Cohort

Zintalem Getahun Asfaw has over 25 years of banking experience, including 19 years in leadership roles at Dashen Bank. Areas of expertise encompass international and digital banking, credit, marketing, and customer service. Currently leading a high-performing branch, the emphasis is on driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence.

She holds an MBA from Unity University College and a BA in Business Education (Marketing and Sales Management) from Addis Ababa University, along with diplomas in Banking and Finance and Accounting. Additionally, certification in Corporate Governance and ESG from FSDE demonstrates a strong commitment to responsible banking practices.

Throughout her career, she has built and led teams that consistently exceed targets, earning recognition as a Best Performer and receiving branch excellence awards. Beyond banking responsibilities, she mentors aspiring financial leaders through NEWFIN and actively participates in the Association of Women in Business, fostering learning, growth, and innovation within Ethiopia’s financial sector.

Miheret Andarge is a seasoned banking professional with 19 years of experience, currently serving as a Branch Manager.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and a Master of Arts in Business Leadership, blending financial expertise with strong leadership skills. Miheret has a proven track record in banking operations, customer relationship management, and strategic business development. She excels at driving operational efficiency, enhancing customer satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams.

Throughout her career, Miheret has implemented innovative banking solutions and optimized branch performance, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Her dedication to the financial sector and professional growth makes her a key leader in the industry.

Tsige Tadesse is a highly experienced Public Financial Management and project leader. She has over a decade and half of dedicated service experience at the Ministry of Finance and other public & private entities. Holding MSc in International Trade Policy Analysis and B.A. in Economics, Tsige has a robust background in public financial systems and fiscal policy.

Currently serving as an IFMIS Ethiopia project Team Leader, Tsige spearheads initiatives in Gender, Climate & Nutrition Budget & Expenditure tagging and tracking, and nationwide public finance and fiscal data consolidation. As a tenured fiscal policy and data analysis specialist her expertise spans macroeconomic and fiscal forecasting, MTEF development, budget consolidation, and IFMIS implementation. With a Project Management certification from an internationally recognized Project Management Institute (PMI), she is proficient in various software, including Oracle Financial Modules, Power BI, and MS Project.

Tsige is committed to enhancing fiscal transparency, efficiency, and accountability within government operations, driving impactful financial reforms and capacity building.

Selamawit Bekele Hailemariam
Manager, Strategy and Business Model – HST Consulting PLC

I am a fully qualified Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) with over 20 years of experience in system implementation, consulting, and internal audit. Currently, I serve as Manager of Strategy and Business Model at HST Consulting, where I support organizations in aligning strategic goals with innovative business and operational solutions.

My experience spans sectors including finance, agriculture, retail, and services. I specialize in ERP implementation (SAP and Odoo), process improvement, financial and digital transformation, and organizational capacity assessment.

Earlier in my career, I worked with one of the Big Four accounting firms, managing high-impact system implementation projects. These roles have allowed me to collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders and develop a deep understanding of industry challenges. In addition, I am passionate about delivering transformation that drives real value, empowers people, and strengthens long-term performance.

Elsabet Gebru is the Manager of Corporate Communication at Bank of Abyssinia, with over 20 years of experience in the banking sector and more than 13 years in leadership roles across various banking positions.

A certified trainer and passionate mentor, she is dedicated to empowering young women professionals in the industry, notably through her mentorship at Newfin. Beyond her career, she actively supports students in need by providing educational materials and is committed to sharing her professional expertise and life experiences to inspire and uplift others.

Lalise Bultuma is a highly experienced Risk and Compliance Manager with over 12 years of leadership in Ethiopia’s microfinance sector, specializing in risk management, regulatory compliance, IFRS implementation, and policy development. She has a proven ability to align institutional operations with both National Bank of Ethiopia directives and global best practices, having successfully led the development and execution of comprehensive risk management frameworks, AML/CFT policies, and governance documents such as Board Audit and Risk Committee charters.

Lalise holds an MA in Development Studies and a BA in Cooperatives Accounting and Auditing, along with certifications in Risk Management, IFRS, and Corporate Governance. Currently pursuing an LL.B., she is deepening her legal expertise to further enhance her governance impact. A graduate of a Corporate Governance Training Program, she is deeply committed to strengthening board capacity, advancing gender diversity in leadership, and embedding ESG principles in financial institutions.

