Dr. Ambassador Yeshimebrat (Yeshmbet) Mersha Kassa is an Ethiopian scholar and diplomat recognized for her trailblazing leadership in academia, diplomacy, and public service. She became the first female president of Bahir Dar University, serving from 2008 to 2011, after holding positions such as Academic Vice President, Programs Officer, and Gender Office Coordinator. With a PhD in Education, Gender and Development, and Leadership from Leopold-Franzens University in Innsbruck, Austria, she has been a strong advocate for women’s empowerment in higher education. Following her academic leadership, she joined Ethiopia’s diplomatic service, serving as Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire and later as Director of the Foreign Relations Strategic Information Resource Center. In addition, she has been a member of the Ethiopian Parliament and serves on a standing panel, where she contributes her expertise to legislative and policy matters. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to advancing education, gender equity, and Ethiopia’s role in both national governance and international relations.