Who We Are
Semay Real Estate PLC is an Ethiopian-owned developer focused on delivering quality, affordable homes for middle-income families in Addis Ababa. We combine practical business insight with technical excellence to build communities where families can thrive.
Vision
To be the leading architectural consultancy in Ethiopia and beyond, recognized for design innovation, exceptional quality, and sustainable practice
Mission
To transform client visions into reality through innovative, sustainable, and functional architectural solutions that enhance quality of life.
Values
Integrity | Quality | Customer Care | Innovation | Community
Our Team
Meet Our Dedicated Team, Combining Expertise in Real Estate, Construction, and Architecture
Tofik Bahiru Nuru
Co-Founder & General Manager Tofik Bahiru is the Co-Founder and General Manager of Semay
Tofik Bahiru is the Co-Founder and General Manager of Semay Real Estate PLC, combining strong academic grounding with diverse professional experience in business, finance, and community leadership. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management from the University of Gondar, has pursued a Master’s in Philosophy at Addis Ababa University, and completed formal Islamic studies under renowned Ethiopian scholars. He also earned a Diploma in IFB Sharia Finance Advisory from Al-Asr Institute for Islamic Economics and Finance. This unique blend of academic study, professional training, and community engagement has shaped his vision of leadership — one that values both strategic growth and social responsibility. Professional Experience Sharia Advisor, Zemen Bank: Ensures financial products comply with Islamic principles and contributes to Interest-Free Banking (IFB) development. Deputy Manager, Padishah Trading & Travel PLC (2018–2022): Led negotiations and business operations. Co-Founder & General Manager, Semay Real Estate PLC (2024–Present): Directs company strategy, project development, and client relations; launched housing projects in Lebu-Jemo, Kwas-Meda, and Filidoro. Community Engagement & Publications Translator and publisher of respected Islamic works. Contributor to media and educational platforms. Founder of youth empowerment and community development organizations.
Muhdin Yassin
Entrepreneur | Business Leader | Community Builder
With over 25 years of experience across diverse industries, I am Muhdin Yassin—an entrepreneur, visionary business leader, and passionate community builder. My journey began in the grain trade, working within my family's business for 8 years. It was there I learned the core principles of trade, discipline, and resilience—values that laid the groundwork for a broader entrepreneurial path. For the past 17 years, I’ve been deeply involved in international import and export, establishing a reputation as a trusted partner in global commerce. Throughout my career, I have become known for my professionalism, integrity, and strategic vision. I believe business is not solely about financial gain, but about creating value, empowering people, and building lasting legacies that benefit communities and future generations. Entrepreneurial Journey As a founder, investor, and executive, I have built and led a portfolio of successful businesses across key industries: Semay Real Estate PLC Building and selling high-quality homes that offer modern living, comfort, and security. Efoy Psychiatric Specialty Clinic PLC A pioneering initiative focused on expanding access to mental health services, ensuring communities receive the compassionate care they need. Apex Digital Solution PLC Bridging technology and commerce through innovative distribution and e-commerce platforms. MFG Trade Industry PLC A local flooring manufacturing factory I proudly own, contributing to industrial development and job creation. Each of these ventures reflects my commitment to innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation. Leadership & Social Commitment My work extends beyond the boardroom. I am deeply committed to driving social change and community empowerment. Founder & Board Chairman – HALAL Business Forum Islamic Association Promoting ethical business practices, collaboration, and responsible entrepreneurship within a community of like-minded professionals. Founder & Leader – Deen Squad A grassroots philanthropic initiative supporting hundreds of families and youth through programs focused on charity, empowerment, and development. I believe that true success is measured not only by business achievements, but by the positive impact we make on people's lives. My Vision My lifelong mission is to build businesses that generate sustainable growth while uplifting people and communities. I aspire to inspire—encouraging others to lead with integrity, innovation, and compassion, and to pursue entrepreneurship not just as a career, but as a path to meaningful impact and social responsibility.
Kedija Yassin
Finance Professional | Entrepreneur | Co-Founder – Natures Life Flour & Food Manufacturing & Foya Coffee Specialist in Financial Management, Banking, and Business Development
Kedija Yassin is a seasoned finance professional and entrepreneur with over 18 years of combined international and domestic experience in financial management, banking, and business development. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance from Addis Ababa University and has spent over a decade building her expertise in the United Arab Emirates, followed by eight years of high-impact work in Ethiopia. As Co-Founder of Natures Life Flour & Food Manufacturing and Foya Coffee, Kedija combines financial acumen with entrepreneurial insight to drive sustainable business models in the food and beverage sector. Her leadership is marked by a strong commitment to operational excellence, financial transparency, and market-driven innovation. With a deep passion for Ethiopia’s emerging capital market, she is dedicated to leveraging her international experience to foster financial innovation, attract investment, and contribute to the growth of locally owned enterprises. Education Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance Addis Ababa University Professional Experience Finance & Business Development Professional Over 10 years of experience in Dubai, UAE Roles across banking, financial services, and corporate finance Strong foundation in international financial regulations and reporting standards Experience in financial planning, analysis, and operational risk management Entrepreneur & Co-Founder Ethiopia – Since 2017 Natures Life Flour & Food Manufacturing: Co-founded and scaled a food processing company focused on sustainable, locally sourced products Foya Coffee: Built a premium coffee brand rooted in Ethiopian heritage, focused on quality, traceability, and ethical sourcingt Led strategy, budgeting, financial controls, and investor engagement for both ventures Core Competencies Financial Planning & Management Strategic Business Development Budgeting & Cost Control Banking & Corporate Finance Investment Readiness & Capital Structuring Entrepreneurship & Start-Up Leadership Cross-Border Business Operations Regulatory Compliance & Risk Mitigation Passion Kedija is deeply invested in the future of Ethiopia’s financial sector. Her goal is to support the growth of the country’s capital market by bringing international best practices, fostering investor confidence, and encouraging entrepreneurship. She envisions a financially inclusive and innovation-driven economy where local businesses can thrive with access to capital and strategic guidance.
