The Eritrean Youth Organization in North America, hereafter referred to as EYONA, is an Eritrean youth organization whose members are Eritreans residing in the Washington, DC, area and range 10-18 in age. The purpose of this organization is to uplift and consolidate scattered youth initiatives into a coherent group movement. Its ultimate goal is to create a network of Eritrean youth organizations on national and international levels.

B. Mission

EYONA is an independent youth organization that embraces all Eritrean youths in order to orient them on their national identity, tradition, culture and history. EYONA serves as a vehicle to promote the Eritrean culture and inherit its gains and utilize it in the nation's reconstruction.

C. Objectives

The main objective of EYONA is to provide a forum for young Eritreans to engage in sharing ideas, discussing issues, participating in community activities, and educating themselves about national issues. This will help the youths develop networking skills as well as a network of their own.

D. Membership

Membership to EYONA is free and open to all Eritreans without regard to religion, gender, political affiliation, or personal beliefs. The current number of members is 25 and is growing. The minimum and maximum age limit for membership is 10 and 18, respectively. The President and board members of EYONA are volunteers; they are elected by EYONA members from among themselves. Elections are held every two years and results are based on majority rule. It is necessary, however, for at least 2/3 of EYONA members to be present in order for elections to take place. Previous board members, including the President, may run for office again. The President responsibility include, but are not limited to: acting as the Executive President of the board members, playing tie breaker role on crucial decisions during cabinet meetings and representing and upholding EYONA’s interests. The four board members are: the Vice President, Treasurer, Publicity Officer and Program Coordinator.

• Build a flexible organization that promotes creativity and reconciles old traditions with modern values

• Establish good relationships with all national and international Eritrean youth organizations and engage in collaborative efforts

• Explore and cultivate youth inclinations and interest in technology, arts and literature

• Establish clubs, sport, cultural and entertainment centers to promote a sense of community and civic responsibility

• Participate in programs that demand active youth participation in national service and reconstruction endeavors. These could be in the form of internships or national service.

• Explore ways whereby the youths can participate in short and long term projects inside Eritrea

• Help resolve conflicts that arise between parents and children and enhance family values

To join or establish EYONA contact: