In the heart of Apartama, a neighborhood next to a city garbage dump in Ethiopia, one woman stands as a beacon of hope, strength, and constant care—Yeshi.

Her presence is not just felt but deeply respected, a rare feat in a patriarchal society where women’s leadership is often undervalued. Yet, through her grace, wisdom, and deep sense of responsibility, Yeshi has earned a place of honor among her people.

Yeshi’s leadership is unique—not bound by authority but by the love and trust of her community. For decades, living alongside the garbage dump, she has been the driving force behind community organization and improvement. She was instrumental in advocating for housing solutions. When International Samaritan arrived in this community near Ethiopia’s capital city 11 years ago, Yeshi played a crucial role in identifying and connecting the most vulnerable families with essential resources. She is a mother figure not only to those in her household but to many in Apartama who turn to her for guidance. 

One of Yeshi’s most profound acts of love and courage was taking in Marti, a little girl who had been left without a family. Five years ago, she brought Marti home from the city’s orphanage, giving her not just shelter but a true sense of belonging. In a world where many hesitate to take on such responsibility, Yeshi did so without question, raising Marti with the same unwavering dedication and love she extends to the rest of her community. 

At a special ceremony in Ethiopia, Yeshi was honored with a Heart of Kore Award. We recognize the profound influence of women like her—women who quietly, yet powerfully, shape their communities for the better. Yeshi’s leadership was essential as International Samaritan helped develop vital infrastructure over the past decade, including a community center, water well, milling facility, and garden.

Yeshi is not just a woman of Apartama; she is its heart, its soul, and its unwavering guide toward a brighter future. She leads the community garden project and mobilizes mothers to join the co-op. Through raising chickens and tending the garden, women can earn income from selling eggs and vegetables instead of by finding recyclables at the dumpsite. She is serving on various committees all aimed at making the lives of the community better. Yeshi is a reminder that leadership is not always about power; sometimes, it is about love, sacrifice, and the courage to uplift others.

Why are women laboring in toxic dumpsites?

International Samaritan is a Christ-centered organization built on Catholic Social Teaching. Our mission is to walk hand-in-hand with people who live and work in the garbage dumps of developing nations to help them break out of poverty.

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Selam Terefe, Regional Director, East Africa

Selam has years of experience in international development and aid. Her education and career have given her a thorough and in-depth knowledge of gender, legal, social, and political issues of East Africa with a special focus on Ethiopia. Selam is passionate about development in Africa and a strong believer in effective partnerships.