Globally, 253 million people live with visual impairment, with over 50 million relying on a white cane. Traditional white canes, unchanged for centuries, offer minimal support for navigation, safety and independence. WeWALK’s patented AI-powered Smart Cane 2 and mobile app integrates obstacle detection, voice navigation and public transport guidance. Developed by and for visually impaired users to empower them with real-time environmental awareness and spatial orientation.
Gokhan Mericliler is the Co-Founder and CEO of WeWALK and leads the company’s strategic direction, partnerships and global growth. His responsibilities include overseeing product innovation, investor relations and cross-functional operations between the UK, US and Türkiye. He also manages collaborations with partners such as Innovate UK, Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), and Imperial College London.
Gokhan plans to use the Shott Scale Up Accelerator to strengthen his leadership and strategic foresight to enhance WeWALK’s operational efficiency, market reach and long-term capacity to deliver inclusive, high-impact mobility solutions. He hopes “tailored mentorship will challenge my assumptions, enhance decision-making and refine my ability to lead with clarity during WeWALK’s global scaleup.” He sees the networking opportunities can connect him with investors, innovators and industry leaders, helping match WeWALK’s growth strategy with sustainable funding and partnerships. These will enable him to “evolve into a more adaptive, purpose-driven leader who drives innovation and lasting social impact.”
The Shott Scale Up Accelerator comes at a pivotal stage as WeWALK transitions from a pioneering startup to a globally scaling assistive technology company. Gokhan recognises that “this programme will equip me to lead WeWALK through its next phase of commercial and social impact with greater confidence, ensuring sustainable growth while maintaining our mission of inclusive innovation.” Over the next 12 months, he plans to accelerate WeWALK’s expansion in key markets such as Germany, the US and the UK. Building on the successful launch of Smart Cane 2, they will enhance their AI-powered mobility software, improving spatial understanding, navigation accuracy and user personalisation. In parallel, they plan to explore new hardware integrations to strengthen their connected mobility ecosystem.
