AGN – What motivated you to commence studying for a PhD in African Studies specializing in ‘Citizenship and Mobility in Africa’?

MHZ: My decision to pursue a PhD in African Studies was primarily fueled by an innate passion for exploring the multifaceted complexities of the continent. Growing up in Ethiopia, I witnessed firsthand the myriad challenges individuals face in asserting their rights and navigating the legal landscape, which deeply inspired me to engage in meaningful contributions to this discourse.

In addition to my legal background, I have an enduring interest in understanding the social science perspectives of justice. This includes delving into the philosophical underpinnings of law and exploring how they intersect with daily lived experiences in Africa.

My goal is to critically examine the notions of citizenship and mobility within the African context, particularly how these concepts are applied and constructed socially, politically, and legally. I am particularly focused on how different historical, cultural, and socio-economic factors influence citizens’ rights and their experiences across various African nations.

This specialization allows me to interrogate the barriers and opportunities related to citizenship that many individuals face, encouraging a broader understanding of human rights and social justice. Ultimately, my academic journey in African Studies aims not only to shed light on these critical issues but also to inform policy and advocacy efforts that can bring about positive change for the citizens of our diverse continent.

AGN – Why did you get involved with the Young Lawyers Initiative (YLI)?

MHZ: My involvement with the Young Lawyers Initiative (YLI) stems from a deeply held belief in the importance of nurturing the next generation of legal professionals. I recognize that young lawyers are the future leaders of our legal system and advocates for justice, making it imperative to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive.

Our law firm, Metassebia Law Group LLP (MLG), initiated YLI after conducting a comprehensive study to assess the challenges faced by emerging legal practitioners in Ethiopia. We identified significant gaps in areas such as public speaking, legal writing, and professional networking. These skills are crucial for effective advocacy and contribute to the broader goal of upholding the rule of law in our society.

Through YLI, we aim to address these deficits by providing targeted mentorship programs and workshops. We proactively work to create a supportive learning environment where young lawyers and law students can develop their abilities, engage in meaningful discussions, and build essential connections within the legal community. So far, we have successfully mentored multiple young lawyers and law students, aiding them in realizing their aspirations. We conduct regular seminars and collaborative projects that not only enhance their legal competencies but also encourage a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Our overarching goal is to cultivate a generation of lawyers who are not only skilled in their craft but also deeply committed to the principles of justice, equity, and human rights.

AGN – What role do you believe young lawyers can play in strengthening the rule of law in Ethiopia?

MHZ: Young lawyers play a pivotal role in strengthening the rule of law in Ethiopia, serving as essential agents of change within the legal landscape. Their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to legal challenges allow them to address complex issues.

Firstly, young lawyers can advocate for human rights across various platforms, raising awareness about injustices and mobilizing public support for legal reforms. They possess the agility to engage with contemporary legal issues such as equality, environmental justice, and access to justice, often using digital mediums to amplify their voices and reach a broader audience.

Furthermore, their involvement in community outreach initiatives enables them to foster connections between the legal system and the public. By organizing legal aid clinics, workshops, and educational programs, young lawyers can empower citizens with knowledge about their rights and the mechanisms available for seeking justice, thereby bridging gaps between the law and everyday life.

In addition to advocacy and community engagement, young lawyers can serve as catalysts for change within the legal profession itself. They are positioned to challenge traditional norms and practices that may hinder progress, pushing for more inclusive and transparent legal processes. Their participation in policy-making discussions and legal reforms is essential for ensuring that the laws reflect the needs and aspirations of all citizens. Moreover, the combination of their drive for social justice and adeptness in utilizing technology can lead to innovative solutions for legal challenges.

Young lawyers have the potential to leverage social media and online platforms to create impactful campaigns that promote accountability and transparency in governance. In summary, young lawyers are not just the future but essential contributors to a vibrant legal ecosystem. By actively engaging in advocacy, community outreach, and reform initiatives, they can significantly strengthen the rule of law, fostering a culture of accountability and justice that benefits society as a whole.

AGN – What is the main thing you would like to achieve during your tenure at Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR)?

MHZ: During my tenure at Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR), my primary objective is to significantly enhance our efforts to protect and promote human rights across the country. To achieve this, we plan to focus on several key initiatives that will positively impact both individuals and communities.

We aim to implement comprehensive programs that raise awareness about legal rights and human rights issues. By developing educational campaigns and workshops, we empower citizens with the knowledge they need to understand and assert their rights.

This grassroots approach not only fosters a more informed populace but also encourages active participation in advocating for justice and accountability. Strengthening partnerships is also crucial for creating a unified approach in our activities towards human rights. Collaboration will allow us to share resources, expertise, and insights, ultimately enhancing our collective impact. Together, we can develop joint initiatives that address pressing human rights concerns and advocate for systemic reforms within the legal framework.

