Fana Haregot Hailemichael

Fana Haregot is the founder and CEO of Fana Hygiene Solutions, a purpose-driven enterprise in Ethiopia focused on manufacturing affordable, eco-friendly hygiene products. In her leadership role, she oversees strategy, operations, and social impact, guiding a workforce that is more than 75% women. Her business offers a range of essential products, including liquid laundry detergent, handwash, dishwashing liquid, shampoo, and drilling foam used in water well construction to improve access to clean water. Inspired by her lived experience of growing up in poverty, where a lack of basic hygiene materials led to preventable illnesses, Fana built her company to improve health outcomes and reduce environmental harm through refill and reuse systems.

Fana Hygiene Solutions directly contributes to the achievement of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), while also creating sustainable livelihoods for women and youth in conflict-affected regions like Tigray.

In recognition of her work, Fana was named Best Female Entrepreneur of the Year in her region. She actively mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and leads community sessions in partnership with Mekelle University and the American Corner. Fana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Environmental Engineering, and she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Impact Entrepreneurship. She is driven by a deep belief in being the change she wants to see starting with her own community.