Caro Melendez

Caro Melendez is an experienced ecosystem builder and 'super-connector' in the Scottish tech and startup scene, evidenced by her founding role at Foras Ventures, a platform dedicated to bridging startup ecosystems globally and facilitating international experiences for entrepreneurs. Her work with Foras, supported by Scottish and UK government backing, helps Scottish startups expand globally and attracts global investment to Scotland. co+1

She is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry, especially through her roles at CodeYourFuture. She works to create social mobility by providing free software development education to underserved communities, including refugees, asylum seekers, and low-income individuals, and actively removes barriers such as childcare costs and transport. linkedin+1

Caro openly identifies as a neurodivergent woman with ADHD, using her personal experiences to champion neurodiversity and accessibility. She emphasizes embracing neurodivergence as an asset and is committed to helping others unlock their full potential, as seen in her public statements and involvement with accessibility-focused roles like Operations Manager at WelcoMe. nitter+1

She possesses a diverse professional background, starting as a Signals Officer in the Chilean Army and transitioning into various HR, L&D, and entrepreneurial roles across different sectors including mining, property, travel, and fashion, before focusing on tech ecosystem development. This varied career path highlights her adaptability, resilience, and a linkedin