Our Story
Blessedbuilds was created in response to the growing needs of families and children displaced by conflict and crisis. Around the world, countless individuals are forced to flee their homes, losing access to education, safety, and stability. Many children are left out of school for months or years, and families struggle to rebuild with limited support.
Recognizing these urgent challenges, Blessedbuilds was founded to be a source of hope and action. We are committed to empowering displaced communities through education access, mental health support, volunteer partnerships, and locally driven initiatives. From school supply distributions to microgrants for community projects, our work is grounded in compassion, dignity, and a vision for a brighter future.
At Blessedbuilds, we believe that rebuilding lives starts with restoring opportunity, and we’re here to walk alongside every child and family on that journey.
Mission Statement
To empower displaced families and children affected by conflict by providing access to education, emotional healing, and community-driven support, creating pathways to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope
Vision Statement
We envision a world where every displaced child and family can heal, learn, and thrive, regardless of their circumstances, through access to education, mental health resources, and compassionate community care.
Founder’s Story
Wegene Bezaye is the Founder and Executive Director of Blessedbuilds, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering displaced children and families through education, mental health support, and community-driven initiatives. With a public health and public administration background, Wegene brings a deep commitment to social equity, grassroots engagement, and trauma-informed support.
Her leadership is rooted in compassion, resilience, and a vision for global justice. Through Blessedbuilds, she works to ensure that families affected by conflict have the resources, dignity, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives.
BB Board of Directors
Rev. Bronson Woods
Chair of the Board
Rev. Woods is a global humanist and faith leader who brings visionary guidance and a deep commitment to justice and community empowerment as Chair of the Board at Blessedbuilds.
Ms. Wegene Bezaye
Founder/ED
Wegene’s journey and passion for rebuilding lives are at the heart of Blessed Builds. She oversees programs and partnerships with compassion and clarity of purpose.
Dr. Oyerinde Oyebade
Treasurer
A respected professor and mentor, Dr. Oyebade provides strategic insight and academic expertise to support Blessed Builds' development and global impact.
Ms. Cassandra Bolding
Board Secretary
Ms. Bolding brings years of experience in nonprofit leadership and operations. Her commitment to advocacy and organizational excellence strengthens Blessed Build’s foundation.
Field Program Coordinator
Sofoniyas Tesfaye is a Mandela Washington Fellow and Paul Harris Fellow recognized for his leadership in innovation, youth empowerment, and global partnership development. With a strong background in project management and digital education, he has led impactful programs with Shared Studios, the Museum for the United Nations, and Rotary Ethiopia. As an AU-EU Youth Lab advisor, he leverages technology, storytelling, and design thinking to promote peace, sustainability, and opportunity access across Africa.
Ethiopia Program Manager and Legal Liaison
Genet Ayalew is an accomplished legal professional with a law degree and over three years of experience serving as a Legal Aid Officer at the Ethiopian Human Rights Council (EHRCO). In this role, she has provided critical legal guidance to vulnerable individuals, conducted investigations into human rights violations, and monitored the conditions of prisons, detention centers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Her work has also contributed to the development of EHRCO’s official reports and advocacy efforts.
In addition to her legal responsibilities, Genet has served for over two years on the organization's procurement committee, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to strengthening institutional operations. Through both her legal expertise and organizational leadership, Genet remains dedicated to advancing human rights and fostering community resilience.