Who We Are
Berhan Foundation is a private charitable organization committed to fostering positive change and sustainable development across the Global South. Grounded in empathy and upheld by integrity, we firmly advocate for the potential of collective efforts to effect transformation. Our mission entails backing organizations leading the charge in alignment with our foundation's key initiatives.
Funding Areas
The Berhan Foundation currently operates four grantmaking programs:
Economic Empowerment:
We recognize the importance of economic empowerment in creating sustainable change and lifting communities out of poverty. We support economic empowerment programs focused on providing individuals and families with the resources, skills, and opportunities they need to achieve financial independence and improve their quality of life.
Legal Assistance:
Access to justice is a fundamental human right that is often out of reach for many individuals, particularly those in marginalized or underserved communities. We support legal assistance programs that aim to address this gap by providing free or low-cost legal services to individuals who cannot afford representation.
Funded For A Long-Term Perspective
The inception of the Berhan Foundation was made possible by the enduring legacy of Mr. Girma Mekonnen, an esteemed airline executive, and Mrs. Tsehai Kebede, a successful businesswoman and dedicated homemaker. With a steadfast dedication to making a difference, they generously contributed their resources, providing the initial impetus for the foundation's operations.
The foundation's name, Berhan, draws its inspiration from the affectionate nickname Mr. Girma Mekonnen bestowed upon his wife, Mrs. Tsehai Kebede. In the Ethiopian language, Amharic, "Berhane" translates to "my light," reflecting the profound significance of Mrs. Kebede in Mr. Mekonnen's life and the guiding principle of illumination and hope that the foundation seeks to embody.
Central to their contributions was the funding from their estate, which further bolstered the Berhan Foundation's capacity to address pressing societal issues and effect meaningful change. Their profound belief in the power of collective action and the importance of giving back has propelled the Berhan Foundation forward. Armed with their philanthropic spirit and substantial financial support, the foundation has been equipped to tackle challenges head-on and implement sustainable solutions.
As the Berhan Foundation continues to grow and evolve, Mr. Girma Mekonnen and Mrs. Tsehai Kebede's enduring generosity serve as a guiding light, inspiring others to join in their mission. Their legacy lives on through the tangible impact the foundation makes in communities far and wide, touching the lives of countless individuals and families. With each endeavor undertaken, their vision of a brighter, more equitable future for all becomes increasingly achievable, leaving an indelible mark on society for generations to come.