Welcome to Menged Leselam
We are dedicated to restoring dignity and fostering belonging for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ethiopia. Through community-led innovation and compassionate action, we empower individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute to resilient communities.
About Us
Menged Leselam was founded by Tsion Kefene Gerbaba and Yeabsira Kefene Gerbaba. Tsion is an international student and human rights advocate; Yeabsira is a developer and digital strategist. United by a vision of inclusion, they created this initiative to amplify displaced voices and translate empathy into impact.
Rooted in Ethiopian resilience and informed by global best practices, our project integrates technology, community design, and cultural values to drive sustainable change.
Our Work
We implement a holistic approach based on five pillars:
- Livelihoods: Providing vocational training, microbusiness support, and employment pathways.
- Education: Facilitating school enrollment, offering mobile learning centers, and establishing girls’ clubs.
- Healthcare: Partnering with clinics to deliver primary and maternal health services.
- Social Cohesion: Organizing peacebuilding workshops and community dialogues to foster mutual understanding.
- Digital Empowerment: Deploying the Tesfa Link app to connect IDPs with resources, job listings, and community events.
The Challenge
Ethiopia hosts millions of internally displaced persons who face ongoing barriers to safety, legal documentation, and access to essential services. While humanitarian aid addresses immediate needs, long-term integration and self-reliance remain unmet.
- 59% of IDPs are children under 18.
- Women are at heightened risk of gender-based violence.
- Major displacement zones: Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, Benishangul-Gumuz.
- 45% reside within host communities, straining local resources.
- Effective peacebuilding requires integrated development strategies (DSWG, 2024).
Case Studies
NaTakallam – Lebanon
NaTakallam empowers displaced individuals by enabling them to teach their native languages online, merging livelihood opportunities with cultural exchange.
Kuja Kuja – Uganda & Rwanda
Kuja Kuja offers a real-time feedback platform that gives displaced persons a voice in evaluating aid services, fostering dignity and transparency.
Contact Us
We welcome partnerships with organizations, researchers, and donors committed to sustainable solutions. Reach out to us:
- Tsion Kefene Gerbaba – tsion.gerbaba@pepperdine.edu | +1 (725) 275-9154
- Yeabsira Kefene Gerbaba – demsese@proton.me | Instagram: @lu1zsec
