TIGIST WODAJO

“I am a Deaf Ethiopian-American social worker, community advocate, researcher, and leader dedicated to advancing the rights, opportunities, and inclusion of Deaf individuals and people with disabilities. I currently serve as a Social Service Representative with the District of Columbia Department of Human Services, supporting individuals and families in accessing essential social services and resources.

I have an academic background in social work, Ethiopian Sign Language, and Deaf culture, including Master of Social Work from Gallaudet University. My educational background, professional experience, and lived experience as a Deaf individual have shaped my commitment to advocacy, accessibility, and community empowerment.

Throughout my community involvement, I have used my personal and group social media platforms through interviews to raise awareness about Deaf history, share lived experiences, promote Deaf identity and culture, and educate and inspire younger generations. I believe that preserving our history and sharing our experiences are essential to strengthening our community and empowering future Deaf leaders.

I previously served for approximately two years as a Volunteer Acting Director of the Ethiopian Deaf Community in the USA, a nonprofit organization, contributing to community leadership, organizational development, and the advancement of Deaf people’s interests. I currently continue to provide leadership guidance, mentorship, and counseling to new board members, supporting their efforts to build effective, inclusive, and sustainable leadership.

I am actively involved in initiatives supporting the Ethiopian Deaf community in the United States and Ethiopia. My community engagement includes promoting sign language accessibility, Deaf women’s empowerment, educational opportunities for Deaf children, community development, and greater representation of Deaf individuals in leadership and decision-making.

In January 2026, I presented my research on the challenges of using American Sign Language among the Ethiopian Deaf diaspora in the United States at the International Sign Language Research Conference in Ethiopia. Through this work, I contribute to research, awareness, and dialogue surrounding Deaf identity, language, and inclusion.

As an Advisory Board Member of Visions Ethiopia Center for the Deaf, I hope to contribute my professional experience, cultural understanding, research background, and passion for advocacy to strengthen opportunities for Deaf people in Ethiopia. I strongly believe that Deaf people should not only be included in decisions that affect their lives but should also have meaningful opportunities to lead, contribute, and shape their communities.

My guiding principle is simple: Nothing about Deaf people without Deaf people.”