Local Advisory Committee (LAC) Member Highlight: Adey Tesfaye

Adey Tesfaye is a LISC LA Local Advisory Committee (LAC) member and a Senior Community Development Manager at HSBC Bank USA, where she oversees the Bank's CRA initiatives, analyze data to identify strengths and opportunities, and cultivates relationships with community groups to help the Bank meet the credit needs of the communities it serves.

1. Why were you interested in joining the LAC of LISC LA?

I have known LISC LA for a while and have always been impressed with the work the LA office has been doing. LISC LA has served as a catalyst, working together with local businesses, non-profits, governments and residents to build a stronger city/neighborhood. It is one organization that addresses multiple issues, especially affordable housing in a city that is becoming increasingly unaffordable. I wanted to be a part of this amazing organization. I approached LISC LA when I joined HSBC Bank in 2015 to see if I could serve on the LAC since I knew HSBC’s mission aligned well with that of LISC. I have been on the LAC ever since and it’s been an amazing journey thus far.

2. What is the best part of your job (either your organization or as an LAC member?

I always say I am blessed and cursed at the same time to work in a job that I tremendously enjoy and to work for a Bank who supports the same ideals as I. When you love what you do, you don’t stop working, including nights and weekends. I call that part a curse. Mostly, it is a blessing because I get to work with a lot of organizations, like LISC LA, that are devoted to making an impact in the lives of many individuals who otherwise would have no means of getting ahead or even surviving. I get to witness multiple success stories and in some instances, I have played a role in that success. As much as I witness success stories, there is a lot to be done. There are multiple issues that still need to addressed, like homelessness and people getting pushed out of their neighborhoods because they can’t afford it. I witness some of these issues first hand and it breaks my heart. I take it one impact at a time. That’s the reason I enjoy being part of LISC LA’s LAC.

3. How did you first get involved in the affordable housing/economic development sector?

I got involved in the affordable housing sector 15 years ago. I was introduced to Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and learned how to underwrite an affordable housing deal using it. It was very intriguing. I have been involved since then and loved every minute of it. HSBC Bank has given me an opportunity to expand my involvement beyond affordable housing and added more focus to community development, which is inclusive of affordable housing.

4. If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

This is a very hard question. There are so many activities and I don’t think any can be accomplished in one day. I would like to scream to the entire world to stop hating each other.

5. Who is your hero?

My father is my hero. He died for what he believed. He scarified his life to bring a better life for the rest of the country. He died in a coup to overthrow the communist leader of Ethiopia with 11 other generals. They didn’t die in vain as the communist regime collapsed shortly after their death. They are considered heroes and have a huge monument in Ethiopia. I strive to be just as unselfish and courageous as my father.

6. What are you most looking forward to in 2019?

As an LAC member, I would like to see LISC LA to continue to grow and exceed what we have done in the previous years. I think 2019 is the year we prove that LISC LA is strong and headed to accomplish multiple great things. I have no doubt that LISC LA has an excellent team led by a fearless leader.

The work of LISC LA is generously supported by HSBC Bank.