Basic Information
| Full Name | Mentewab Dawit Lebiso |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 15, 1990 |
| Place of Birth | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia |
| Nationality | Ethiopian |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Philanthropist |
| Net Worth | $5 million (as of 2023) |
Early Life
Mentewab Dawit Lebiso was born on March 15, 1990, in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Growing up in a vibrant urban environment, Mentewab was exposed to various cultures and ideas, which would later influence his entrepreneurial spirit. He was the second of four children in a middle-class family. His father, Dawit Lebiso, worked as a civil engineer, while his mother, Mentewab Abebe, was a school teacher. From a young age, Mentewab showed a keen interest in business and innovation. He often sold homemade crafts and snacks to his peers, displaying an early knack for entrepreneurship.
Education
Mentewab attended Bole Primary School and later went to Addis Ababa Secondary School. He excelled academically and was known for his leadership qualities. In 2008, he enrolled at Addis Ababa University, where he pursued a degree in Business Administration. During his university years, he participated in multiple entrepreneurial workshops, where he learned about startups and business management. He graduated with honors in 2012, earning his Bachelor’s degree, and was awarded the Best Student in Business Administration.
Family Background
Mentewab comes from a supportive family. His parents instilled the values of education, hard work, and community service in their children. His older sister, Semhal, is a doctor, while his younger siblings, Kedir and Ayele, are studying engineering and information technology respectively. The close-knit family remains a significant part of Mentewab’s life, providing emotional and financial support as he ventured into his career. Every year, the family hosts a reunion in July to celebrate their bond, often gathering in the scenic landscapes of the Ethiopian highlands.
Career Trajectory
After graduating, Mentewab began working for a local NGO, where he focused on community development and youth empowerment projects. In 2014, he decided to leverage his experience and launched his first startup, a small tech company named TechWave. The company aimed to provide affordable digital solutions for local businesses. Within three years, TechWave grew significantly, attracting attention from investors. By 2017, the company’s revenue reached $1 million, and it employed over 50 people.
In 2018, Mentewab diversified his business interests by founding a social enterprise called GreenEthiopia, which focuses on sustainable agricultural practices. This venture was a response to the growing issues of food security and climate change in Ethiopia. GreenEthiopia implements innovative farming techniques and partners with local farmers to promote sustainability. By 2020, the enterprise had successfully trained over 2,000 farmers, increasing their crop yields by an average of 30%.
Philanthropic Efforts
Mentewab’s success allowed him to give back to his community. In 2019, he created the Mentewab Foundation, which focuses on education and healthcare for underprivileged youth in Ethiopia. The foundation has raised over $1 million and funded scholarships for more than 300 students since its inception. He believes education is a key driver of change and actively advocates for better educational policies in Ethiopia.
Challenges Faced
Every entrepreneur faces challenges, and Mentewab is no exception. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles for his businesses. TechWave experienced a drop in demand as businesses shut down, resulting in a 40% decline in revenue. However, Mentewab viewed this as an opportunity to pivot and innovate. He invested in developing online services and e-commerce platforms, enabling local businesses to operate digitally. His quick thinking helped TechWave rebound, leading to a 75% increase in customers by the end of 2021.
Current Status and Future Plans
As of 2023, Mentewab Dawit Lebiso has a net worth estimated at $5 million. His companies continue to grow, and he is recognized as a leading young entrepreneur in East Africa. He frequently speaks at conferences and seminars, sharing his insights on entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Looking ahead, Mentewab plans to expand GreenEthiopia’s reach to neighboring countries and is working on a new initiative to tackle urban youth unemployment through technology training programs.
Conclusion
Mentewab Dawit Lebiso stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation in Ethiopia’s entrepreneurial landscape. His journey from a young boy in Addis Ababa to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist is an inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and dedication to community service. As he continues to grow his businesses and make a positive impact in Ethiopia, Mentewab serves as a role model for the next generation of leaders and changemakers.