From the Red Dust of Jimma to the Hope of Global Peace:

My name is Lelisa Desalegn, and my journey began not in sprawling metropolises, but amidst the red dust and vibrant culture of Jimma, Ethiopia.

It’s a place where the aroma of roasting coffee mingles with the sounds of ancient languages, where resourcefulness is a necessity, and where the spirit of community thrives even in the face of adversity. Growing up there, I learned early on that true progress comes not from individual ambition, but from collective action and a commitment to uplifting those around you.

My story isn’t one of privilege or ease, but one of resilience and relentless pursuit of knowledge. I witnessed firsthand the challenges facing my community – poverty, lack of access to education, and the lingering effects of inequality.

Volunteering at an orphanage ignited me passion for empowering others. My small acts ripple, building a more just world. I commit to global peace, one kind act at a time.