Beginnings

Process

It all began prior to my departure from Africa. The idea of helping Rakeb study in the U.S. came to me one evening. After discussing it with Amanda, I started talking to people that knew more about the process than I did. Through this, I learned that Aaron White, who has known Rakeb for over 6 years now, had been thinking the same thing. We discussed a strategy of Amanda and I paving the way in the U.S. while he took care of things in Ethiopia.

Aaron White (center)

Rakeb

The first time I met Rakeb was when she came into the Center for Creative Leadership’s office. It was about a month into my stay in Ethiopia, and she was just beginning to volunteer for the organization since it was her summer break from school. Right away Aaron, who is the deputy director of the organization, tasked her with teaching me Amharic (the most widely spoken language in Ethiopia). She was shy and quiet, and I had to ask her to repeat words a few times just so I could hear them.

Rakeb at the famous Meskel Square in Addis Ababa

Ethiopia

The capital of Ethiopia is Addis Ababa. The quickly expanding city is situated at over 8,000 feet above sea level and delivers a pleasant climate. The city is the definition of contrast, huge skyscrapers are being built everywhere, while rusting shacks watch from the shadows below, shiny SUVs share the road with donkey-powered carts and an extensive population of beggars who take advantage of the slow moving traffic by knocking on car windows looking for handouts.