Another key focus will be to enhance our legal aid services, ensuring that marginalized and vulnerable populations have access to justice. By expanding our legal aid work and providing support to individuals facing human rights violations, we can help bridge the gap between the law and those who need it most. This will not only improve access to justice but also demonstrate our commitment to upholding human rights for all. Moreover, we are committed to advocating for policy reforms that align with international human rights standards.

Engaging with policymakers and stakeholders will enable us to push for legislative changes that protect fundamental rights and promote inclusivity within our legal system. Lastly, we hope to create a platform for dialogue among various stakeholders. Hosting forums and discussions will encourage open communication about human rights issues, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration towards a more just society.

Here, I want to appreciate all members of LHR, staff of the secretariat and the Executive Director Mr. Ameha Mekonnen for the wonderful joint effort done so far.

AGN – What initially motivated you to pursue law, and how did growing up in Addis Ababa shape that decision?

MHZ: Growing up in Addis Ababa provided me with a unique lens through which to view the social and political issues that permeate our society. The city’s vibrant cosmopolitan nature is characterized by a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions, each contributing to its dynamic social, political and economic landscape.

Living in such an environment nurtured my awareness of the diverse challenges faced by various communities, revealing significant disparities in access to resources, justice, and representation.

My interest in law was galvanized when I joined the law school at Addis Ababa University. The rigorous academic environment equipped me with the analytical, critical thinking, and practical skills necessary for navigating complex legal issues. It was during this time that I was able to engage deeply with foundational legal concepts, and I became particularly interested in areas such as human rights, justice, and public policy.

AGN – Before choosing to study law, what other field was of interest to you?

MHZ: Actually, it was auto mechanics. Right after high school, I had the opportunity to study it at a technical school, and I found it genuinely inspiring. Even though I didn’t get the chance to work in the field professionally, the experience gave me a whole new appreciation for how engines function, it opened my eyes to the science and precision behind mechanical systems. Of course, I understand that theory and real-world application can be quite different, just like in the legal field. Still, if I weren’t a lawyer today, I think I might have explored a career in auto mechanics.

That said, when I was younger, especially as a child, I actually dreamed of becoming a military officer. I had close family members in the military in the airforce, so I was exposed to that world early on.

I remember visiting air force bases, seeing MiG aircraft up close, and being fascinated by the structure and discipline that comes with military life. It was during the Derg Military era. It left a strong impression on me. But like many childhood dreams, my interests evolved as I grew older, and by my teenage years, for various reasons, I decided to take a different path.

AGN – What were the most important lessons you learned as a Corporate Legal Counselor at MIDROC Ethiopia?

MHZ: My tenure as a Corporate Legal Counselor at MIDROC Ethiopia provided me with invaluable lessons and experiences that significantly shaped my professional development. One of the most critical lessons was the importance of strategic thinking in navigating complex legal matters.

Handling mergers, acquisitions, and the formation of new companies required not only a thorough understanding of corporate law but also the ability to anticipate potential challenges and devise proactive strategies to mitigate risks.

In this role, I was entrusted with advising the Group CEO on various corporate legal issues, including high-profile contracts and compliance matters. This experience underscored the necessity of clear and effective communication, as I was responsible for translating intricate legal concepts into actionable insights that could inform executive decision-making.

I learned the importance of being concise yet comprehensive in my legal analyses, ensuring that stakeholders could grasp the implications of their choices. Furthermore, I developed a keen understanding of the interplay between legal frameworks and business objectives. It became evident that successful legal counsel must align with the company’s strategic goals, reinforcing the concept that law is not merely a set of rules but a dynamic tool that can drive organizational success. This perspective enhanced my ability to provide counsel that supported the company’s vision while safeguarding its legal interests.

AGN – What inspired you to establish Metassebia Law Group LLP, and what challenges did you face in its early stages?

MHZ: The inspiration to establish Metassebia Law Group LLP stemmed from a desire to create a dedicated platform for providing specialized legal services.

Having witnessed the gaps in access to quality legal representation and the need for advocacy in areas such as human rights and corporate law, I felt compelled to create a firm that would prioritize these essential services and champion the rule of law.

From the outset, our vision for Metassebia Law Group was to build a team of highly skilled professionals who share a commitment to integrity, excellence, and social justice. However, one of the initial challenges we faced was assembling a strong and cohesive team. Finding talented individuals who not only possessed the requisite legal expertise but also aligned with our mission and values proved to be a daunting task. To overcome this, we focused on fostering a collaborative culture that emphasizes mentorship, continuous learning, and shared goals, attracting like-minded professionals who are passionate about advancing legal practices.

