Born in the rural village of South Wello, Wereilu, Ethiopia, Roza Abrham has never known a life with full sight. But from a young age, she learned to see potential where others did not. “I’ve come to see my visual impairment as a gift that led me toward unexpected opportunities.”
Growing up, Roza faced enormous challenges. In her community, there was little awareness or support for children with disabilities. She remained at home, unable to attend school, and assumed her dreams would never be realised. That changed when her aunt came to visit and found Roza still out of school. “She was shocked and told me that I had every right to an education. She promised to help.”
But the road to education was far from easy. When her aunt offered to take her to Addis Ababa to begin schooling, the family and community resisted. Over 100 people gathered for three days to debate the decision. It took Roza’s uncle standing up to the crowd to change the course of her life. “We cannot let fear dictate her future,” he insisted. “She can learn, grow, and live a better life.”
Together with five companions, Roza travelled to Addis Ababa. Six months later, she was accepted into Shashemene School for the Blind. “From the moment I arrived, I was eager to learn,” she says. Over the next six years, she not only excelled in her studies but also embraced her creative side. She became a poet, actress, stage leader, and dependable friend. “That school gave me the confidence to dream big.”
Roza continued her education in Addis Ababa through Grade 12, joining school clubs such as the Girls’ Club, Mini Media, Disability Club, and Civics Club. As president of the Disability Club, she led a project to provide tutoring for national entrance exams and advocated for the use of assistive devices. “I approached different organizations for funding and support—and people listened. I learned to advocate for others while fighting for myself,” she says.
I’ve come a long way from the small village where no one thought a girl like me could attend school.
Her achievements earned her a place in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar to study for a Bachelor of Arts in social work. The scholarship provided not only financial support but also an accessible environment and further opportunities for growth. “It was a life-changing opportunity. The campus environment was more accessible than anywhere I’d been before, and the support I received helped me flourish.”
At university, Roza took part in training on project management, entrepreneurship, community-based rehabilitation (CBR), computer skills, and employability. She was also a class representative and conducted research alongside her studies.
Her commitment didn’t stop in the classroom. Roza interned during school breaks and coordinated the university’s social work association. She also volunteered to support students who needed mentorship. In 2023, she was named a winner in the Speak Your Mind storytelling competition on Baobab for a story titled "The World Through My Imperfectly Perfect Vision." A year later, she graduated from university and took on a new role—lecturer at the University of Gondar.
During her breaks, Roza also interned at the Addis Hiwot Center for the Blind, where she provided psychosocial support and taught Braille to individuals who had become visually impaired later in life. She’s currently working with Together Ethiopia to raise disability awareness, build capacity, and shift community attitudes. As part of this work, she has participated in training sessions and taken part in inclusive activities, including fashion shows, contemporary dance, painting, and serving as a waiter in the “Dinner in the Dark” program, held at various hotels.
Her long-term dream is to establish a childcare organization focused on giving a voice to marginalized children and families. “I believe every child—no matter their ability—deserves a chance to grow, learn, and lead. That’s why I want to open a childcare organization focused on restoring the voices of the most marginalized. I’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when just one person believes in you. I want to be that person for others.”
She credits much of her growth to the social work profession, which has equipped her with vital skills in listening, empathy, critical thinking, and maintaining confidentiality. “These are not just professional tools. They’re life tools. They’ve shaped how I engage with others and with my community.”
"I’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when just one person believes in you. I want to be that person for others.”
Roza also reflects on the people who shaped her along the way. One of the most influential was her Grade 1 teacher, Sintayehu. “She inspired my love for learning. She encouraged me when I struggled, and her patience set the tone for my education.” Others, including her aunt, uncle, and teachers, all played crucial roles in her development. “I’ve come a long way from the small village where no one thought a girl like me could attend school. Now, I teach the next generation and continue to advocate for inclusion in every space I enter. I am proud of how far I’ve come—but I know there’s more work to do.”
Roza remains deeply grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program for its role in her success. “Their investment in my education changed my life.”
As she looks ahead, Roza is focused on building inclusive spaces where all children—no matter their background or ability—can thrive.
Roza Abrham is a project evaluator at the University of Gondar and a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni. Born visually impaired in rural Ethiopia, she overcame community stigma and barriers to education through courage, leadership, and support. She is passionate about disability inclusion, social justice, and creating platforms for the most vulnerable to be seen and heard.
Kuvakala Thina
Amplifying voices, driving inclusion for impact and showcasing youth leadership who are shaping inclusive and sustainable futures.
