Gelila has been with Justice in Aging since 2020. Her work focuses on improving equitable access to Medicaid and quality long-term care for low-income older adults. In addition to working with federal partners, Gelila also works frequently with state and local advocates to improve state Medicaid policy.
Gelila’s passion for this work comes after hearing countless stories of inequities in healthcare and experiencing many challenges herself navigating a complex healthcare system. Her dedication for advocating for older adults, is also based in large part to her devoted grandmother, Emaye, who left her native Ethiopia to help care for Gelila and her siblings. Her grandmother’s role as caregiver and backbone to the family strengthened Gelila’s commitment to advance equity and healthcare access for all older adults who are deeply valued and loved by their family and community, like her Emaye.
Gelila received her BA from the University of South Carolina, and her JD from Wake Forest University School of Law. After law school, she worked as a legal aid attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina helping low-income individuals appeal improper terminations and denials of their public benefits. She also spent two years as an Equal Justice Works fellow where she furthered access to crucial benefits for older adults.
Gelila lives in Washington, DC with her husband and their impossibly affectionate Pekingese, Fendi. She spends her free time working out, reading, and chasing after her three beautiful nieces and nephew.
State Bar Admission: North Carolina
