Katya de Freedericksz saw the gap: women founders are still underrepresented. That’s why she launched SheRise, a platform dedicated to empowering women in tech and entrepreneurship through education, mentorship and events.

Beyond SheRise, Katya is a force in the startup world. She mentors founders at Techstars, Seedstars, and Google for Startups,  teaches as a guest professor at two business schools in Europe and Asia, and has led workshops for global companies like Unilever and Suntory. She was also was awarded with The Break Fellowship in 2023, an EU-funded program designed to help women entrepreneurs expand their network, develop skills and scale their businesses internationally.

TB: What is the purpose of your project?

KF: SheRise was born from a clear gap in the startup ecosystem –women-led startups still receive significantly less funding, and less visibility compared to their male counterparts. Our mission with SheRise is to bridge this gap by providing access to the three key pillars of success: knowledge, network and capital. Through tailored educational programs, accelerator partnerships, and high-impact events, SheRise is reshaping the narrative for women in entrepreneurship and in tech.

TB: Where is the company now, and where do you see it in two years?

KF: Right now, SheRise is expanding its reach –building stronger partnerships with VCs, accelerators, and corporate allies who are genuinely committed to gender equity in tech. We’re actively launching new mentorship programs, investor matchmaking initiatives, and strategic collaboration that will accelerate the success of female-led startups. And give more visibility and career opportunities to women in tech.

In two years, I envision SheRise evolving into a global thought leader in women empowerment –working alongside VCs, governments, and leading institutions to implement large-scale educational programs.

TB: A great idea you’ve had.

KF: A good idea I had was to actively improve my public speaking skills which has opened many doors for me. It started with hosting virtual events, then running workshops and teaching master students, and eventually facilitating my own panels and discussions in-person. Over time, this led to speaking opportunities at major conferences like MWC. I’ve realized that being on stage is not just about visibility –it provides access to influential networks, builds confidence, and amplifies ideas. Seeing the impact it has had on my own journey, I strongly believe that more women should step into the spotlight, use their voices, and take up space on industry stages.

TB: What has been your biggest challenge?

KF: Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced the challenge of balancing multiple passions –education, women’s empowerment, and entrepreneurship– while trying to create a business that is both sustainable and impactful. One of the toughest lessons I’ve learned is how to make a company scalable beyond myself. Early on, I struggled with delegation, realising that if a business relies too much on its founder, it’s not truly sustainable. Finding the right team, the right partners, and the right business model has been an ongoing journey of refinement.

TB: The best advice you’ve received.

KF: Find moments of stillness. In a fast-paced world, where we’re expected to be constantly ‘on’, we often forget the power of rest, intuition, and slowing down. Some of my most creative ideas and breakthroughs have come when I’ve stepped away from work, reconnected with myself, and given space for clarity to emerge. Balancing intense work with mindful rest is not just good for well-being –it’s also key to better decision-making and long-term success.

TB: A role model.

KF: Dr.Claire Thorne, Co-CEO of TechSheCan and Venture Partner. She is a remarkable leader who balances deep technical expertise with a strong vision for gender inclusivity in tech. What I admire most about her is how she remains approachable, humble, and mission-driven, despite operating at the highest levels of business.

TB: A technology that will shape the future.

KF: Beyond AI, I believe human biology and biohacking will be one of the most transformative fields of the future. As we understand more about neuroscience, longevity, and human optimisation, new innovations will emerge that help us unlock peak energy, cognitive performance, and well-being – changing the way we live and work.

TB: In-office or remote?

KF: Face-to-face leads to deeper, more meaningful connections.

TB: A startup or company.

KF: Reclaim, founded by Melissa McDermott, is an AI-powered circular fashion startup that’s tacking one of the dirtiest industries (fashion) by making resale and recycling seamless for brands and consumers. Melissa’s vision, deep industry expertise, and commitment to sustainability make her one of the most inspiring people I know.

TB: How do you unwind?

KF: Dancing and music allow me to fully immerse myself in the present moment, whether at a concert or simply at home. Hosting intimate dinners with friends is another way I unwind. I also prioritise relaxation rituals like spa visits, sauna sessions, and sound healing, which help reset my energy.

TB: A book to recommend.

KF: ‘The Double X Economy’ by Linda Scott is a must-read for anyone interested in the connection between gender, business, and economic progress. It explores how gender inequality limits economic growth and why empowering women is key to global prosperity. The book highlights the systemic barriers women face in business and finance, from limited access to capital to unpaid labor. The author makes a compelling case that when women gain financial independence, businesses thrive, families prosper, and economies grow.

TB: A series, movie, or song that defines your current phase in life.

KF: ‘Night on Earth’ by Jim Jarmush– a film about deep conversations, different cultures, and life’s unexpected encounters. It resonates with my journey of global exploration and my spirit of adventure.

TB: A recipe, a restaurant.

KF: Ceviche is my go-to! Any good Peruvian restaurant is a winner for me.

TB: A place in the world.

KF: Bali, Indonesia is a place that always grounds me and inspires me.

TB: Where would you invest 100k?

KF: I’d invest it in myself and my company.

TB: If you weren’t an entrepreneur…

KF: I’d still be an educator and mentor, teaching, facilitating workshops, and creating programs that help others unlock their potential.

TB: What does Tech Barcelona mean to you?

KF: An amazing community and network that fosters collaboration, innovation, and meaningful connections.