Volunteering is
Priceless
The Power of Giving: From Success to Significance
Since childhood, I have believed that true fulfillment comes not just from personal success but from significance—the impact we create beyond ourselves. The greatest rewards in life come when we shift our focus outward, giving, sharing, and serving others. Professional achievement is meaningful, but it becomes truly fulfilling when it contributes to something greater than our own ambitions. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or creating opportunities for others, I have found that giving back is not just an act of generosity—it is a path to deeper connection, purpose, and professional growth. This guiding principle has shaped my journey, and I invite you to join in making a difference, because the more we give, the richer our lives become.
Shifting from “Me-Self” to “I-Self” Through Giving
At the heart of giving lies a powerful shift in perspective—from the Me-Self to the I-Self. The Me-Self is shaped by personal ambitions, external validation, and the pursuit of success, while the I-Self is the deeper, more aware part of us that finds meaning in connection, service, and impact. When we focus solely on personal success, we may achieve status but feel unfulfilled. However, when we embrace significance—using our time, skills, and resources to uplift others—we cultivate a sense of purpose that transcends individual achievement. By giving back, we step beyond self-centered goals and tap into something greater: a life of lasting impact, gratitude, and true professional fulfillment.
Below are a few of my volunteer engagements spanning 15 years.
Costa Rica
Mission Trip
Mission Trip to Costa Rica
In 2010, I participated in a mission trip to Costa Rica, organized by my dissertation chair, Dr. Walter McCollum, and his students. This initiative aimed to support a native tribe by building a school and residences, addressing critical educational and housing needs in the community. Working alongside locals, I witnessed firsthand the power of service in creating tangible, lasting change. The experience reinforced my understanding that true impact is not just about providing resources but about actively engaging with and empowering communities to drive their own progress.
Beyond the physical construction, this mission was a deeply transformative experience that underscored the importance of collaboration, cultural understanding, and service-driven leadership. It taught me that meaningful contributions go beyond material support—they involve building relationships, fostering hope, and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. This mission laid the foundation for my long-term commitment to education and global development, shaping my approach to service in the years that followed.
Teach & Serve for Africa
TASFA/EDSI
Volunteer Service at TASFA, EDSI, and BD Foundation
Since 2018, I have co-founded and led initiatives at three impactful organizations: Teach and Serve for Africa (TASFA), the Ethiopian Diaspora Service Initiative (EDSI), and the BD Foundation. Through these platforms, I have spearheaded professional training, capacity building, and mentorship programs that have benefited over 15,000 professionals worldwide. Our work focuses on equipping individuals with critical skills, fostering leadership, and providing the necessary resources to help them thrive in their respective fields. Additionally, I have led efforts to secure funding for scholarships, enabling over 700 professionals to pursue their master’s degrees at Florida University Southeast.
This ongoing commitment reflects my passion for creating sustainable impact through education and leadership development. By investing in professional growth and academic opportunities, we are not only advancing individual careers but also strengthening entire communities. The ripple effect of education extends far beyond personal success—it fuels innovation, drives economic growth, and lays the groundwork for lasting progress. Through these initiatives, I continue to uphold my belief that true fulfillment comes from empowering others and fostering opportunities for collective success.
Get Involved in
Volunteering
“The value of a volunteer isn’t measured in dollars, but in the lives they touch and the hope they inspire.”