Karina Rios Michel

Karina Rios Michel

Karina is the Chief Creative & Technology Officer at Girl Effect, where she blends creativity, tech, and purpose to build digital experiences and tell stories that unlock the power of adolescent girls across Africa and South Asia. With 15+ years of experience in human centered design, innovation, and product development, Karina leads a dynamic, cross-continental team behind some of Girl Effect’s most loved products—from YouTube talk shows and IVR games to radio dramas and AI-powered chatbots.

She’s the creative force behind Big Sis, Girl Effect’s award-winning AI chatbot that dishes out honest, non-judgmental advice on sexual, reproductive, and mental health. With over 1.6 million users and counting, and 1 in 4 users connecting to health services, Big Sis is making a serious impact—earning recognition from Fast Company World Changing Idea Award, GLOMO Award, and the Stanford Center for Digital Health.

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  • Organization
    Girl Effect
  • Profession
    Chief Creative & Technology Officer
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