Following the closing of the Youth in Agroecology Startup Competition application window on August 1, 2025, all submissions underwent an initial screening process using a structured checklist to ensure they met the competition’s basic criteria and eligibility requirements.
Applications are now under the careful review of our esteemed panel of judges: accomplished professionals with diverse expertise, extensive experience, and strong track records in their respective fields. Guided by a detailed evaluation framework and scoring tool, the jury will soon finalize identifying the Top-10 most promising startups.
Bringing together their unique skills and perspectives, our jury members are committed to selecting startups that embody innovation, sustainability, and community impact. Below are the distinguished professionals who make up this year’s Youth in Agroecology Startup Competition jury.
Betelhem Lakew is a distinguished food scientist and nutritionist with an MSc in Food Science and Nutrition. She is the Founder of LeHem Nutrition Counselling, helping clients, especially mothers and children adopt healthier lifestyles. As Co-founder and CTO of BeNu Manufacturing, she develops innovative food products and leads technical operations. Betelhem also serves as a Research Assistant at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, contributing to impactful nutrition research, including multi-micronutrient supplementation projects.
Kefelegn Hailu is the Managing Director of Unlock Consultancy & Engineering PLC, bringing over 25 years of expertise in leadership, project management, and business consultancy. Holding an MBA, a BA in Business Administration and Information Systems, and a degree in Civil Engineering from Addis Ababa University, he has led major projects and held senior roles in both the construction and consultancy sectors. Specializing in asset valuation, strategic planning, and management policy development, Mr.Kefelegn has trained and advised diverse institutions on entrepreneurship, customer service, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance. His proven leadership and wide-ranging expertise make him a valuable member of the Youth in Agroecology Startup Competition jury.
Selam Wondim is a serial entrepreneur, entrepreneurship expert, and storytelling mentor with over 10 years of management experience and a strong track record in Africa’s startup ecosystem. As founder and CEO of Gomida Solutions, she leads House of Chewata, an innovative play-to-earn gaming platform. She has co-founded multiple ventures, including Birrama and GrowHydro, and actively supports women entrepreneurs through mentorship and judging roles in major startup competitions. Selam is recognized for her ability to transform ideas into sustainable businesses and build high-performing teams that create lasting impact.
Yeshialem Haileye is an accomplished trainer, consultant, and educator specializing in marketing, entrepreneurship, and soft skills development. As a Senior Business Instructor and Master Trainer, she has designed and delivered high-impact training programs, mentored entrepreneurs, and developed innovative curricula. With expertise in business planning, resource management, and gender-focused initiatives, Yeshialem is committed to fostering sustainable business growth and social impact, making her a strong addition to the competition’s jury panel.
The shortlisted startups will be announced next week. These top-10 startups will move forward in the competition and receive dedicated support to present their startup in person in front of the panel of judges. Stay-tuned for more updates on the competition process and the final awarding event.
You are doing a great job, keep it up promoting agroecology! However, regarding the Youth in Agroecology competition, I noticed from the brief judge profiles that none of them seem to have a background in agroecology. That’s a bit disappointing.
Dear Geja,
Thank you for your comment and appreciation. Regarding the judges, we would like to assure you that we assigned a well-qualified experts who have the knowledge and experience working in diverse sectors and thematic areas, including agroecology and healthy foods. In particular, they have excellent track-record participating in similar competitions and working with youth startups. Most importantly, the ESFSAC team, starting from the Executive Director, are seasoned professionals in the field of agroecology and food systems, and they have a directive and advisory role in the competition, with a strong emphasis on relevance to the main thematic focuses.