Roni's Story

    Recently, Roni Akale, the Director-General of ENP enlightened the interns on all he has done to get to where he is today, in Israel, the home for the Ethiopian Israelis where they longed to live for 2500 years. Ron was born in a town near a City called Golda where he grew up in a Jewish family. His childhood was quite different than the average American or Israeli. For example, his school was a village where he would walk 34 kilometers both there and back everyday. When the school day was over and it was time for homework Roni had to depend on the sun for light. He then explained how he worked as a bookkeeper for 3 years. This was his life until his friend convinced him to go to Jerusalem. 

At just 20 years old Roni began his trek to Israel. The travelers were unaware of how far away their village was from Sudan which is vital information considering getting to Israel from Ethiopia is done by going through Sudan. Even though this detail caused some panic, no matter how long this journey took, it was worth it. If they wanted to go to Israel now was the time. They were young, healthy, and driven. On the expedition through the jungle they were accompanied by frightening and poisonous creatures on top of having no knowledge of the way to Israel. Lucky for them their donkey knew the way so he led them to their homeland. However, luck can only go so far. There was a thief along the way that got a hold of their food and water, leaving them with nothing. Eventually, the Mossad found them and gave them food, water and shelter. 

Now for his time in Israel. Roni lived the life of a regular Israeli citizen where he joined the IDF. Following his time protecting his country, he studied at Ben Gurion University. Then in 2011 he found his way to ENP where he loves his job and the mission it presents. As an Ethiopian that traveled long and far to be as successful as he is, he wants to be able to teach those involved in ENP valuable and encouraging information that motivates other generations of Ethiopians to work hard. Besides Roni’s inspiring past, he still continues to inspire others from his work at ENP and his hobby, writing books. He has written two books; one of which describes his voyage to Israel in great detail. 

We have had many speakers share their ancestors' stories of how they made their way to their homeland, but we have not heard a story directly coming from someone who, by foot, walked from an Ethiopian village all the way to israel. I am so unbelievably lucky to have gotten the chance to hear the story of a very brave, driven Ethiopian Jew. It is incredible what some people will go through to follow a dream for a better future. Roni is a role model for all.

- Shari Spiegel