Shimelse Mekonnen is an international economist and the founder of Novel Insights, a consulting firm specializing in international economic research. With a deep understanding of the intersection between technology and economic development, Shimelse’s recent work focuses on the economic impact of emerging technologies on developing countries.
Shimelse Mekonnen is an international economist and the founder of Novel Insights, a consulting firm specializing in international economic research. With a deep understanding of the intersection between technology and economic development, Shimelse’s recent work focuses on the economic impact of emerging technologies on developing countries.
Previously, Shimelse served as an economist at the D.C.-based think tank Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where he published numerous papers and policy briefs on topics such as international trade policy, African development, China-Africa relations, and the rise of the global middle class. His extensive research and analysis have significantly contributed to the discourse on international trade and development. In this capacity, he has provided consulting services for clients such as the World Bank and the G20.
As a speaker, Shimelse has shared his insights at global conferences across Asia and Africa, including discussing the transformative potential of emerging technologies such as AI and other 4th Industrial Revolution technologies on the economies of developing nations. His recent work with Novel Insights includes examining China-Africa economic relations and South Korea’s strategic shift in Africa, and his upcoming projects involve assessing the impact of technology transfer on developing countries, with a focus on how these technologies can drive economic growth and innovation in Africa. Novel Insights also provides advisory services to private investors and government agencies.His previous analytics consulting clients include the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and Quality Technology.
In addition to his consulting and speaking engagements, Shimelse is the co-founder of MeSh Cart, a U.S.-based e-commerce platform that connects African products with a global audience.
Shimelse holds a Master’s degree in Economics. He is also one of the founders of Your Ethiopian Professionals Network (YEP) and currently serves as a Board member. Shimelse has a passion for community development and creative work in video making.