I can’t even begin to describe how everything feels. I am very honored and beyond excited to announce that I have been elected president of the Massachusetts Association of Student Councils (MASC). This is an incredible milestone for me for many reasons, but most remarkably because I am the second Black female president, following my older sister, Abyssinia Haile, who inspired me throughout her term in 2023-2024.

Student leadership has played a monumental role in my life since freshman year, from serving as the class of 2027 class president to participating in ten clubs within my school. My campaign motto, “Leave Room for One More,” was inspired by something that I hold very dearly to my heart: The Ethiopian Buna Ceremony. This is a tradition centered on connection, community, and sharing. For me, leadership is not about performing; it’s about creating space for others, making sure every voice is heard, and fostering opportunities for students from every corner of Massachusetts.

On March 6th, I delivered my speech to over 1,000 students in the Ball Room of the Cape Cod Irish Village in Hyannis. Throughout my speech, I really wanted to share a part of my identity and what leadership means to me so that students, advisors, and executive directors could see me for who I truly am. Winning this position is a dream come true, and I am fully committed to leading the MASC executive board, planning workshops, and helping student council members throughout the state grow as leaders.

This moment is so much more than just me; it is about creating a community where everyone has a seat in my Buna circle and there’s always room for one more. I am immensely grateful for my student council, my supporters, and the chance to serve students across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I hope to build a leadership that feels like buna: not fast, not transactional, but warm and full of heart.