VISION
Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE) envisions a healthier Ethiopia through improved access to quality cardiac care, with a special focus on Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)
Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE) is a locally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to combating Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)—the leading cause of heart failure among children and young adults in Ethiopia. Through awareness, advocacy, and access to life-saving cardiac care, we are working to ensure that every heartbeat gets a second chance.
Founded by Dr. Fekede D. Agwar, Ethiopia’s pioneering pediatric and adult cardiac surgeon who led the country’s first all-Ethiopian cardiac surgical team, HVE is guided by a passionate board and a committed team of medical professionals and advocates who share a bold, united vision: to eliminate the burden of RHD in Ethiopia through sustainable, locally led solutions.
Officially recognized by the Agency for Civil Society Organizations under the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, HVE operates under registration number 5181. HVE is also a proud member of the World Heart Federation, connecting our mission to the global fight against cardiovascular disease.
Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE) envisions a healthier Ethiopia through improved access to quality cardiac care, with a special focus on Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)
Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE) is committed to combating Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) by offering emotional and social support to children and young adults through community outreach programs, awareness campaigns, patient support initiatives, and more.
Promote early detection and prevention of RHD through community-based awareness programs.
Support patients and families emotionally, socially, and medically through the pre-op to post-op journey.
Collaborate with local healthcare providers and partners to expand access to surgical and non-surgical care.
Advocate for stronger health policies and equity in cardiac care access across Ethiopia
Healing Valves Ethiopia is more than a nonprofit organization for us; it is a movement born from compassion and frustration, rooted in the belief that every child deserves a future free from the burden of untreated heart disease. We are building a locally driven organization, one that empowers Ethiopian surgeons, nurses, and volunteers to lead care with dignity, excellence, and sustainability.
Founder & Board Chairman, Healing Valves Ethiopia
Adult & Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon
Dr. Fekede D. Agwar is a highly respected pediatric and adult cardiac surgeon at the Cardiac Center of Ethiopia and serves as the Founder and Board Chairman of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE). He earned his medical degree from Gondar University, completed his general surgery residency at Black Lion Hospital, and pursued a fellowship in adult and pediatric cardiac surgery at the Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences in Bangalore, India. Dr. Fekede is celebrated as Ethiopia’s first locally trained cardiac surgeon to transition the country’s cardiac services from foreign-led missions to a sustainable, locally led model. With over 830 surgeries performed and more than 12 research publications, he is a leading voice in the fight against Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). In 2020, he founded Healing Valves Ethiopia, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding surgeries for children with RHD. His book, Memoir of the Heart Surgeon, offers a deeply human perspective on his surgical journey and impact. Today, Dr. Fekede continues to serve as Chief Cardiac Surgeon at the Cardiac Center and Chairperson of HVE. He is also a proud husband and father of three.
Co-Founder, Healing Valves Ethiopia
Dr. Zekarias Belete — affectionately known as "Zeki" — is the visionary mind behind Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE) and serves as the organization's co-founder. His journey began during his medical internship at Addis Ababa University, where he was deeply inspired by the life-changing cardiac surgeries performed at the Cardiac Center of Ethiopia. Despite long, sleepless shifts, Zeki would often visit the operating rooms, captivated by the skill and humanity he witnessed — particularly from a young surgeon named Dr. Fekede Agwar. Motivated by the overwhelming backlog of patients suffering from Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), and heartbroken by the preventable loss of lives, Zeki transformed his frustration into purpose. Alongside Dr. Fekede, he laid the groundwork for what would become Healing Valves Ethiopia, officially founded in October 2020. Today, Dr. Zekarias is pursuing his cardiac surgery fellowship at the Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences in India, with a steadfast commitment to returning and serving his country as one of Ethiopia’s next-generation cardiac surgeons. He is not only a dedicated physician and change-maker but also a proud husband and father to a young son.
