Teddy Bekele is modest. Despite his many leadership roles, he’s quick to divert the spotlight to others. He speaks calmly and prefers to dress casually, blending in with his employees. He’s not driven by a need for recognition. But more than most, Bekele is driven. On top of his role as chief technology officer at Land O’Lakes, he serves on several boards and chairs the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband.
Bekele also volunteers as a member of the Greater Twin Cities United Way Tocqueville Society’s leadership cabinet. He enjoys connecting with other leaders in a philanthropic setting – including those with whom, during the business day, he may collaborate or even compete. “You get to see who they really are, what makes them tick,” he said. Bekele chooses Greater Twin Cities United Way in part because racial equity is a core pillar of our work, and because he prioritizes creating opportunities for increased stability and wealth. “Is the giving going to lead to something that’s transformative in someone’s life? Are we instilling upward mobility?” he says. “That for me is transformational.”
Bekele’s philanthropic approach draws on his lived experience, both professional -- he’s seen the value of a diverse workforce -- and personal. As a young person, he sought out scholarships and other opportunities that were not always easily available. Now he works zealously to make that path clearer for others. After connecting through United Way, Bekele began volunteering on the board of Genesys Works, a partner nonprofit in Greater Twin Cities United Way’s Career Academies initiative. Genesys Works expands career pathways for young people in underserved communities, and collaborates deeply with Land O’Lakes to provide work experiences.
Amiyah Hunter, who began coding in ninth grade, was first introduced to Bekele’s team as a high school senior. She said Bekele’s ease and passion made her feel seen and wanted at the company. She kept returning for internships and is now a college grad and permanent Land O’ Lakes employee. Stories like Hunter’s motivate Bekele.
“Someone I’ve mentored or been able to give an opportunity -- to see them blossom, that’s what life is all about. The pleasure of seeing someone achieve their dreams. That’s magic.”
In each of Bekele’s many roles – corporate leader, volunteer, donor – he brings a mindset of creating opportunity. Watch the video to see Bekele and Hunter share their own stories of career, community and mentorship.
