Beza Haile

Biography

Beza Haile is a humanitarian leader and nutrition advocate from Ethiopia with extensive experience in development and humanitarian programming. She is the Founder of HOPE Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (HOPE-SBH), Ethiopia's first organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Following the loss of her child due to severe micronutrient deficiency, she became a leading advocate for maternal and child nutrition, championing large-scale food fortification and policy reforms to prevent birth defects and improve health outcomes. Beza has led national awareness campaigns reaching more than 10 million people, spearheaded high-level advocacy efforts with the Ethiopian Parliament, Prime Minister's Office, and key ministries, and mobilized support for approximately 7,000 families affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus. She is known for combining evidence, lived experiences, and community voices to drive sustainable policy and systems change.