Almaz Getu Asfaw

Meet
Almaz Getu Asfaw (The Iron Lady)

At YEHALABS, we believe that when women are empowered, entire communities thrive.
✨ The Story of Almaz Getu Asfaw (25)

Almaz is a humble and hardworking young woman. She once struggled to survive by selling second-hand clothes on the street, working as a maid, and washing clothes for others.

Through YEHALABS, she gained the opportunity to work in our plastic recycling program — cleaning and preparing waste bottles for reuse. With her dedication, she earned a promotion to operate 3D printing machines, gaining valuable technical skills and greater confidence.

💡 At YEHALABS, we create jobs not only for Almaz, but for many women and youths, helping them turn challenges into independence, dignity, and hope.

Together, we recycle waste. Together, we empower women.

Interview with Almaz

YEHALABS: Hi Almaz, how are you today?
Almaz: I’m doing great, thank you. How about you?

YEHALABS: I’m good too. Do you know why you’re here today?
Almaz: For the interview, I think?

YEHALABS: Exactly. I have a few questions for you. Let’s begin. What is your full name?
Almaz: My full name is Almaz Getu Asfaw

YEHALABS: What is your educational background?
Almaz: I have a diploma in accounting, but I’ve never worked in that field.

YEHALABS: Why not?
Almaz: Because I couldn’t find a job. So I decided to work in other ways to support myself.

YEHALABS: What kind of work did you do before joining YEHALABS?
Almaz: I used to sell second-hand clothes on the street and also worked part-time as a maid. I still continue some of that work.

YEHALABS: May I ask, how much did you earn per month on average?
Almaz: On average, I made about 7,000 Birr.

YEHALABS: And what did you do at YEHALABS?
Almaz: At YEHALABS, I cleaned waste plastic bottles, prepared them for the machines, and also operated the recycling machine. Later, I was trained and promoted to operate 3D printing machines.

YEHALABS: What benefits did you gain from working with us?
Almaz: I gained knowledge, skills, and inspiration. Most importantly, I gained a family. I never thought such an opportunity existed, and it really motivated me.

YEHALABS: How much was your salary at YEHALABS?
Almaz: At first it was 2,000 Birr, then it increased to 3,500, and later 4,500 Birr per month. I worked half days with YEHALABS, and in the afternoons I continued my own work.

YEHALABS: If you had the chance to work with YEHALABS again, would you be interested?
Almaz: Of course, I would love to work with you again.

YEHALABS: Do you mind if we share your story and this interview with individuals and organizations for public relations and networking purposes?
Almaz: I don’t mind at all.

YEHALABS: Thank you, Almaz. Keep moving forward.
Almaz: Thank you.