Meet OAA’s New Deputy Director and Interns!
Heran Sereke-Brhan, Deputy Director
Heran comes to the OAA from a background in academic research and community involvement. Most recently, she worked in public education and development at a non-profit community-based organization. In the U.S. and in Ethiopia, Heran has initiated and participated in numerous projects that combine her interests in historical research with her passion for the arts. Her recent publications include research on Ethiopian coffee and issues of intellectual property conducted while a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Fredrick S. Pardee Center for the Study of the Longer-Range Future at Boston University. She earned a doctorate in African History with minors in African Art History and African-American and Caribbean History from Michigan State University. As Deputy Director, Heran hopes to join the dynamic OAA team in promoting community engagement, extending services, and strengthening the Mayor’s vision of creating a unified ‘One City’ in the District.
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Samia Ahmed, Research and Grants Intern
Samia Ahmed is a graduate student of Public Policy at George Mason University in Arlington, Virginia. She is a multi-lingual (Oromo, Somali, and Swahili) Ethiopian American who was raised all over East Africa. She has a strong passion for public service and, in particular, serving the African diaspora. Samia is excited to join the Office of African Affairs and explore new opportunities to serve.
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Jonathan Eigege, Outreach Intern
Jonathan Eigege was born in Jos, Nigeria, and lived there for 18 years before coming to the United States in 2011 for college. He is currently studying International Relations and Business at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is interning with OAA through Calvin’s Washington DC Semester. Based on his own experiences as an international student, Jonathan has developed an active interest in the plight of foreign-born individuals in the US. He looks forward to a rich learning experience at OAA, while offering his skills to serve the District’s diverse African community.
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Efrem Ayalew, Outreach Intern
Efrem Ayalew is our new Outreach Intern here at the Office on African Affairs for the Spring 2014 term. He recently graduated from St. Mary’s College of Maryland with a major in International Public Policy and a minor in Political Science. Efrem was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, before moving at the age of 13 to Washington, D.C., where he has lived ever since. He hopes to gain valuable experience working with the African community in D.C. and learn more about pertinent issues affecting the continent of Africa.
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We Are Proud to Present…Namibian Community Event: Uncover the History Beneath the Performance
Join the DC Mayor's Office on African Affairs and the Woolly Mammoth Theatre for Jackie Sibblies’ We Are Proud to Present a Presentation About the Herero of Namibia, Formerly Known as Southwest Africa, From the German Sudwestafrika, Between the Years 1884-1915 performance. The show, which attempts to recreate the experience of the Herero tribe, will be preceded by a mix and mingle reception and followed by a presentation and Q&A by Dr. Ngondi Kamatuka, President of the Association of the Ovaherero Genocide.
When: Saturday| February 22, 2014| 07:00 - 09:30 PM
Where: Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company| 641 D Street, NW| Washington DC|20004
Click Here to Learn More
Be in the Know: Help OAA’s Facebook page get to 1,000 likes!
Interested in being the first to hear about grant opportunities, business development services, DC government resources, networking events, and Africa-related news and events?
OAA’s FACEBOOK PAGE HAS IT ALL!
Like OAA’s Facebook page to help us get to 1,000 likes and we’ll help you stay connected! We’re more than halfway there, but we need your help!
Click here for OAA’s Facebook Page
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Mayor Gray Joins Education Secretary Duncan, Chancellor Henderson, City Year to Highlight Progress in D.C. Schools
Education Secretary Arne Duncan paid a visit Monday to Southeast Washington’s D.C. Scholars Stanton Elementary to recognize the role that young City Year volunteers have played in helping spur the school’s transformation in recent years. “Turning around a school is some of the hardest, most controversial and most important work in the country,” Duncan said before a group including City Year leaders, Mayor Vincent C. Gray (D) and Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson. “You guys together are doing something remarkable.”
