H.E. Roman Tesfaye, former First Lady of Ethiopia and CEO of the Hailemariam & Roman Foundation, delivered an inspiring keynote address at the Haset Women Leadership Program’s graduation ceremony today, December 11, 2025, at the Haile Grand Addis Ababa, highlighting the transformative power of women’s leadership in society.
Addressing a hall filled with graduates, families, and distinguished guests, H.E. Roman Tesfaye congratulated the 36 women of the Class of 2025 for their dedication, resilience, and commitment to both personal and community growth. “When women lead, communities rise with them,” she said, praising the graduates for daring to invest in themselves even while managing responsibilities at home, in the workplace, and in their communities.
In her keynote, H.E. Roman emphasized the vital role of women’s leadership in Ethiopia’s future, noting the country needs leaders grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a spirit of service—qualities women naturally bring to public life.
The ceremony marked the culmination of a transformative 12-month journey for the graduates—shaped not only by intensive leadership training but also by profound personal growth.
The Haset Women Leadership Program—an initiative supported by the Packard Foundation, developed by Emerge Plc, and implemented by the Association of Women in Boldness (AWiB)—aims to redefine leadership and elevate women to their fullest potential.
