Empowering Women, Transforming Futures: Imagine1day’s Celebration of International Women’s Day

At Imagine1day, we believe in the power of women and girls to lead change, inspire progress, and shape a brighter future for generations to come. This International Women’s Day, we were proud to honor the incredible strength, resilience, and potential of women across Ethiopia with the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment.”

A Day of Celebration, Reflection, and Action

Across all of Imagine1day’s operational sites, the day was filled with meaningful activities aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women. Music, poetry, and coffee conversations led by community-based and school-based gender clubs created a vibrant atmosphere for reflection and dialogue. These platforms fostered a deeper understanding of gender equality, engaging individuals through creative and interactive discussions that made the messages come alive.

The celebration also included a panel discussion with government stakeholders, where thought leaders shared their insights on gender equality policies, the challenges women face, and strategies for enhancing women’s leadership and participation in education. This dialogue was a crucial step forward in breaking down barriers and amplifying the voices of women in leadership roles.

Education as a Catalyst for Change

In collaboration with the Imagine1day management and program teams, all staff participated in a virtual open discussion, led by a gender and social inclusion officer, focused on the theme “The Role of Education in Shaping Women’s Leadership.” This powerful discussion explored the barriers women face in accessing quality education and the urgent need for more inclusive spaces where women can step into leadership positions. By addressing these challenges head-on, we are committed to ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.

Strengthening Our Message

To amplify the conversation, Imagine1day used communication materials such as banners, flyers, school mini-media, and gender club activities to reinforce key messages on gender equality. These materials helped spark deeper conversations and spread awareness in communities across the country.

Championing Women’s Health and Well-being

In addition to celebrating women’s achievements, Imagine1day also emphasized the importance of women’s health. At our country office, women staff members participated in the Women First 5km Run, joining 16,000 women across Ethiopia to promote gender equality and women’s leadership. Moreover, leveraging our organization’s insurance coverage, we provided cervical cancer screenings for women staff, highlighting our commitment to women’s health and well-being.

A Unified Vision for Change

Through these initiatives, Imagine1day reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to empowering women, creating inclusive environments, and prioritizing women’s health within our communities. By supporting women’s rights, promoting equality, and enabling empowerment, we are collectively transforming lives and building a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to lead, thrive, and succeed.

 

   

 

 

 

Story: Empowering Girls and Mothers: Empowering Nation

“Before the intervention, I struggled with everything, I had no time to study. I would often miss classes because I was helping my parents with the daily chores. But now, I have everything I need to succeed,” says Ebise Teka a 17-year-old one of the 60 females scholarship winner by the ‘Educate a Girl’ program of The Barzilai Foundation Imagine1day has been implementing in Oromia region, Ethiopia.

Ebise’s comes from farmer family in Bukisa village in Oromia region, Ethiopia. Her school, like many in rural Ethiopia, was lacking essential resources. Female students in her school struggled with a lack of sanitary pads, and even basic school supplies were a luxury many couldn’t afford.

Ebise says, “I was often late to school, distracted by the overwhelming responsibilities at home. I love learning, but the hardships of daily life, coupled with the lack of support from the school environment, made it difficult for me to focus. Like many other girls in my village, I faced the harsh reality that the path to a brighter future was clouded with obstacles.”

But then, everything changed. The ‘Educate A Girl’ program, run by The Barzilai Foundation in partnership with imagine1day, transformed Ebise’s world.

“The intervention began by addressing my most basic needs—sanitary pads, soap, and other necessities—ensuring I could attend school with dignity. For the first time in my life, I was provided with the materials I needed to thrive in my education. The program didn’t stop there; it extended to my family, providing my mother with seed money and business training, which would support the family’s livelihood and give me the space to focus on my studies without the constant worry of survival. I am very grateful to the Barzilai Foundation and Imagine1day,” says Ebise.

One of the most significant changes came in the form of a dormitory, which allowed Ebise and her fellow students to live closer to their school. This not only saved time but also created a strong sense of community and support among the girls. Each girl, no longer alone in her journey, could now rely on a mentor—an assigned woman who took on the role of a mother, an elder sister and a friend. The mentor would offer guidance, provide emotional support, and, most importantly, remind each girl of her worth.

“Our mentor is like a mother to us,” says Ebise with a smile. “She listens to us, advises us, and encourages us. I feel like I can tell her anything.”

Moreover, the program recognized that empowering parents was key to breaking the cycle of poverty by ensuring mothers economic freedom. Ebise’s parents, who had once struggled to understand the importance of education for girls, now saw the value of supporting their daughter’s dreams. The program raised awareness about the importance of education and provided practical solutions—such as uniforms and scholastic materials—to ensure that all the 60 female students, including Ebise, could attend school without the financial burden that had once been a barrier to their learning.

For Ebise, the support changed everything. She no longer had to worry about the cost of her uniform or the availability of books. The focus could now be solely on her future. “I am able to receive remedial classes from the best teachers at our school, something I never had before. These teachers are helping me excel, especially in Physics, which is my favorite subject.”

Ebise aspires to become a medical doctor. Her ambition stems from her own experience growing up in a village with no access to proper healthcare. “I’ve seen too many people suffer because there is no health service in rural areas. I want to open health posts to save lives and prevent needless deaths,” she explains with conviction.

But Ebise’s dream isn’t just about helping individuals—she wants to give back to her community. “I also want to support out-of-school children. No child should be left behind. I want to help others, just as I have been helped.”

The intervention has not only transformed one girl’s life but also broken the stereotype that girls have no place in the future. Ebise, like many others, is proof that with support, determination, and opportunity, girls can achieve anything they set their hearts to.

“Before this intervention, I believed that girls had no future. Now, I know that girls can be anything they want to be. They can support their families, their communities, and even the world,” Ebise says with pride.

