However Azeb is also known for her work to teach rural Ethiopians about the issues of HIV/AIDS Her appearance at a special ceremony to honor the First Ladies of Africa for their efforts against the spread of HIV/AIDS held by Georgetown University of Washington DC on 15 January 2007 was met by protests of exiled Ethiopians."[7] The University was awarding its "John Thompson Legacy of a Dream Award" to the Organisation of African First Ladies against HIV/AIDS for its leadership and service toward the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.