Dr. Wolde Tadesse is a visiting scholar at the Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology and was a researcher with the African Studies Centre University of Oxford. He previously served as a Program Officer at The Christensen Fund, managing significant grant-funded projects and resource mobilization efforts, and as a Senior Researcher at the Max-Planck Institute for Social Anthropology. With an MSc and PhD in Social Anthropology from the London School of Economics, Dr Tadesse's academic and professional journey includes extensive fieldwork among southern Ethiopian pastoralists and cultivators and significant roles within the Ethiopian Ministry of Culture and the Academy of Ethiopian Languages.
Dr Tadesse's accomplishments include his leadership in organizing high-level meetings and festivals promoting biocultural diversity and his prolific contributions to studying economic networks, property relations, and indigenous rights. His work has been instrumental in securing partnerships and funding from major institutional donors, fostering a deep understanding of grassroots community needs, and supporting over 150 grassroots organizations. As a board member of the Indigenous Peoples’ Assistance Facility (IPAF) at IFAD, he has screened and recommended grants, furthering the support for Indigenous communities.
In his statement of purpose, Dr. Tadesse emphasizes his commitment to bridging the gap between marginalized communities and authorities, leveraging his extensive network and field experience. He aims to ensure that the voices of the underrepresented are heard and respected. Dr Tadesse brings to the EDTF a unique blend of academic rigour, practical experience, and a deep-seated dedication to empowering Indigenous and local communities through thoughtful and impactful service.
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