Her professional passion lies in connecting operational efficiency with strategic governance—particularly in the areas of climate finance, inclusive leadership, and sustainable financial inclusion.

I am Hiwot Yohannes, currently serving as a Principal MIS Officer at the Development Bank of Ethiopia, with over 16 years of progressive experience in the banking sector. My expertise spans across management information systems (MIS), project management, risk management, credit operations and portifolio management. I have successfully overseen loan processing operations and managed large-scale private investment projects, ensuring efficient execution and measurable impact.

I hold a Masters degree in Business Administration and BA in Economics, equipping me with strong analytical and strategic leadership skills. I am more passionate about innovation and transformation, I focus on leveraging technology and data-driven insights to optimize banking operations and enhance client value.

My long-term aspiration is to be an effective CEO within the banking industry, contributing to sustainable development, financial inclusion, and institutional growth through visionary leadership and impactful solutions.

Selamawit Hailu is a seasoned banking professional with over 13 years of progressive experience in the financial sector. She currently serves as Branch Manager at Hibret Bank S.C., where she oversees branch operations, drives strategic growth, and delivers exceptional client service. Throughout her career, she has developed strong expertise in banking operations, customer relationship management, and leadership, contributing significantly to organizational performance and client satisfaction.

Selamawit holds a Master’s degree in Project Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, supported by professional certifications in Leadership, ESG, Capital Markets, and Investment Banking. Her academic background and practical experience enable her to combine analytical thinking with strategic decision-making, positioning her as a results-driven leader.

With a passion for investment banking and financial advisory services, Selamawit is eager to leverage her skills and experience to contribute to the advancement of financial institutions and the growth of investment opportunities.

Sewnet Hailemariam Asfaw is an accomplished professional with nearly twenty years of experience in banking, administration, and consultancy. Her career features a strong mix of technical skills, leadership abilities, and a commitment to excellence. She has a Master of Science in Project Planning and Management, a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems, and several professional certifications in international trade, entrepreneurship, communication, and office management.

Currently, Sewnet serves as the Manager of the Foreign Employment Agency and NGO Service Division at Bunna Bank S.C. She plays a crucial role in engaging corporate clients, mobilizing foreign currency, and forming strategic partnerships with corporate clients, foreign investors, and other important institutions. People recognize her for her skill in designing and implementing focused marketing strategies, conducting thorough market research, and delivering effective training programs to improve institutional capability.

In her previous roles at Bunna Bank, she gained extensive knowledge of international banking operations, remittance systems, trade finance, and managing client relationships. Before entering banking, Sewnet acquired valuable administrative and operational experience across diverse industries.

Her career includes roles from secretarial and administrative support to banking management. She also has experience in marketing, design, and consultancy. This background has helped her become a flexible and versatile professional, making her skilled in high level of competence on application programs and graphics designs.

She combines strong communication skills with solid technical ability. Her professional path illustrates a consistent record of achieving measurable results, building strong partnerships, and supporting organizational growth. She brings her knowledge and experience to every role along with a passion for creating lasting business relationships that generate long-term value.

Meseret G/Selassie Nigussie, With over 14 years of experience in finance and management, I am a committed finance professional grounded in entrepreneurship and operational expertise. I started my career managing a small business, which strengthened my resilience and problem-solving abilities. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, I worked as a Chief Executive Assistant in an import-export company. I also lead finance operations for eight years at a major international NGO. My core expertise includes finance, project management, accounting, community engagement and training.

I hold a Master’s degree in Finance along with CMSA® and FPWMP™ certifications. Currently, I serve as a project manager, focusing on project planning and implementation. I am also serving as a board member at Help the Future Generation LNGO.

I am passionate about developing capital markets, driving financial inclusion, and advancing financial education. I leverage strategic communication and relationship-building skills to promote community engagement and sustainable growth.

Current Role: Project Manager

Company Name: Organization for Learning and Development

Current Role: Board Member

Organization Name: Help the future Generation LNGO

Woinshet Sileshi Haile is a Branch Manager at Dashen Bank S.C., with over two decades of extensive experience in diverse banking roles. In addition to her role, she served as West District Resource Mobilization Team Secretary and currently, contributing as a member of Dashen Bank Women Empowerment Adhoc Committee, where she actively championing and promoting gender inclusion and leadership advancement. Recently, she was also assigned as a mentor at NEWFin Ethiopia to support the growth of emerging women leaders in the financial sector.

