Addis Ababa cultural and diplomatic mission

What I led

• The full mission design: objectives, itinerary and the case for Ethiopia as a long-term partner rather than a stop.
• Strategic stakeholder meetings with the Tourism Office, Midroc Ethiopia, Ethiopian Airlines and leading advertising and media agencies, focused on Afro-tourism, aviation partnerships and creative economy development.
• A heritage programme across Unity Park, Friendship Park, the Adwa Victory Memorial, the newly renovated National Palace, St. George Art Gallery and Addis Fine Art.
• Media engagements with Sheger FM and EBS TV on Africa's creative shift, diaspora connection and culture as a diplomatic tool.
• Cultural immersion through Fendika Cultural Centre, the historic Cottage Jazz Bar where Bob Marley performed, and Addis's restaurant and nightlife scene.
• Travel and production logistics end to end, from flights, visas and five-star accommodation at Sheraton Addis and Kuriftu Resort to on-ground filming with a trusted Ethiopian crew.

Impact

The foundation for tourism collaboration, cultural projects and storytelling connecting Ethiopia, the UK and the wider African diaspora. Coordinated on the ground with Eyob Alemayehu, General Manager at Yisakal Entertainment.