About Us
Serve Ethiopians Washington (SEW)
is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit established during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic for the specific and primary purpose of reducing the negative health, social, and economic impacts of COVID-19 on Ethiopian and other East African refugee and immigrant communities in King County. In response to the changing needs in our communities following the lessening impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have broadened the scope of our programs to encompass a range of community needs. We recognize the importance of addressing these pressing issues to foster holistic well-being and resilience among individuals and families. Our programs now include the following key areas: Basic Needs Resources for Children and Families, Youth Development, Workforce Development, Environmental Sustainability and Awareness, and Social Programs for Seniors.
Our Mission
Our mission is to serve and empower Ethiopian and East African immigrant and refugee communities in Washington State. We strive to provide comprehensive support, resources, and opportunities that foster their integration, well-being, and self-sufficiency irrespective of political ideology, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. Our commitment is to build a resilient and thriving community where every individual can fulfill their potential and contribute to the diverse fabric of our society.
Our Vision
SEW envisages a strong vibrant Ethiopian and East African community that will be an integral part of the increasingly diversified American society.
Board of Directors
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Serawit Abebe
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Graduate of the University of San Francisco School of Law. Currently, Owner and Manager of Law Firms based in Seattle and New York.
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Endrias Abera
BOARD MEMBER
Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Washington, Working at UW Medicine.
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Samson Stefanos
BOARD MEMBER
Graduate of Harvard Extension School and University of Massachusetts, now a Real Estate Investor.
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Adisu Fanta
BOARD MEMBER
Real Estate Broker, REALTOR in Washington State.
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Tamirat Alula Abera
BOARD MEMBER
MRI Technologist at Providence Medical Center Everett, Washington.
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Gizachew Manahle
BOARD MEMBER
Gizachew Manahle is the founding attorney of Gizachew Manahle Law Firm, PLLC, specializing in immigration and personal injury law. He has served immigrant and refugee communities as an Immigration Staff Attorney and Director of Family Empowerment at ReWA, leading legal and social support initiatives. He holds an LL.M. in U.S. Legal System from the University of Dayton, an MPA from the University of Washington, an LL.M. in International Law from the University of Groningen, and an LL.B. with from Addis Ababa University.
Staff Members
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Armaye Eshete
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Holds BA degree in Sociology and currently, pursuing an Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) at the University of Washington's Evans School of Public Policy and Governance.
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Nagessa Oddo Dube
PROGRAMS DIRECTOR
A legal professional with law degrees from Addis Ababa University (LLB) and Seattle University (LLM).
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Girma Neway Gizaw
MANAGER, PROGRAMS AND OPERATIONS
BA in Finance.
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Samson Alemayehu
MIGRANT AND ASYLUM SEEKER SUPPORT PROJECT COORDINATOR
Graduate of Addis Ababa University with background in journalism and humanitarian services.
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Nebiu Kinfu
YOUTH SOCCER GAME COACH
Professionally trained coach and currently studying Business and Marketing at Green River College, Washington.
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Mercy Kebede
SENIORS PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Experienced logistics coordinator skilled in planning and coordination, currently studying project management.
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Teclehaimanot Hiabu
WA MASS PROJECT MANAGER
MA Education and Development (Multicultural) Bristol University, UK.
Volunteers
Volunteer with Serve Ethiopians Washington
Volunteer with Serve Ethiopians Washington and help empower communities through sustainability, youth programs, and family support—make a difference today!
Top image credit: Mt. Rainier Photo by Lucas Davies on Unsplash