Hermela Kebede - 2024 PPP Award Winners

Hermela Kebede is the Executive Director of the Ethiopian Community Center, Washington DC. She has served the organization in this capacity since 1992. With a deep-rooted passion for community empowerment and immigrant integration, Hermela has dedicated decades of her life to supporting and uplifting Ethiopian immigrants in the DMV area.

Before becoming Executive Director, Hermela showed her commitment to the ECC by volunteering as a board member and steadfast supporter. Her hands-on involvement provided her with invaluable insights into the organization's mission and the needs of the community it serves.

Since its establishment in 1980, the ECC has been a beacon of support for immigrants, offering a wide range of services including resettlement assistance, career counseling, ESL classes, youth programs, interpretation, and translation services. Under her leadership, the ECC has expanded its reach and impact, becoming a vital resource for thousands of immigrants seeking to build a better future in their new homeland.

Recognizing the crucial role of language in immigrant integration, Hermela spearheaded the development of the ECC’s Adult Education Program over two decades ago. Her vision and determination led to the establishment of ESL programs specifically tailored to meet the needs of African immigrants in the District of Columbia and Montgomery County. Through strategic partnerships and grant funding, Hermela ensured that these programs flourished, empowering thousands of immigrants to improve their English language proficiency and enhance their employability.