A senior at Messiah College, Mahelet has a passion for ministry and sharing the Gospel. Born and raised in Ethiopia until age 16, Mahelet says, “Helping others has always been a part of my life.” She credits her grandparents, who were involved in business, and her mom, who served as a missionary in rural areas of Ethiopia, for their positive influence in her life. Despite her Christian upbringing, Mahelet fell away from her faith in Christ until two years ago, when she recommitted her life to serving Him.
Mahelet heard about HOPE International when President and CEO Peter Greer taught a course at her college. She spoke to him after class and was encouraged to apply for an internship at HOPE. That summer, Mahelet served as the church and community outreach intern.
How does working at HOPE compare with other places you have worked in the past?
“The place I worked before, [my colleagues and I] had a professional relationship. Here at HOPE, I have spiritual relationships and personal relationships too. People are very genuine, sincere, and love their jobs.”
How would you describe your relationship with other HOPE staff?
“At HOPE, I always have people who challenge me and help me to grow. They do it with so much grace!”
Has interning at HOPE impacted your spiritual life?
“I have learned the power of unity and harmony. … Everyone compliments each other, which helps create a great, fun environment. I don’t even feel like I’m at work!”
Have you learned anything about personally managing money since working at HOPE?
“Working at HOPE, and seeing the kind of people HOPE helps, causes you to pay attention to your consumer behavior. … I’m working on saving money and am learning the difference between need and want. Now, I’m thinking about donating in the future. I want to foster a culture of giving in myself.”
What is one takeaway you learned from your summer at HOPE?
“Life isn’t about being comfortable; it is about living a meaningful life. You should do something that helps God’s Kingdom. I know that I will be working for God’s Kingdom for the rest of my life.”
What advice would you give a future intern thinking about taking an unpaid position?
“I wouldn’t call it unpaid. It is paid—there is not always a dollar price on things. You learn how to manage your time, get out of your comfort zone, and identify your God-given gifts. To identify these skills, you must be challenged. You can’t put a price on that. It is the same idea when you go to college where you pay money: You are investing in something bigger.”
What are your dreams for your future?
My dream for myself is that I want to go back to Ethiopia and have a nonprofit organization. I want to expand the mission of HOPE for God’s Kingdom.”
Searching for a summer internship? HOPE International’s GROW internship and fellowship program might be a great fit for you! Our program is designed for students and recent grads seeking to develop spiritually and professionally. Interns and fellows at HOPE enjoy the benefits of a challenging and meaningful professional experience while working in a spiritually nurturing environment. HOPE’s interns and fellows experience spiritual formation, professional enrichment, and significant involvement. Learn more about how you can get involved!
