Lidia Million Tefera

Lidia Tefera is the Founder, CEO, and Designer of LiNu Manufacturing PLC, a leather manufacturing company located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that produces ethically sourced leather goods including bags, belts, wallets and industrial gloves for local and international markets. LiNu also provides free training to marginalized women on how to make leather jewelry and other leather accessories. Lidia is devoted to providing training for women migrants and refugees, since their economic opportunities are scarce and limited. Linu has offered employment to over 40 of the individuals who participated in their trainings, providing them with mentorship opportunities and investments into their new business ideas. Over eighty percent of Linu employees are women, as Lidia believes that to empower women is to empower the nation. Lidia is a board member of the Ethiopia Leather Association (ELA) and the Alliance of African Women Entrepreneurs (AAWE). Lidia holds a Bachelors of Computer Science and is an expert in marketing, management, leadership, and distribution.