Alongside her professional career, Woinshet is pursuing her PhD in Organizational Leadership, exhibit her commitment to professional excellence. She took various leadership development trainings to strengthen her strategic decision making and problem-solving abilities.

She is aspiring to become an influential leader, mentor, coach and strongly passionate on empowering women in decision-making and leadership roles by contributing to ethical, inclusive, and sustainable organizational growth in Ethiopia business landscape.

Dagmawit Abebe is the Founder & General Manager of Kedemt Coffee Trading PLC, an Alibaba Global Partner connecting Ethiopian coffee to global markets through value addition, digital trade, and e-commerce solutions. She has extensive experience leading private enterprises across multiple sectors, with strong expertise in FMCG, digital payment systems, and export operations.

Dagmawit currently serves as an Executive Board Member of the African Women’s Leadership Network (AWLN), Ethiopia chapter, and previously as Secretary of the Board Nomination Committee at Oromia International Bank. A graduate of the Presidential Women’s Leadership Training, she also drives initiatives such as Buna Skills Academy and Hub-Bits, championing youth empowerment, women’s leadership, digital inclusion, and farmer-friendly value chains.

Frehiwot Guta is a trailblazing leader at Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, driving branch performance, client satisfaction, and operational excellence. With 13 plus years in branch banking, I’ve led teams to exceed financial targets, expand client portfolios, and optimize operations.

As the first woman to lead an all-female branch team and in senior branch roles thereafter, I’ve boosted profitability and nurtured future leaders. Grounded in servant leadership and financial acumen, I empower teams to deliver measurable results. Forward-thinking and energetic, I connect with industry peers to exchange insights, explore collaboration, and champion innovative approaches in banking and financial services.

Having been with the Chamber of Commerce for almost two decades, Helina Tilahun got a wide range of experience in the private sector which enables her to understand the complex nature of the business and how to create sustainable business. Her multidisciplinary background spans finance and economics, project management and information technology.

During her stay at the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations, Helina participated in the development of different strategic and operational documents, guidelines in corporate governance and sustainability, code of conducts for different organizations and by-laws of the institute. As a Director of the Institute of Director (IoD)-Ethiopia at the Chamber, she worked with capacity building program of board of directors this gave her the capacity to understand the boardroom setting, corporate level development activities and governance in general.

Helina holds Master’s Degree in Project Management, B.A Degree in Finance and Development Economics, B.Sc. Degree in Management Information System and Diploma in Human Rights towards Gender Equality.

Rahel Adefris is a strategic Marketing & Communications Leader | Brand Builder | Financial Sector Professional Dynamic, results-driven marketing and communication professional with over a decade of progressive experience across Ethiopia’s financial sector.

Currently serving as Director of Marketing at Amhara Bank, she brings a strong blend of leadership, strategy development, digital engagement, and cross-functional coordination.

She is well known for developing impactful marketing strategies, driving brand visibility, leading product innovation, and managing high-level campaigns that enhance customer engagement and corporate reputation. Passionate about inclusive economic development, financial literacy, and social impact marketing, she thrives in dynamic and fast-paced environments.

Hiwot is a finance and development leader who combines deep expertise in financial management with a passion for inclusive and sustainable growth. With extensive experience in budgeting, auditing, compliance, and donor reporting, Hiwot is recognized for precision, strategic thinking, and the ability to streamline complex processes.

As a certified trainer in Gender Transformative Approaches and local fundraising, Hiwot brings a unique ability to connect financial strategies with social impact. Training in corporate governance and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles has further strengthened Hiwot’s capacity to guide ethical, forward-looking decision making.

Fluent in Amharic and English, Hiwot excels in uniting diverse teams, fostering transparency, and delivering results that benefit both organizations and the communities they serve.

Tsemre Mengesha is a finance and accounting professional with a strong foundation in strategic planning, business control, and financial analysis. A member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Tsemre brings over a decade of experience across international banking, external auditing, and financial planning and analysis (FP&A).

Throughout her career, Tsemre has demonstrated a commitment to operational excellence and sustainable value creation. She has played a key role in leading major financial initiatives, including spearheading the successful implementation of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in one of the organizations she worked. her ability to bridge strategic objectives with financial insight positions him as a valuable contributor to any leadership team.

Tsemre is passionate about business growth, data-driven decision-making, and effective corporate governance. she is eager to contribute her expertise, discipline, and values-driven approach as a board member to companies committed to sustainable performance and ethical leadership.

