“REST came into my life in 1992 soon after the liberation struggle ended. I initially began as a REST partner, but transitioned into a regular REST local staff member in 1998 on the eve of the Ethio-Eritrea war. That’s when my REST journey truly began with responsibilities for fundraising, public relations, program design and support, policy and strategy, advocacy and liaison with donors, partners, international community and with the government.
I believe in REST and the people of Tigray – both of whom have changed my life and inspire me. REST is innovative, transformative, compassionate and committed to bringing about real change in the lives of the disadvantaged. And they do it on their own terms, and through the sacrifices made by local staff.
The people of Tigray are resilient, hardworking, determined, hospitable and their strength moves mountains. When I enter the REST Mekelle head office, or visit a village, I am engulfed by a sense of purpose, and I feel the desire to fight poverty and food insecurity is palpable everywhere.
Now living in Melbourne, Australia with my adopted son from Hawzien/Tigray, I run the REST Australia Office, and continue to advocate, work and raise needed resources to help make Tigray free of food insecurity, poverty and discrimination. “