Mohammednur Yassin
Finance Professional | Entrepreneur | Co-Founder – Natures Life Flour & Food Manufacturing & Foya Coffee Specialist in Financial Management, Banking, and Business Development
Awol Yassin Essa
Technical Manager – Elec Engineering PLC | Vice Manager – Semay Real Estate
Awol Yassin Essa is a highly accomplished Senior Electrical Engineer with over 30 years of professional experience in electrical design, installation, supervision, and project management. Throughout his extensive career, he has successfully led and executed complex electrical and electromechanical projects across Ethiopia, delivering innovative and efficient engineering solutions.
Mr. Awol’s expertise spans a wide range of systems, including low and medium voltage networks, low current systems, safety and security systems, and communication networks. He has a proven record in the design, preparation of specifications, bill of quantities, construction supervision, and commissioning of major infrastructure and building projects. His technical proficiency extends to advanced tools such as ECODIAL, ABB DOC, CALCULUX, and DIALUX, along with strong command of AutoCAD, Ms-Project, and Primavera Project Management.
As a Certified Class-A Professional Electrical Engineer, Mr. Awol is a recognized member of the Ethiopian Society of Electrical Engineers, holding certifications in Electrical Installation and Design Competency, Project Management, Total Quality Management, and PLC Programming and Troubleshooting.
Over the years, he has contributed to numerous landmark projects—including high-rise buildings, airports, industrial plants, and power distribution systems—working with leading local and international organizations such as MIDROC Ethiopia, Innovators Consulting Engineers, ABB-MIDROC, and GIBB Consulting Engineers. His commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and leadership in delivering quality engineering outcomes make him a respected figure in Ethiopia’s engineering community.
Driven by integrity and professionalism, Awol Yassin Essa continues to provide high-value engineering expertise, ensuring that every project he undertakes meets the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Amir Temam
Co- founder and Finance Officer @ Semay Real estate
Meryem Hussein
Professional Architect | Co-Founder & General Manager, Fais Architects PLC GIS & Environmental Studies Specialist
Mrs. Meryem Hussein is an accomplished architect and executive leader with over a decade of experience in architectural design, sustainable development, and project management. As Co-Founder and General Manager of Fais Architects PLC, she has successfully led a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments from concept to completion. With a strong academic foundation in both architecture and environmental studies—specializing in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and digital cartography—Mrs. Hussein integrates innovative design with data-driven environmental analysis to deliver sustainable and impactful solutions. Her work is defined by a commitment to design excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a vision for creating spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically compelling, but also environmentally responsible. Education Master of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies Addis Ababa University, College of Social Sciences Specialization: GIS, Remote Sensing, and Digital Cartography — 2024 Bachelor of Architecture Ethiopian Institute of Architecture, Building Construction and City Development (EIABC) — 2014 Professional Experience Co-Founder & General Manager Fais Architects PLC | 2014 – Present Providing strategic leadership and overseeing firm operations Managing end-to-end design and execution of architectural projects Leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-impact, client-centered solutions Conducting site analysis and feasibility studies for optimized project outcomes Utilizing advanced design software: AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD, 3ds Max, SketchUp Advocating for sustainable and contextually responsive design Core Competencies Architectural Design & Technical Documentation Sustainable Design & Environmental Integration Project Management & Construction Coordination GIS & Remote Sensing for Urban and Environmental Analysis 3D Modeling, Visualization & Rendering Client Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Team Leadership & Interdisciplinary Collaboration Passion Mrs. Meryem is passionate about the transformative power of architecture to shape environments that are both inspiring and responsible. Her design philosophy is rooted in sustainability, social relevance, and a deep respect for context. She is particularly focused on creating inclusive urban spaces that contribute to community well-being and environmental resilience. Community Engagement Co-Founder & Board Member Ethiopian Women Empowerment Association (Since 2020) Actively supporting initiatives that promote women's rights, leadership development, and professional opportunities across Ethiopia. Certifications & Mentorship Certified International Trainer (Since 2016) Mentoring young professionals in architecture and design, with
Foziya Hyredin Hussen
Professional Architect | Vice Manager, FAIS Architects plc
Foziya Hyredin Hussen is a seasoned architect with more than a decade of professional experience in the design and execution of diverse architectural projects. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the Ethiopian Institute of Architecture, Building Construction and City Development (EIABC)—one of the country’s leading institutions in the field. Throughout her career, Foziya has demonstrated a deep commitment to creating meaningful, functional, and innovative spaces. Her portfolio includes a wide range of residential and high-rise developments, each reflecting a careful balance between client needs, contextual relevance, and sustainable design principles. Her work is distinguished by a thoughtful integration of aesthetics, culture, and practicality, contributing to the advancement of contemporary architecture in Ethiopia. 📧 Email: foziya.hy@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: @fozinahy