Who I am
Hello, I’m Wondemneh Pawlose. Wondemneh is pronounced won-dem-neh. Many of my friends and colleagues in the United States refer to me as Wonde, pronounced won-dee.
I was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a city at the crossroads of diplomacy and culture. Growing up amid its global vibrancy sparked my fascination with the diversity of people, languages, and ideas. Every Saturday, I eagerly read the “World” section of the Addis Admas newspaper, captivated by stories of diplomacy and resilience. Surrounded by embassies and international visitors, I learned to see connections across cultures, nurtured my curiosity about global issues, and honed my English through films, music, and conversations—early signs of the curiosity that continues to shape my academic and professional journey.
After moving to the United States, that same curiosity evolved into a commitment to amplifying voices from the Global South. I am deeply interested in how ideas, policies, and stories intersect and how knowledge can be used to build more equitable and inclusive systems. I believe that intellectual curiosity, empathy, and open dialogue can bridge divides and help create a fairer, shared future.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Arabic Studies from Goucher College and a Master’s degree in Development Economics and International Development from the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs. With a regional focus on Africa, North Africa, and Southwest Asia, my academic work has centered on uplifting perspectives from the Global South to address global challenges.
Professionally, I have worked with mission-driven organizations dedicated to empowering individuals and communities around the world. My experience spans sustainable development, human rights, governance, and ethical business practices. I’ve collaborated on and led projects ranging from governance initiatives in East Africa to a global critical minerals initiative led by the White House.
Today, I continue to grow as a leader and lifelong learner — guided by a belief that meaningful progress begins when we listen to, learn from, and elevate the communities whose voices too often go unheard.