February 2025

Honoring Black Leadership Excellence

As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the past, embrace the present, and shape the future. This year, our communities face economic hardships. Yet, amidst these challenges, we draw strength from our shared values of resilience, empowerment, and solidarity. At the African Economic Development Solutions (AEDS), we believe that economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community upliftment are essential to overcoming adversity. In these trying times, we are inspired by the legacy and contributions of Black Americans who, throughout history, have fought for freedom, equality, and opportunity. Their sacrifices empower us to stand strong, and their visionary leadership guides our commitment to building a brighter, more inclusive future. As we honor their legacy, AEDS remains committed to uplifting our communities, creating pathways for economic opportunity, and nurturing the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change. Now, more than ever, we must unite, support one another, and push forward with hope and determination. In the spirit of this commitment, African Economic Development Solutions is proud to highlight remarkable leaders who have made enduring contributions to humanity. We are honored to collaborate with these trailblazers and learn from their impactful work. Thank you for your service.

– Dr. Gene Gelgelu, Founder, President, & CEO of AEDS

Black History Month Spotlight

Empowering Women and Redefining Civic Leadership

Dr. Habon Abdulle has spent her career breaking down barriers and empowering women, especially those from the African diaspora, to step into leadership roles that shape their communities. As the founder and Executive Director of Ayada Leads, a civic leadership organization based in Minneapolis, Dr. Abdulle is dedicated to creating a space where women—particularly African immigrant women—can lead with confidence and advocate for policies that uplift their communities.

For more than 20 years, Dr. Abdulle has been a prominent voice in the fields of gender and politics, using her research and personal experience to advance the participation of minority women in political leadership. She understands that a woman-centered approach is crucial for helping women overcome structural and cultural challenges. As a mentor and coach, she guides women to embrace their unique leadership styles, develop their strengths, and use their vulnerability as a tool for empowerment.

Dr. Abdulle’s work is a direct reflection of her belief in the power of grassroots advocacy and inclusive leadership. Her efforts to promote Somali American women’s political involvement have had a profound impact, with numerous women now holding elected positions at both the state and national levels. In 2013, the Bush Foundation recognized her work with a Fellowship, enabling her to further her mission of encouraging Somali American women to pursue political leadership.

This Black History Month, we spotlight Dr. Abdulle’s tireless work to uplift the voices of African immigrant women and pave the way for a new generation of women leaders. Through her leadership and mentorship, Dr. Abdulle continues to inspire women and create pathways for them to claim their seats at the table of civic and political decision-making.

Leaders who Inspire Us

A Lifelong Advocate for Refugees & Immigrants

Eskinder Negash is a powerful advocate for the rights and dignity of refugees and immigrants, a role he’s embraced for over four decades. As the President and CEO of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), Negash leads an organization dedicated to supporting individuals in forced or voluntary migration, helping them transition to a dignified life. His impact is felt both globally and domestically, as he has worked with vulnerable populations ranging from refugees to victims of trafficking.

Negash’s leadership journey includes serving as Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), where he oversaw a budget of over $1.5 billion and provided critical services to hundreds of thousands of people, including refugees, asylees, unaccompanied minors, and victims of trafficking. Under his guidance, ORR helped nearly 850,000 people during his six years of service.

His career is marked by significant achievements, including an “Outstanding American By Choice” award and recognition from the International Rescue Committee for his transformative work with refugees. Negash’s leadership extends beyond his direct service, with board memberships and advisory roles that influence public-private partnerships and immigration policy.

We would like to highlight Negash's relentless commitment to advancing the rights and lives of immigrants and refugees, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed at the highest levels of government and society.

Eskinder Negash

Watchen Harris Bruce

Watchen Harris Bruce has spent over forty years leading impactful initiatives that drive economic empowerment and community development, particularly for Baltimore’s underserved populations. As the President and CEO of Baltimore Community Lending (BCL), she oversees a nonprofit mission that provides loans and technical assistance to small businesses and real estate developers in low-income areas. Her leadership at BCL is a beacon of opportunity, focusing on breaking down financial barriers and fostering sustainable growth in marginalized communities.

Bruce’s work is deeply rooted in both national and international experiences. Before joining BCL, she spearheaded USAID-funded projects in Liberia, where she helped expand access to finance, support small businesses, and promote renewable energy. These initiatives reflect her unique expertise in economic development and her commitment to global change. Back home, her work at major national banks and as a management consultant has enabled her to bring innovative financial solutions to communities often excluded from traditional lending systems.

Her dedication to social impact, however, truly defines Bruce. From serving on boards for the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs to advocating for financial literacy on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Advisory Board, Bruce is an influential voice for economic justice.

As we celebrate Black History Month, her efforts to uplift Baltimore’s low-income communities and champion systemic financial inclusion stand as a powerful example of leadership that creates lasting change.

Watchen Harris Bruce: Champion of Economic Empowerment & Community Development

Honoring Those Who Came Before Us

We stand on the shoulders of giants—the Black Americans who fought for civil rights, social justice, and economic opportunities that benefit all of us today. Their courage and determination opened doors for African immigrants, allowing us to build businesses, pursue education, and contribute to our communities. This month, we express our deepest gratitude to those who made our dreams possible.

Wealth is not just for the few; it should be for the many. We have the power to create opportunities, and we should use it to uplift our communities.

– Madam C.J. Walker, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and America's First Female Self-Made Millionaire

Call to Action

At AEDS, we believe that economic empowerment is key to creating lasting change. Through our business development programs, business lending, homeownership education, and community-building initiatives, we support entrepreneurs, families, and communities in achieving their goals.

This Black History Month, let’s not only reflect on the past but also take action for the future. Let’s support Black-owned businesses, mentor the next generation, and stand united in our pursuit of equity and opportunity for all.

Ways to show your support: