Tsigie Haile
Executive Director, Organization for Women in Self Employment (WISE)
Asset-Based Community Development (2015) / ENGAGE partner
In 1993, Tsigie Haile established WISE – which stands for Women in Self Employment. WISE provides a space for women’s empowerment in Ethiopia. The organization has been working with low-income, self-employed women and girls in their efforts to achieve self-reliance and improve the quality of their lives. The major focus area is the economic and social empowerment of women and girls and thus, the improvement of their position and condition in society.
At the beginning of her career, Tsigie says: “I was looked down upon, as not as competent as a man. I worked hard and proved that I was better than any of my male colleagues.” She now helps younger women discover and believe in themselves and understand gender and women’s empowerment.
What are you most proud of?
“Seeing thousands of low-income women (both young and older) in this country, who have accessed WISE’s services, grow in confidence, in economic independence and in leading better quality of lives.”
“Have a vision and strive to achieve it.”