 

Story: Firenesh’s Pursuit of Education and a Better Future

“Like many girls in my community, I was at risk of being married off at a young age. Early marriage was a deeply rooted tradition in my community, and my parents, like many others, considered it a viable option for their daughters untile the Barzilai and Imagine1day’s intervention in my community,” Says Firenesh Demeke, a 17-year-old grade 9 student, at Arda Qalu High School in the Oromia region of Ethiopia.

Born into a family of farmers along with six sisters and two brothers, Firenesh’s parents, like many in their community, were not aware of the value of education. Their struggle to meet basic needs left little room for Firenesh to focus on her studies.

Firenesh says, “I was tasked with supporting my family’s daily chores, which severely limited my time for assignments and studying. The school environment was also discouraging and challenging, with inadequate facilities, and limited resources.

However, Firenesh’s life began to change when the Barzilai Foundation and Imagine1day stepped in with Educate A Girl Program.

 

“The rented dormitory, where I and 59 other female scholarship recipients were able to reside, gave us the freedom to focus entirely on our education. It has enabled us to attend school without the burden of worrying about where my next meal would come from or how I would afford the costs associated with schooling. The project covered all our expenses—school supplies, living necessities, and even sanitary pads—allowing us to dedicate our time and energy solely to our studies. I want to say thank you to the Barzilai Foundation and Imagine1day,” says Firenesh gratefully.

Firenesh’s parents, who had once been indifferent to the importance of education, were included in various awareness sessions.

Firenesh says, “The awareness raising sessions educated our parents on the value of girls’ education and highlighted the dangers of harmful traditional practices such as early marriage. As a result, my parents have become my biggest supporters, no longer seeing marriage as an alternative to education.”

Firenesh and her peers became role models, inspiring younger children, especially girls, to stay in school and pursue their dreams.

Firenesh’s favorite subject is biology, and her dreams are set high.

“I want to be a doctor so that I can reduce maternal and child deaths in my community,” Firenesh says with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. “Many women here suffer because of a lack of medical care, and I want to change that.”

 

Story: A project that changed school environment for the better: Educate-A-Girl

“Schooling was very tough. The school was unclean, and we lacked many essential facilities, our teachers weren’t motivated, and we couldn’t find the strength to push through. But then everything changed when The Barzilai Foundation and Imagine1day stepped in.” says Kidist Wonde, a 16 years old grade 9 student at Arda Qalu High School, In Oromia region, Ethiopia.

Kidist has three brothers and two sisters, and her parents are farmers. Life has never been easy for them, but she always believed education was the key.

Kidist says, “The intervention brough a culture of motivation and passion beyond physical resources in our school. The teachers now are so passionate. Before, they didn’t seem to care as much, but now they encourage us every single day. They push us to strive for greatness, and they show us that we can achieve our dreams.”

One of the most personal challenges Kidist faced was the stigma and difficulties surrounding menstruation. A challenge faced by many girls in rural areas.

“I used to miss school for at least five days every month. I would stay at home, not because I wanted to, but because we didn’t have the necessary sanitary pads. It was a big barrier for many of us, but now, thanks to the intervention, we are provided with sanitary pads. It has been a game-changer for me. Now, I can attend school regularly without that fear of missing out. I am very thankful for the Barzilai Foundation and Imagine1day for all the support,” says Kidist.

The intervention also provided school supplies, including exercise books, pens, and other school supplies.

Kidist says, “The school supplies we received have made such a difference. I feel more prepared and capable. Now, I don’t have to worry about not having the materials I need to study. It’s one less thing to worry about. The remedial classes have helped me improve a lot. Before, I used to struggle, but now, thanks to the extra lessons, my grades have gotten so much better. I can now focus on my studies and understand the subjects better. It’s like having a second chance at everything.”

“Having our own dormitory has been allowed us to study together, share our experiences, and support each other. During exams, we help each other stay calm and focused. The bond we share has been so important. We are not alone in this,” added Kidist.

Her passion for her future is clear, she is driven to help others, particularly young girls while she completes her education.

“Physics is my favorite subject I want to be a psychologist and help people with mental health disorders, especially those living in remote areas. I also want to support female students like me, so they are not left behind, I know how hard it can be when you don’t have the resources, the guidance, or the support. I want to make sure no girl has to struggle the way I did.”

Together, we are not just observing change—we are igniting it. This International Women’s Day, we stood united in our mission to uplift women and girls, ensuring that their voices are heard, their rights are respected, and their futures are full of promise.
Imagine1day — Where Possibility Becomes a Reality!

 

Staff Profile: Selam Gelgelo

Selam Gelgelo has been an integral part of Imagine1day since 2021, bringing her expertise in different roles. She began her journey as a Social Worker at konso zone karat district and later promoted & served as a CP/GBV officer. Her dedication and leadership passion led her to the role of CP/GBV Program Coordinator in the Imagine 1day Metekel Zone field office of Benshangul Gumuz, where she played a key role in program implementation and advocacy for vulnerable groups.

Currently, Selam serves as the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Expert at Imagine1day country office, leading initiatives to mainstream gender and social inclusion across programs, ensuring equitable and impactful interventions.

Selam holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from Jimma University. She is a passionate human rights advocate dedicated to gender equality, women empowerment, and inclusive development.

As a certified YALI RLC EA alumna, honed her leadership skills in civic engagement, strategic advocacy, and inclusive development through the program. She is passionate about empowering young leaders and women, applying the knowledge gained from YALI to drive gender equality and social inclusion initiatives.

Through her work, Selam continues to drive systemic change by embedding gender equality and social inclusion into organizational frameworks, fostering a culture of diversity, and ensuring sustainable impact with her team.