Frehiwot Alemayehu Kelbessa is a highly respected insurance professional, currently serving as Chief Customers’ Officer at Awash Insurance Company S.C. and as a Board Member of Awash Bank S.C. She holds a BA in Business Education from Addis Ababa University and an MBA from Unity University. Her career includes serving as Vice Chairperson of Ethiopian Reinsurance Company and Directress of Underwriting at Awash Insurance, where she successfully led strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, profitability, and market growth.

Passionate about women’s empowerment, Frehiwot is Vice Board Chairperson of NEWFin, promoting inclusive financial solutions and creating opportunities for women in the finance sector. Fluent in English, Amharic, and Oromiffa, she possesses strong communication, risk management, and insurance governance expertise, supported by advanced training from leading institutions. Honored with the 2024 African Women Awards, she is recognized for her integrity, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence, inspiring women across Africa to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable financial independence.

Kalkidan Fikadu Gebeyehu: Business Development Manager at Visa, the world’s leading digital payments network, where I lead strategic growth initiatives and drives partnership development in Ethiopia. With over a decade of experience in digital financial services, I specialize in cross-border payments, agent network management, and business development.

Prior to joining Visa, I worked as Business Development Manager at Thunes, a global cross-border payments provider, where I crafted market strategies and expanded client portfolios. Earlier in my career, I held key roles at fintech firms Kifiya Financial Technologies and MOSS ICT Consultancy, managing regional sales operations, designing agent network strategies, and leading digital payment distribution networks in Ethiopia.

I hold an MBA in Marketing Management from Rift Valley University and BA in Economics from Axum University, Ethiopia. I am passionate about financial inclusion and digital payment, combine strong business acumen with integrity to drive growth, foster sustainable partnerships, and empower others, especially women in the technology and finance sectors.

Fitsum Yasabu Yared is an experienced professional with over twenty years in banking, finance, consulting, and business management. She holds a Master of Science in International Economics (2007) and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics (2000) from Addis Ababa University.

Fitsum began her career in September 2000 as a Junior Loan Officer at Wegagen Bank S.C. She advanced through roles including Senior Loan Officer, Assistant Branch Manager, and Branch Manager at Bunna Bank. During this time, she gained expertise in loan evaluation, credit analysis, branch operations, customer relationship management, product development, and market analysis. Following the current digitization era of financial institutions, Fitsum is helping Bunna Bank in the digital financing operation of the bank as well as performing coordinating task.

Moving to the private sector, Fitsum took on leadership roles in local and international companies. She has been a Partner and Marketing Manager at Zemen General Trading L.L.C (U.A.E.). In this role, she has developed marketing strategies, engaged clients, and focused on business development. Since 2021, she has also worked as a Consultant with MAE Consulting PLC. She delivers capacity-building programs, project evaluations, enterprise development initiatives, and training on gender, GBV, and business skills in partnership with INGOs.

Fitsum is known for her integrity, commitment, and results-driven approach. She has strong skills in strategic leadership, capacity building, sales and marketing, research, and stakeholder engagement. Her professional philosophy emphasizes continuous learning, teamwork, and achieving results that promote organizational growth while empowering individuals and communities. This makes her a highly capable and adaptable leader in dynamic business environments.

Ferehiwot Girma Kebede is the Chief Risk and Compliance officer at the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, with deep expertise in risk management (market, credit, operational, asset liability and non-financial risks), regulatory compliance, AML/CFT, credit review, portfolio monitoring and governance.

She previously has held director and manager level leadership position in multiple banks, including Amhara Bank, Goh Betoch Bank and Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, driving risk and compliance frameworks, credit review and portfolio oversight, and  strategy developments. Ferehiwot has contributed to the strategic planning of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, led the 5-year legal strategies (including legal, risk management, compliance and audit) and corporate strategy of Amhara Bank and contributed to the development of the credit strategy of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia.

She has extensive exposure to Board and committee processes through regular presentation to the Board and Risk and compliance Committees, and taking minutes to support effective governance of current and previous organizations.

She also played a key role in national policy studies on good governance challenges in government mega projects. Recognized for fostering ethical leadership, transparency and professional excellence. Her professional interests span corporate governance, non-profit impact, capital market, financial inclusion, ESG integration, enterprise risk management and compliance, and institutional capacity building positioning her as a strong candidate for board and advisory roles.

