Email: Tesfazghi Tekle Asgedom

ASO is saying goodbye to it student and former board member Tesfazgi Tekle Asgedom.Read below the piece of words from Tesfazgi to his community. “We should be united as Africans and not allow anyone to divide us,” says Eritrean native Tesfazgi Tekle Asgedom, age 38, to ASO and its members. Further, “We must focus on youth whether they came to Israel as teenagers or were born here. And, motivate them to join the journey to higher education.”The graduate from two secondary schools, Dekemhare and Warsay-Yikealo, Tesfazgi speaks Tigrigna, English, Hebrew, and Amharic. Among his most precious childhood memories is playing traditional games with teenage friends.In 2012, Tesfazgi arrived in Israel at age 27 where he has been working with his community leadership and volunteering at the Eritrean Women’s Community Center in Tel Aviv while studying at Reichman University (formerly IDC/Herzliya) where he earned a BA degree in Economics and Business Administration.Tesfazgi chose to earn a college degree, “to increase my awareness that can help me in decision making and improving myself and others.” He credits ASO (he was a Board member till now) with financial and moral support in helping him focus on his studies and where he met fellow Africans with shared ideas and common goals.Tesfazgi is passionate about commitment and dedication to tasks; social justice and civil rights; and family. So it’s no surprise that his father is his greatest hero. Others whom Tesfazgi admires as leaders and mentors include Nelson Mandela “who saw beyond the freedom of his people to the unity of his country. His forgiveness and humility are lessons for me and many others.”Tesfazgi enjoys discussing politics, economics, justice, and law, and his ingredients for personal and group success are, “Never give up, hope, plan, and dedication.” Also: “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” “Think globally, act locally,” and “Think big, start small.”With a visa to begin a new chapter in his life, in Toronto, Canada, plans include doing an MA as conditions in his new home allow, doing an internship, finding a part-time job, and focusing on his passions. Staying in touch with ASO is a priority —participating in meetings, contacting staff and members, and representing and serving ASO from abroad.” ASO wishes Tesfazgi the best as he embarks on this new journey.