Merhari Centre 

Meet our Leadership Team

Yodit Girmay

Yodit Girmay immigrated to Canada in her teenage years and lived in Ottawa ever since. Immediately upon arrival, Yodit got involved in leadership programs and worked with community organizations serving marginalized communities. As a community builder, volunteerism is her vocation. She has volunteered with no fewer than 25 community organizations and emerging grassroots groups.  For the past 8 years, she has worked in various capacities as a grant-maker and EDI specialist in the public sector. In addition, she brings over 10 years of professional experience in the settlement sector where she developed and coordinated several community programs that target the socio-economic as well as physical and mental wellbeing of newcomers. These initiatives have helped tackle challenges such as unemployment, language barriers, access to higher education, health care, and successful integration. Yodit is a natural mobilizer, skilled at engaging, connecting and building meaningful partnerships. She is committed to fostering a more equitable society and creating a sense of belonging and interpersonal connections among community members. Yodit holds a Bachelor of Laws from Carleton University and a Post-graduate Diploma in Immigration Law from Queen’s University.

 

 

SABRINA TEKLAB

Sabrina Teklab was born and raised in Ottawa and is a passionate advocate for global equity and youth empowerment. She is an experienced youth specialist with a demonstrated history of working in community development, educational systems, law enforcement and non-profit industries. She has worked at organizations including: the City of Ottawa, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa, Youth Futures, OPS and as a Student and Family Advocate at the Centre for Resilience and Social Development (CRSD). These positions have provided her with a holistic understanding of outcome disparities in institutional systems in Canada for newcomer, Black and Indigenous students and their families. Her experience is supplemented by her academic background as a graduate of an MSc in International Migration and Public Policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and an Honours Bachelor of Social Science in Conflict Studies and Human Rights. Sabrina is currently a law student enrolled at Osgoode Hall Law School.

ALEM BERHANE

Alem Berhane was born in Montreal and raised between Canada, Kenya and Botswana. He is a public servant and musician who is passionate about community service. He has served as a volunteer in various capacities for Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, Catholic Centre for Immigrants, Carleton University’s Institute of African Studies, Eritrean Mentorship Network and various other organizations. Additionally, he has worked to promote local musicians, previously as the co-host of a radio show on CKCU FM 93.1, and more recently through community networks. He currently works as a Program Officer at Health Canada and has his BA Honours, Political Science: Comparative Politics and Area Studies, Carleton University.

YOSIEF KIDANE

Yosief Kidane was born and raised in Ottawa in a traditional Eritrean home. He has been actively involved in the Eritrean community in a variety of capacities over the past 20+ years (e.g. as a participant in community initiatives, a volunteer interpreter). He has over 7 years experience in community development, including 5 years as a case worker and child and youth worker at Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Center supporting newcomer families and families leaving the shelter system in Ottawa. He is a former volunteer of the Catholic Centre for Immigrants in the newcomer youth program. He currently works as a counsellor for the Government of Canada. Yosief has a BA, International Development and Globalization from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Arts in Political Science from Carleton University.

SARA GEBRE-GIORGIS

Sara Gebre-Giorgis, a trailblazing first-generation Canadian who arrived in Ottawa in 1994, has dedicated 18 years to the social services field, emerging as a fervent advocate for individuals grappling with physical and developmental disabilities. Her commitment extends beyond professional boundaries, as evidenced by her active involvement in volunteering at Christie Lakes and various Eritrean community events, showcasing her versatility in diverse roles.

In the last six years, Sara has played a pivotal role in facilitating the successful settlement of more than 20 Eritreans. Her support encompasses guiding them through the intricacies of healthcare and education systems, offering interpretation services, assisting with documentation, and tirelessly advocating for suitable housing. Sara’s invaluable contributions have left an indelible mark on the lives she touches.

Equipped with a Developmental Services Worker Diploma and a Non-Profit Sector Management Certificate from Algonquin College, Sara brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her endeavors. Her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others underscores her role as a compassionate leader and advocate for social inclusivity.

HANNA ADHANOM

Hanna Adhanom arrived in Canada at 16 and has been dedicated to fostering independence and supporting newcomers ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Laurentian University and works as a registered nurse at Queensway Carleton Hospital. Her diverse professional background includes experience in banking,  as a bank associate at TD and as a branch manager at Money Mart for another before transitioning into healthcare. 

Beyond her professional roles, Hanna is deeply committed to volunteer work. Fluent in English, Tigrigna, and Amharic, she has served as an interpreter for the Catholic Centre for Immigrants and the Reception House and has provided support at the courthouse for disability hearings. Within the church community, she assists newcomers with documentation, resume building, and overall settlement support. She has also played an active role in sponsoring and facilitating the integration of several refugees.

Passionate about empowering women and enhancing health literacy, Hanna advocates for independence and strives to create a culture where vulnerability is recognized as strength. Her vision is to foster an environment where individuals—particularly women—not only survive but thrive collectively.

 

Join Our Board of Directors

The Mehari Centre is actively seeking dedicated individuals to join our Board. If you are passionate about supporting newcomers and building a strong, inclusive community, we invite you to be part of our leadership team.

As a Board member, you will play a vital role in helping families and individuals find home, hope, and belonging. Your support ensures access to essential resources, life-changing services, and a welcoming space that understands their journey.

We provide comprehensive orientation and training on effectively running a policy board, fostering a values-based organizational culture, and ensuring strong governance. Together, we can build a future where everyone feels at home.

Interested? Contact us to learn more!