Another significant challenge in establishing a new law firm was navigating the competitive legal landscape, which includes both established firms and emerging practices. Building a reputation and client base required strategic efforts. This proactive approach not only helped in building our clientele but also positioned the firm as a thought leader in legal advocacy. Additionally, managing the operational aspects of a new law firm added another layer of complexity.

Developing efficient administrative processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and establishing a sustainable law firm model were crucial tasks that needed to be addressed early on.

Despite these initial hurdles, persistence, and unwavering commitment to our core mission have allowed us to gradually overcome these obstacles. As we continue to grow, we remain focused on our goals of delivering exceptional legal services and contributing positively to the legal landscape in Ethiopia.

Our journey has reinforced the notion that while challenges are inherent in any entrepreneurial venture, dedication to a clear vision and collaborative spirit can lead to meaningful progress and success.

AGN – In summary, what does your role entail as a managing partner at Metassebia Law Group LLP?

MHZ: As managing partner, my role encompasses overseeing legal operations, mentoring junior lawyers, engaging with clients, and ensuring our practice adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards while promoting our mission of social justice.

AGN – How do you balance running a law firm with mentoring young lawyers and human rights advocacy?

MHZ: Balancing these commitments requires effective time management and a prioritization of goals. I integrate mentoring into our firm’s culture, making it a key aspect of our operations, which allows me to support young lawyers while maintaining focus on our advocacy work.

AGN – What impact do you hope your work will have on policy, law, or academic discourse in Africa?

MHZ: Well; . . . My primary benchmark for my work is “impact.” I firmly believe that any endeavor within the realm of law and advocacy must contribute meaningfully to society. This conviction drives my efforts across all areas of my professional engagement. Without a tangible impact, the work can feel less worthwhile, especially in a field as critical as law, where the stakes involve real lives and communities.

As I navigate my career, I am dedicated to ensuring that my contributions resonate not only within legal circles but also extend to wider societal implications.

While I recognize that the impact of my work is still in its formative stages, I am already seeing encouraging signs of positive change. One significant initiative is the mentorship model I have established through our law firm. This program not only supports the professional development of emerging lawyers but also enriches the legal landscape by fostering a new generation of advocates who are equipped to tackle pressing legal challenges.

The positive responses we’ve received from law students across Africa highlight the demand for mentorship programs that empower young legal professionals. This growing interest indicates recognition of the need for guidance and support in navigating the complexities of the legal profession.

By sharing our mentorship framework and best practices with other legal practitioners and institutions, I hope to inspire similar initiatives across the continent. Moreover, I aspire for my work to influence policy discussions and reforms that reflect the realities and aspirations of African communities.

By contributing to academic discourse through my research and mentoring activities, I aim to shape the conversation around critical issues such as access to justice, human rights, and sustainable legal practices.

I believe that engaging with policymakers, academic institutions, and civil society organizations will help bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that legal reforms are informed by lived experiences.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a ripple effect—one that not only enhances legal education and practice but also strengthens the rule of law and human rights across Africa. By focusing on capacity-building and collaborative initiatives, I hope to cultivate a culture of accountability and justice that empowers individuals and communities to advocate for their rights effectively.

AGN – What advice would you give to law students or young professionals interested in public policy and African studies?

MHZ: I encourage young professionals to engage deeply with both the theoretical and practical aspects of law and policy. Building a network of mentors and actively participating in discussions related to their fields of interest can significantly enhance their understanding and impact.

AGN – Who has had the greatest personal influence on your values or character outside of formal education?

MHZ: My mother has been a profound influence on my values, instilling in me a strong sense of justice and empathy. Her unwavering commitment to community service has shaped my belief in the importance of giving back and advocating for those less fortunate.

AGN – What does a fulfilling day look like for you?

MHZ: A fulfilling day involves productive interactions with clients, meaningful mentorship sessions with young lawyers, and engaging discussions that advance human rights advocacy. Most importantly, it includes moments of reflection and connection with my family, friends and community.

AGN – Is there a particular place in Ethiopia (or elsewhere) that feels especially meaningful or restorative to you?

MHZ: Attending the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church services and congregations is always meaningful for me.

AGN – Outside of work and study, what activities or hobbies help you recharge and stay grounded?

MHZ: I enjoy reading diverse literature and spending time with family and friends. I also find joy in exploring new places, as these activities allow me to disconnect and gain fresh perspectives on life and my work. I also like to swim.

AGN – Is there anything else you would like to add?

MHZ: I believe in the potential of our youth to drive transformative change in society. Investing in their development will pave the way for a brighter future for Ethiopia and beyond. I encourage all stakeholders to support initiatives that empower young leaders.