CENTRE FOR MULTICULTURALISM (CMSS)
KEY PEOPLE
Pure Professionalism
FISSEHA YACOB BELAY, PHD
Director
Dr. Fisseha Belay brings over 15 years of extensive experience in higher education, social policy and project management. He has a PhD in Curriculum Studies & Teacher Development with a Collaborative Program in Comparative, International and Development Education from Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/University of Toronto
He is passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated educator with remarkable knowledge of cross-cultural education systems and sustainable development. He is a firm believer in life-long learning, equity and access to quality of education for all
BETHELHEM H BIRARA
Program Director
Bethelhem H Birara is a Human Rights and Equity Graduate from York University. Early exposure to community inequality and marginalization sparked a passion for social justice and advocacy driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on addressing the complex and intersectional issues marginalized communities worldwide face.
Bethelhem has been involved in various human rights initiatives throughout her academic career, including volunteering with local non-profits and participating in research projects examining human rights abuses in conflict zones.
In addition to her outstanding academic pursuits, Bethelhem continue to provide mentorship and tutorial support for marginalized children, youth and their communities.
Bethelhem is in charge of the Professional Mentorship and Networking Program CMSS undertakes.
MULU GELETU, PHD
Research and Mentorship Coordinator
Dr. Mulu Geletu is a passionate, active, and committed community leader who brings years of expertise in medical science research, leadership, mentorship, and community building knowledge to our organization. As Senior Research Associate at the University of Toronto, Mississauga (UTM), Mulu is responsible for molecular biology experiments including the investigation of the effect of a lead compound on several cancer cell lines.
As a Community Science Advocate in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Mulu has launched the UTM Youth Mentorship Program in Medicinal Chemistry to inspire marginalized youth in the GTA. This mentorship program introduces students to the Department of Chemical & Physical Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Biological Experiments.
Mulu will be in charge of leading the Cultural Heritage and Youth Mentorship Programs at CMSS.
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MR. HABTAMU KASSA
Community Outreach Leader
Mr. Habtamu Kasa is a seasoned community activist with expensive experience of community organization and leadership skills. He is passionate and dedicated person to provide support for marginalized children, youth and their communities.
MR. HENOK WOLDESILLASSIE
Communication and Career Advancement Leader
Henok brings more than 10 years of professional leadership and communication experience to CMSS. As a strong advocate, Henok strives for the betterment of our community. Henok has been participating in the Toastmasters program for several years to improve his communication and leadership skills. He has served on various levels in the Toastmasters club, including Club President, VP, and Public Relations. Henok wants everyone to benefit from his experience and bring these skills to benefit CMMS members.
Henok will be responsible for the leadership and communication program that CMSS undertake.
DR. GELILA TILAHUN
Coordinator
Dr. Gelila Tilahun is a research data scientist specializing in textual analysis, natural language processing, and digital humanities. She has also worked on applying textual analysis methods in the field of genetics. At the University of Toronto, she has mentored many work-study students, guiding them through their academic and professional journeys. Dr. Tilahun brings years of extensive experience and leadership skills to CMSS, providing critical support and innovative solutions. Additionally, she has published numerous research papers in prestigious journals and presented her work at international conferences, contributing significantly to her fields of expertise.
KEY PEOPLE
Pure Professionalism
FISSEHA YACOB BELAY, PHD
Director
Dr. Fisseha Belay brings over 15 years of extensive experience in higher education, social policy and project management. He has a PhD in Curriculum Studies & Teacher Development with a Collaborative Program in Comparative, International and Development Education from Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/University of Toronto
He is passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated educator with remarkable knowledge of cross-cultural education systems and sustainable development. He is a firm believer in life-long learning, equity and access to quality of education for all
BETHELHEM H BIRARA
Program Director
Bethelhem H Birara is a Human Rights and Equity Graduate from York University. Early exposure to community inequality and marginalization sparked a passion for social justice and advocacy driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on addressing the complex and intersectional issues marginalized communities worldwide face.
Bethelhem has been involved in various human rights initiatives throughout her academic career, including volunteering with local non-profits and participating in research projects examining human rights abuses in conflict zones.
In addition to her outstanding academic pursuits, Bethelhem continue to provide mentorship and tutorial support for marginalized children, youth and their communities.
Bethelhem is in charge of the Professional Mentorship and Networking Program CMSS undertakes.
MULU GELETU, PHD
Research Coordinator
Dr. Mulu Geletu is a passionate, active, and committed community leader who brings years of expertise in medical science research, leadership, mentorship, and community building knowledge to our organization. As Senior Research Associate at the University of Toronto, Mississauga (UTM), Mulu is responsible for molecular biology experiments including the investigation of the effect of a lead compound on several cancer cell lines.
As a Community Science Advocate in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Mulu has launched the UTM Youth Mentorship Program in Medicinal Chemistry to inspire marginalized youth in the GTA. This mentorship program introduces students to the Department of Chemical & Physical Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry and Biological Experiments.
Mulu will be in charge of leading the Cultural Heritage and Youth Mentorship Programs at CMSS.
​
MR. HABTAMU KASSA
Community Outreach Coordinator
Mr. Habtamu Kasa is a seasoned community activist with expensive experience of community organization and leadership skills. He is passionate and dedicated person to provide support for marginalized children, youth and their communities.
MR. HENOK WOLDESILLASSIE
Communication and Career Advancement Coordinator
Henok brings more than 10 years of professional leadership and communication experience to CMSS. As a strong advocate, Henok strives for the betterment of our community. Henok has been participating in the Toastmasters program for several years to improve his communication and leadership skills. He has served on various levels in the Toastmasters club, including Club President, VP, and Public Relations. Henok wants everyone to benefit from his experience and bring these skills to benefit CMMS members.
Henok will be responsible for the leadership and communication program that CMSS undertake.