HENOK SEIFU MERID
Calgary,Canada
Summary
A results-oriented International Relations Specialist and former Diplomat with over 15 years of experience in policy coordination and strategic partnership development. Proven track record in enhancing guest experiences through cross-cultural collaboration and stakeholder engagement. Now based in Calgary, seeking to leverage advanced skills in strategic communication and program management within the hospitality sector. Bilingual in English and Amharic.
Overview
1
1
Certification
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Diplomat (Second Secretary)
F.D.R.E. Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
05.2018 - 02.2026
- Led Ethiopian technical teams at BRICS Space Science and Tourism Ministerial Meetings, contributing to high-level policy discussions.
- Spearheaded partnerships between Brazilian tech hubs and Ethiopian counterparts to facilitate technology and knowledge exchange.
- Served as a key policy liaison coordinating strategies for EU relations, investment, and technology transfer.
Lecturer & Department Head
New Generation University College
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
11.2015 - 11.2017
- Designed and delivered undergraduate courses in International Relations, fostering an inclusive academic environment.
- Organized 'African Culture Day' to support over 100 international students, enhancing cross-cultural communication.
- Led a humanitarian fundraising campaign for Ethiopians deported from Saudi Arabia, demonstrating community mobilization skills.
Program Supervisor
Vision New Life Development Association (VNLDA)
Ethiopia
07.2010 - 11.2010
- Managed program facilitators and conducted needs assessments for women's empowerment initiatives.
- Collaborated with donors, government agencies, and local communities to ensure effective delivery of social support programs.
Second grade teacher
School of Tomorrow
01.2008 - 01.2009
- Taught second-grade students, developing lesson plans and fostering a positive learning environment.
Education
Postgraduate Diploma - Diplomacy & International Relations
Ethiopian Civil Service University
Addis Ababa01-2021
Master of Arts - Peace and Security Studies
Addis Ababa University
Addis Ababa01-2016
Bachelor of Arts - Global Studies & International Relations
New Generation University College
Addis Ababa01-2014
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology & Social Anthropology
Addis Ababa University
Addis Ababa01-2008
Skills
- Stakeholder Engagement & Liaison
- Strategic Planning
- Policy Analysis & Development
- Multilateral Negotiation
- Advanced MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Program Management
- Partnership Building
- Geopolitical Analysis
- C Fundamentals
CORE COMPETENCIES & SKILLS
English: Native Proficiency
Amharic: Native Proficiency
Certification
Second Grade Driving License
Interests
Geopolitical analysis, community mentoring, writing children's books
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & TRAINING
- Advanced Foreign Service Program | ADA University & Azerbaijan International Development Agency | Baku, Azerbaijan | 2019
- Security Political Reporting | Clingendael Institute | Addis Ababa | 2018
- English Communication for Diplomats | British Council | Addis Ababa | 2018
Timeline
Diplomat (Second Secretary)
F.D.R.E. Ministry of Foreign Affairs
05.2018 - 02.2026
Lecturer & Department Head
New Generation University College
11.2015 - 11.2017
Program Supervisor
Vision New Life Development Association (VNLDA)
07.2010 - 11.2010
Second grade teacher
School of Tomorrow
01.2008 - 01.2009
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology & Social Anthropology
Addis Ababa University
Bachelor of Arts - Global Studies & International Relations
New Generation University College
Master of Arts - Peace and Security Studies
Addis Ababa University
Postgraduate Diploma - Diplomacy & International Relations
Ethiopian Civil Service University