Ashenafi Tesfaye

Triumphs and Challenges: Ashenafi Tesfaye’s career in journalism.

Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulat.

Ashenafi Tesfaye, a man deeply connected to his roots, was born in Shola, Addis Ababa, or in close proximity to the Gabon Embassy in Ethiopia. From an early age, his life became intertwined with the town of Buta Jira, which held immense significance for him shaping his experiences and provided him with a true sense of identity and purpose.

Even before starting kindergarten, he began his educational journey, laying the groundwork for his future studies. With his teachers as guides, he stumbled through the Amharic language, learning the alphabet under the watchful eye of a sycamore tree near the Gabon Embassy.

As he progressed through his academic years, Ashenafi enrolled in Buta Jira Junior High School, setting his sights on higher education. With determination, he diligently pursued his studies and successfully completed the eighth grade. He continued his educational journey at Buta Jira High School, navigating each grade level with determination. In 2001, he reached a significant milestone by sitting for the final national examination, marking the completion of his secondary education.
In 2002, he discovered his passion for Addis Ababa and embarked on a journey that led him to enroll in a Mass Media summer course. It was during this period that he dived into the field of radio journalism, acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to excel. Fueling his growing interest in cameras, he pursued a specialized course in camera operation, honing his expertise in capturing visual content over six months.

As one of the founding members of Butajra Amateur Journalists Association, he satisfied his thirst for knowledge and creativity. During winter seasons, he experienced the warmth and joy of family connections as he visited his relatives in Addis Ababa. During the summers, Ashenafi had the opportunity to participate in a promotional event called “Remembrance” in Addis Ababa, collaborating with a group of individuals who shared his passion for theater, literature, and journalism. Driven by his creative pursuits, he nurtured his interest in journalism clubs.

After completing his Auto Mechanics certificate at Buta Jira Technical and Vocational School, he faced job loss shortly after graduation. He then pivoted, attempting to enter the police force and passing the exam in Arba Minch. However, a chance encounter with a police officer made him realize his true passion lay in art. He left the police and returned to Buta Jira, starting a new career chapter as a journalist with Meskerem District.

While working there, Ashenafi encountered a significant opportunity at South FM 100.9, triggering fierce competition among candidates like him. Despite tough rivalry, he secured an impressive second place.
At Fana FM for two years, he actively participated in various programs, discussions on diverse topics, highlighted coffee culture, and produced compelling documentaries. One standout accomplishment was his collaboration with NGOs on the “Let’s Fight Tuberculosis Together” campaign, earning him recognition and praise.
During his time at Fana FM, Ashenafi faced numerous challenges. He struggled with a low income that made it difficult to maintain a decent standard of living. His relationship with his supervisors deteriorated, ultimately resulting in his sudden dismissal.
Compelled to find safety in Sudan, he faced challenges in an unfamiliar setting. In Dem, where he couldn’t speak the local dialect, his circumstances deteriorated when he was unjustly detained in Andurman, where he endured a tough three-month period in prison.
Upon his release, he set out to reconnect with his father’s family, with support from his brother-in-law who provided valuable assistance. With his help, Ashenafi’s circumstances improved in Sudan, allowing him to stay there rather than embarking on a perilous journey to Europe.

Recognizing the potential for growth in Africa, his brother- efram gbrzger in-law arranged for Ashenafi’s travel from Sudan to Angola, where he established his own photography studio called “Ashu Studio.” He also ventured into the food packaging industry with Fukur Family Group Sales Manager &, overseeing container sales in Angola and expanding into regions like Angola Luanda.