About us

ILAE is a brain child of two Ethiopian Americans who founded IKON Education Institute, a tax exempt, nonprofit organization in Washington State.

David Makonnen, Founder
David is an Ethiopian American who brings to the team a deep compassion and commitment in bridging the digital divide between people living in developed and developing nations. He currently works for Microsoft Corporation where he has held numerous leadership positions in the last 12 years. A 1999 graduate of Seattle's "Leadership Tomorrow" program and avid supporter of creating opportunity for academic excellence for all, he serves on the board of several non-profit organizations. In addition to his passion for education, David contribution will be his strategic insight, broad network and organization skills.

Haddis Tadesse, Founder
Haddis is an Ethiopian American who brings to the team passion for public service and years of leadership experience including but not limited to policy development, budget, and diplomacy. He is a graduate of the Evans School at the University of Washington with a Master of Public Administration degree. His experiences include serving as a Senior Policy Advisor to the Mayor of Seattle and advising various political campaigns. In 2006, he was a recipient of the prestigious Marshall Memorial Fellowship, which is awarded to emerging American leaders in a broad array of professions from across the U.S. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Haddis serves on the board of various non-profit organizations and is a frequent traveler to Ethiopia. Haddis intends to mobilize his local, national, and international contacts to make ILAE a reality.

Laura Umetsu, Project Manager
Laura is currently a student at the Michael G. Foster School of Business at the University of Washington. Laura's non-profit leadership experiences include co-coordinating the Washington Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness 2006 Fundraising Walk. She is a natural leader with experience and strength that includes networking and marketing skills.