Ethiopian Schools Project Education • Access • Opportunity

TeffLab

In loving memory of Sasu. Honoring his life, his love for Ethiopian heritage, and a vision that turned purpose into action—supporting education through TeffLab and the TeffBar.

Early Cultivation and Inspiration

Sasu’s parents instilled in him a deep love for Ethiopian heritage, community, and learning. That foundation shaped his curiosity—about food, farming, and the ways culture can inspire innovation and impact.

Sasu with his mother
Sasu being read to by his father

Cultivation takes Root

Even early on, Sasu was fascinated by where food comes from, how the land sustains communities, and how healthy eating connects to a thriving life.

Sasu in tulip fields as a child

A seed planted early

Experiences like time spent in fields sparked a lasting interest in agriculture and nourishment. Later, that same curiosity would be channeled into a mission rooted in Ethiopian teff—the iron-rich supergrain.

  • Heritage: pride in Ethiopian culture and ingredients
  • Health: curiosity about nutrition and wholesome foods
  • Service: a desire to build something that gives back

From NYU to TeffLab

While studying at NYU, Sasu developed TeffLab as a mission-driven venture—using innovation, culture, and entrepreneurship to create opportunity and support education.

View NYU Presentation (PDF)

Pitch highlights

  • Product: a teff-based nutrition bar crafted for everyday energy
  • Story: a modern expression of Ethiopian heritage through food
  • Impact: proceeds supporting the Ethiopian Schools Project
  • Community: farmers markets and pop-ups as a place to connect
NYU Graduation

The TeffBar

TeffBar became TeffLab’s flagship product—crafted, shared at farmers markets and pop-ups, and designed to be both nourishing and purposeful. Proceeds helped support Ethiopian Schools Project.

Sasu sharing TeffBar at a farmers market
TeffBar at a community market pop-up
Sasu at The Teff Lab booth

Legacy

Sasu’s legacy lives on through TeffLab, TeffBar, and the students whose lives are touched by education and opportunity. This memorial is offered with love—to his parents, family, and community.

Sasu with family at Ethiopian community event

A continuing mission

TeffLab was more than a project—it was an expression of identity and service. By supporting the Ethiopian Schools Project, you help carry forward a story of heritage, learning, and giving back.