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Volunteer Spotlight on Gelila Atnafu

Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Gelila Atnafu! We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!

Tell us a bit about your backstory and what led you down your current life path.

When I was young, I really wanted to become a Pharmacist. However, after completing my Bachelors degree, I realized that is not the path I wanted to take. I wanted a career that would allow me to be both creative and analytical. Therefore, I decided to completely switch career paths and become a digital marketer. Since joining this field, I have been finding so much fulfillment in it. I love that there is an ability to reach so many people around the world.

What or who inspired you to pursue your major/career?

I got inspired to pursue my career by the many people who are in this field. I see the freedom, fulfillment, and enjoyment they get from their work and thought that was something I wanted in my life. We spend most of our lives at work so I believe that we need to do something we enjoy. That is why I decided to switch fields and pursue something that I was actually interested in. This field allows me to be both creative and analytical which are things that I excel in.

What is one thing you are most proud of achieving in your life?

I am proud of completing my Bachelors Degree. Although I am no longer working in that field, I believe it was a valuable experience. I learned so much about myself in that process. How to manage my time, discipline, and hard-work. It also made me cultivate a growth-mindset which has been very beneficial to me in many aspects of my life.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?

My mentor who taught me everything I need to know about digital marketing. I was struggling with my career at the time and did not have many skills. One day, I stumbled upon his course and decided to sign up after watching many testimonials. Through this course, I’ve learned so much. I’ve gained many valuable skills that I can use for the rest of my life. I am grateful to have his support and guidance while trying to switch fields.

Is there something exciting you are working on now? What is it and why did you choose to start it?

I am currently working on a blog about something I am passionate about. I chose to start it to get more hands-on experience with Digital Marketing. I never thought I would be the kind of person to start a website. I thought it would be extremely complicated and difficult. However, I have found it to be very fun and enjoyable. I love that it allows me to be creative and express myself through writing.

Share one professional development goal and one personal goal you have for the upcoming year.

A professional goal of mine is to be working for a Digital Marketing Agency. I have been passionate about this field ever since I discovered it. I get so much fulfillment and joy from the creativity that comes with it. A personal goal I have is to save up for a trip to Bahrain. I’ve never been to the middle east and I am excited to experience a different environment and culture.

Why did you choose to be a professional volunteer for Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?

I chose to volunteer with E.R.E because I respect the mission and believe the values align with my own. I think education is very important and feel that every person should have access to it. There are so many bright minds that do not have the resources to be educated. Everyone should have the opportunity to achieve great things. I want to use my skills and experience to help bring awareness to this organization.

What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?

The holistic approach is what speaks to me the most. I think it is extremely important to be aware of different cultures and to be accepting of each other’s differences. This is one of the most effective methods in connecting with others and building trust. Everyone, especially young children need to feel heard and accepted. With this attitude, we can all impact more lives in a meaningful way.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I like to exercise, read books, and travel. I think it is important to constantly improve ourselves and learn new things. Exercice has been very beneficial for me because it challenges me and helps me manage my stress. Reading allows me to learn new things and is also a way to entertain myself. Traveling is amazing because I love getting to experience different cultures and meet new people.

Please share your favorite Life Lesson quote. How is it relevant to your life? 

My favorite life lesson quote is from the book Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl. “The last of the human freedoms: to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” This is relevant to me because it has helped me overcome the toughest challenges in my life. I remind myself that regardless of what happens, I have the freedom to choose my attitude. Our emotions are controlled mostly by what we think and that is something I have to constantly remind myself.

Thanks, Gelila! We Are So Lucky To Have You On The Team!

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