As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the Gulfton Management District is honored to recognize Azeb Yusuf, a leader whose journey embodies resilience, dedication, and community impact. From arriving in the United States as a refugee to becoming a business owner and a board member shaping economic development in Gulfton, Azeb’s story is a testament to perseverance and purpose.
A Refugee’s Journey to the American Dream
Azeb Yusuf’s life took a drastic turn at the age of 17 when she fled Ethiopia due to political instability and the forced conscription of young people into the military. Alongside her older brother, she sought refuge in Kenya, navigating the uncertainty of displacement. During her time in Kenya, Azeb and her brother relied on the kindness of distant family friends to help them through an unfamiliar and often challenging environment.
After living as refugees in Kenya, Azeb and her brother were granted refugee status and given the opportunity to resettle in the United States in 1986 when she was 18. The journey to America was both hopeful and daunting—leaving behind family, culture, and everything familiar to start anew. The refugee resettlement process was complex, requiring extensive documentation, medical examinations, and legal approvals before they could embark on their new lives. Once they arrived in the United States, they faced the challenge of rebuilding, finding work, and integrating into American society while maintaining their cultural identity.
Commitment to Community and Career Growth
Azeb pursued higher education, attending Houston Community College before transferring to Texas Southern University, where she graduated with honors in Healthcare Administration. Her career trajectory took her through various healthcare and community-based roles, including positions at an FQHC clinic, Texas Southern University’s research center, and federally qualified health centers.
Azeb’s passion for helping others led her to volunteer with the Alliance for Multicultural Community Services, a refugee resettlement organization. Her dedication quickly turned into a decade-long career, where she worked her way up to managing refugee health services. Her role allowed her to assist thousands of families in accessing critical healthcare and legal services, particularly for those suffering from PTSD and trauma-related disorders.
A Leader in Immigration and Public Service
Today, Azeb serves in the Houston Mayor’s Office of New Americans & Immigrant Communities, where she assists 20-25 clients weekly with citizenship and immigration services. She also helps individuals seeking DACA, TPS, free legal consulting, asylum, and other immigration services ensuring they have the resources they need for a stable future. Her expertise in refugee affairs and healthcare has made her an invaluable advocate for immigrant communities in Houston. Learn more at houston.naturalizenow.org.
Entrepreneurship and Health Advocacy
In 2024, Azeb took her commitment to health equity a step further by founding Multicultural Strategies for Health LLC. Through this venture, she aims to address healthcare disparities and encourage more inclusive participation in medical research. Her business is dedicated to the memory of her brother, whose passing due to complications from an AstraZeneca vaccine during COVID-19 deeply influenced her mission to improve healthcare access and education in underserved communities.
A Driving Force for Gulfton’s Economic Development
Azeb believes that providing essential resources and improving the quality of life for Gulfton’s large refugee population is key to fostering a safer and more prosperous community. With many refugees residing in apartment complexes, she understands that access to healthcare, social services, and economic opportunities plays a crucial role in reducing crime, improving tenant retention for property owners, and enhancing overall economic stability. By advocating for initiatives that uplift residents and create a sense of community, she aims to ensure that Gulfton remains a thriving, inclusive, and economically resilient district. As a board member and owner agent of the Gulfton Management District, Azeb leverages her 15 years of experience in the area to enhance community services and economic growth.
International Impact and Cultural Preservation
Azeb’s dedication extends beyond Houston. She has engaged in international efforts, such as meeting with the President of Burkina Faso and leading diplomatic tours of Harar, Ethiopia—a UNESCO World Heritage site and her hometown. She is also organizing Ramadan community meals in Harar, fostering unity and cultural preservation. Through these efforts, she continues to uplift communities locally and globally, making her truly deserving of honor this International Women’s Day.
Acknowledging Her Mentors and Supporters
Throughout her journey, Azeb has been guided by influential mentors, including:
- Dr. A. Philip Aitsebaomo – An Optometrist who advised her through her career
- Dr. Ekere Williams, Ph.D. – Encouraged her education and attended her graduation
- Tammy Rodriguez – A longtime friend and confidant
- Representative Ron Reynolds – Supporter of her community initiatives
- Zeman Kelleta – A trusted colleague and mentor
Their support, coupled with Azeb’s unwavering determination, has propelled her to achieve remarkable milestones in both her personal and professional life.
A Legacy of Service and Empowerment
Azeb Yusuf’s journey from a young refugee to a respected advocate in Houston is an inspiration. Her work in healthcare, immigration, and economic development continues to make a lasting impact on Gulfton and beyond. As she receives well-deserved recognition on International Women’s Day, her story serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for future generations.
The Gulfton Management District proudly celebrates Azeb Yusuf for her contributions, resilience, and leadership. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on a community—and the world.
