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
RI Newsletter May 2025
Dear Members of Rehabilitation International, Friends and Partners of Rehabilitation International, And All Interested Readers, Welcome to the May 2025 edition of the Rehabilitation International Newsletter. This issue brings you key highlights from across our global...
Rehabilitation International invites young people with disabilities to join its Youth Forum
The life situation of young people with disabilities differs significantly from those of adults and elderly people. This concerns, for example, questions about a person’s own identity, the decisions about choice of a profession and career planning, finding a partner...
Rehabilitation International Highlights Digital Inclusion at Asia-Pacific Forum
On 2 June 2025, Rehabilitation International (RI) took part in the Asia-Pacific Regional Forum on Digital Transformation and the Future of Work for Persons with Disabilities, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN...
Rehabilitation International invites young people with disabilities to join its Youth Forum
The life situation of young people with disabilities differs significantly from those of adults and elderly people. This concerns, for example, questions about a person’s own identity, the decisions about choice of a profession and career planning, finding a partner...
OPEN CALL: Resilient & Inclusive Cities Hub – Small scale grants for innovative solutions
The Resilient and Inclusive Cities Hub hosted by the Global Disability Fund is launching a call for small scale innovation solutions for inclusive and sustainable cities. The call is open to INGOs, OPDs, Development Banks, UN Agencies,...
Global Study Exposes Critical Data Gaps in Mental Health Prevalence-Children and Low-Income Countries Most Affected
A study published in The Lancet Global Health on April 24, 2025, has revealed a stark reality for global mental health: more than 80 percent of countries and territories lack recent, nationally representative data on the prevalence of mental health conditions, with...
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