Our Guiding Principles
Direct Impact
We deliver direct financial support to women and families quickly, without unnecessary barriers.
Inclusivity
We support women and children regardless of ethnicity, religion, or background.
Women’s Leadership
We center the voices, needs, and leadership of the women we support.
Building Independence
We provide immediate support during crises, with a focus on long-term independence and sustainable livelihoods.
The Team
HAIMANOT HABTU
President
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She founded SheRises Ethiopia Initiative to support women and families impacted by violence and crippling poverty.
MATHY SALES
Vice President
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She builds high-performing teams and mentors women across industries. At SheRises Ethiopia, she supports efforts to restore stability and opportunity for women in Tigray.
TARA HIROMURA
Vice President
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She has worked in legal practice, academia, and nonprofit fundraising for girls’ STEM education. She supports initiatives that help women and children achieve stability and self-sufficiency.
MEGAN WELLES
Treasurer
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She runs Oxygen Tango and brings 20+ years of experience in accounting and operations. Her advocacy in Los Angeles connects local justice work with global movements.
BIRGITTE HELLSTEN
Vice President
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She builds digital experiences and systems that support dignity and agency. She contributes strategy and operations to support women rebuilding their lives after conflict.
Our Story
SheRises Ethiopia was created to respond to the urgent needs of women and their families whose lives continue to be shattered by conflict. Women and girls were among those most severely affected, facing widespread sexual violence, displacement, and the loss of their homes, health, and livelihoods.
Years after the conflict, many families are still living in displacement camps, sheltering under tarps and plastic coverings with little protection from the elements. Conditions remain unsafe for them to return home.
We provide direct monthly financial support that helps women meet essential needs, including food, housing, healthcare, and education for their children.
This year, we launched our microgrants to fund small businesses to help move families toward long-term independence.
How It All Began
2024
We began as a grassroots effort supported by a small group of friends, providing direct financial assistance to women and children in Tigray who had survived the conflict.
2025
We expanded into the Amhara region (Wollo), supporting families affected by ongoing displacement and instability.
2026
SheRises Ethiopia was formally established as a nonprofit, building on the direct support model from the beginning.
Looking ahead
Expand to new regions
Introduce microgrants
Support long-term independence