Our People

Message from the Executive Director

Since 2009, alignAfrica has grown from a simple conviction: lasting change is built with communities, not for them.

Our journey has taught us to listen deeply, learn continuously, and adapt wisely, building on the strengths within communities. This principle guides how we work, partner, and measure impact.

Today, we strengthen alignAfrica around locally led action, quality programming, measurable results, strong systems, learning, and accountability. We invest in our people, capabilities, and partnerships so that resources create meaningful, lasting change.

Our ambition is clear to be an organization that communities trust, partners value, and institutions can rely on: capable, accountable, and committed to continuous improvement.

I am deeply grateful to our communities, staff, partners, and supporters whose trust has shaped this journey. We will continue to listen, learn, and walk together toward lasting change.

Yonas Mamo Zewudie
Phone: +251 933 920 666 | Email: yonasm@alignafrica.org

Message from the Patron

I am pleased to support alignAfrica and its commitment to locally led, inclusive, and sustainable development across Ethiopia and, progressively, Africa.

Since 2009, alignAfrica has worked with communities and partners across education, health, protection and inclusion, humanitarian response, livelihoods, climate resilience, and WASH.

Through local knowledge, evidence, innovation, and partnerships, alignAfrica strengthens resilience, expands opportunity, and supports refugees, IDPs, and host communities.

I encourage donors, INGOs, foundations, and development partners to partner with alignAfrica to advance locally led solutions, strengthen systems, and achieve lasting impact.

H.E. Thomas Tut Puok, alignAfrica

Our Board Members

Pastor Thokhat Nhial

Board Chairman

Thokhat Nhial is a pastor with deep roots in biblical study and currently serves as President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Gambella. He holds a Master of Arts in Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Law, and brings more than 25 years of leadership experience. As Board Chairman of alignAfrica, he guides the organization with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to serving people with compassion and fairness.

Dr. Wossen Tesfaye

Vice Board Chairman

Dr. Wossen Tesfaye is a public health professional with more than 15 years of experience working in public hospitals and health centers. He currently runs a private clinic and has strong experience with international NGOs in health and vaccine programs. He brings practical expertise in healthcare delivery, health systems strengthening, immunization, and community health services. As a board member of alignAfrica, he contributes strategic guidance that supports the organization’s work in health, nutrition, and community well-being.

Helen Gezakegn

Board Member

Helen Gezakegn holds a Master of Arts in Economics and has built strong experience in trade and economic development. She helps alignAfrica think strategically about how communities can grow opportunities and create lasting change through sound and inclusive approaches.

Tarik Kefale Gebreyes

Board Member

Tarik Kefale Gebreyes holds a Master of Arts in Economics and a Bachelor of Arts in Management. With over 15 years of experience across different sectors and as a private company owner, she brings practical business insight and steady leadership that help alignAfrica grow stronger and deliver meaningful results.

Genet Belay

Board Member

Genet Belay holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a Diploma in Management, with over 10 years of experience across the private and public sectors. She currently serves as a General Manager of a leading private company, bringing expertise in financial management, organizational leadership, and administration. As a Board Member of alignAfrica, she contributes to strong governance, accountability, and sustainable growth.