Love, Tributes and the start of a new Foundation

On June 9, 2024, friends, family, and acquaintances gathered at Sultan Café and Bar in Sköndal, southern Stockholm, to honor and remember our beloved Filipos. The day was meticulously planned and filled with loving tributes. Songs, prayers, speeches, and a buffet of delicious Ethiopian food created a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

It was also the day when the Filipos Adefres Foundation was launched, an organization established in his honor and memory. The foundation’s primary purpose is to provide direct and/or indirect support to families affected by the loss of close relatives. This includes initiatives to establish schools and football academies in Ethiopia and to promote other activities supporting this cause. The foundation will focus its efforts mainly in Sweden and Ethiopia through various activities and projects.

At the front of the stage, large banners with pictures of our beloved Filipos were displayed. A beautifully decorated table with a framed picture of him, flowers, and burning candles created an atmospheric setting.

Throughout the day, approximately 500 people from all corners of the world came and went to show their respect and love. During the memorial service, several memorable speeches and tributes were given. Teachers from the English school shared memories and warming words that touched us deeply.

Cousins from both Stockholm and Skåne reminded us of Filipos’s joy and energy, which lit up the room.

Uncle Dawit, who had traveled from Canada, gave a moving speech about his close relationship with Filipos. He shared heartwarming memories and spoke of how Filipos always had a special place in his heart.

His preschool teacher gave a touching speech, sharing memories from his early years and speaking about the unique personality he already had then. A close friend spoke emotionally about their strong friendship and how Filipos was always there for others.

Filipos’s former coach, along with Elin from Älvsjö AIK and his football team, shared stories about his passion for football and how he inspired his teammates both on and off the field. A poem in Amharic was read, sent from those who could not attend, showing the global love and respect for Filipos.

Beautiful music was played in Filipos’s honor, filling the room with feelings of both sorrow and warmth.

Finally, a speech from the District Council emphasized Filipos’s significance and his positive impact on the community, ensuring that his legacy will live on in our hearts and actions.

It was a day filled with emotions, where we all had the opportunity to remember and honor Filipos in a dignified way. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this day so special.

Filipos, you will always be missed and loved.