Meet our Ethiopia Country Director
We are very excited to introduce you to one of our newest leaders at Plant With Purpose, Belaynesh Tesema—our Ethiopia Country Director! Belaynesh is not new to us, as she has been our Finance and Administration Manager for several years, and we are pleased to share that she was recently named Director. She is a highly qualified professional and brings significant expertise to her new leadership role.
“I have gained diverse experience working across governmental organizations, business enterprises, and non-governmental organizations,” said Belaynesh. “This range of experience has strengthened my ability to adapt to different institutional environments and contribute effectively to financial operations and strategic decision-making.”
We asked Belaynesh a few questions so you could get to know her.
What do you enjoy the most about working with the Floresta Ethiopia team?
Belaynesh has worked with other non-governmental organizations (NGOs or nonprofits) and is especially enthusiastic about her work with Plant With Purpose. “I enjoy working with NGOs because their intention is to support the community. But in particular, I value working with Plant With Purpose (Floresta Ethiopia), as it has a strong spiritual mission to restore and protect the environment and community.”
She is reminded of Genesis 2:15 when framing our mission in Ethiopia, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
What is Most Meaningful to You About Our Work In Ethiopia?
Opportunities for women in Ethiopia have historically been limited. For Belaynesh, this is one of the significant aspects of our work in the Amhara Region. “Seeing poor female farmers actively participate in restoration projects, saving groups, and other community activities is very meaningful,” said Belaynesh. “Witnessing their involvement and confidence grow shows me that women can lead change and positively impact their families and communities.”
In fact, our female participation in Ethiopia has grown to 44% toward our goal of 50% (Our global average is 63%).
What do you see for the future of our work in Ethiopia?
“I see a hopeful future for our work in Ethiopia, with stronger community engagement, expanded restoration efforts, and sustainable livelihoods that create lasting positive change,” Belaynesh shared. “With the help of God, and in His mission to restore relationships with Him, with creation, and with people, we can expand our efforts and continue this blessed work, bringing life, harmony, and hope to more communities.”
She continued, “As a female leader, I know the challenges women face in Ethiopia, and I am especially committed to seeing them more actively involved and participatory in development work. Their engagement is essential not only to empowering women themselves but also to strengthening families and communities and to sustaining our restoration and development efforts.”
A meaningful story from Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Orthodox Churches are guardians of the forests surrounding their buildings. Belaynesh shares the story of one of these churches. “The Mosha Mariam Church–from the 13th Century–protects a 122-hectare forest rich in biodiversity. It faced deforestation, grazing, and community conflict, but in 2023, the church partnered with Plant With Purpose.
“The church promoted spiritual teachings on love and stewardship, and as a result, changed community attitudes. Over 500 volunteers built forest fencing, restoring unity and protecting the land. Conflict resolution improved. The forest recovered, livelihoods improved, and the church gained income, becoming a model of faith-driven conservation and community harmony.”
Belaynesh continued, “It’s inspiring how conflict turned into unity through love and understanding. The community didn’t just solve disputes; they rebuilt trust, strengthened relationships, and protected their environment together. It shows that when people choose reconciliation and shared purpose, even deep conflicts can lead to something positive and lasting.
“When they understood the blessing of reconciling their relationship with God, nature, and their neighbors, their mindset changed. Conflict gave way to peace, division turned into unity, and care for the environment became a shared responsibility. This awareness brought harmony, strengthened love, and helped the whole community grow together.”
What is Your Message to Our U.S. Partners?
“Because of your contribution, there is a real and visible impact on environmental restoration, economic empowerment, and strong community partnership. Forests are recovering, livelihoods are improving, and people are working together with unity and purpose. Your support is creating lasting change that is transforming both lives and landscapes.
“Thank you for this meaningful impact.”
Hebrews 6:10 (NIV)
“God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.”
In conclusion, Belaynesh adds, “On behalf of the community, I would like to pass my heartfelt thanks to you. Many lives have been touched, the environment has been restored, and your contribution is truly making a difference. Your generosity is seen, deeply felt, and sincerely appreciated by all. Still, many communities continue to need our help, and your ongoing support will bring hope, restoration, and lasting impact to even more lives.”
We are thrilled to support and work alongside Belaynesh and the entire Ethiopia team. Please keep her and the entire program in your prayers as they expand their work in the aftermath of a significant regional conflict in Amhara.
