What is Zega Mahber?
Zega Mahber is a volunteer run association established to bring together LGBT Ethiopians in the USA and empower LGBT organizations in Ethiopia.
What is the purpose?
Currently ZM is an informal fund supported by $10 monthly contributions from its members to fund LGBTQ organizations in Ethiopia. ZM plans to transform into a registered non-profit charity organization within two years.
When did it start?
It informally started with the collection of initial contributions by the beginning of the Ethiopian New Year 2011 on September 11 2018.
How are contributions collected?
Funds are collected using the multilevel marketing model where contributors pass on their contributions to their assigned group leaders within the structure (see diagram). This is to ensure trust and privacy of contributors as well as share responsibility across the contributor base.
How do I keep my information private?
You privacy is very important to us. As fellow zegas we understand the importance of privacy and trust especially in our community. We do not keep records.
How do I make sure my contributions are safely and appropriately being used?
We commit to transparency and publishing periodic reports of our activities. Our partners in Ethiopia will also serve us with audited reports of their activities. The reports will be published in this website.
How does ZM choose organizations to fund?
The ZM board evaluates organizations operating in Ethiopia and transfers funds based on their proven track record of working withthe LGBT community.
What are future plans?
- Become a legally registered nonprofit charity organization.
- Develop a separate Ethiopian LGBT organization that shall have a wider mission and scope in the future.
How can I find our more information?
Check out our Reports section for more information about our activities and reports from Partners in Ethiopia. This page is periodically updated.
How do I join?
If you identify as an LGBT Ethiopian by nationality or heritage or have zega friends, please contact us here to get connected!
We truly value your feedback as this will help us grow stronger, together!