Tesfay Rezene
Silver Spring,MD
Summary
Driven professional with a multidisciplinary background in global studies, international politics, philosophy, theology, and early Christian literature. Proven track record of extensive experience in mentoring youth and supporting refugee resettlement in the U.S. Trilingual individual dedicated to promoting education and human rights. Personal journey as a refugee and scholar serves as the driving force behind an unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Refugee Youth Mentorship Program Specialist
LSS-NCA
04.2023 - Current
- Facilitated workshops to educate more than 90 clients on resume writing, cover letter drafting, networking skills, financial literacy, and interview techniques to enhance their chances of employment advancement.
- Received incoming phone calls and contact form submissions and provided timely responses to inquiries.
- Conducted thorough needs assessments to identify gaps in service delivery and inform program development efforts.
- Improved overall program effectiveness through comprehensive data analysis and evaluation of key performance indicators.
- Evaluated program operations, successes, and deficiencies to identify concerns and recommend strategies to enhance processes and elevate results.
Intensive Case Manager
Lutheran Social Service of the National Capital
11.2018 - 08.2020
- Provided support to vulnerable clients facing medical, social, and cultural obstacles
- Demonstrated expertise in offering intensive case management services encompassing domestic violence support, legal immigration aid, social service benefits coordination, housing solutions provision,and employment counseling.
Economic Empowerment and Career Development Intern
International Rescue Committee
05.2018 - 12.2018
- Facilitated workshops to educate more than 50 clients on resume writing, cover letter drafting, networking skills, financial literacy and interview techniques to enhance their chances of employment advancement.
Interpreter and Advocate
Nationalities Service Center
01.2014 - Current
- Offered interpretation support for Eritrean and Ethiopian newcomers across different locations, such as schools and medical establishments.
- Advocated for young immigrants and teenagers in refugee camps, schools, and foster care programs.
Internship
Penn State Berks Library
02.2018 - 05.2018
- Assisting teachers in teaching ESL courses for new community members
- Leading class discussions, lectures, and preparing class materials.
Assistance Student Librarian
Penn State Berks: Thun Library
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Supported students in reserving, returning, and checking out library items.
United Organization Planning
07.2012 - 08.2012
- Received training on appropriate work attire and working collaboratively with different types of people.
Trauma Awareness and Resilience Training Certified
Eastern Mennonite University
11.2019 - 11.2019
- Successfully completed the Trauma Awareness and Resilience Training certification program. Acquired advanced skills in trauma-informed care, resilience strategies, and conflict transformation approaches.
Education
Master of Arts - Theological Studies
Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
Yonkers, NY08.2024
Master of Arts - M.A in General Theology
Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
Yonkers, NY05.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Global Studies
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA05.2018
Bachelor of Arts - International Politics
The Pennsylvania State University
Reading, PA05.2018
Skills
- Communication, problem-solving, active listening, leadership, customer service, management, financial administration, data management, team oversight, needs analysis, program evaluation, promotional planning, documentation, collaboration, attention to detail, maintaining client records, relationship building, community resource navigation, community outreach, quality assurance, community service programs
Leadershipexperiencesandclubsmembership
- Religious educator, 2014-present
- International Club 2016-2018
- World Affairs Council member 2015-2018
- International Students Mentor 2015-2016
- Residence Hall Advisory Council 2014-2015
Relevantexperiences
Study Abroad, Germany and London, Fall 2018: Completed a 3-month program in Germany and 6 weeks in London through CIEE. Took six courses and traveled to Germany, the UK, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Poland. Conducted interviews with immigrants and refugees from Eritrea and other regions about their migration experiences.
Educational Field Trip, Switzerland, Spring Break 2017: Engaged with leaders from the UN, UNHCR, Red Cross, WMO, Universal Postal Union, and Swiss Parliament on political and social issues.
United Organization Planning, Washington D.C., 07/2012 - 08/2012: Trained in professional conduct and collaborative teamwork.
Languages
Albanian
Tibetan
English
Geez
Timeline
Refugee Youth Mentorship Program Specialist
LSS-NCA
04.2023 - Current
Trauma Awareness and Resilience Training Certified
Eastern Mennonite University
11.2019 - 11.2019
Intensive Case Manager
Lutheran Social Service of the National Capital
11.2018 - 08.2020
Economic Empowerment and Career Development Intern
International Rescue Committee
05.2018 - 12.2018
Internship
Penn State Berks Library
02.2018 - 05.2018
Assistance Student Librarian
Penn State Berks: Thun Library
01.2016 - 01.2018
Interpreter and Advocate
Nationalities Service Center
01.2014 - Current
United Organization Planning
07.2012 - 08.2012
Master of Arts - Theological Studies
Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
Master of Arts - M.A in General Theology
Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
Bachelor of Arts - Global Studies
The Pennsylvania State University
Bachelor of Arts - International Politics
The Pennsylvania State University
Similar Profiles
Jaylon StolpaJaylon Stolpa
Direct Support Professional Caregiver (DSP) at LSSDirect Support Professional Caregiver (DSP) at LSS
Nessrin AbdullahNessrin Abdullah
Undersköterska at LSS GruppboendeUndersköterska at LSS Gruppboende
Monica Torres-PerezMonica Torres-Perez
Chemist at Department of Homeland Security, CBP-LSSChemist at Department of Homeland Security, CBP-LSS