Co-Founder & CEO
Dr. Mulualem Gbremedhin Gebre is a dedicated physician and senior radiology resident at Addis Ababa University, widely recognized for his commitment to advancing public health and healthcare equity in Ethiopia. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE), a nonprofit organization addressing the burden of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) through access to life-saving cardiac surgeries and sustainable, locally led healthcare solutions. Under Dr. Mulualem’s leadership, HVE has successfully mobilized both national and international partners to deliver free cardiac interventions for underserved populations. His leadership style is grounded in sustainability, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration — ensuring that the programs developed are not only impactful but also community-driven and long-lasting. With a strong foundation in both clinical medicine and public health, Dr. Mulualem brings expertise in program design, health policy advocacy, capacity building, and multidisciplinary team leadership. His vision and work reflect a deep passion for addressing health disparities and creating scalable solutions that deliver real, measurable change. Dr. Mulualem continues to lead HVE with purpose and compassion, committed to restoring hope — one heartbeat at a time.
Chief Financial Officer • Board Member
Meron serves as Chief Financial Officer, bringing strategic financial leadership and a remarkable personal story of resilience. Diagnosed with Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) at a young age, she overcame years of severe health challenges—an experience that shaped her unwavering commitment to purposeful work and advocacy. Her leadership is defined by precision, integrity, and a deep understanding of perseverance. She plays a critical role in ensuring the organization’s financial strength, sustainability, and accountability. Beyond her executive duties, Meron serves as a board member of Healing Valves Ethiopia, where she advocates for RHD awareness and improved healthcare access. Her journey from patient to leader fuels her dedication to health equity and public education. Meron’s lived experience and professional expertise uniquely position her to drive impact, inspire others, and lead with compassion and strength—both in the boardroom and in the community.
MD, MPH, MPM • Co-Founder & Board Member
Dr. Bethel Mulugeta Yaregal is a medical doctor and public health advocate dedicated to improving healthcare access in under-served communities. She is the co-founder and former CEO of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE), where she led efforts to provide free cardiac surgeries for patients with valvular heart disease, building sustainable programs through strategic leadership and stakeholder engagement. Currently serving as Regional Program Manager for Smile Train, she oversees cleft care programs across six East African countries. She has successfully launched surgical initiatives in Djibouti and South Sudan, collaborating closely with Ministries of Health to strengthen systems and ensure high-quality, safe care. With a background in both clinical medicine and public health, Dr. Yaregal brings experience in program development, policy advocacy, training, and multidisciplinary team management. Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and sustainable impact. She is passionate about advancing global health through collaborative research and scalable solutions.
Co-Founder • CEO, HAR Consultancy
Hiwot Tegegne serves as one of the visionary Co-Founders of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE), where she brings her passion for social impact and strategic development to the forefront. Her leadership plays a vital role in shaping HVE’s mission to provide life-saving cardiac care to children affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). Through her work, Hiwot is committed to expanding access to essential medical services, amplifying awareness, and mobilizing grassroots support for vulnerable communities across Ethiopia. In addition to her role at HVE, Hiwot is the Founder and CEO of Har Consultancy, a leading firm that empowers organizations to strengthen their societal impact through results-driven development consulting. With more than five years of experience in strategy development, talent acquisition, program design, and management, she is widely recognized as a seasoned development consultant and social entrepreneur. Hiwot is a proud Rotaract member and part of the Intractnetwork, engaging in platforms that foster service, leadership, and collaboration. Her academic background in Accounting and Finance, coupled with her participation in the prestigious Stanford Seed Program, reflects her commitment to continuous growth and innovation.
