National Birth Defects Campaign Closing and Recognition Event
Celebrating Collective Action, Community Voices, and Commitment to Prevention
HOPE-SBH was honored to participate in the National Birth Defects Campaign Closing and Recognition Event, a gathering that brought together government representatives, health professionals, partner organizations, and community stakeholders to reflect on the campaign’s achievements and recognize contributions toward improving awareness, prevention, and care related to birth defects in Ethiopia.
The event provided an important opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts made throughout the campaign while highlighting the continued need for stronger awareness, prevention, early care, and support for children and families affected by birth defects, including Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH).
The SBH Community at the Heart of the Celebration
Members of the SBH community—including children, youth, and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus—were present and actively participated in the event.
One of the most inspiring moments was the participation of SBH-affected youth, who confidently showcased their talents and shared messages of hope, resilience, and inclusion.
Their participation went beyond a performance. It was a powerful reminder that children and young people living with disabilities should not only be recipients of care and support—they should have opportunities to express themselves, develop their talents, participate in society, and shape the conversations that affect their lives.
HOPE-SBH Receives National Recognition
During the closing program, HOPE-SBH was honored with a Certificate of Recognition and a Crystal Award in recognition of its dedication and contribution to raising awareness and strengthening community engagement around Neural Tube Defects and Hydrocephalus in Ethiopia.
The recognition reflects HOPE-SBH’s continued efforts to bring greater attention to birth defect prevention, improve understanding of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, and strengthen support for affected children and their families.
For HOPE-SBH, the recognition is not only an acknowledgment of past work but also an encouragement to continue building stronger partnerships and expanding efforts that can create meaningful change in communities across Ethiopia.
Recognizing Leadership and Community Impact
The event also recognized the contribution of Beza Haile, Founder and Executive Director of HOPE-SBH, for her extraordinary contribution to community awareness and promoting early care-seeking for Neural Tube Defects and Hydrocephalus in Ethiopia.
Her recognition reflects the importance of sustained leadership and community-centered advocacy in addressing conditions that are often overlooked and misunderstood.
Through her leadership, HOPE-SBH has continued to advocate for prevention, strengthen awareness, support families, and promote greater inclusion for people living with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
From Recognition to Continued Action
While the awards were an important moment of celebration, the event also served as a reminder of the work that remains.
Preventing birth defects and ensuring that children affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus can live healthy, dignified, and fulfilling lives requires continued collaboration among government institutions, health professionals, civil society organizations, communities, families, and development partners.
HOPE-SBH remains committed to being part of this national effort—advancing awareness, prevention, early care, rehabilitation, inclusion, and long-term support for children and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
The voices and achievements of the SBH community, together with the recognition received at the campaign closing, reinforce a simple but important message: when communities, institutions, and partners work together, meaningful change is possible.
HOPE-SBH is proud to stand alongside the many organizations and individuals contributing to this national movement and remains committed to ensuring that every child and family affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus receives the awareness, care, support, and opportunities they deserve.
