Merwan J. Adam - Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The CEO is responsible for the overall strategy, direction, and operations of the organization.
Merwan J. Adam is the Founder and CEO of Khare Children in Need, a non-profit organization devoted to helping vulnerable children in Ethiopia. His story began when he returned to Ethiopia after 30 years to visit his family. What he saw there, children struggling in schools and mosques with limited support, touched him deeply. Moved by their resilience and determined to make a difference, Merwan created Khare Children in Need to ensure these children have the resources and opportunities they deserve. Since then, under his compassionate leadership, the organization has grown into a powerful force for good, providing educational programs, classroom support, and community-based projects that continue to uplift and inspire countless young lives.
Abdoulkafour A. Olhaye - Chief Operating Officer (COO)
The COO manages internal operations, include finance, HR, and administration.
Abdoul has spent more than 26 years participating in humanitarian missions, dedicating his time and energy to improving the lives of people in need. He has supported displaced individuals in countries such as Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan, offering aid and compassion during some of their most challenging moments. Through these experiences, he has witnessed the incredible resilience and strength of individuals and communities facing hardship. Inspired by their courage, Abdoul remains deeply committed to continuing this important work and making a meaningful difference wherever he can.
Nabil Hamid - Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
The CFO oversees financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and risk management.
Nabil Hamid serves as the Chief Financial Officer of Khare Children in Need and is also a dedicated marketing professional. With a background in international business and a master’s degree in accounting and marketing, he brings a strong blend of financial expertise and strategic insight to the organization. In his role, Nabil is committed to strengthening Khare’s operations, supporting its mission, and helping expand its impact across Ethiopia. His work reflects his deep dedication to uplifting the children and communities the organization serves.
Azeb Yusuf - Chief Development Officer (CDO)
The CDO leads fundraising, development efforts, and maintains donor relations.
Azeb Yusuf is a former refugee from Ethiopia who has become a passionate advocate for refugees, with a special focus on supporting women and girls. She works closely with city officials, community partners, and local leaders to push for better healthcare, culturally sensitive mental health services, stronger social support systems, and improved access to food, employment, and housing.
Her humanitarian work reaches both the Houston community and international audiences. Drawing from her own lived experience, Azeb understands the challenges faced by newcomers and uses that insight to help others navigate complex systems in the United States.
Azeb is known for her determination and resilience. She approaches every challenge with a problem-solving mindset and refuses to give up easily. Her strength, compassion, and welcoming presence continue to inspire those around her. Her dedication to underserved communities is evident in her resourcefulness and her commitment to getting things done, no matter how difficult the task may be.
With a background as a licensed community health worker and a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from Texas Southern University, Azeb has several years of experience across various healthcare sectors in the greater Houston area.
She currently serves as an Administrative Specialist in the City of Houston’s Office of New Americans, where she helps connect the community to essential legal services.
Azeb is also preparing to take on a new role as CEO and Founder of Multicultural Strategies for Health, an organization focused on community engagement, health education, and clinical research.
In addition to her professional work, Azeb continues to give back through numerous volunteer roles, including vice president, board president, board secretary, board treasurer, and advisory board member.