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Mayor Gray Kicks off MPD’s 6th District Headquarters and Youth Investigations Division Construction Project
DGS Begins the Transformation of Merritt Middle School into New MPD’s Facility
Mayor Vincent C. Gray today joined public-safety officials to celebrate the start of construction that will transform the vacant Merritt Middle School into the new headquarters for the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Sixth District Headquarters and MPD’s Youth Investigations Division. “The transformation of Merritt School for the Metropolitan Police Department is another example of how the District is leveraging every facility and asset possible to support the work of our first responders,” Mayor Gray said. “This makes all of us safer.”
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Mayor Gray Welcomes Generous Private Donation to Benefit District Children in Foster Care
Mayor Vincent C. Gray and DC Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) Director Brenda Donald today accepted a $10,000 donation from private donors Timothy M. and Julianna Chapman to benefit District children and youth in foster care. The total donation will go toward a major purchase of clothing and school and other supplies for the CFSA Partners for Kids in Care Donation Center, a “free store” for foster children and youth on-site at CFSA.
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All Policies Are Health Policies
For every future project the District of Columbia undertakes, it will ask the same question: How does this impact the public’s health?
Mayor Vincent Gray in 2011 set forth an audacious goal for the nation’s capital: “In just one generation-20 years- the District of Columbia will be the healthiest, greenest and most livable city in the United States.” The plan, known as Sustainable DC, calls for the city to improve health and wellness, grow jobs and the economy, ensure equity and diversity, and protect the environment. In all, there are nearly one dozen initiatives. But what makes the plan, well, audacious, is that health takes center stage in every one of the initiatives.
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NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio Appoints Daughter of Nigerian Immigrant, Shola Olatoye as New Chair of New York City Housing Authority
Mayor Bill de Blasio filled four leadership positions throughout his housing agencies on Saturday, putting in place the team he said would help fulfill his goal of significantly expanding New York City’s affordable housing stock. The mayor appointed Shola Olatoye, a former executive of a nonprofit organization that invests in affordable housing, as chairwoman of the New York City Housing Authority, an agency that has struggled financially; and named Vicki L. Been, a housing scholar, to be the commissioner of the Department of Housing Preservation and Development, which enforces city codes and oversees programs to finance and develop affordable housing.
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Businesses Find Hope in Returning African Diaspora
As thousands of people from the African diaspora make their way back sub-Saharan Africa, companies are looking to recruit them instead of expatriates
Companies in Sub-Saharan Africa expect to recruit more from the returning African diaspora instead of expatriates as demand for skills rise along with growth prospects in the region. According to a survey published by EY (formerly Ernst & Young) titled "Realising potential – sub-Saharan Africa talent trends and practices", which involved 224 companies across 23 sub-Saharan African countries, 27% of the companies have medium to high expectation of recruiting from the returning African diaspora in the future as opposed to 10% at present.
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An Awakening Giant
If Africa’s economies are to take off, Africans will have to start making a lot more things. They may well do so.
LESS than an hour’s drive outside Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, a farmer walks along a narrow path on a green valley floor after milking his cows. Muhammad Gettu is carrying two ten-litre cans to a local market, where he will sell them for less than half of what they would fetch at a dairy in the city. Sadly, he has no transport. A bicycle sturdy enough to survive unpaved tracks would be enough to double his revenues. At the moment none is easily available. But that may be about to change.
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Money Smart for Small Businesses
If you want to learn how to best run your own business, these sessions are for you. Money Smart for Small Businesses consist of modules that present an introduction to topics, providing an overview, basic concepts and key points.
When: Thursday|February 20, 2014|05:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: 1100 4th Street SW|Washington, DC|20024
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Business Management Best Practices
HR and Payroll
Business 2.0" series. Our business management courses cover processes and tools any well run small business needs to succeed.As a small business owner, you have many obligations when it comes to payroll. During this lecture we will discuss your responsibilities as the employer and how to remain compliant with State and Federal regulations.
