Nunuye Charity – Building Educational Opportunity in Ethiopia

July 21, 2026

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen welcomes Daniel Teklu and Yette Asfaw, co-founders of Nunuye Charity, for a heartfelt conversation about education, opportunity, and the lasting impact of community service. Inspired by the life of Daniel’s late sister, Nunu, the organization began as a family effort to support one orphanage in Ethiopia and has since grown into a nonprofit improving educational access and basic resources for children and families across the region.

Daniel and Yette share how their experiences growing up in Ethiopia shaped their belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty. They discuss the many barriers children face—including damaged schools, lack of classroom supplies, food insecurity, and the lasting effects of conflict—and explain how Nunuye Charity partners with local organizations to address those needs in practical, sustainable ways.

The conversation highlights several of the organization’s initiatives, including building a community computer center, renovating an elementary school serving more than 800 students, providing desks and school supplies, supporting an orphanage, and supplying reusable menstrual hygiene products so girls can continue attending school. Daniel and Yette also discuss efforts to improve nutrition, support vulnerable women, and create economic opportunities that help families become more self-sufficient over time.

Throughout the episode, they reflect on the importance of local partnerships, sustainable solutions, and the belief that changing one child’s future can create ripple effects that strengthen entire families and communities.

GUEST BIO:

Nunuye Charity is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2019 to honor the legacy of Mahlet “Nunu” Teklu and her lifelong commitment to helping children in need. Based in Maryland, the organization partners with trusted local organizations in Ethiopia to improve access to education, nutrition, and healthcare for vulnerable children, women, and families.

Since its founding, Nunuye Charity has helped establish computer learning centers, renovate schools, provide desks and school supplies, support orphanages, fund nutrition programs, distribute reusable menstrual hygiene supplies to keep girls in school, and develop sustainable economic opportunities for women.

HELPFUL LINKS:

SPONSOR:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise headquartered in the Greater Philadelphia Area and operating in multiple states. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing K-12 education, behavioral health care, outpatient therapy, wellness coaching, professional development, and grant management services.