Menna Demessie
About Menna Demessie
Menna Demessie is the SVP and Executive Director of the Task Force for Meaningful Change, holding a PhD and having extensive experience in legislative advocacy and diversity initiatives.
Current Position: SVP and Executive Director, Task Force for Meaningful Change
Menna Demessie holds the title of Senior Vice President (SVP) and Executive Director at the Task Force for Meaningful Change. In this role, she leads initiatives aimed at driving social justice, diversity, and inclusion efforts. Her work is integral to advancing policies and programs focused on meaningful social impact within the organization and its broader community.
Previous Role: SVP of Policy and the Leadership Institute, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
Prior to her current position, Menna Demessie served as the Senior Vice President of Policy and the Leadership Institute at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. In this capacity, she was involved in legislative advocacy and policy analysis, supporting significant legislative efforts such as the 'Justice in Policing Act' and the repeal of New York’s Section 50-A.
Legislative Advocacy Initiatives
Menna Demessie has a robust background in legislative advocacy. She has supported key legislative measures, including the 'Justice in Policing Act,' which aims to address police misconduct and racial bias. Additionally, she advocated for the repeal of New York’s Section 50-A, which previously shielded police disciplinary records from public view.
Involvement in UMG’s Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Team
At Universal Music Group (UMG), Menna Demessie is an active member of the Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging team. She collaborates with the Recruitment team to spearhead diversity and inclusion efforts across the company. These efforts include leading various initiatives to enhance workplace diversity and foster an inclusive corporate environment.
UMG’s UPLIFT Mentorship Program
Menna Demessie participates in UMG’s UPLIFT Mentorship Program, which is designed to foster meaningful connections within the company’s Black community. The program aims to provide mentorship, support, and professional development opportunities to empower employees and build a more inclusive workplace.
Collaboration with USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative
Menna Demessie has been involved in UMG’s partnership with the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, which addresses diversity and inclusion within the music industry. This collaboration aims to develop actionable strategies and frameworks to improve representation and equity across all levels of the industry.
UMG’s HBCU Internship Program
Menna Demessie plays a role in UMG’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Internship Program, an industry-first initiative in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. This program offers internship opportunities to students from HBCUs, providing them with valuable industry experience and career development.
Bridging the Digital Divide Initiative
Menna Demessie is involved in UMG’s initiative to bridge the digital divide by funding WiFi hotspots, laptops, and other essential remote learning accessories for students in need. This initiative aims to support students' access to education and technology, particularly for those in underserved communities.