Amlaku Yaregal Teshome is one of Ayzoh!'s closest friends and a key figure in its operations throughout Ethiopia. What captivates us most about Amlaku is that, despite becoming a successful and prosperous entrepreneur, he has never forgotten his roots as a street child. This deep connection to his past drives his tireless work alongside Ayzoh! in supporting marginalized and tribal communities across Ethiopia.
Founder of Baregota Tour and Travel, Amlaku’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in the remote village of Baregota, 8 kilometers by foot from Lalibela, he was the youngest of four children, raised by his widowed father and older sister. At just 12 years old, Amlaku left home in pursuit of an education in Lalibela, working odd jobs to afford food and, at times, doing his homework under the dim light of a streetlamp / read more...
In 2009, a serendipitous encounter with a New Zealand tourist, Ric Foxley, opened the door for Amlaku to attend university, where he graduated in Plant Science in 2013. This education allowed him to spearhead agricultural projects in his village, fulfilling his dream of bringing modern resources to his 200-year-old birthplace.
By 2017, Amlaku expanded his work beyond the agricultural realm. He earned a tourism diploma and began guiding visitors through the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, eventually founding his own tour company, Baregota Tour and Travel, in 2020. His success in business has only deepened his commitment to giving back, working hand in hand with Ayzoh! to uplift the most vulnerable communities in Ethiopia.
Amlaku's story is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the power of never forgetting where you come from. For Ayzoh!, Amlaku is not just a partner—he is a source of inspiration, embodying the values of unity and compassion that are at the heart of everything we do.
Kaleb Hotel | Bole Medhanialem | ካሌብ ሆቴል | ቦሌ መድሃኒአለም, Addis Ababa, Etiopia
Ayzoh! is a non-profit organization and a movement that connects people and their causes through the transformative power of visual storytelling. Through photography, social research, design, and publishing, we create communication and advocacy tools that foster trust, collaboration, and mutual support. Our work bridges communities, organizations, and individuals, weaving a diverse global community that drives lasting change and unity.
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