About

Overview

NEWFin, the Network of Ethiopia’s Women in Finance, is a pioneering network fostering women’s financial inclusion and empowerment within Ethiopia's financial services sector. Through networking, professional development, and advocacy, NEWFin strives to enhance women's financial inclusion and access to finance in Ethiopia. This initiative aims to create a supportive community for women professionals, promoting their development, visibility, and impact in the financial services sector. At the heart of NEWFin lies a commitment to not just advocate for, but actively foster, the growth and visibility of women in finance. We are dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and propelling their financial inclusion forward.

Mission

NEWFin's mission is to empower women in Ethiopia’s finance by fostering a supportive community, promoting professional development, and advocating for gender equality within the financial sector. Through networking, mentorship, and advocacy, NEWFin strives to enhance women's representation in leadership roles and ensure their equitable access to financial services, contributing to the overall economic empowerment of women in Ethiopia.

Leadership and Board Members

The leadership of NEWFin comprises a dynamic team of seasoned professionals and advocates for gender equality in finance, including executive representatives from regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and other key stakeholders. This dedicated group provides strategic direction, ensuring NEWFin's activities align with its mission and goals. The board of advisors, selected for their expertise and commitment to women’s empowerment, plays a crucial role in guiding NEWFin towards achieving its objectives.

Berhane Demisse

Berhane Demissie, Managing Partner at Cepheus Growth Capital Partners, is a trailblazing finance expert driving SME growth and championing economic empowerment in Ethiopia.

Brutawit Dawit Abdi

Brutawit Dawit Abdi, the CEO of Lefayda Microfinance, is a distinguished figure in finance and international development, bringing over thirty years of multifaceted experience.

Emebet Melese Zeleke (PhD)

Emebet Melese Zeleke (PhD), the VP of Strategy Planning and Transformation at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, brings over 22 years of experience within the banking sector.

Frehiwot Alemayehu

Frehiwot Alemayehu, Chief Customer Officer at Awash Insurance, is a seasoned veteran in the insurance industry, with an impressive career spanning 19 years.

Hikmet Abdella

Hikmet is a prominent figure in Ethiopia’s accountancy and auditing sector, currently serving as the Director General of the Accounting and Auditing Board of Ethiopia (AABE) since 2019.

Jotework Gudeta Ayele

Jotework Gudeta Ayele serves as a Senior Advisor to the Governor at the National Bank of Ethiopia. She brings over 15 years of dedicated experience.

Melika Bedri

A recognized leader, Melika Bedri, Founding CEO of ZamZam Bank, brings decades of upper leadership experience in Ethiopia’s financial sector.

Weynshet Zeberga

Weynshet Zeberga, Director at the National Bank of Ethiopia, is a seasoned finance professional championing economic growth and gender equality in the sector.

Networking Events Annually

Connect, collaborate, and grow at our dynamic networking events, where women professionals in finance come together to build meaningful relationships and opportunities.

Participant Satisfaction Rate

Experience excellence with NEWFin’s events and programs, where participant satisfaction is our priority. Join us and be part of a community where your growth and satisfaction are paramount.

Professional Development Workshops Annually

Unlock your potential with our comprehensive workshops, designed to equip women with essential skills and knowledge to excel in the fast-paced world of finance.

Corporate Partners

NEWFin is open to collaborating with a range of corporate partners, including financial institutions, educational organizations, and industry associations. These partnerships are essential for NEWFin to offer a wide array of programs and resources aimed at the professional development of women in the financial sector. Corporate partners will be poised to support NEWFin’s mission through financial contributions, in-kind services, and by providing platforms for advocacy and networking opportunities.

Partners and Sponsors

NEWFin's efforts are supported by various partners and sponsors, including international development organizations, local NGOs focused on women's empowerment, and private sector entities committed to gender equality. These collaborations enhance NEWFin’s capacity to deliver impactful programs, conduct advocacy, and extend its reach within Ethiopia and beyond. Partners and sponsors are instrumental in enabling NEWFin to achieve its vision of a more inclusive and equitable financial sector.