Lidia Samuel is a young and dynamic finance professional with over 15 years of experience in the banking sector, currently serving as Director of Financial Planning and Analysis at Dashen Bank S.C. She brings deep expertise in strategic planning, financial planning, market research, project management and corporate governance, playing a key role in shaping the bank’s long-term financial direction.

Throughout her career at Dashen Bank, Lidia has held pivotal roles, including Executive Assistant to the CEO and Monitoring & Evaluation Manager, contributing to strategic policy formation, investor relations, and performance monitoring. Her strong foundation in market research and planning has been instrumental in driving the bank’s expansion and operational excellence.

Lidia holds a Master of Science in Corporate Finance with a specialty in Investment Management, a Master’s in Marketing Management, and a Bachelor's in Management. She is also certified in International Project Management (CIPM) and holds an international certificate in Securities and Investment.

Known for her analytical acumen, communication skills, and leadership, Lidia is passionate about driving impact through strategic finance, operational efficiency, and inclusive leadership.

Meseret Tesfaye is a female transformative leader in the Ethiopian banking sector, with more than 20 years of professional experience spanning finance, customer relationship management, credit operations, project appraisal, administration, construction and import. As Director of the Interest-Free Banking Department at Amhara Bank S.C., I am at the forefront of advancing ethical, Sharia-compliant financial solutions through the Marhaba Brand, positioning the bank as a trusted partner in inclusive partner.

My expertise extends beyond technical banking operations I am a passionate advocate for financial inclusion, ethical finance, and ESG-driven leadership. With a Master’s degree in Commerce and a BA in Management, Meseret combines academic excellence with hands-on leadership to deliver sustainable financial services that empower individuals, businesses, and communities.

In my role, I not only build innovative financial products but also inspires teams, engages with diverse stakeholders, and contributes to the transformation of Ethiopia’s financial landscape. My vision is rooted in creating a banking culture that is inclusive, ethical, and impactful for generations to come.

Rekik Girma Azene is a seasoned legal advisor and governance strategist with over 20 years of executive experience in Ethiopia’s financial and regulatory sectors. She currently serves as Legal and Compliance Counsel at Raxio Group, a multinational data center company, where she leads contract negotiation, risk management, and regulatory alignment across jurisdictions.

Rekik previously held senior leadership roles at Tsehay Bank and the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, where she developed board charters, compliance frameworks, and strategic agreements, including partnerships involving the World Bank’s IFC and the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange. Her expertise spans corporate law, institutional policy design, and cross-border legal advisory. Rekik holds an MBA, an LLB, and a Diploma in Accounting, and is fluent in Amharic and English.

She is deeply committed to advancing governance standards, legal innovation, and institutional integrity across Africa, and regularly delivers training on compliance, anti-money laundering, and strategic legal leadership to executives and board members.

Short Bio

Rekik Girma Azene is Legal and Compliance Counsel at Raxio Group, a multinational data center company headquartered in Rotterdam. With over 20 years of leadership in Ethiopia’s financial sector, she brings deep expertise in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, and institutional policy development.

Rekik has held senior roles at Tsehay Bank and the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, where she led board-level governance, developed core banking agreements, and shaped national compliance frameworks. Her achievements include drafting anti-money laundering guidelines, negotiating strategic partnerships, and contributing to regulatory reforms involving the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange and the World Bank’s IFC. Rekik holds an MBA, an LLB, and a Diploma in Accounting, and is fluent in Amharic and English.

Her professional interests center on advancing governance standards, legal innovation, and cross-sector institutional integrity across Africa.

Fitsumselam Desalegn is a seasoned strategist, consultant, and entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in banking, leadership, and business development.

She earned her BA in Economics from Haramaya University in 2006 and her MA in Economics from Indira Gandhi National Open University in 2012, building a strong academic foundation in economic analysis and policy. In recognition of her professional growth and expertise, she became a Certified Management Consultant by the Ethiopian Management Institute in 2021 and an IFC-LPI-TPMA Certified Trainer in May 2025, equipping her with advanced skills in training, facilitation, and consultancy.

Fitsumselam’s professional journey began at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE), the largest bank in the country, where she served for 14 years in various roles. Her career at CBE culminated in managerial positions, including Manager of Monitoring & Evaluation and Manager of the Bank’s Reform and Transformation Project, where she contributed to strategic initiatives that shaped the bank’s modernization and growth.

