Inspiring Women Leaders in Health

Anja Health Center, located in Shebe Woreda of Jimma Zone, Oromia Region, is currently led by Fetiya Oli, a 25-year-old diploma nurse who began her professional journey at the same facility. Despite her young age, Fetiya’s dedication, professionalism, and strong leadership qualities quickly earned her the position of Primary Health Care Unit (PHCU) Director, making her the Head of the Health Center.

Through the MaMeLa initiative, implemented under the Integrated Health Systems Strengthening (IHSS) program by AMREF Health Africa, Fetiya actively participated in several of the capacity-building and leadership development activities. These included woreda-level women’s forums, one-on-one mentorship sessions, High Impact Leadership (HIL) training, peer networking through digital platforms such as Telegram, and personalized coaching and support on her capstone project. She was profiled by the MaMeLa project 11 months ago and became part of the Jimma Cohort for the HIL training. Over time, she took part in four rounds of the women’s forum, two as a participant and two as a facilitator and presenter. Her reliability, initiative, and volunteer spirit quickly distinguished her as a trusted and emerging leader among her peers.

Like many women in Ethiopia’s health system, Fetiya faced several challenges early in her leadership journey. Limited exposure to strategic thinking, hesitation to assume leadership roles, and a lack of strong institutional support were among the initial barriers she encountered. However, through consistent mentorship, participation in interactive forums, and collaboration with woreda and facility leaders, these obstacles were gradually overcome. Regular follow-up and encouragement from mentors and peers through her use of digital platforms for continuous learning, and practical leadership sessions such as role-plays, storytelling, and case studies helped her gain confidence and develop essential management and communication skills.

The mentorship, continuous coaching (both face-to-face and via telephone), and leadership training had a transformative impact on Fetiya’s professional growth and the performance of Anja Health Center. Her confidence and strategic management abilities improved significantly, enabling her to lead her team with clarity and motivation. Demonstrating strong initiative, Fetiya led a major renovation project at Anja Health Center. She closely supervised the construction process, ensured proper utilization of resources, and successfully mobilized support from AMREF, the Woreda Health Office, and the Zonal Health Department. As a result, the facility was upgraded to meet national standards, directly enhancing service quality and accessibility for the surrounding community.

Fetiya’s leadership has also contributed to advancing gender equity within her institution After she has been given Management Member position after joining the program, she ensured that over 50% of her management committee members are women, reflecting her strong belief in

empowering others and creating inclusive spaces for decision-making. Her success as PHCU Director and her visible leadership within the health system have made her a role model for other young women aspiring to take on leadership roles in the health sector.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Fetiya continues to invest in her personal and educational growth. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in health, a step that will further strengthen her knowledge, leadership capacity, and ability to serve her community more effectively.

Fetiya’s journey demonstrates how targeted mentorship, leadership training, and institutional support can empower women to become confident, capable, and effective leaders in Ethiopia’s health system. Her experience highlights several key lessons including personalized mentorship builds confidence and practical leadership skills; peer forums and networks promote collaboration and reduce isolation; institutional commitment from local leaders ensures sustainability; and ongoing learning and follow-up are essential for long-term success.

Fetiya Oli’s story is a powerful example of how investment in women’s leadership can transform individuals, institutions, and communities. Her achievements through this program underscore the value of sustained support and mentorship in developing women leaders who drive equitable, effective, and resilient health systems across Ethiopia.