When: Tuesday|February 18, 2014|03:00 - 06:00 PM
Where: Southwest DC Public Library|900 Wesley Place SW|Washington, DC|20024
RSVP Here
The Small Business Productivity Makeover Contest
In celebration of SCORE's 50th Anniversary, tell us why your small business needs a makeover and how SCORE played or can play a role in helping your business thrive. Make a short video, 30—60 seconds long, with the tools you have. There's no need for sophisticated video production. You can use your computer or phone's camera, or a basic video camera. Any type of video is allowed – talking heads, interviews, parodies, dances, animation, or your other creative ideas. The Grand Prize winner will receive a business makeover with $2,500 of products and services from Brother International, as well as assistance from SCORE.
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Mid-Year Request for Applications - FY2014 OVS
The Executive Office of the Mayor, Office of Victim Services (OVS), provides Federal and District funding to local initiatives that address the issues of violent crime, public safety and criminal justice. OVS is also responsible for monitoring grantees for compliance with federal and district regulations working to build a comprehensive network of services for the citizens of the District of Columbia.
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DC Physical Activity for Youth Grant (OSSE)
Office of the State Superintendent of Education announces funds to support programs that will increase the capacity of D.C. schools to provide physical activity to all students before, during, or after the school day. Independent school districts, nonprofit organizations, Local Educational Agencies and State Educational Agencies are all eligible for this grant. $200,000 available for 20 awards up to $10,000
Application Deadline: 4/4/2014
For More Information contact Katie Lantuh at (202) 481-3401 or kathryn.lantuh@dc.gov
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Domestic Violence Program
Department of Human Services announces funds to provide domestic violence support service programs that will assist customers in identifying barriers and eventually overcoming those barriers resulting in self-sufficiency due to domestic violence. $500,000 available for awards. Nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations and community-based organizations are eligible for this program.
Application Deadline: March 07, 2014
For More Information Contact Marchelleh White at (202) 698-3942 or Marchelleh.White@dc.gov
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Boots-to-Business Program (B2B)
Small Business Administration announces funds to support organizations that provide entrepreneurship training, curriculum development and program management support services for transitioning veterans.City or township governments, special district governments, state governments, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, small businesses and DC government agencies are eligible for this program. Awards available up to $3,000,000.
Application Deadline: March 3, 2014
For More Information Contact Janet Moorman
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Department of Health Launches District’s Medical Marijuana Program Advisory Committee
On February 05,2014 officials from the D.C. Department of Health (DOH) launched the District’s Medical Marijuana Advisory Intergovernmental subcommittee. The committee will examine best practices in other states, monitor the effectiveness of the District’s medical marijuana program and make recommendations to the DOH Director and the Mayor. The committee will issue recommendations regarding quantities of cannabis (not to exceed four ounces per month) that are necessary to constitute an adequate supply for qualified patients and whether the District should allow qualifying patients and caregivers to cultivate medical marijuana. Final recommendations from the committee will be made to the DOH Director and Mayor.
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New Health Center Offers Convenience and Affordability
Vanessa Herndon, 59, wasn’t sure what to expect Thursday when she became one of the first patients to take advantage of the spanking new, four-story health center in one of the District’s poorest, most neglected neighborhoods. Herndon was thrilled that the clinic was within walking distance of her apartment, but she has had many bad experiences with doctors and hospitals. This time, she came away impressed and grateful.
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D.C. Churches, Health Centers Mark National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Feb. 7
Federal and local health organizations, along with a number of local churches, observed National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Friday, Feb. 7, encouraging people, particularly African-Americans, to get tested to know their HIV status. According to a recent analysis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), among blacks in the U.S. who had been diagnosed with HIV, only 75 percent were linked to care. An even smaller number, 48 percent, stayed in care. Less than half, 46 percent, of blacks with HIV were prescribed antiretroviral therapy, the most effective way of combating the virus, and only 35 percent were able to achieve viral suppression, at which point the virus is under control in a way that can keep people healthy and the risk of transmitting it to others is reduced.
