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I am Meseret (Mesi) Haileyesus, a multi-award-winning thought leader and change-maker to driving substantial social and economic transformations. With a proven track record in executive leadership, my expertise lies in offering strategic guidance to non-profit organizations and social enterprises.
I bring 22 years of hands-on experience in guiding non-profit organizations toward achieving their missions and making a meaningful impact. I have devoted my life to advancing progressive policies in areas such as access to reproductive health, women’s and children’s health, and economic rights.
As an accomplished non-profit executive, and a founder of two nonprofits, including the Canadian Centre for Women’s Empowerment (CCFWE), I have been unwavering in my efforts to address socio-economic disparities and dismantle systemic barriers that impede the advancement of marginalized communities. My strategic vision and hands-on approach have contributed to the sustainable growth of organizations, enabling them to fulfill their objectives.
My leadership philosophy is centered around fostering a culture of innovation, integrity, and excellence. By championing a collaborative and forward-thinking approach, I aim to empower boards to make informed decisions that drive sustainable success.
This work extends across various national and international organizations, involving the review of systems, policies, and procedures.
My leadership philosophy revolves around empathy, innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, I strive to create environments where our teams can thrive and our communities can prosper.
In my current advisory roles, I am actively engaged in contributing to the strength and growth of non-profit organizations. Serving as an advisor at the Canadian Center for Non-Profit Digital Resilience. Simultaneously, as an advisor at the USA-Nonprofit Technology Enterprise Network (NTEN), my efforts are directed towards empowering small and medium-sized non-profits in the United States, aiding them in their pursuit of growth and technological excellence. Additionally, I take on the role of a mentor for BIPOC non-profit founders in the Toronto area through the Catholic Cross-Cultural. In addition, I served as a Policy Advisor member at the Network for the Advancement of Black Communities.
I serve on the Board of Directors at Centertown Community Health Centre and the End FGM Canada Network. Additionally, I am a member of the Governance Committee for the City of Ottawa’s Community Safety Wellbeing Plan, addressing poverty, systemic racism, and mental health.
Furthermore, I am the visionary founder behind Maternity Today, a global organization dedicated to enhancing and advocating for the health of women and newborns through rigorous advocacy, research, and education. My passion for maternal, child, and newborn health aligns with my role as an ambassador for various global initiatives working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
My tireless efforts have earned me numerous accolades for community service, including the L’Oréal Paris Top 10 National Woman’s Worth Award, a Forty under 40 award from the Ottawa Business Journal in 2021, the National RPA Award’s Top 3 recipient from Honorable Nina Tangri, Member of Parliament for Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade/Economic Development in 2021, the Women of Inspiration 2021 (Social Impact and Authentic Leader Award), and recognition as one of the 100 Most Accomplished Black Canadian Women in 2019, as well as being named one of the Top 100 Women to Watch in Canada in 2020, recipient of the 2023 prestigious Canadian Women Entrepreneur award by Google Canada and CWE, and Top 25 Women of Infulence in 2024.
As an inspiring leader, and dedicated mother to a beautiful daughter, I draw inspiration from my family and remain steadfast in my commitment to building a more just, fair, and inclusive society that safeguards and advances the well-being of marginalised community. My work serves as a beacon of hope and progress for all those who strive for positive change.
If you’ve harbored the dream of becoming a social entrepreneur and founding a nonprofit, both in Canada and internationally, but have been uncertain about where to commence, I am here to offer you strategic insights and practical tactics.
I live on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabeg People, with our community spanning many locations across Turtle Island. I am grateful for the opportunity to live and work on this land, and I am committed to learning more about its history, respecting its original caretakers, and contributing to a future that is built on principles of justice, equality, and solidarity.