On February 15, the Urban Center was abuzz with creativity and innovation as Meleya, in collaboration with Initiative Africa’s Business for Peace project, hosted an enriching workshop and panel discussion aimed at igniting creativity and fostering peace.

The event’s highlight was the presence of Ethiopian American artist and industrial designer, Jomo Tariku, who is reshaping the landscape of modern African design by drawing inspiration from the continent’s diverse elements, including its landscapes, cultures, architecture, and traditional adornments. His innovative creations offer a contemporary interpretation while deepening their roots in Africa’s rich heritage.

Tariku’s notable designs, such as the Nyala, Qwanta, and Meedo chairs, alongside the Watatu Stool series, were prominently featured in the stage design of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, showcasing his bold design approach. His work is not only recognized in prestigious museums like the Met and LACMA but also reflects his advocacy for greater representation of Black designers in the industry.

The evening commenced with an inspirational workshop led by Meleya, offering participants a platform to explore their creative potential and discuss innovative ideas. Attendees were treated to an insightful panel discussion featuring Tariku, alongside Kalkidan Tadesse, CEO of Meleya Soft Furniture, and Maheder Gebremedhin, Director at The Urban Center.

The panel discussion, moderated by Kalkidan Tadesse, delved into the importance of creativity and innovation in fostering peace and driving socio-economic development. Tariku shared his experiences and emphasized the power of art and design in shaping narratives and promoting cultural heritage. “It is about representing our local cultures” stated Tariku.

With the support from Initiative Africa, the workshop ventured into exploring new avenues for creativity and innovation, aiming to empower individuals and communities to become catalysts for positive change.

The event concluded on a high note, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to harness their creativity for the betterment of society. As Meleya’s workshop continues to unfold, the journey towards peace and prosperity through innovation promises to be both exciting and transformative.

 

On February 22, Initiative Africa, in collaboration with Addis Ababa University, hosted a panel discussion on the critical link between business and peace. This event, a part of the Business for Peace project, aimed to explore the role of commerce in fostering peace. Dr. Yohannes Adigeh initiated the discussion with a welcoming address, followed by presentations from esteemed speakers Dr. Tilahun Bejitual, Dr. Desalegn Amsalu, and Ato Mesfin Messela.

Under the skilled moderation of Dr. Samuel Tefera, the discussion unfolded seamlessly, with each speaker offering nuanced perspectives and practical insights. From exploring how businesses can foster stability within communities to examining the role of economic development in conflict resolution, the dialogue was rich and diverse. Attendees were actively engaged, with a robust question and answer session allowing for further exploration of key themes and ideas.

During the panel discussion, the historical connection between business and peace in Ethiopia was highlighted. The panel emphasized how previous trades and exchanges have shown the pivotal role of the private sector in fostering peace and security. Business activities have not only contributed to economic development but also played a significant role in promoting stability and social cohesion. The discussion highlighted the interdependence between business interests and peace outcomes, emphasizing that a conducive environment for business operations is essential for maintaining peace, while peace, in turn, creates favorable conditions for business growth and investment. Furthermore, panelists stressed the importance of a collaborative approach among the private sector, government, and civil society in promoting peace and security. They emphasized the need for dialogue, cooperation, and partnership to address underlying causes of conflict and build sustainable peace.

The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Adigeh and a representative from Initiative Africa. They underscored the significance of the discussions held and reiterated the commitment of both organizations to advancing peace through collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing. This event serves as a testament to the potential for businesses to play a constructive role in promoting societal stability and sustainable development.