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 leadership training, advisory services, and community spaces that honor the unique contributions of diasporas.

At EDIS, you will be welcomed directly by Semhar and guided through a transformative two-day experience built with you in mind.

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 an Eritrean American, a first-generation immigrant, an ally, or someone passionate about diaspora leadership, 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 benefits do I receive by registering?

When you register for EDIS, you will receive:
✅ Live access to all two-day EDIS sessions

✅ Lifetime access to EDIS session recordings to watch anytime

✅ Access to the private EDIS Community Membership Space hosted by The Diaspora Academy

If you upgrade to a VIP Jigna Ticket, you will also receive:
✨ A private 1-on-1 diaspora coaching session with Semhar Araia (valued at $149)
✨ Exclusive bonus leadership toolkits and additional resources (valued at $299)
✨ Lifetime 15% discount on all future The Diaspora Academy programs

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!

We are building EDIS to become an annual gathering for Eritrean diaspora leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Every year, we aim to expand our impact, highlight new voices, and deepen the conversation around leadership, community, and identity.
Make sure you are subscribed to our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming announcements and next year’s summit dates.

Can I join the EDIS team or be a part of EDIS next year?

Absolutely!
We welcome volunteers, speakers, and community leaders who want to help shape future EDIS experiences.
Applications for EDIS 2026 planning committees, volunteers, and speaker opportunities will open in May 2025.
Stay tuned for announcements and visit our website after the summit to apply and become part of the team.
We cannot wait to build the next EDIS with passionate Haweys and Hafteys like you!

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.
Register today and step into your Mebrahti Moment!