Ethiopian Aurora leader wants to write the history of his community

The city of Aurora describes itself as “open to the world.” With immigrants speaking 160 languages, it is the most diverse city in Colorado. One of the largest immigrant groups, numbering several thousand, comes from Ethiopia.

Samuel GebreMichael emigrated from Ethiopia to Aurora in 2006.

“It’s a beautiful place here in Colorado,” said GebreMichael. “Aurora is a place where you see all the people and all the colors, you don’t think you’re outside.”

GebreMichael is a member of the Aurora Immigrant and Refugee Commission and also leads the Colorado Ethiopian Community Organization.

He says he is motivated to help others, given the challenges he faced when immigrating here.

“I have a degree in literature, but after I came here I had to start from scratch,” said GebreMichael. “When I came here, my big problem was finding a source, finding a voice.”

GebreMichael now runs a graphic design company.

He often helps other immigrants start small businesses, such as Jemile Bogale, who runs a printing and embroidery company.

“He’s one of those guys that likes to see everyone succeed, and it doesn’t matter what you do. If he knows something, he can help you. If not, he’ll sit down with you and try to figure it out with you,” Bogale said.

“The good thing about America is the opportunities,” said GebreMichael.

He also organizes the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival, which takes place in late August.

“Americans will see Africa here in Colorado, here in Aurora,” GebreMichael said. “It’s a good platform for immigrants and refugees to tell their story. We are writing our own history.”

GebreMichael is proud of his son from Colorado who attends Smoky Hill High School.

He is honored to call Aurora his home and appreciates the city’s welcoming atmosphere.

“All communities come together and celebrate their culture and faith,” added GebreMichael.

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