Nathan Ashenafi
Alexandria
Summary
Dynamic leader with a proven track record at the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, excelling in community engagement and spiritual guidance. Skilled in Python programming and effective communication, I successfully coordinated major events and mentored new ministers, fostering growth and collaboration within the congregation. Committed to enhancing participation and outreach initiatives.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Deacon
Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church
Alexandria
09.2009 - Current
- Facilitated weekly services through teaching, chanting, and clergy support during liturgy.
- Coordinated major church celebrations and community events to enhance participation.
- Prepared and set up church facilities for services and ceremonies.
- Managed outreach programs, distributing food to homeless individuals.
- Delivered weekly sermons to congregants, fostering spiritual growth and understanding.
- Collaborated with church leadership on strategic planning for community events and programs.
- Facilitated Bible study sessions, enhancing scriptural knowledge among participants.
- Conducted special services like baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
- Taught Bible classes for all ages from nursery to adult education courses.
- Provided spiritual guidance to members of the congregation in times of need.
- Met regularly with staff members to discuss strategies for growing the congregation.
- Lead small group discussions on a variety of topics related to faith development.
- Served as a mentor for new ministers entering the field of preaching ministry.
- Organized special events such as weddings, funerals, baptisms and other religious ceremonies.
Taekwondo Instructor (Volunteer)
Yoo's Martial Arts
Alexandria
01.2015 - 08.2025
- Taught students foundational and advanced martial arts forms, improving discipline and confidence.
- Supported after-school programs by supervising youth and leading activities.
- Mentored younger students to build focus, respect, and leadership skills.
- Assisted with organizing belt tests, class events, and demonstrations.
- Instructed classes focusing on technique, discipline, and self-defense skills.
- Mentored junior instructors to enhance their teaching skills and effectiveness.
- Evaluated student progress and provided constructive feedback on performance improvements.
- Developed and implemented beginner Taekwondo classes for children aged 5-7 years old.
- Instructed students in the proper techniques of blocking, punching, kicking, and sparring.
- Planned activities designed to develop self-confidence, discipline, teamwork skills and leadership abilities.
- Ensured that all safety measures were followed at all times during class sessions.
- Promoted a safe learning environment by enforcing rules of conduct during class.
Education
High School Diploma -
West Potomac High School
Alexandria06-2025
Some College (No Degree) - Information Technology
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, VASkills
- Python programming
- Customer service excellence
- Leadership development
- Effective communication
- IT troubleshooting
- Team collaboration
Leadership Experience
- AVID
- Ethiopian Eritrean Student Association (EESA)
- Black Union Club
- Taekwondo Leadership Team
- Church Leadership - Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church
Languages
amharic
Native/ Bilingual
Timeline
Taekwondo Instructor (Volunteer)
Yoo's Martial Arts
01.2015 - 08.2025
Deacon
Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church
09.2009 - Current
High School Diploma -
West Potomac High School
Some College (No Degree) - Information Technology
Northern Virginia Community College