We are heartbroken to share the sad news that our Aunt Meraf Hagos Mitchell has passed away. Meraf was kind and full of joy, with an infectious smile that instantly made you feel better. We will miss her greatly.
In lieu of flowers, her family asks that you donate to charity in her memory and honor. We humbly suggest the Haleka Tewolde Medhin Gebru school, founded by her cousin Terfu Asfaw. Terfu’s father and Meraf’s mother were siblings, and once little kids running in these same grounds where the school now stands.
Rest In Peace Meraf! We love you. (April, 2022)
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On April 7th, 2022, the 20th Anniversary of Terfu Asfaw's passing, we are honoring his living legacy by fundraising and REINFORCING his incredible donation of his life savings $100,000 to start the Haleka Tewolde Medhin Gebru Elementary School in his hometown of Adwa, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia! Please donate what you can to help keep his dream of education and continuous learning alive and supporting children in need by raising money to keep his school safe, funded, and THRIVING!
Terfu Asfaw was loved by many around the world and was known as a lifelong fighter for social justice and global peace, Terfu dedicated much of his time to raising funds and supporting various humanitarian projects. Chief among these efforts were those aimed at the dissolution of apartheid in South Africa and the eradication of poverty and illiteracy in Africa and Latin America. Through numerous organizations, Terfu facilitated the collection of tens of thousands in funds and textbooks for other schools in Eastern and Southern Africa.
His passionate concern for racial and economic justice led him to support calls for equality, childcare and education opportunities for woman in the United States and overseas. His travels throughout the world gave him a global worldview and a personal connection to the aspirations of people from many cultures, nationalities and religions. Throughout his life, the values he fought for in public community forums were underscored by the high standards he held in his personal and professional life. Terfu was known to be involved in, to found and establish many organizations and projects, but he never aspired to hold an office, nor propel his own ego to positions of authority. Rather, he was a unique individual person who accomplished all his goals through discussions and gentle persuasions.
As a man of impeccable integrity, personal charm and selflessness, he remains a legacy model of hard work, intense personal courage and a lifelong commitment to peace and goodwill toward all. Furthermore, this school will stand as a shining example of selfless sacrifice to the cause of education, which is sorely needed everywhere across the Globe. We hope to continue funding and spearheading his noble example.
Terfu's loving wife Shakeh Asfaw, was also pivotal in making the Haleka Tewolde Medhin Gebru School a reality. Help us honor their love and mutual dedication to human rights, equitable educational access and fighting injustice worldwide.
