Dr. Rediet Mesfin and Faustina Ning’a Cikanda the new experts joining Light for the World. Photo from Light of the World
Light for the World has appointed two seasoned professionals to its senior technical team, strengthening its leadership in disability inclusion and programme delivery. The appointments were officially announced on May 19, 2025.
Dr. Rediet Mesfin, based in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, joins as Senior Expert in Inclusive Education, while Faustina Ning’a Cikanda, based in Nairobi, Kenya, takes on the role of Senior Expert in Economic Empowerment.
Both bring over a decade of experience in their respective fields and are tasked with strengthening Light for the World’s programme quality and reach in countries where it operates.
Inclusive Education Leadership in Ethiopia
Dr. Rediet Mesfin brings more than 15 years of experience in inclusive education, gained through both academic and community development programmes.
She has worked at Bahir Dar University for over 18 years, where she played a key role in establishing the institution’s Department of Inclusive Education.
Her work has also extended into the community, supporting the formation of a parents’ association for children with intellectual disabilities in the Amhara region.
In her new role, Rediet will focus on the development and quality assurance of Light for the World’s Inclusive Education programmes across multiple countries.
“I am honoured to serve as a Senior Expert in Inclusive Education at Light for the World,” said Rediet.
“I firmly believe in the transformative power of inclusive education to unlock the potential of every individual.”
Her appointment comes as Light for the World continues to prioritise inclusive education as a foundation for equitable development, especially in regions where children with disabilities remain significantly underserved.
Expanding Economic Opportunities in Kenya and Beyond
Faustina Ning’a Cikanda joins with 13 years of experience in inclusive economic empowerment initiatives across Africa.
Most recently, she served as Lead Consultant for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses at WYLDE International, where she supported African enterprises to scale and strengthen their operational models.
She also worked as an Investor Readiness Coach and Mentor for the Graça Machel Trust, helping women- and youth-led enterprises improve their access to finance and communicate their business stories with clarity and confidence.
Faustina’s role at Light for the World will focus on expanding access to decent work for people with disabilities and shaping economic empowerment programmes that are people-centred and transformative.
“I am excited to join Light for the World as Senior Expert in Economic Empowerment,” she said.
“For me, economic inclusion is about being brave and bold enough to unlock real possibilities for others to thrive.”
Her appointment reflects the organisation’s growing emphasis on inclusive employment pathways and sustainable livelihoods, particularly for groups that face structural barriers in accessing economic opportunities.
Deepening Technical Expertise Across Programmes
The appointment of these two senior experts is part of Light for the World’s ongoing effort to embed high-level technical expertise into the design and delivery of its programmes.
By engaging professionals with deep regional experience, the organisation aims to strengthen the impact of its work at both the community and policy levels.
Rediet and Faustina are expected to play critical roles in refining inclusive education and economic empowerment strategies.
They will support country teams and foster collaboration with partners across government, civil society, and the private sector.
About Light for the World
Light for the World is a global disability and development organisation that enables inclusive communities and promotes access to quality eye health, education, and economic participation.
Active across countries in Africa and Asia, the organisation works with local partners to dismantle barriers faced by people with disabilities, especially in underserved regions.
Through a rights-based and inclusive approach, Light for the World supports sustainable change that leaves no one behind.
