“My name is Abel Teferi Mekonnen, I’m 33 years old from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I grew up in the capital and has helped me to be exposed to all the best things my country can offer. This ranges from access to access to education, a social network with the international community as most of the international community are based in Addis Ababa to a wide variety of opportunities. This has helped me to have an understanding of my own county but also of the international community.
I came from a family where education is considered valued greatly and our parents encourage us to focus on our studies. I am the youngest in my family. I have two older brothers and one sister. All my elders have also done great in their studies as well. One is a medical doctor and the other a chartered civil engineer currently living and working in the United Kingdom.
Coming from such a family has helped me also to stay on track and focused on my goals. I have always wanted to be a leader in the field I am involved. I have done several volunteer works for charity.
In general, I believe in giving back to society and, I am a firm believer one man can also make a difference.”