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Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated and talented educators and staff who make LionHeart Academy exceptional. Our team is comprised of passionate professionals committed to providing the highest quality education and support for our students. With diverse backgrounds, expertise, and a shared commitment to our school's mission, our staff members create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment. We believe that every member of our team plays a vital role in shaping the educational experience we offer. Get to know our staff and discover the heart and soul of our school community. Feel free to reach out to any Team Leader for assistance or information; we are here to support you in every way possible.”

Team

Our Exceptional Faculty and Staff

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Tigist Kebede, Mrs.

Executive Director & Founder

Mrs.Tigist Kebede is the visionary founder and Executive Director of LionHeart Academy. With a strong international background in education and leadership, she brings a global perspective to local learning. Passionate about children and committed to equity, Mrs. Tigist spent many years working with disadvantaged communities in Addis Ababa, believing that every child—regardless of background—deserves access to high-quality education. Her warm, student-centered approach and tireless dedication to building a nurturing school culture have helped shape LionHeart into a beacon of excellence and compassion.

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Shume Alemu, Mr.

Chief Financial Officer & Legal Advisor

Shume Alemu is an accomplished leader with over 17 years of experience in education, legal consultancy, and school administration. He holds a Diploma in Banking and Finance, an LLB, and an MBA, bringing a unique blend of financial expertise and legal insight to his role. As Chief Financial Officer and Legal Advisor at LionHeart Academy, Shume oversees budgeting, financial planning, regulatory compliance, and contract governance. His strategic leadership ensures transparency, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth. Dedicated to fostering excellence, discipline, and inclusive leadership, Shume Alemu continues to guide LionHeart Academy with integrity, vision, and a passion for advancing education.

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Helen Menna, Mrs

Accountant

Helen Menna brings precision, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility to her role as Accountant at LionHeart Academy. With a solid background in financial management and reporting, she ensures accuracy, transparency, and compliance in all accounting processes. Her expertise supports the Finance Department in maintaining sound records, efficient budgeting, and clear reporting, contributing to the school’s operational excellence. Helen’s reliability and attention to detail make her an integral part of sustaining the Academy’s commitment to accountability and growth.

LionHeart Leader team

Girma Kassahun, Mr.

Head of Learning, Curriculum & Compliance

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Education is Girma Kassahun’s lifelong passion. With a deep commitment to values-based learning, he finds his greatest fulfillment in seeing lives transformed through the power of education. As Head of Learning, Curriculum & Compliance at LionHeart Academy, Girma works closely with both students and teachers, guiding them on their journeys of growth and discovery. He believes that a strong learning community not only nurtures academic excellence but also shapes character and purpose. For Girma, there is no greater joy than witnessing the life-changing impact of education and the lasting difference it makes for every learner. Passionate about children and committed to equity, Mrs. Tigist spent many years working with disadvantaged communities in Addis Ababa, believing that every child—regardless of background—deserves access to high-quality education. Her warm, student-centered approach and tireless dedication to building a nurturing school culture have helped shape LionHeart into a beacon of excellence and compassion.

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Tesfamichael Fufa, Mr.

Head of Faculty Department Coordinator

With over 21 years of experience in education, Tesfamichael believes that education is not just the transfer of knowledge, but a transformative journey that helps students discover their unique potential. At LionHeart Academy, he is committed to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where critical thinking, creativity, and character development thrive alongside academic achievement. Tesfamichael is especially passionate about cultivating a growth mindset in students—empowering them with the resilience and curiosity needed for lifelong learning and personal growth.

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Miraf Hailu, MS.

Preschool Team Leader

Miraf is a dedicated educator with nine years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Technology and Management from Addis Ababa University and a Certificate in Early Learning from Kotebe University. Her passion for working with young children fuels her commitment to fostering growth, curiosity, and confidence in every learner. Beginning her career at LionHeart Academy as a kindergarten teacher, Miraf has grown within the school community and now serves as Team Leader for the Preschool Division. In this role, she coordinates curriculum implementation, supports teachers, and ensures that every child receives the attention and care they need to thrive. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration, responsibility, and continuous improvement. Outside of work, Miraf enjoys a fulfilling family life. A fun fact about her? She has watched The Lord of the Rings movie 270 times—a true record that shows her dedication both in and outside the classroom!

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