Year born: Late 1980s–early 1990s
Research Areas: International Relations and Space Policy
"One: No matter what, you should chase your dream. Remove "impossible" from your thoughts. Full-heartedly, passionately pursue (your) dreams. Two: Work hard. Three: Value your network. Go out there and meet people. Ask questions. Get the guidance. Find a mentor."
Source: AWiB Ethiopia - Beza Tesfaye: Connecting, Inspiring, Empowering Stars
Early Life
Beza Tesfaye Zewdie grew up in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. She liked science from a young age. She was curious about space. She often listened to radio shows about space.
She studied International Relations at university. She later got a Master’s degree. Her studies focused on space policy and space diplomacy. This means learning how countries make rules about space.
Beza also studied Computer Science. This helped her to understand technology and data.
Career highlights
Beza is an active member of the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS). ESSS brings together people who love space. This includes students, engineers, and scientists.
The group started in 2004. Beza joined early. At first, she worked closely with students. She helped them learn about space. Later, she spoke for ESSS in the media. She gave interviews on radio and television. She also spoke to international media, including the BBC. Beza later became part of the leadership team at ESSS. She helped find funding for space projects.
She also worked to excite the public about space science. She wanted young people to feel inspired. One popular project she helped create was the Astrobus. The Astrobus was a bus with telescopes inside. It travelled to schools across Ethiopia. She also helped run public stargazing nights. These events were open to everyone. She also helped organise free science talks.
Beza also works at an international level. She took part in a United Nations space programme. This programme helps young people share their views about space. Later, she became a coordinator for Africa. In this role, she supported young scientists from many countries. She has spoken at events linked to the United Nations, the African Union, and space groups such as NASA.
Legacy
Beza Tesfaye Zewdie works to shape future space policy. She believes space science should be open to everyone. She supports young people who want to work in science. She mentors new scientists. She helps make sure African voices are heard in global space discussions.
Other interests
Beza enjoys science-fiction films. She also enjoys reading books. She likes spending time with friends. She is always happy to learn something new.