Yordanos serves as the Gender Division Head at the Ethiopian Orthodox Church Development and Interchurch Aid Commission and member of senior management team. She has played a key role in facilitating the formulation of theological reflections on gender justice and GBV, leveraging the influence of faith communities to promote equitable and inclusive practices.
Under Yordanos’ leadership, the Gender Division has implemented a range of impactful initiatives that advocate for women’s rights and tackle pressing gender-based challenges. In addition to her professional achievements, she is an active member of the local and international gender advocacy community.
She serves as the co-chair of the ACT Alliance Global Gender Reference Group and the chair of the ACT Ethiopia Gender Community of Practice. Yordanos holds master’s degrees in Social Work and in Gender Studies.
The Leader in Me
Leadership is about guiding others to create positive change and achieve common goals. To effect this change, it is essential to include women. “The Leader in Me” inspires me to envision a future where many women assume leadership roles, becoming authentic leaders and role models for young women. Recognizing the need for various initiatives to support women in leadership, programs like Haset are invaluable. They equip civil society leaders with the knowledge of what authentic leadership entails.
One of the most profound lessons I learned from the program is the importance of self-care. Throughout my career, I neglected the significance of self-care and its relationship with authentic leadership. This skill is vital for women, as nurturing ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally allows us to serve others more effectively. By prioritizing self-care, we not only enhance our own well-being but also model healthy practices for those we lead. This commitment to self-care fosters resilience, enabling us to face challenges with strength and clarity.
Another transformative concept I embraced is the importance of our core values. Knowing and adhering to our values is crucial for purposeful leadership. When we are clear about our unshakeable values, we reinforce our authenticity and navigate challenges with integrity. This commitment not only bolsters our effectiveness as leaders but also inspires those around us to stay true to their principles, creating a culture of authenticity within our teams.
These two essential insights—self-care and adherence to personal values—have become cornerstones of my leadership journey. I understand that leadership is not just about guiding others; it’s about building connections, fostering trust, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. I am truly committed to empowering other women to embrace their potential and step into leadership roles. By offering mentorship, creating supportive networks, and advocating for resource access, I strive to uplift women in our community. I believe that when we come together to support one another, we create a ripple effect of positive change.