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Education Series Session on Rent Adjustments Under the Rental Housing Act: Part 3 Capital Improvement Petitions
Tax Preparation Clinic
CentroNía in collaboration with DC Tax Aid will be offering tax preparation for free to families that make less than $52,000 and for individuals making $35,000 or less. Appointments can be made on Saturdays from 9am-2:00pm. If interested please call 202 332 4200 ext 1008 or 1017 to make an appointment.
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Free: How to Buy a Home Seminar
Several people have recently been talking about how they are afraid of getting ripped off in the unpredictable market. So, some real experts with integrity and are putting together in this seminar. Allow this expert team to walk you through all the necessary steps for buying your first home.
When: Wednesday|February 19, 2014|07:00 - 09:00 PM
Where: Omni Shoreham Hotel|2500 Calvert Street Northwest|Washington, DC|20008
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2014 DLI Employment Rights and Safety Forum
The Commissioner of Labor and Industry's Employment Rights and Safety Forum proves to benefit all who attend. Last year's Forum drew over 600 business owners and professionals spanning every industry in Maryland. This year our agenda will include many powerful speakers, a dynamic keynote, and sessions focused on giving you the key facts and information you need to know related to safety, compliance, and employment law regulations.
When: Wednesday|March 19, 2014|08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Where: Towson University|West Village Commons|424 Emerson Drive|Towson, MD|21252
Register Here
2014 National Conference, African Refugees and Immigrants: Pathways to Security, Integration, and Empowerment
Ethiopian Community Development Council, Inc. invites you to the 2014 National Conference. The conference presents on opportunity to hear from international, national, and local leaders in refugees affairs while also connecting with others involved in refugees resettlement.
When: Wednesday|April 30, 2014 - Saturday|May 03,2014
Where: Holiday Inn-Ballston| 4610 Fairfax Drive| Arlington, VA|22203
Contact Lindsay Stepp with any questions: lstepp@ecdus.org or call at (703) 685-0510 Ext. 216
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The Esperanza Education Scholarship for Immigrant Students
In spring 2014, The Esperanza Education Fund will award scholarships—ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on financial need—to immigrant students in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, to attend public colleges and universities, regardless of ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status. Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be born outside the U.S. or have two parents born outside the U.S.
- Must be a graduating senior at a high school in D.C., Maryland, or Virginia.
- Must enroll full-time at an accredited public college or university in the 2014-2015 academic year.
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FACE Africa 5th Annual W.A.S.H. (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Gala
This year's event will honor the incredible work of Nigerian entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist - Tony Elumelu. The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) was founded in 2010 by Mr. Elumelu and positioned as a 21st-century catalytic philanthropy. As a primary driver of Africapitalism, the Foundation is committed to the economic transformation of Africa by enhancing the competitiveness and growth of the African private sector.
When: Saturday|March 22, 2014| 07:00 - 10:00 PM
Where: Pier 60 @ Chelsea Piers|23rd Street & West Side Highway|New York., NY|10011
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National Origin Based Discrimination is Illegal: The ERC is Here to Help!
Have you or someone you know been denied access to a service because of an accent or because of a “foreign” appearance?
What is national origin discrimination? Everyday people are denied access to housing, employment, public accommodations, and government services because of their actual or perceived national origin. National origin discrimination is different treatment because of a person’s ancestry, ethnicity, birthplace, culture, or language, and it is illegal. Discrimination is inexcusable and we need input from you! If you feel that you or someone you know may have been discriminated against, call the Equal Rights Center at (202) 234-3062, or Visit Here.
Women: Know Your Rights in The Workplace!
Want Your Event Featured in the 'African Beat'?
'The African Beat' is distributed to over 5,000 subscribers every other Friday. If you would like to submit your event to be included in our calendar, please submit the following event details: what, when, & where, and provide a link to where readers can go for more information. Submission deadline for the next edition is Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at 5:00PM (Send all materials, along with any questions, to oaa@dc.gov).
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