Assistant Professor of Surgery • Addis Ababa Health Bureau Head
Dr. Yohannes Chala is a committed physician, visionary public health advocate, and one of the founding members of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE). His leadership within HVE reflects a deep passion for improving access to cardiac care and strengthening Ethiopia's healthcare infrastructure. He is instrumental in advancing policy-level advocacy to support children and youth affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). As the Head of the Addis Ababa Health Bureau and an Assistant Professor of Surgery, Dr. Yohannes is actively shaping health service delivery at both academic and administrative levels. His dual roles enable him to integrate policy, practice, and education—ensuring sustainable and equitable care across public health systems. Dr. Yohannes’s contributions to HVE are grounded in his extensive surgical experience and strategic health governance. Through collaborative leadership, he plays a vital role in mobilizing resources, fostering partnerships, and building resilient healthcare solutions to address RHD. He is recognized for his dedication to public service, evidence-based leadership, and his unwavering commitment to healing hearts—both in the operating room and at the policy table.
Deputy Commissioner, Addis Ababa Environmental & Green Development Commission
Walelegn Desalegn is a distinguished urban development leader and a dedicated board member of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE). As the Deputy Commissioner at the Addis Ababa Environmental and Green Development Commission, he champions policies that drive sustainable urban transformation and equitable access to green infrastructure. With a strong foundation in governance and public administration, Walelegn brings years of expertise in spearheading initiatives focused on climate resilience, environmental justice, and inclusive city planning. His role at HVE reflects his belief that environmental health and human health are deeply intertwined. He plays a key role in HVE’s strategic direction, contributing to cross-sectoral partnerships, resource mobilization, and policy-level advocacy to combat Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) and strengthen public health systems across Ethiopia. Walelegn’s passion for public service and transformative impact makes him an invaluable part of HVE’s leadership team, working toward healthier communities and a sustainable future.
Artist • Board Member
Samuel Hailu is a distinguished Ethiopian visual artist and a valued board member of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE). Born and raised in Wolkite, Gurage Zone, he cultivated a passion for painting from an early age, earning top honors in national art competitions during his school years. He further honed his craft at the Alle School of Fine Arts and Design, AAU, graduating in 2012. Samuel's artwork is celebrated for its emotive depth and cultural resonance, often reflecting themes of healing and community. His works are characterized by bold colors, dynamic compositions, and a focus on capturing the essence of his subjects. His commitment to social causes is exemplified by his generous donation of a painting that raised 350,000 birr for HVE through a fundraising auction. As a board member, he actively leverages his artistic influence to support HVE's mission, using his art to inspire and mobilize resources for cardiac care initiatives in HVE. Through his creative endeavors and philanthropic efforts, Samuel Hailu embodies the transformative power of art in advancing health and well-being within his community.
Board Member
Bethelhem Getachew is a dedicated board member of Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE), where she brings a strong background in public engagement and community-centered advocacy. Her work with HVE is rooted in a deep passion for uplifting underserved voices and advancing equitable access to healthcare services for Ethiopian children affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). With a proven track record in communications, event coordination, and social campaign planning, Bethelhem plays a key role in HVE’s outreach and awareness efforts. She is known for building authentic relationships with stakeholders, mobilizing volunteers, and driving grassroots initiatives that resonate with local communities. Bethelhem’s contribution to HVE reflects her core belief that change begins with informed communities and empathetic leadership. She continues to champion the organization’s vision through her service, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to social impact.
North America Focal Person • Cardiovascular Perfusionist, Mayo Clinic
Mesfin Dollar is the North American focal point for Healing Valves Ethiopia (HVE), where he plays a critical role in fostering international collaboration, building donor relationships, and representing the organization's mission abroad. His work bridges continents to support children in Ethiopia affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), connecting global resources with local impact. As a Cardiovascular Perfusionist at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, Mesfin brings exceptional clinical experience to the table. His hands-on expertise in operating heart-lung machines during complex surgeries gives him a unique appreciation for the life-saving work HVE delivers through its programs in Ethiopia. Beyond the operating room, Mesfin is known for his dedication to medical outreach, education, and advocacy. He actively participates in diaspora-led initiatives to uplift Ethiopia’s healthcare infrastructure and routinely supports campaigns that raise awareness of RHD. With a strong belief in the power of teamwork and transnational solidarity, Mesfin continues to be an invaluable asset to HVE’s efforts to save hearts and transform futures—one surgery at a time.