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Eritrean Diaspora

Innovators Summit (EDIS)

 

Welcome to the EDIS FAQs! We’re excited you’re here, Haweys and Hafteys!

Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about the Eritrean Diaspora Innovators Summit.

 

If you still have questions, feel free to reach out, we're happy to help!

What is the Eritrean Diaspora Innovators Summit (EDIS)?

The Eritrean Diaspora Innovators Summit (EDIS) is a two-day virtual gathering created for Eritrean diasporas, by Eritrean diasporas. It is designed for second-generation and diaspora-born Eritreans who are navigating hyphenated identities while building leadership, careers, and community.

 

Our goal is to create a space where you feel seen, validated, and empowered to lead, innovate, and collaborate in ways that honor both your heritage and your aspirations.

 

Who is hosting the summit?

EDIS is proudly hosted by Semhar Araia, Founder and CEO of The Diaspora Academy. Semhar is an experienced diaspora leader, advocate, and innovator who has spent her career supporting diaspora changemakers around the world.

 

Through The Diaspora Academy, Semhar and her team provide diaspora leadership training, advisory services, and community spaces that honor the unique contributions of diasporas.

Who is EDIS for?

EDIS is for Eritreans in the diaspora, especially:

  • Second-generation Eritrean diasporas (born or raised abroad)
  • Diaspora professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, scholars, organizers, and change-makers
  • Young professionals, students, and emerging leaders ages 18 to 45
  • Anyone ready to lead with a Mebrahti Mindset, balancing clarity, purpose, and heart

EDIS will be held in English to accommodate all generations. We know you do not have to speak fluent Tigrinia or be fully "plugged in" to Eritrean culture to belong here. If you care about your roots and your future, you are in the right place.

Is the summit open to everyone?

Yes EDIS is open to all!

While EDIS is designed with the Eritrean diaspora experience in mind, it is open to all who are connected to, interested in, or invested in the growth and empowerment of Eritrean diasporas around the world.

Whether you are a second-generation Eritrean born or raised abroad, or a first-generation, a parent of a second-gen child, or someone passionate about supporting Eritrean diaspora leaders, you are welcome here.

What happens at the summit?

 Here is what you can expect over two transformational days:

  • Opening Keynote Welcome by Semhar Araia, CEO and Host of The Diaspora Academy
  • Panel sessions focused on diaspora leadership, professional development, wellness, and community collaboration
  • Live experience with interactive audience Q&A moments
  • Recorded access to all sessions after the event
  • Toolkits and downloadable resources to deepen your learning

All sessions are held virtually and will be recorded.  EDIS is designed to feel engaging, supportive, and practical, with chat rooms, networking breakout sessions and resources for you.

What will I get out of attending EDIS?

By attending EDIS, you will:

  • Gain actionable strategies and leadership tools for your career and community work
     
  • Connect with a vibrant community of Eritrean diaspora innovators and professionals
     
  • Strengthen your Mebrahti Mindset, embracing your hyphenated identity as a strength
     
  • Receive lifetime access to all session recordings, resources, and downloadable toolkits
     
  • Feel motivated, equipped, and empowered to create the spaces you wish existed

What can I expect after the summit?

Your journey continues after EDIS with:

  • On-demand access to all session recordings and downloadable materials

  • An invitation to join the EDIS Community Membership Space for ongoing networking and support

  • Continued growth opportunities through The Diaspora Academy’s leadership programs and coaching

  • Lifetime learning resources to keep building your diaspora leadership journey

You will leave EDIS feeling proud, prepared, and connected to a growing community of changemakers around the world.

Will EDIS happen again?

Yes - EDIS will happen again!

Absolutely! EDIS is an annual event!  We look forward to welcoming you next year on May 1 and 2, 2026! 

If you'd like to join the EDIS planning team, sign up to become a volunteer, affiliate partner or sponsor!  

We cannot wait to build the next EDIS with passionate Haweys and Hafteys like you!

LEARN MORE

Still have questions?

Reach out to the EDIS team at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.

We cannot wait to build with you, Hawey and Haftey!