Thornton Academy
$5000 Paine Family Foundation
“I know how disorienting it can be when adjusting to a new language and culture”
In any language and any culture, the common thread is to show character and Melekamu had demonstrated these traits on a daily basis. He defines these traits as principles of how we live and treat others.
Seeing a need for more people to have a voice in policy development within political circles, he participated in the Portland BIPOC Youth Coalition that worked on developing policies to ensure human rights and social reform for all people. Through his experience living in various countries and speaking several languages he works to foster relationships and show that differences do not equate separateness, but they are opportunities to learn about others.
He is committed to integrity, ethical and moral behavior, which enabled him to strengthen his commitment to his community.
Melekamu will study at Central European University in Austria this fall studying Culture, Politics, and Society.