She later joined Goh Betoch Bank, where she played a pivotal role in its formative years. There, she served as Director of Strategy and Business Development and subsequently as Director of the Office of Strategy Management, spearheading strategic planning, transformation, and business growth initiatives.

Since March 2023, Fitsumselam has shifted her focus to entrepreneurship. She is the General Manager of Giant Star General Trading PLC, a company engaged in management consultancy, property management, import, and other entrepreneurial ventures. Through her consultancy and business activities, she helps organizations develop and execute strategies for sustainable growth while also championing women’s empowerment and community development.

Her leadership aspiration is to continue growing as a successful woman entrepreneur and consultant, using her expertise to drive business transformation, uplift her community, and empower women to step into leadership with confidence.

Meti Busha is professionally in the finance and business sector with educational background of MA in Economics, ACCA certified, and B.A in Accounting and Finance. Moreover, Meti is a Certified International Project Manager (CIPM).

Meti has relevant experience arround Non-Profit Sector on Financial management, Grant management and Financing strategy for more than 15 years. She has been working as East Africa Finance and Grant Manager, Ethiopia Country office Grant & Finance Manager, Grant Manager, trainer and mentor on related posts for more than a decade at different international NGOs such as Pact Ethiopia, World Vision Ethiopia, British Council, RTI Ethiopia, Lead star INC and VSF Germany. In addition, Meti is an ideal key player in subgrant management working with intermediary organizations managing sub grants. She has managed different donor funds such as USAID, EU, GIZ, BMZ UN OCHA, German Foreign office, FAO and others.

Meti has also NPO sector consultancy experiences specially on capacity development activities on Grant management, Financial management & financial sustainability/financing strategy. She trained and mentored implementing organizations working with British Council, Ethiopia Aid, German Church Aid, Oak foundations, NFU, AFD and Humentum clients in Ethiopia and Ghana. She has played a great role in supporting CSO on Financial management, Financial sustainability, Grant management and IPSAS first adoption. She was one of Agar staff members in managing successful capacity development activities with INTRAC for Oak Foundation partners. Meti is an associate for Humentum and was representing Humentum on training, mentoring and expense verifications for clients in Ethiopia and Ghana. Meti is also currently an associate/individual consultant for FR=SH NGO and Mannion Daniels UK.

Meti who is known for multidisciplinary qualities, has also significant experience on the strategic business modelling as an individual consultant with number of business companies to develop their business plans, feasibility study, project proposals and strategy and operational documents.

Meti has also been working as strategic business advisor(consultant) for business organizations in addition to document preparation. Meti has been also representing the IFR4NPO project in Ethiopia as Ethiopia country champion and currently leading the final journey of the INPAS standards to be launched in October 2025.

Meti is living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and is willing to travel outside of the city and the country as might be required. Meti can peaks English and two local languages (Amharic & Afaan oromoo).

Tigest is a certified management consultant with over 20 years of experience in finance, accounting, and business management. She holds an MBA in Accounting and Finance and a BSc in Management Information Systems. Her expertise spans financial management systems, organizational assessments, investment, feasibility study, strategic tax planning, tax audits, and process optimization, consistently delivering clean audit outcomes and effective financial solutions.

She has served as a board member of Lem Ethiopia Environmental Association, deputy board director of a share company, and board secretary of professional associations. For more than seven years, she led Verdant Consulting, a U.S.-owned consulting firm, and has also worked as a freelance consultant for local and international companies across industries.

Currently, she serves as Business Manager for a U.S.-based real estate company, advising investors on tax and investment matters, while also working as Finance Advisor to the American Institute of Research.

Selamawit Menkir is the General Manager of Ella Center with over 20 years of experience managing large-scale programs in civil society, governance, human rights, and women’s empowerment in Ethiopia. Her expertise spans project and program management, capacity building, organizational development, gender equality and safeguarding, fundraising and business development, strategic leadership, partnership building, and advocacy.

She holds an MSc in Quality and Productivity Management, an MA in Social Anthropology, and a BA in Education, and is a certified manager (ICPM, USA) as well as a Certified Management Consultant (EMI, Ethiopia).

She has held several leadership roles, including former Deputy Chairperson of CHADET, former Board Member of the Society for Women and AIDS in Africa–Ethiopia (SWAA-E), and currently serves as Board Chairperson of the Ethiopian Center for Ethics (ECE). Skilled at leading complex programs with diverse stakeholders, she has proven expertise in KPI development and reporting, risk analysis, partnership development, gender mainstreaming, safeguarding, and influencing stakeholders at local, national, and international levels.

