Rebecca Firth is the Executive Director of the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), a global non-profit using open mapping to support humanitarian response and community development. With over a decade of experience in open data, digital innovation, and community-led development, Rebecca has played a key role in expanding HOT’s global footprint – launching regional hubs across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Before becoming Executive Director in 2023, she served as HOT’s Senior Director of Strategy & Program, leading initiatives in partnerships, communications, and community engagement. She also led HOT’s successful proposal for The Audacious Project and delivered a TED Talk highlighting the transformative power of open mapping. Rebecca holds degrees in Geography from the University of Cambridge and has worked across sectors and continents – from disaster reduction in Japan to public health in Peru. She is a strong advocate for gender equity in mapping, digital inclusion, and locally driven solutions to global challenges.

Under her leadership, HOT has embraced a decentralised structure, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, equity, and local ownership. HOT’s work continues to empower mapping communities worldwide to ensure everyone is counted, and no place is left off the map.