Mr Ashenafi Mulugeta Kebede (MBA) The president, Addis Ababa Hotel & Tourism Professional Association – Ethiopia, has been named as one of the Africa Travel 100 under 40 award winners by the organisers of Akwaaba Travel Market, West Africa’s largest travel expo and Atqnews.com.
His journey portrays that of an inspired and visionary hotel director and consultant, deeply impassioned by the hospitality sector and driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence. Hailing from Ethiopia, his roots have greatly influenced his trajectory, and from a tender age, he found his calling in the world of hospitality.
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Eager to equip himself with the necessary skills, Ashenafi pursued higher education, achieving an advanced diploma from the Catering Tourism Training Institute in 2011, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Communication from Bahirdar University. Furthering his academic pursuits, he completed his MBA from Rift Valley University College. Presently, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management, exemplifying his dedication to continuous learning.
Ashenafi’s journey in the hospitality industry burgeoned as he gained hands-on experience and insights, thereby carving a successful career within Ethiopia’s hotel sector. Proficiency in hotel operations, adept management capabilities, and a customer-centric approach define his professional ethos.
His accomplishments extend beyond individual success, as evidenced by his multifaceted involvement. As the Chairman of the Addis Ababa Hotel & Tourism Professionals Association and a member of the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism Star Rating Committee, Ashenafi actively contributes to the upliftment of the sector. Notably, he is the Founder and CEO of Platinum Hospitality Business Group PLC, while also assuming the role of Managing Director at Ambassador Hotel.
A socially conscious leader, Ashenafi co-initiated the Muya Lehagere Supporting Club, a platform dedicated to supporting and empowering underprivileged tourist destination hotels and resorts. He remains a potent advocate, rallying support for vulnerable communities through initiatives like the Gergesion and Mekdonia Charity Centers.
Ashenafi’s influence extends further as he generously imparts his wisdom, offering advisory services to governmental bodies and investors for over 14 years. His experience has also found a channel in education, as he serves as an experienced instructor in various tourism colleges and institutes.
In the Ethiopian hospitality sector, Ashenafi Mulugeta Kebede stands out as a young, dynamic, and proactive luminary. His story is one of not just personal triumph, but also of a visionary leader who ardently embodies the principles of his profession.
2 comments
I know Mr. Ashenafi when he was a child. From then he was a dedicated, hard working person. And this award is goes to a proper person as my perception!!! Congrats Ashe!!!
I know this wonderful gentleman since he was a child I had a dream he become a successful man he deserved all the success