Solen Feyissa (Ph.D.) is a learning technologies practitioner and scholar, a passionate advocate for social change, a creative, and a writer. Born and raised in Ethiopia, his journey has taken him from the heart of Addis Ababa to the forefront of educational and community empowerment.
At the University of Minnesota, Dr. Solen Feyissa works as an instructional designer shaping adult learning experiences, both in traditional and online settings. His approach is rooted in the belief that effective education is key to empowerment and societal progress.
Dr. Solen Feyissa collaborates with Shaggar Institute of Technology, (SIT) by advising on institutional evaluation and curriculum design. SIT is a new science and engineering university established in Ethiopia. The institute focuses on applied education, research, and startup incubation in fields such as electrical engineering, automation, biotechnology, and space technology. Solen’s work at SIT reflects his long-standing commitment to educational equity and his belief in the strategic role the Ethiopian diaspora can play in building high-impact institutions.
Solen’s in-camera and generative photographic work is featured in numerous publications. His images, viewed more than 3 billion times, capture life as seen under a macro lens, and the interplay between humans, technology, and the environment and reflect his perspective on the world, one where every individual’s story deserves to be told and heard. You can find some of his work on Unsplash and Flickr.
Solen’s passion for photography has led him to establish Apricus: Photos for All. This non-profit organization extends the transformative power of photography to underrepresented communities and offers professional photography services to those who might otherwise lack access. Apricus represents Solen’s vision of using visual narratives to celebrate individual dignity and strengthen community bonds.
Dr. Solen Feyissa is open to collaboration. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.
