Simegn's Story
My name is Simegn Tarekegn Kassa, was born and raised in Ethiopia. Moved to USA May of 2002. I received an Associate degree from Unity College in accounting and bachelor’s in business management from Bethel University. I have been working in the banking industry in different capacities for the last 14 years.
My journey with Christ started in 2005. His overwhelming and contagious love and compassion touched my heart. I started feeling the urge of helping others, to magnify His name. My first fundraising experience started with my Bible study group to rebuild a house for an elderly woman who was living in a house that was falling apart piece by piece. Her only income was from her late husband’s retirement for ETB150 ($3.00 USD). She had no electricity nor bathroom while living in a city. This experience encouraged me to get involved in fundraising schemes in our church to support visionaries and missionaries who are helping the needy and advancing the Good News of Christ in un-reached areas of Ethiopia. One of the ongoing missions I take a small part is encouraging Ethiopian Evangelical Church in Minnesota congregation to support a church born medical mission to Ethiopia. The medical team formed of doctors, nurses, dentists and optometrist and other medical support team. The team receives free mostly medical supplies and medical equipment from an organization called Matter which requires more funds to cover the cost of shipping and handling.
A while ago I also took a small part in fundraising and encouraging our church members to support projects in Geregema and Gewada, southern part of Ethiopia.
On my visit to Gawada and Geregema I saw the poverty level of the people especially watching noticeably young girls who handle fetching water as well as looking after their younger siblings was a heart breaking. however, I did not know how to help. I never went back but the kids never left my mind. I recently met Paulos Assefa who gave a compelling presentation to a small group about what BLFP does in Omo Region, Ethiopia which warmed my heart and reignited my longing to support the children and the community in any way possible. I therefore signed up to be part of these selfless, generous, and energetic BLFP team.