Tigist Ambaw was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She is the third child in a traditionally structured Ethiopian family that deeply values cultural heritage. Growing up in such a family, Tigist was immersed in the traditions, customs, and values that are deeply rooted in Ethiopian culture. These early experiences significantly shaped her outlook on life, instilling in her a sense of resilience, determination, and commitments. Her parents emphasized education, hard work, and community, which greatly influenced Tigist’s approach to both her personal and professional life.

Tigist’s educational journey reflects her resilience and determination. She attended Belay Zeleke School for her primary education and Medhanialem Secondary School for her secondary education. Despite her dedication, she initially did not meet the entrance requirements for higher education. Instead of giving up, Tigist viewed this as an opportunity to prove her perseverance. She retook the exam, determined to continue her education. Her efforts paid off when she was accepted into Kotebe University of Education, where she began her studies with a teaching certificate.

After completing her certificate, Tigist got married and soon started her family. Despite the challenges of managing her new responsibilities, she continued to pursue her education, earning her diploma and degree while teaching full-time. She attended evening classes demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement.

Tigist’s professional journey began as a teacher, a role that allowed her to inspire young minds and contribute to her community. She worked diligently, balancing her teaching responsibilities with her studies, gradually building a reputation for her dedication and passion for education. After accumulating seven years of teaching experience, Tigist felt a strong pull towards her long-held dream of working in journalism, a passion ignited by her childhood fascination with reading and writing, particularly newspapers.

She applied for a position as a TV journalist and program host for a women’s program at Addis TV, marking a pivotal moment in her career. Landing the job was a dream come true, enabling her to connect with viewers and share stories that mattered. This role was more than just a job; it served as a platform for Tigist to empower other women by showcasing their stories and challenges. Through this work, she encountered many dynamic women whose energy and resilience left her inspired.

Today, Tigist works as a journalist for Addis Media Network, continuing her passion for storytelling and connecting with her audience. Her role allows her to engage deeply with the public, build trust, and tell authentic stories that resonate with many. In addition to her media career, Tigist is the General Manager of Haleta Berihan Kindergarten and Primary School, a venture she co-founded out of her desire to positively impact future generations. The school focuses on creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive academically and socially.

Tigist’s commitment to community service extends beyond her professional roles. She volunteers in various programs, offering her time and expertise to support individuals and causes she cares about. She frequently serves as a mentor in the Meri Leadership Program, guiding young girls and helping them navigate their personal and professional paths. Tigist believes that mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to give back, and she sees sharing her experiences and insights as a means to uplift others.

Tigist’s approach to life and work is deeply rooted in her principles of balance, focus, and adaptability. She emphasizes the importance of living a balanced life, where urgent tasks are prioritized, and what can wait is managed accordingly. She meticulously plans her days the night before, using her excellent time management skills to stay focused on her goals. However, she also recognizes that life doesn’t always go as planned and stresses the importance of being flexible and adaptable. “If we tell ourselves we can, we are able to do it. We are the ones that hold ourselves back,” she says, highlighting the power of self-belief and determination. Tigist also emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s physical and emotional limits, ensuring that she maintains her well-being while managing her responsibilities.

Tigist is not just a dedicated professional but also a devoted wife and mother of three children. Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and professional, she has always prioritized family, instilling the same values in her children that were taught to her. She believes that the strength and support of her family have been crucial to her success.

Outside of her professional life, Tigist finds joy and solace in her hobbies. She loves engaging in productive discussions, often over coffee or tea, where she can learn from others and share her perspectives. Walking and having meaningful conversations are some of her favorite activities, providing her with a sense of connection and reflection. Tigist also enjoys spending quality time with her family, cooking, reading the Bible, and visiting monasteries and churches, which help her stay grounded in her faith. These hobbies are not just pastimes but essential elements of her life that provide her with relaxation, inspiration, and personal growth.

For Tigist, leadership starts with self-awareness and the ability to lead oneself before leading others. She believes in knowing one’s purpose and staying true to it, using it as a guiding light in all her endeavors. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, a strong sense of responsibility, and a commitment to continuous learning. Tigist leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and dedication.

Tigist is passionate about empowering the younger generation. She advises young people to refrain from complaining and to trust in God’s timing, emphasizing that things unfold when they are meant to. She encourages the youth to concentrate on their work, stay committed to their goals, and recognize that delays or obstacles often present opportunities for growth and learning. Tigist believes that if something isn’t materializing, it may be due to a lack of readiness or wisdom, or perhaps it’s not the right path at that particular moment.

Tigist expresses deep admiration for AWiB, describing it as a backbone for her career and a vital support system for women. She values the role AWiB plays in empowering women, providing opportunities, and creating a network of support. Tigist is grateful for AWiB’s impact on her journey and hopes to see the organization continue to shine and support more women in the future.

Tigist Ambaw

pomejone21@gmail.com

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