Selected Past Events & Commemorations
The Organization for Resilience and Community Empowerment was established in Mekelle, Ethiopia in February 2025. Continue below to learn more about some of our early events, representative of the work we do in our communities.
ORCE Program Launch and Inauguration Celebration
On March 11, 2025, the Organization for Resilience and Community Empowerment (ORCE) held a vibrant and energetic ceremony in Mekelle, Ethiopia to celebrate the organizations inauguration. The event brought together government officials, representatives from international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and members of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Services (MHPSS) Technical Working Group, all united in their commitment to support ORCE’s mission.
Dr. Tedros, the MHPSS focal person from the Tigray Regional Health Office, delivered an inspiring opening speech, highlighting the expertise of ORCE’s staff in providing specialized MHPSS care to conflict-affected clients. He emphasized the significance of establishing a local NGO to ensure sustainability and ownership of services in the region. The chairperson of the board of ORCE echoed these sentiments, discussing the critical role of MHPSS in the education sector and its potential for integration in Mekelle and surrounding areas.
“There was a strong spirit of collaboration at the event,” said co-founder Kiflom Negash Beyene. “Several attendees expressed keen interest in establishing future partnerships with ORCE. We look forward to building partnerships in these communities.”
Psychoeducation for Prisoners and Care Givers for War Wounded
Inclusive Session in Mekelle Prison Center and Meles Rehabilitation Center (MRC)
In line with our commitment to inclusive mental health support, ORCE facilitated a psychoeducation session for incarcerated individuals and care givers for war wounded in Mekelle Centers. The session covered basic trauma and mental health awareness, inner peace and emotional regulation, exercise therapy and stress coping strategies, and the importance of hope and connection for recovery. The outcome achieved an increased understanding of mental health and self-care inside correctional and rehabilitation settings.
Capacity Building for Educators in Mekelle
ORCE delivered two impactful training sessions aimed at enhancing the psychosocial well-being and classroom resilience of educators. The first focused on Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL), helping school leadership and teachers understand compassion fatigue, burnout, and self-care strategies. The second session introduced the principles of Trauma-Informed Teaching, equipping educators to support students affected by conflict and displacement. The outcome achieved an Increased awareness and practical tools to create emotionally safe learning environments.
