From Social Work to Tech Leadership: Jessica Kellner Finalist for the WOMED Award

How a Background in Social Work Became the Key to Innovation in the Digital Economy

A career in social work and managing a digital product studio may seem like two different worlds. However, for Jessica Kellner, co-CEO of Bits of Love, her experience in social work has been her greatest advantage in creating human-centered technology.

This approach is now gaining national recognition: Jessica is a finalist for the WOMED Award 2024 – Businesswoman of the Year, which celebrates Belgium’s most inspiring female entrepreneurs.

Bridging the Divide Between Technology and Humanity

Before entering the tech industry, Jessica worked for years in the social sector, covering areas from debt mediation to crisis intervention in psychiatric care. She consistently encountered the same challenge: technology was designed for systems, not for people.

Digital tools in healthcare fail to address the actual needs of patients, caregivers, and social workers. Technology should simplify life, not complicate it.

Jessica Kellner, co-CEO at Bits of Love

Rather than waiting for the industry to evolve, Jessica chose to create solutions on her own. In 2010, she co-founded Bits of Love, a digital product studio that prioritizes people and develops technology tailored to their needs.

From Healthcare to Digital Impact

What started as a focus on healthcare has transformed into a prominent digital product studio collaborating with commercial brands and social impact initiatives. Today, Bits of Love develops tailored digital solutions for partners such as Tomorrowland, Cultuurconnect, and Club Brugge.

Highlights

At the same time, technology for social good continues to be a priority, featuring projects such as:

🎮 A game that helps non-Dutch-speaking toddlers learn Dutch through play

📱 An app that supports young people with intellectual disabilities in achieving independence

🏙️ A platform where children contribute to shaping the cities of the future

Beyond the Award: A Mission to Inspire

For Jessica, this nomination represents more than just personal recognition — it’s about driving change.

For those who feel like they don’t “fit” in a sector: Your background is a strength, not a limitation.
For women in leadership: Embrace your ability to innovate and lead.
For businesses hesitant about digital transformation: Technology is not a threat — it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

I never imagined I would end up in the tech world. But sometimes, when you notice something that needs to change, you have to create your own path.

Jessica Kellner, co-CEO at Bits of Love