Every Child Deserves a Future
Learn about our mission, story, values, and the dedicated team transforming lives across Ethiopia.
The Story of Our Foundation
Our Journey
In 2005 E.C. (2012 G.C.), a group of 20 students—including Mrs. Selamnesh Tadesse—traveled to Hosanna on a spiritual journey. Walking through the city streets, they encountered two mothers whose stories would change everything.
One mother sat on the sidewalk, cradling her three young children and quietly seeking help. The other worked as a café waitress by day, but was driven by the weight of survival to work as a prostitute at night.
When we spoke with them, both mothers shared the same soul-stirring truth behind their struggle:
"It is all to send our children to school."
Though just students at the time, the group refused to look away. They partnered with a local school owner to secure full scholarships for the children and dignified employment for their mothers.
That single act of compassion ignited a movement. What began as a school club has grown into a national charity, led by co-founder and CEO Mrs. Selamnesh Tadesse—still driven by the same spirit that first met those mothers on the streets of Hosanna.
Our Mission
At Bertu Tesfa, we believe every child deserves love, dignity, education, and opportunity.
Our mission is to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable children in Ethiopia through quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and social services. We work to create environments where children can thrive and reach their full potential.
We envision a world where every child has access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to build a bright future for themselves and their communities.
Our Impact
Through your generous support, we're making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
KIDS ENROLLED
Educate Every Child
Quality education for long-term change.
MEALS SERVED
Nutrition Support
Providing meals to vulnerable children at various times throughout the year
MEDICAL CHECKUPS
Care that Heals
Access to free medical care and healthcare services
CLOTHING ITEMS
Dignity in Every Stitch
Clean clothes for warmth and confidence
Materials Distributed
Bezonet Guzo
Our flagship program providing essential school supplies to children across the country once a year.
What Drives Us
These values guide every decision we make and every action we take.
Compassion
We approach our work with empathy and care, recognizing the dignity and worth of every child.
Transparency
We are committed to openness and accountability in all our operations and financial management.
Inclusion
We welcome and serve all children regardless of background, religion, or ability.
Led by Passionate Visionaries
Our leadership team brings decades of experience in nonprofit management, education, and child welfare
Selamnesh Tadesse
CEO
Daniel Gebreyohannes
Project Director
Berhanu Tesfaye
Human Resource
Vision for the Future
Our ambitious plans to expand impact and serve more children.
School Expansion to Grade 8
We plan to expand our educational programs to provide continuous support through Grade 8, ensuring children receive a complete primary education.
Health and Nutrition Programs
We aim to expand our health and nutrition programs to all regional sites, ensuring comprehensive support for children's physical wellbeing.
Own Land and Building
Currently in a rented facility, we aim to purchase land and build our own center to provide a permanent home for our programs and services.
Join Us in Making a Difference
There are many ways to support our mission and help create brighter futures for vulnerable children.