She is passionate about advancing inclusive development, governance, gender equality, and inclusion through effective program management, learning, and knowledge sharing.

Filagot Tesfaye is the Founder and Managing Director of On Energy Consult, a leading consultancy specializing in energy, environment, and sustainability solutions. With an engineering background and over 15 years of cross-sector experience spanning construction, manufacturing, and energy, she has held both technical and executive leadership roles, bringing a unique blend of strategic vision and operational expertise.

Filagot has advised governments, development partners, and private sector actors on critical issues such as renewable energy, grid extension, off-grid electrification, utility reform, energy efficiency, electric mobility, and clean cooking. Her portfolio includes high-impact assignments with the Power Africa East Africa Energy Program (USAID), the World Bank’s ADELE Program, and IFC’s Energy2Equal initiative, among others. She has also provided technical and policy guidance to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy, Ethiopia Electric Utility (EEU), and Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP).

A strong advocate for women’s leadership in the energy transition, Filagot co-founded the Ethiopian Women in Energy (EWiEn) Association, serving as its first President. She is an active voice in national and international forums, championing gender equity and mentoring young women pursuing STEM and energy careers.

Filagot’s leadership and expertise have been recognized through selection to globally prestigious programs, including as a Chevening Scholar, Mandela Washington Fellow, Open Africa Power Fellow, Women in African Power Fellow, and as a mentor with GWNET and Women4Climate of C40 Cities.

She holds a Master’s degree in Energy and Environmental Technology and Economics from City, University of London.

Website: www.onenergygroups.com

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/filagot-tesfaye-woldeselassie-9a061a59/

Lishan Gebremedhin, having more than 20 years of experience in banking, financial technologies, and project management, I am a strategic and results-driven leader recognized for driving business growth, delivering complex initiatives, and building sustainable partnerships across the financial sector. My career is distinguished by proven expertise in digital finance innovation, relationship management, and corporate communications, as well as a consistent track record of managing large-scale, cross-functional projects to achieve operational excellence.

My core leadership philosophy stems on profound commitment to empowering individuals and organizations through innovative, strategic, and value-driven approaches. I confidently believe that in today’s rapidly changing global landscape, optimism, foresight, and adaptability are essential qualities for lasting success. I promote tailor-made solutions that drive sustainable growth and deliver meaningful impact, by integrating my cross-disciplinary insights from finance, technology, international business, ESG, and marketing.

I passionately nurture trust, encourage collaboration, and inspire those around me—whether clients, colleagues, or partners—to embrace change with confidence, act with purpose, and pursue excellence. This balance of vision and execution has enabled me to consistently deliver measurable results while creating positive, lasting influence in every professional interaction.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 

+251911470407

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lishan-gebremedhin-4694ab97/

Meron Derbie Mamo is a seasoned banking professional with over 20 years of experience in Ethiopia’s financial sector. She currently serves as Branch Manager of Dashen Bank’s African Union Branch, where she leads fund mobilization, operational efficiency, and customer service excellence.

Since beginning her leadership journey in July 2011 as a Customer Service Manager, she has advanced through key roles including Accountant and Branch Manager, consistently exceeding performance targets and earning multiple awards for high performance and leadership.

Meron holds an MBA from Rift Valley University and a BA in Accounting from Unity University College. She has also completed extensive professional training in corporate governance, financial management, and transformational leadership, both locally and internationally.

Looking ahead, she aspires to take on senior executive leadership roles, championing financial inclusion, governance, and the empowerment of women leaders in Ethiopia’s financial sector.

I am a CEO of HST Investment Advisory Services Plc., licensed by the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority. I lead strategic advisory, financial modeling, due diligence, and transaction support for clients across Ethiopia’s industrial and services sectors, delivering robust valuation, feasibility studies, and governance-focused financial analysis.

Notable achievements include directing complex business valuations and due diligence for diverse clients, and guiding IPSAS/IFRS conversions and internal controls improvements that enhanced regulatory compliance and decision quality.

I have now the opportunity to lead initiatives to facilitate corporate funding and market entry, including advising on share registration processes with the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority. My professional interests center on financial advisory, regulatory compliance, and market development. I hold a BA in Accounting from Mekelle University and pursue certifications with CISI, ACCA, and CFI. I speak both Amharic and English Languages.