Diplomatic Éirewaves

In this episode, we sit down with Netanya Edu, the 18-year-old winner of the Embassy’s “Be an Ambassador for a Day” competition, to hear about her experience stepping into the role of Ambassador of Ireland to Ethiopia for a day. She reflects on her passion for inclusive education, her work with young people through Education4All, and her experiences with youth leadership programmes including the EU Youth Sounding Board and Goal Next Gen. Looking ahead, Netanya shares her ambitions to work at the intersection of equitable finance, diplomacy and accessible education, while encouraging young people to pursue their interests and turn small opportunities into meaningful change.

In this episode, we sat down with Concern Worldwide Ethiopia Country Director Austin Kennan and Hanano Programme Director Suzanne Flood to explore what it takes to tackle hunger and malnutrition in some of Ethiopia’s most vulnerable communities. They discuss Ireland’s long-standing humanitarian partnership with Ethiopia, the impact of the Hanano programme across the Mandera Triangle, and the importance of working with local partners, mothers, and community leaders to build lasting resilience. The conversation also reflects on Ireland’s own history of famine and why solidarity, humanitarian action, and long-term development remain as important as ever.

In this episode, we sat down with entrepreneur David O’Halloran to explore his journey from corporate life to building sustainable businesses across Africa. Best known in Ethiopia for founding Africa Juice, David reflects on nearly two decades of doing business in the country, the importance of embedding sustainability into entrepreneurship, and the opportunities and challenges of investing in Africa. He also shares insights on innovation, resilience, and his vision for supporting the next generation of Ethiopian agribusinesses.

In this episode, we sat down with Sister Orla Tracy, Principal and Director of the Loreto Rumbek Mission in South Sudan, to reflect on nearly 20 years of service championing girls’ education. She shares her journey from Ireland to South Sudan, the challenges and successes of transforming opportunities for young women, and her vision for expanding the mission. Sister Orla also discusses the resilience of the South Sudanese people, the importance of international solidarity, and how education continues to shape a brighter future for the next generation.

In this episode, we sat down with Ireland Fellows Programme alumnus Alemi Desta to hear how her experience studying Gender, Politics and International Relations at University College Dublin shaped both her personal and professional journey. From adapting to life in Ireland and discovering shared values between Ireland and Ethiopia, to returning home with a renewed commitment to women’s economic empowerment, Lemmy reflects on the impact of the programme and shares practical advice for Ethiopians considering applying for the 2027 Ireland Fellows Programme.