History
alignafrica was founded in April 2009 by Yonas Mamo, driven by a profound commitment to addressing critical social issues. Drawing on extensive experience in grassroots social mobilization, Yonas envisioned alignAfrica as a platform to leverage his insights gained from working directly with underserved communities. Established in Debre Berhan, Amhara region—where Yonas spent significant portions of his career—TEA focuses on key areas including Health and Nutrition, One Health integration (human, animal, and environmental health), Emergency Response, Inclusive Quality Education, Women and Youth Empowerment, Policy Advocacy, Livelihood Enhancement, and Peace Building and Conflict Resolution.
TEA is dedicated to sustainable development through capacity-building rather than direct aid. The organization emphasizes recognizing and developing the existing potential within individuals, families, and communities, fostering self-reliance and long-term growth. Its peace-building initiatives address and resolve conflicts, promoting social cohesion and stability within communities.
Volunteer Testimonial
"As a volunteer with alignafrica, I experienced firsthand the organization’s dedication to thoughtful and effective program implementation. The Dance4Life program, aimed at creating adolescent sexual and reproductive health services, was meticulously planned to ensure it was ethical, culturally appropriate, and sustainable. TEA’s approach to empowering school students and local communities, coupled with its strong relationships with stakeholders, underscores its commitment to meaningful development.
The orientation process was comprehensive, preparing me to engage effectively with the community and handle various situations responsibly. alignAfrica’s emphasis on community respect, cultural sensitivity, and sustainability reflects its commitment to making a lasting impact. I highly encourage anyone passionate about making a difference to join TEA as a volunteer, whether in person or remotely. Your involvement can contribute significantly to our mission and help build a brighter future for many."
Vasti Putnam, alignafrica Volunteer, Dance4Life Project, April 2015