Zemzem’s Journey Toward the Sky
At just ten years old, Zemzem Desaleh is already proving that determination can rise above even the toughest challenges.
Seven years ago, conflict forced Zemzem and her family to leave their home and start over in Robit Town, Raya Kobo District. Displacement brought uncertainty and hardship, but it did not take away Zemzem’s hopes for the future.
Today, Zemzem is a dedicated third-grade student who ranked fourth in her class this year. Despite the difficulties her family has faced, she continues to excel in her studies and dream big.
“I want to become a pilot,” she says confidently.
For many families affected by displacement, rebuilding a livelihood is the first step toward restoring hope. Through the MESELAL Project, implemented by the Ethiopian Red Cross Society in collaboration with the Austrian Red Cross, Zemzem’s family received cash support that enabled them to start a traditional weaving business.
The support transformed their lives. The weaving enterprise now provides a reliable source of income, helping the family meet their daily needs and create a more stable future. Beyond generating income, the business has become a source of resilience and learning for the entire family.
As Zemzem’s parents weave colorful threads into beautiful products, they are also weaving a brighter future for their children. Through their hard work, they are passing on valuable lessons of perseverance, self-reliance, and determination.
The impact of the project extends beyond economic recovery. It has restored hope and created opportunities for Zemzem and her siblings to pursue their education and aspirations with confidence.
Today, Zemzem is one step closer to achieving her dream of becoming a pilot. Her story is a powerful reminder that when vulnerable families receive the support they need, they can rebuild their lives and create new possibilities for the next generation.
With every thread woven and every challenge overcome, Zemzem continues her journey toward the sky—proof that sometimes all a dream needs is an opportunity to grow.
We Live for Humanity!