Since 2004, as a performer, fundraiser and volunteer, Mike has helped raise awareness and funds for health initiatives across Ethiopia, including:  –  African Prize for Leadership Honoree and celebrated humanitarian, Sister Tibebe Maco’s Hiwot Integrated Development Association (HIDA), formerly HIV/AIDS Prevention Care and Support Organization (HAPCSO) – Medical missions conducted by the Ethiopian North American Health Professionals Association (ENAHPA) and its construction of the Maternal Child Health Center in Awassa – The building of Harrar’s Fistula Clinic, spearheaded by Tesfa Iniste, a volunteer group of Ethiopian women. In 2008, Mike led the American Cancer Society’s first official delegation to Ethiopia in support of oncology at Addis Ababa’s Black Lion. Mike’s work with the Sister Tibebe Maco’s orphan care programs and numerous Ethiopian and Eritrean Student Associations at colleges continues today. HIWOT INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION (HIDA)

Mike Ellison’s repeat performances on HBO’s Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry have led to collaborative projects with the NFL and the NBA. Mike consulted with the New York Knicks and hosted the NY Knicks Poetry Slam since its inception in 2003 until 2010. In partnership with acclaimed youth spoken word and literacy organization Urban Word NYC, the Knicks’ annual program thrived for nearly ten years, expanding to a citywide performance and written poetry competition that rewarded young poets with four year scholarships to major colleges and universities, prize money, computers and educational supplies. Mike was also tapped for on-camera performances during the NFL Network’s 2007 Draft and season long Thursday Night Football broadcasts. On December 29, 2007, as 34 million viewers tuned in to watch the 15-0 New England Patriots face the New York Giants, he opened the NFL’s first ever three-network simulcast (NFL Network, CBS, NBC) with a piece addressing the Patriots’ quest for a perfect season. Mike is a registered emcee and keynote speaker with the American Program Bureau.

Mike Ellison created AfroFlow as a concept and performance troupe, releasing the independent albums AfroFlow and AfroFlow II under the moniker MIKE-E. AfroFlow (flowing from Africa), best described as African-inspired hip-hop, is a platform that emphasizes the indigenous roots of both hip-hop and humanity. The live stage show features Mike and a revolving line up of musicians, b-boys, traditional African drummers and dancers. AfroFlow events are heralded for being energetic, uplifting and family friendly. In 2011, 2012 and 2013, Mike produced and performed with the “Fela Outreach Initiative” for middle and high schools, and select corporate audiences. The live music and multi-media presentations primarily taught students about the life and legacy of famed Nigerian musician and activist, Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The legendary Fela’s Afrobeat music was part of the inspiration for Mike’s founding of AfroFlow.