WHO WE ARE
Ellilta International germinated from one tree in Ethiopia – two women who simply responded from their hearts by heading onto the streets of Addis Ababa for the purpose of loving women who were forgotten. Twenty years later, the genetics of relationship-based recovery run through several projects across the globe; each carries the DNA of Ellilta- Women at Risk in Ethiopia. Each project is a comprehensive, restorative program for women and girls exploited through forced prostitution.
THE WOMEN WE SUPPORT
Ellilta works with both the women and their children so the generational cycle of prostitution can be broken. And so a new generation of Ethiopian young people are no longer bound by the trauma of sexual exploitation. They have options. These holistic alternatives transform lives, whole families, and communities.
INTERNATIONAL IMPACT
Ellilta has been sought out by others doing similar work because the success rate is so striking. Ellilta has mentored, developed curriculum for, and consulted with Christian ministries from over a dozen African countries.
Ellilta is a ministry not only committed to seeing the sex-trade ended in Ethiopia: it is also a ministry that desires to share what it has learned, to equip, to train, and to stand with other ministries across Africa so that more women caught in the darkness of sexual exploitation are brought into the light and living hope that only the Gospel of Jesus Christ can bring.
MEET OUR TEAM
John Huh
PRESIDENT, ELLILTA INTERNATIONAL
With over 30 years of extensive experience in the non-profit sector across Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, he currently serves as a military Chaplain for the Canadian Armed Forces. Since volunteering with EWAR in 2015, he has contributed and served in various capacities and most recently has taken on the role as president. His primary interests include fostering community relationships and cultivating strategic partnerships.
Serawit (Cherry) Friedmeyer
CHAIR
My name is Serawit Teketel Friedmeyer, and I was born and raised in Ethiopia. From an early age, I was taught the value of every person and the importance of supporting one another. In my early twenties, the Lord opened my eyes to the suffering of women trapped in prostitution in my city, Addis Ababa, and gave me a deep compassion for them.
In 1994, a group of women who shared this concern and compassion joined me in meeting the first women on the streets. We wanted to offer alternatives that would help them leave prostitution. What began with one relationship soon grew into many, prompting my friends and me to think more broadly and deeply. In 1996, Women At Risk was formally established under the umbrella of SIM Ethiopia, a global evangelical mission. This made it possible to open a day center where women could receive skills training, friendship, and a safe place to belong.
In 2003, with the encouragement of SIM Ethiopia, Women At Risk was registered as an Ethiopian non-governmental organization under the name Ellilta Women At Risk. Together with my leadership team, I led the organization until January 1, 2018.
Over the years, I met thousands of women who fought bravely and worked hard to escape prostitution, addiction, and unemployment. I remember each of them with deep respect and feel honored to have known and loved them through their journeys.
Over the years, I was also encouraged to connect with other organizations that support women and men trapped in trafficking and prostitution. These global relationships led to the creation of ICAP Global (www.icapglobal.org), a worldwide network of practitioners who offer one another support and encouragement. As part of the ICAP leadership team, I have led African ICAP since its inception in 2004.
Although I now live in Canada with my family, my heart remains deeply connected to the work of Ellilta Women At Risk in Ethiopia and ICAP Global. I continue to serve on the board of Ellilta Women At Risk, supporting and encouraging its current director. I am also grateful to continue serving on the ICAP leadership team.
Erin Johnson
CHAIR
Erin Johnson first partnered with Ellilta in 2014, when she began leading teams to Ethiopia to provide education on human trafficking prevention. She has also served on the board of directors for several nonprofit organizations focused on supporting underserved communities. A licensed marriage and family therapist, Erin owns and operates a private therapy practice in San Diego, California. She holds master’s degrees in linguistics and marriage and family therapy from the University of California, Davis and Bethel Seminary.
Aynalem Markos
TREASURER
With more than 25 years of experience in financial management, human resources, donor relations, and marketing strategy across the public and private sectors in Ethiopia and the United States, Ayne brings a diverse leadership background and strategic perspective to her role as Treasurer of the Ellilta International Board of Directors. Ellilta International’s commitment to advocating for the voiceless has resonated deeply with Ayne since the organization’s inception. As an entrepreneur and collaborative leader, she has focused on strengthening operations, managing resources effectively, and fostering sustainable growth. In her role as Treasurer, she brings that same dedication to advancing strong governance, financial stewardship, and long-term organizational sustainability. Beyond her professional work, Ayne is an active volunteer who supports initiatives focused on arts and culture, child advocacy, education, and community outreach. Her passion for service reflects a deep commitment to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
Stephen Proett
SECRETARY
Stephen has been on the board of several nonprofit organizations. He has also been a director and manager of commercial projects for large international projects. His experience includes construction management and contracting for project operational and capital programs. Stephen has also worked in significant roles in project planning and as project liaison with federal, tribal, state and local governments. Stephen manages the development of software with a focus on natural resource, infrastructure and case management projects. Stephen has law and business finance degrees from the University of Colorado and the University of Denver.