Our Why
Our Approach
Faith and Action
The Magi Foundation is a charitable, non-profit, non-governmental organisation based in Melbourne, with origins in Addis Ababa in April 2022. It was established by Tedla Wanaw, in partnership with two Ethiopian colleagues, all united by a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for children and communities.
Our name, inspired by the Three Wise Men, the Magi, reflects a legacy of honour, hope and transformation. Guided by this symbolism, we work to bring light, opportunity and long-term impact to individuals and communities facing hardship.
We support vulnerable and overlooked groups through health and wellness initiatives, employment preparation programs, and family-focused support. The Latin meaning of “Magi,” associated with wisdom and illumination, echoes our dedication to empowering orphans, at-risk children and their caregivers.
Across Africa, Australia and beyond, the Magi Foundation partners with communities to help children and young people realise their potential and grow into resilient, thriving members of society. This mission remains central to our work.
The establishment of our Melbourne branch expands this impact through evidence-based, community-oriented and culturally informed programs. Our three flagship initiatives, the Neurodiverse Boxing Program, the Community Sports Program, and the Entrepreneurial Pathway Program, are designed to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build connected, thriving communities.
Together, we are creating pathways of hope, healing and opportunity, guided by evidence, grounded in community, and inspired by a legacy of compassion.
01.
— Our Mission
The Magi Foundation is dedicated to strengthening Melbourne’s CALD communities by delivering transformative, accessible, and inclusive programs that foster physical and mental well-being, social connection, and economic empowerment.
02.
— Our Vision
The Magi Foundation strives to build a connected and inclusive community where people of all backgrounds and abilities can flourish. We envision a future where everyone has access to the opportunities and support needed to grow, belong, and thrive.
03.
— Our Values
Integrity: We are committed to always follow ethical practices and creating a culture of excellence and transparency.
Wellbeing: We are committed to being consistent and devoted to improving the lives of the communities served by The Magi Foundation.
Inspiration: We are committed to inspiring and supporting vulnerable individuals and marginalized communities, empowering them to build hopeful futures and reach their full potential as productive members of society, contributing to overall growth and development.
Loyalty: We are committed to being consistent and devoted to improving the lives of the communities served by The Magi Foundation.
Trust: We are committed to responsibly managing funds and resources, ensuring they are used effectively to address community vulnerabilities and support sustainable well-being.
From ADIS ABBABA to Melbourne – the Australian Connection
The Magi Foundation operates both in Ethiopia and Melbourne, focusing on community support and development. In Ethiopia, it provides essential services such as feeding programs, orphanage funding, healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects. Due to limited resources, 20% of net revenue from its Melbourne-based programs will be sent back to support these initiatives.
In Melbourne Australia, the foundation aims to support Ethiopian and Afro-Australian communities by addressing key social issues, including youth crime, mental health, integration, and employment. It also seeks to raise awareness of Ethiopian identity and challenges, as many Ethiopians face discrimination and social exclusion, and the isolation faced by the general African-Australian population. The core programs design to address these key issues are the Neurodivergent boxing program, the community sports program and the entrepreneurial program.
A unique aspect of The Magi Foundation is its commitment to financial transparency, ensuring donors can track how funds are spent. With a strong focus on trust and community engagement, the foundation strives to create lasting positive change both in Australia and Ethiopia.
The Magi Foundation
The Magi Foundation is dedicated to supporting orphans, vulnerable children, and their guardians, working closely with communities to help children reach their full potential.
Our Commitment to Change
We believe that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment. Through education, healthcare, and community support, we strive to empower children for a better future.
Our Focus Areas
- Child Welfare & Education
- Healthcare Support
- Community Empowerment
- Sustainable Impact
Our Key Initiatives
- Providing Safe Shelter
- Access to Quality Education
- Healthcare & Well-being
- Strengthening Communities
The Magi Foundation is a charitable non-profit organization founded by an Australian couple of Ethiopian origin, registered in Ethiopia in April 2022.
Our mission is to empower children in need and help them reach their full potential. Through community engagement, we provide education, healthcare, and emotional support, ensuring that these children can grow into responsible, capable, and productive members of society. By working together with local communities, we strive to create a better future for children in Ethiopia, enabling them to overcome adversity and lead successful lives.
Testimony
We thank you all for your kind support, May God Bless You. It has almost been a year since we arrived at this shelter. It was on October 18, 2021 that we left our normal place of residence due to lack of peace.
Mr. Desalegn Kefyalew
A displaced person,
04 Kebele Debrebrhan City
We issue this certificate in recognition and appreciation of your great humanitarian assistance on September 16, 2022 for Internally Displaced People (IDP) from Oromia region, and currently staying in a temporary shelter at Atse Zereayakob.
Zerihun Belete
Atse Zereayakob Subcity
We thank you all for your kind support, May God Bless You. It has almost been a year since we arrived at this shelter. It was on October 18, 2021 that we left our normal place of residence due to lack of peace.
Mr. Addisu Wesen
General Manager
The Emeye Minilk Subcity
