Johnny

Johnny Fikru and his family moved to the north Seattle area in 1997. In Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia, his last name translates as “to his love.”

He graduated from Seattle University with a degree in political science and then moved to Philadelphia for a service year.

After returning to Seattle, he pursued his interests in increasing food access through mutual aid organizing.

“Especially during the pandemic, there was a need for mutual aid community groups to pop up and fill a need.” It’s work he’s still involved in with communities such as the Chinatown International District.

Prior to joining North Helpline in October 2022, he worked as the food bank supervisor at Hopelink. His interest in North Helpline grew out of its mission and values of service to the community.

On weekends he leads a running group,  Black Men Run-Seattle. “It’s the best of both worlds —  getting healthy and taking care of each other and having a good time.”