ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — I like to believe we all hope to enter into a room and be greeted by a warm spirited soul. This kind of interaction makes the moments extremely comforting, exciting and memorable. My exact thoughts when I strolled through her Instagram page. I see a woman that seems to be in good company or a perfect moment, filled with happiness. I was able to briefly speak with one of her closest friends, I was pretty convinced then even through my observation she’s simply an overall friendly and a fun person to be around.
One thing that stands out about Ariyam Abrha, is that she’s very strategic in her approach. Never one to walk away from a great opportunity, Ariyam accepted an adventurous offer from Ethiopian Airlines as the Flight Attendant. Understanding the risk, she really loves her job and providing services to different people of various cultures from around the world.
Ariyam said, my work has allowed me to explore the likes of China, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Italy, South Africa, Nigeria, Dubai etc. Eating extraordinary dishes in these beautiful countries is an experience that contributes to my future endeavors as a restaurant owner, she says. I love good food and the idea of living a healthier life. Expressing her love for the traditional Habesha dish, Doro Wot and her favorite seafood in Jakarta, she said "I can eat anything with full happiness if the food consists of meat". It's fair to say, when working for a company of excellence, vision, strength and offering such an adventure. It's no wonder this level of leadership reflects in Ariyam life choices and decision making.
“Giving love to people in need is important, like food and shelter.”
A father as a merchant and mother who was a designer of textile fabric, she reclaims the memory of the loss of her father at a young age. I watched my mother sustain both roles of parenting in our home, she had to take on several jobs so that we had a healthy living environment. This prompts Ariyam to learn quickly, having many responsibilities to help balance her mother. This explains her willingness and passion for kids and to see that every child has the opportunity to learn and obtain the knowledge for the purposes of paying it forward to generations to come.
Ariyam, 27, has a degree in marketing management from the Addis Ababa University. During her residency, she worked as a data collector analysis for BDO East Africa finance company. Post-graduation, she worked for Hacomal Real Estate and Ambassador hotel as a sales representative for over 3 years, both combined. All the while, she was teaching kids tology, a field of study within Christian theology which is concerned with the nature of Jesus Christ, at the Mother Teresa foundation.
Ariyam says that the arts is one of her passions, especially in filmmaking and designing traditional clothes. While using some useful marketing tools, she has successfully sold a few of her products online. The cost of her mother's gift of giving was something she could not grasp until she started volunteering and coordinating fundraiser events. I knew this was my calling and it gave me relief, Ariyam said. I started to understand that “giving love to people in need is important, like food and shelter.”
“Women infuse the natural ability to lead without learning.”
While education, health, and economic opportunities are increasing for many Habesha Women. There’s still gender inequality when referring to pay, income and wealth. Not to mention, the many aspiring women like Ariyam in need of funds to start-up or operate their female-owned businesses, which is still a continuous fight for financing through the Development Credit Authority.
Ariyam said, I don’t want to complain about the woman’s past situation of economic constraints. I am happy with the current situation for women and I appreciate the growth in our men in the Habesha Community as well. "The word which comes from our mouth will describe us", she states. She believes showing people a good face and saying good things have the power to even change an aggressive person.
An avid reader, Ariyam loves to read motivational and marketing books. She recently finished the book, “You Don’t Need a Title to be a Leader.” The Author, Mark Sanborn, focuses on six things that all leaders do to make a positive difference. Compiled with relatable heroic stories, demonstrating how each of us can be a leader in our daily lives and make a positive difference, whatever our title or position.
A testament to many women today, she said, “Women infuse the natural ability to lead without learning”. I will always advise the Habesha Woman to continue to support, encourage one another and work hard toward a better future. Execute a plan, using the power of oneself and have a purpose, rather than fear the odds. Don't get caught up in the distractions of naysayers' and their mindless activities.
I remember reading somewhere; this question was asked, what does it mean to be a woman today? A businesswoman replies, “I’m not opposed to this question. I think women have battled, protested and tried to uncover truths long enough to warrant this question being asked.”
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