Hlena Hailemariam believes that “if you can dream, you can make it happen. And you can show others how to do the same.“ Hlena’s engagement with her school, local community and East African community demonstrate, in the words of College and Career Specialist Terri Markwart,“ a profound commitment to peace-building, equity and inclusivity.”
Hlena serves as a FCPS Student Equity Ambassador Leader. In this role, she has the opportunity to advocate directly for policies of equity and diversity. Along with other student committee members, Hlena met with Fairfax County School Board members in support of policy changes to promote equity and cultural diversity, with the result that the Board passed the Fairfax County Public School Equity Policy. Hlena has worked to give a voice to those who have been marginalized by founding the Falls Church Student Equity Coalition, bringing students together to seek justice and equity.
In 2020, Hlena joined her high school’s Black Student Union (BSU). As a member of the BSU, Hlena hosted virtual information sessions with specialists from the African American Museum, spreading awareness and initiating conversations crucial to fostering understanding. This year, seeking to honor her Ethiopian heritage, Hlena established and leads a new school club, the East African Association. In addition to raising funds for East African countries, the club has hosted a heritage night and has plans for a winter formal.
Hlena also extends her creativity and understanding of resources to the local community. She is on the Teen Advisory Board for the Fairfax County Public Library. Hlena was project lead for “SAT’s 4 Sats” which used school funds to provide free tutoring by a recognized tutoring agency. She also served as the project lead for Quietly Chic to enable an exchange of used clothing. Working to apply her belief that communities can and should break down barriers and provide resources to elementary school students, Hlena established a Youth Mentoring project at Fairfax Country libraries.
Last summer Hlena participated in a study abroad program in Spain, and sought out and secured a scholarship on her own. She is now seeking to bring this opportunity to other students at Falls Church High School. Hlena observes, “I see no reason why we shouldn’t reach out and provide opportunities to all.”
Terri Markwart praises Hlena for her “tireless efforts in fostering understanding, supporting marginalized communities, and empowering youth ….[I] am confident that she will continue to inspire positive change in her community and beyond.”