Assefa Yirgalem

Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulatu

A legacy of excellence: Assefa Yirgalem’s contributions to media and public relations

Assefa Yirgalem’s commitment to academic endeavors is evident through his research papers, with dissertations from both his undergraduate and postgraduate studies being meticulously archived. Noteworthy presentations include his contribution at the 2014 International Conference on Ethiopian Health Insurance Implementation Practices held in Abuja, Nigeria, and his delivery on Universal Health Coverage in Africa at a global conference in Madrid, Spain in 2018, showcasing Ethiopia’s progress in the field.

During contemporary times, he successfully maintained delineation between his professional duties in public relations and political engagements. As versatile individual, his passion for journalism and public relations was evident from an early age, as he immersed himself in reading and avidly listening to radio broadcasts.

Assefa takes pride in the accolades bestowed upon him by various establishments. In 2004, he received recognition for securing the top position in a competition organized in observance of World Tourism Day. Furthermore, in the year 2007, journalists participated in a national literary competition focusing on HIV/AIDS, where his dedication earned him the first-place cash prize.
While on the subject, he was born and brought up in Addis Ababa in the current Gulele sub-city District 5 in 1979. He began his education journey at Taytu Bitul Primary School in Kuskuam Taitu Bitul for his elementary schooling. During his time there, he displayed his skills in literature and poetry in various academic platforms, which laid the foundation for his current creative pursuits. He continued his education at Yekatit 12 Comprehensive High School, actively engaging in the school’s mini-media club.
His academic advancement saw him attain a language diploma from St. Mary’s University in 1996. Subsequently, he pursued further studies in English at Kotebe Teachers College in collaboration with Bahir Dar University, leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Language and Literature. Supported by the Ministry of Health, he went on to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) at Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, successfully completing his studies and graduating in March 2017.

The initiative that commenced with the introduction of literature in primary school progressed to the secondary level through media programming. Upon completing high school, he engaged as a novice member of the Addis Ababa Journalists’ Association in 1997, where he connected with fellow aspiring professionals in the field.

Assefa Yirgalem, who moved up from a regular member to chairman of the association, focused on supporting young people with an interest in journalism. Offering crucial journalism training to newcomers looking to start a career in the field, he guided them alongside experienced professionals and other seasoned experts. Together, they played a significant role in shaping the growth of aspiring journalists.

Assefa’s childhood was immersed in books, newspapers, and radio broadcasts. His father, a lover of news and literature, filled their home with reading materials, sparking Assefa’s own passion for stories. He devoured detective novels by Agatha Christie, classics like George Orwell’s Animal Farm, and poignant tales such as The Diary of Anne Frank. His hunger for words and ideas grew insatiable.

With over two decades of experience across journalism, public relations, and strategic communication, Assefa’s résumé reads like a masterclass in versatility. From newsrooms to government ministries, from Ethiopia’s largest health initiatives to international conferences, he has shaped narratives and built bridges.

Leading communication teams at the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, Ministry of Peace, and Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency. Managing PR and communication for organizations like Ayat Share Company and Clinton Health Access Initiative.

Reporting, producing, and editing programs for Addis Ababa Mass Media Agency, where he crafted impactful stories on television, radio, and print for over a decade.

His professional reach extends far beyond Ethiopia’s borders. Assefa has represented his country at health conferences in Nigeria, Spain, South Korea, India and more, even earning a Master of Public Health from Addis Continental Institute of Public Health.

Assefa Yirgalem Feleke is more than a journalist or communicator; he is a testament to the power of resilience, the joy of lifelong learning, and the beauty of using words to inspire, inform, and heal. His story reminds us that what starts as a struggle can become the foundation for greatness — and that with faith, passion, and perseverance, the impossible becomes possible.