RI Regions
Africa

Demelash Bekele is a leader in the realms of social work and disability advocacy, boasting a career spanning over two decades. Currently serving Rehabilitation International as Deputy Vice President for Africa region and a founder and Executive Director of the Ethiopian-based NGO, VCBRA (Vision Community Based Rehabilitation Association). Additionally, he contributes as an International Disability Consultant at Light for the World (LFTW), further extending his impact across borders. He is an alumnus of Washington University in St. Louis, where he earned a master’s degree in social work. His academic achievements are complemented by his status as a Fellow of the prestigious Acumen Fellowship Program, where he engages in research and initiatives aimed at advancing disadvantaged community rights and inclusion. In his illustrious career journey, he has served as Board Chairperson of Community-Based Rehabilitation Network Ethiopia, further cementing his dedication to fostering inclusive practices and empowerment within communities.
News & Events
Is Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Treatment Worth It?
A study from Sweden casts doubt on the long-assumed superiority of interdisciplinary treatment (IDT) for chronic pain patients receiving partial disability pensions. Despite IDT’s prominence in national healthcare strategies, researchers found no significant...
Digital Literacy & Decent Work through Disability-inclusive Development
RI Newsletter March 2025
Dear Members of Rehabilitation International, Friends and Partners of Rehabilitation International, And All Interested Readers, Welcome to the March 2025 edition of the Rehabilitation International Newsletter! In this issue, we bring you key highlights, including:...
Webinar Women with Disabilities Re-imagining the Future: Work, Social Equity and Climate Change
Social Commission Rehabilitation International & Shanta Memorial Rehabilitation Centre. Invite you to a Virtual Panel @ The Commission on the Status of Women 69: “Women with Disabilities Re-imagining the Future: Work, Social Equity and Climate Change” Date : 19th...
RI Newsletter February 2025 Issue
Dear Members of Rehabilitation International, Friends and Partners of Rehabilitation International, And All Interested Readers, Welcome to the February 2025 edition of the Rehabilitation International Newsletter! In this issue, we bring you key highlights, including:...
RI Newsletter January 2025 Issue
Dear Members of Rehabilitation International, Friends and Partners of Rehabilitation International, And All Interested Readers, Welcome to the January 2025 edition of the Rehabilitation International Newsletter! In this issue, we bring you several key highlights: A...
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