Board of Directors

Beth (Betty) brings a rich community background rooted in the warmth and wisdom she gained from attending Mahaber (community gatherings) with her grandmother. She is a Professional Engineer in Ontario and holds a Project Management Certificate. Her studies at the University of Alberta and volunteering with Engineers Without Borders fuelled her passion for social sector leadership. Since moving to Waterloo, Beth earned a community leadership certificate from Leadership Waterloo (Class of 2023). She is dedicated to volunteering, board service, and capacity building projects. She has been serving as a board member with the Ethiopian Association KW since 2021. Beth was appointed Chair in December 2023 and is excited to represent the association and support its excellent community building initiatives. Beth is a mother of three, enjoys tea and coffee, and loves learning about different cultures. She finds inspiration in MLK’s quote: “Everybody can be great because everyone can serve.”

Admas was born in Ethiopia, raised in Greece, and studies in Germany and has been a Waterloo resident since 2020. Passionate about community service, Admas volunteered as a Talent Management Team Lead with AIESEC during her studies in Germany. After moving to Canada in 2013, she supported newcomers at the YMCA of Greater Toronto and organized events. Since 2021, she has served as a board member for the Ethiopian Association of KW, dedicated to supporting the local community. Admas holds a Master’s degree in Business Management from a German university and a Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources from Centennial College in Toronto. With a background in various roles at the YMCA, including Financial Analyst, she currently works as an Accounting Analyst at WRDSB. Admas is a wife, mother of two boys, and enjoys Kitfo and cheesecake. Her inspiration comes from spiritual teachings, books, and meditation with Echart Tolle as her favourite author and teacher.

Mike has been a commited resident of Waterloo Region for more than 15 years and has been a dedicated volunteer. He has offered his time and energy for various community initiatives contributed to the success of many events. He is married and is a father of two young daughters. He joined the board in 2023. He brings a fresh perspective and passion to serving the needs of the community.

Esayas has been a resident of Waterloo Region for over 10 years and has been a dedicated volunteer supporting youth in the community. He joined the board in 2023.

Hiyab immigrated to Canada in 2016, after spending her youth growing up in Ethiopia, Burundi, Sudan, and Kenya. She moved to the Waterloo Region in 2017 and attended The University of Waterloo, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s of Social Work as she worked and volunteered in the Social Services sector. She currently works as a Mental Health Educator and Program Facilitator at a local agency called Camino Wellbeing and Mental Health. As she completes her Master of Social Work, Hiyab continues to work to address healthcare inequity in the region and advocate for the needs of the Ethiopian Community, whom she has been serving through her position on the Board since 2021. Hiyab enjoys cinnamon tea and trying different culture’s food. She also enjoys spending time in the outdoors, weight lifting, and travelling with her husband. Her favourite quote is by Maya Angelou:
“The Truth Is, No One Of Us Can Be Free Until Everybody is Free.”