Bio

I'm a visual artist, poet, educator, and beekeeping enthusiast originally from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My creative journey has been deeply influenced by the visual artists, theater performers, and storytellers of my hometown.

After making my way to the United States, I pursued a degree in Studio Arts at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. I also expanded my skills by studying Fine Arts and Spanish at the University of Veracruz, Mexico.

In 2007, I ventured to San Francisco, where I've taken on various roles. I've been an Adjunct Educator at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, a Teaching Artist at the de Young Museum, a Co-founder, and a Teaching Artist at MiCultura Art Project, as well as a Sr. Education Manager at the Museum of the African Diaspora.

 My journey has led me to focus on my artistic expression while remaining committed to education and community engagement. From my beginnings in Addis Ababa to my ongoing artistic exploration in San Francisco, my passion continues to guide me.

Sample works

Awards & recognitions

  • Dream Keeper Initiative Award (2023) - African American Art & Culture Complex

  • Art Ambassador Award (2022) - San Francisco Unified School District

  • Winner of Academy of American Poets (2016) - City College of San Francisco Poetry

  • YBCA In-Community Grantee (2014) - Yerba Buena Center for the Arts