Life is full of uncertainties, and despite our best plans and preparations, we often face unexpected challenges and circumstances. In the face of adversity, some people find solace in their beliefs and draw strength from them. One individual who exemplifies this resilience is Frehiwot Tamiru, whose inspiring story is shared in this article.
Frehiwot is a hardworking woman with ambitious plans, persistent in her goals, and highly regarded in her professional field. Born in Jimma town, she attended primary school there before her family relocated to Gimbi in west Wollega. She completed the rest of her primary education in Gimbi and went on to complete high school in Addis Ababa. She then pursued a degree in Computer Science.
At a young age, Frehiwot discovered her passion for journalism and dedicated years of hard work to fulfill her aspirations. Alongside her journalism career, she also ventured into the arts, honing her skills in drama, commercials, stage performances, and modeling. She underwent various short training courses related to her profession, constantly seeking to improve her skills in Adama town.
While living in Adama, Frehiwot actively participated in a beauty pageant called ‘Miss Bright Millennium’ and emerged as the winner. As the winner, she dedicated five years to voluntary work, fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming a journalist by working as an Anchorwoman for OBN- Oromia Broadcasting Network.
Frehiwot acknowledges that journalism, despite appearing easy from a distance, comes with its fair share of challenges. She describes it as a journey of losses and gains but finds fulfillment in the results of her hard work. For her, journalism is not just about sharing cultural and national issues; it is a continuous learning process. That is why she kept on updating herself and pursues her dream to attain her goals and expand the network with different individuals who appreciate and support her enthusiasm for journalism as well as art. It was at this time life took an unexpected turn for Frehiwot when she experienced a life-altering car accident while traveling from Adama to Addis Ababa. Among the passengers, she suffered the most severe injuries and tragically lost her right leg as a result. The accident was a turning point in her life, and she vividly remembers the impact it had on her.
Following the accident, Frehiwot underwent extensive treatments at various places, but eventually, she made the difficult decision to have her leg amputated. Her choice was influenced by witnessing others who refused amputation and suffered serious illnesses. She also drew inspiration from disabled individuals who achieved great things for their country. Frehiwot was determined that the accident would not hinder her progress and she remained committed to pursuing her dreams.
Despite the challenges she faced, Frehiwot story is a testament to resilience and determination. She continues to inspire others through her work in journalism and her ability to overcome adversity.
Frehiwot’s unwavering faith in God has provided her with a source of strength throughout her journey. She firmly believes that God has a purpose for everything that happens in her life and expresses gratitude for the strength she has gained from her faith.
As a married woman and a mother of two, Frehiwot is aware of the challenges she faces in raising her children without a mother. However, she finds comfort in the fact that God has provided her with something that can compensate for her lost leg, enabling her to continue caring for her family.
During her restless pursuit of work and in the face of difficulties, Frehiwot’s family and friends were at a loss for words to comfort her. Nevertheless, she finds solace in her belief that God intended to give her one leg, even after losing both. This unwavering belief gives her the strength to persevere. Frehiwot has become an inspiration to others through her resilience and determination. Recently, she participated in the ‘Focus on Ability’ international short film festival held in Australia. Her two-minute and 40-second video about her life won a prize of 5,000 USD. In addition, she has been offered five free online educational opportunities, and she will receive her award through the organization’s representatives in Ethiopia.
Her participation in the competition came about last year when a friend shared her story and invited her as a guest. During the forum, she had the opportunity to meet the organizers, who informed her about the international competition opportunities. The festival aimed to showcase the abilities of people with disabilities in various fields.
Frehiwot’s video stood out among 134 films from around the world, making it into the top five after a week of online voting. The evaluation criteria for the film included not only online votes but also factors such as recording, editing, and other aspects. Her success in the competition is a testament to her talent and the impact of her story.
Frehiwot’s success in the international short film festival is attributed to the support and votes of the Ethiopian people both at home and abroad. She proudly mentions that this victory not only represents her achievement for this year but also marks the highest number of votes the organization has received since the inception of the event.
Currently, Frehiwot is involved in various professional endeavors. She collaborates with her former colleagues in a multimedia company called Miiloo, where they organize promotional activities, festival programs, documentaries, forums, and other initiatives in Oromo and Amharic languages.
In addition to her work with Miiloo, Frehiwot is engaged with an NGO where she conducts awareness-raising trainings. Initially, there was skepticism from her colleagues when she started this job in 2018, but she persevered and proved that pursuing personal endeavors with experience and skills is more rewarding than simply relying on a monthly salary.
While the physical challenges have not been the most difficult part for her since starting work, Frehiwot acknowledges the emotional difficulties of being away from her family for extended periods. She carries the concerns of her children in her heart. However, she is motivated by her purpose and appreciates the tremendous support of her husband, who takes care of their children like a mother and father when she is away.
Looking to the future, Frehiwot plans to continue working diligently to establish support facilities for children with various injuries, similar to the ones recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD). Her goal is to provide these children with opportunities they may have lost and raise awareness about their unique needs.
Furthermore, Frehiwot is dedicated to spreading awareness about the benefits of using artificial body support, as she has personally witnessed how it can alleviate problems and improve lives. She emphasizes her commitment to conducting extensive awareness trainings and sharing her life experiences with young people. Through sharing her story, Frehiwot aims to inspire and motivate others to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals.
Despite the challenges and distractions that young people may face, Frehiwot encourages them to work hard and never give up. She advises them to be discerning in their use of social media, taking only what is useful and beneficial for themselves and the community. Frehiwot believes that laying a strong foundation for the future begins at a young age and urges young people to make the most of their time.
Frehiwot’s experiences serve as a powerful reminder that we should learn from her example and not make excuses for not succeeding. Instead, we should learn to break through any situation and strive for success, no matter the circumstances. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience, and she continues to inspire others with her unwavering spirit.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
The Ethiopian Herald November 30/2023
