Dagmawit has a strong foundation in economics and agricultural research. With over a decade of experience in international NGOs and donor-funded programs,
Dagmawit has established herself as a leader in resource mobilization, partnership development, proposal design, and program management. She has successfully spearheaded grant acquisition efforts, developed country-level donor engagement strategies, and contributed to the design of inclusive programs addressing health, nutrition, and protection needs.
Dagmawit is also deeply committed to community empowerment through mentorship and advocacy. She actively contributes to charitable initiatives, such as teaching life skills and moral values to children through organizations like Compassion International. She is a dedicated supporter of disability inclusion, gender mainstreaming, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV). She holds a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Haromaya University.
The Leader in Me
A few years ago, I began to understand that leadership does not always appear in grand achievements or high-level positions. Instead, I discovered that leadership lives in everyday choices that shape who we are becoming. This realization grew as I noticed a pattern in my own life. I was constantly striving to grow, to improve, and to show up with purpose for myself, my family, and the people around me. I began to see that leadership starts long before any title, it starts within.
Joining the Haset Women’s Leadership Program came at a meaningful time in this journey. I wanted guidance not only to strengthen my professional leadership skills, but also to understand the kind of woman and leader I was becoming. This training introduced me to different tools and gave me space to learn, reflect, and shape a style of leadership rooted in honesty, integrity, balance, and growth.
One of the most important concepts I embraced is leading myself first. Leadership begins with self-care: honoring my wellbeing, my boundaries, and my inner voice. Choosing rest when I am overwhelmed, choosing discipline when I need focus, and choosing kindness toward myself when doubt appears. These are forms of leadership that build clarity and resilience. By learning to lead myself with intention, I have become better equipped to lead others with presence and purpose.
I also see leadership in how I engage with the people around me, my colleagues, my friends, and my community. Leadership is reflected in the empathy I extend, the relationships I build, and the integrity I uphold. It shows up when I listen, when I support others, and when I strive to create spaces where people feel seen, respected, and included. These small acts strengthen my relationships and remind me that influence is not always loud, sometimes it is steady and gentle.
Through the Haset Women Leadership program, I also connected deeply with the idea of continuous growth. I have learned that leadership is not a destination but a lifelong journey. Every new skill I develop, every reflection I make, and every challenge I overcome, these moments collectively shape the leader within me. Progress may be gradual, but every step is meaningful.
As a woman committed to leadership and empowerment, I also feel a responsibility to uplift other women, to share what I learn, to offer support, and to create opportunities for others to grow. Leadership flourishes when it is shared, and I hope to contribute to a culture where more women feel confident stepping into their potential, both personally and professionally.
I am committed to becoming the authentic leader I always aspire to be, leading with honesty, integrity, honoring my values, and supporting other women to flourish. The journey continues, and I walk it with purpose.