Blen is a skilled researcher and political analyst with expertise in Ethiopian law, politics, and national security. Holding an LLB and an MSc in International Security and Global Governance from Birkbeck, University of London, her expertise encompasses international relations, regional security, and geopolitics.  

Her professional experience includes senior roles in legal advisory, research and advocacy. She has also volunteered with esteemed organizations such as United Nations Association UK, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, Make Every Woman Count UK, Prisoners’ Advice UK, Ethiopian Human Rights Council, Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association, and the Addis Ababa University Centre for Human Rights (Legal Aid Project).  

As the Executive Director of the Horn Review, Blen is  committed to bridge the gap between intellectuals and policy makers by creating an efficient platform to analyse and address critical issues affecting Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. She actively contributes to scholarly discussions on national, regional and global security, and foreign policy.