About AOK

Through community building, compassion, and simple but powerful acts of kindness, we believe we can bridge divides, bring people together, and inspire hope wherever it is needed most.

Meet Our Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

Tesfalidet Afeworki

RN BSN, MPH and Founder

Tesfalidet Afeworki, RN BSN, MPH, is the visionary Founder and Executive Director of AOK (Acts of kindness). With over 16 years of experience in nursing and a recent graduate in public health, Tesfalidet combines his clinical expertise and public health acumen to lead the organization towards its mission of community building by bridging cultural divides in Ethiopia.As a former refugee, Tesfalidet is dedicated to help Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia.

Tesfalidet’s approach is fueled by his core belief that health is a human right, and he tirelessly advocates for transformative change and resource equity. Outside work, he enjoys attending sports events and exploring outdoor adventures.

For collaboration or speaking engagements, Tesfalidet can be contacted at tesfa@aoksp.org.

Jennifer Simpson

Co-founder

"I help people feel heard, protected, and hopeful through honest conversations, practical support, and projects that buid bridges between communities in need"

Growing up in a small town in Missouri, Jennifer developed a deep appreciation for community and teamwork, values she nurtured as a mother of three active kids in sports. With a career path that includes roles as a Children’s Librarian, Police Dispatcher, and her current work protecting consumers from debit and credit card fraud, she has always sought meaningful ways to serve others.

Inspired by the story of Tesfalidet Afeworki, a former refugee who is determined to help youth in his home nation to overcome tribal divisions to unite them with shared goals, Jennifer is passionate about fostering unity and collaboration.

As cofounder, she is dedicated to helping youth see beyond divisions, recognize their shared humanity, and work together as a team to achieve success both on and off the field.

" Bringing clarity, compassion, and connection to people in crisis."

Endaleyesus Abate Wubetu

Country Representative Ethiopia

Endaleyesus Abate is a visionary leader dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through sports. His journey began in 2014 when, as the manager of Addis Ababa City Football Club, he encountered a group of young deaf athletes seeking basic football equipment. Deeply moved by their determination, Endaleyesus not only provided support but also immersed himself in Ethiopian Sign Language and deaf culture to better understand their needs. Endaleyesus is well suited for the country representative position with educational backgrounds; MA in football coaching, BA in management, and BED in health and physical education, and studied Ethiopian sign language and deaf culture at Addis Ababa University.

In 2016, after completing his contract with the football club, Endaleyesus established Senay Deaf Football Club, Ethiopia’s first formal football team for deaf players. Despite limited resources, he has taken on multiple roles, including coach, manager, and advocate, to sustain the club. Under his leadership, the team has received occasional material and financial support, competed in friendly matches, and aspires to represent Ethiopia in international deaf football championships.

Endaleyesus is committed to raising awareness, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring young athletes to reach their potential. Through his tireless efforts, he envisions a future where disability is not a barrier but a steppingstone to success in sports and beyond.

Wondwossen (Wende) Kebede

Program Manager

My name is Wondwossen, and I am a dedicated project manager with a strong passion for driving positive social impact through well-structured, mission-driven initiatives. The key to meaningful change lies not just in passion, but in planning, communication, and execution. My role typically involves coordinating cross-functional teams, engaging donors and community stakeholders, managing budgets and timelines, and ensuring that every project remains aligned with our core mission and values.

I am a collaborative leader and empathetic communicator. I believe that compassion and accountability must go hand in hand to create lasting change. Whether working with donors, volunteers, or beneficiaries, I strive to build trust and transparency in all relationships. As a nonprofit project manager, my goal is to contribute to initiatives that matter—to be part of something bigger than myself, and to ensure that every project I lead not only achieves its objectives but does so in a way that uplifts the people it serves

Outside of work, I enjoy time with my children, volunteering, and mentoring. I’m constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow in both my personal and professional life

Ruth Fitsumberehan

Youth Ambassador/ Media Coordinator

My name is Ruth, and I proudly serve as both the Media Coordinator and Youth Ambassador for our nonprofit organization. My journey into advocacy and media work began with a strong desire to use my voice—and help others use theirs—to create real, lasting change in our communities.

As Media Coordinator, I manage the storytelling side of our mission. From creating engaging content for social media to developing campaigns that raise awareness, I strive to ensure our work is seen, heard, and felt. I believe that the right message can inspire action, and I’m passionate about using media to highlight the voices and issues that matter most.

In my role as Youth Ambassador, I represent the energy, creativity, and determination of young people who want to make a difference. I advocate for youth involvement in leadership and decision-making and work to bridge the gap between generations by sharing ideas, experiences, and solutions.

Being part of a nonprofit has taught me that change doesn’t happen overnight—but it does happen when committed individuals come together with purpose. Whether I’m behind a camera, on a stage, or working alongside peers, I bring heart, vision, and the belief that every young person has the power to lead.

Outside of my work, I focus on my schoolwork, volunteering, and creative arts, and I’m always seeking new ways to grow, collaborate, and give back.

I’m honored to be part of this mission and excited about the impact we’re creating together—one story, one voice, and one step at a time.

Kaleb Tadesse

Youth Sports Ambassador/ Transportation Coordinator

My name is Kaleb, and I serve as both the Transportation Coordinator and Youth Sports Ambassador for our nonprofit organization. These roles allow me to combine my love for organization and logistics with my passion for youth development through sports.

As Transportation Coordinator, I ensure that every participant, volunteer, and team member have safe, reliable access to our programs and events. I understand how crucial transportation is—especially for youth in underserved communities—and I take pride in helping remove that barrier so more young people can show up, engage, and thrive.

As a Youth Sports Ambassador, I advocate for the power of athletics to shape strong, confident, and connected individuals. I’ve seen firsthand how sports can be a game-changer—not just on the field, but in life. It builds leadership, discipline, and a sense of belonging. I work to uplift young athletes, encourage participation, and promote equity in access to sports opportunities.

My goal is to be a bridge: between logistics and leadership, movement and mentorship. I believe that with the right support, every young person can reach their full potential—not just as athletes, but as future leaders.

Outside of my work with the nonprofit, I enjoy staying active in my community. Every ride I help coordinate and every game I help organize is a reminder that small efforts can lead to big impact.

I’m proud to play a role in keeping our programs running smoothly and our youth moving forward—on the road, and in life.

Himanot Fisshaye

Event Facilitator -Ethiopia

My name is Hime, and I am passionate about creating memorable and meaningful experiences through the power of well-crafted events.

My journey into event facilitation began with a deep love for communication and coordination. Each event taught me something new about the importance of clarity, flexibility, and understanding the energy of the room.

As a facilitator, I aim to create inclusive spaces where every participant feels seen, heard, and valued. What drives me most is seeing people come together—sharing ideas, building connections, and leaving with something valuable they didn’t arrive with. For me, every event is an opportunity to spark collaboration, celebrate stories, and uplift voices.

Outside of events, I enjoy volunteering to help my communities. I’m excited to be part of this event and look forward to making it an experience we’ll all remember, collaborate, and give back.