impact

A Recognized Voice in Global Tech

Emma Obanye has been featured as a Sifted speaker and has graced platforms like the Dublin Tech Summit, representing a growing movement of inclusive leadership. Her accolades include recognition among the UK’s top BAME tech leaders, and she continues to inspire as a female founder and remote team leader committed to tech for good.

Her influence spans across corporate boardrooms, startup accelerators, and global tech conferences—making her a role model for the next generation.

Why Emma Obanye Matters

Emma’s mission is not just to build companies but to build equitable ecosystems. Her leadership at OneTech stands as a testament to what can happen when Black founders, women in tech, and BAME leadership are given access, resources, and opportunity. She’s a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, proof that inclusion doesn’t compromise innovation—it fuels it.

FAQs

Who is Emma Obanye?

Emma Obanye is a British entrepreneur, CEO of OneTech, and co-founder of BuddyBounce. She is a strong advocate for diversity in tech and supports underrepresented founders.

What is OneTech?

OneTech is a UK-based nonprofit founded by Emma Obanye that supports diverse tech founders through funding, mentorship, and access to networks.

What are Emma Obanye’s notable achievements?

Emma co-founded and exited BuddyBounce, launched OneTech, and led initiatives like Mindful Team and Journe. She’s been recognized for her role in promoting equity and inclusion in tech.

Where is Emma Obanye based?

Emma currently lives in Barcelona, Spain, and works as a remote team leader, managing UK-based initiatives.

Why is Emma important in the tech world?

She is a startup ecosystem enabler, pushing boundaries for diverse leadership, and championing tech for good globally.

Conclusion

Emma Obanye is more than just a name in tech—she’s a movement. From a Leeds-born, Hackney-raised daughter of immigrants to an internationally recognized tech leader, her journey embodies resilience, innovation, and purpose. Through her ventures, mentorship, and advocacy, Emma is proving that diversity is not just necessary—it’s revolutionary.

As the tech industry evolves, voices like Emma’s are not just welcome—they are essential for building a truly inclusive and innovative future.

Western Business