Lelna Desta desta005@umn.edu
I am the new Board Chair of Ethiopian Kids Community. I have been a part of the board for over three years and have served as the Program Director of EKC & Abogida Roots program, which has provided Amharic and dance classes, for about seven years. This is an organization that is near and dear to my heart. So I am privileged and humbled to be sitting in this position today.
Afiya Aminu honeye.aminu@gmail.com
I have been working with Ethiopian Kids Class (EKC) for the past three years. Working with EKC, I’ve helped introduce Ethiopian culture and traditions to adopted children and their parents who resided in Twin Cities and surrounding areas. I enjoy and appreciate teaching children and their parents about Ethiopian culture. I strongly believe that providing entertaining and enjoyable experience to children and parents, in addition to its educational benefits, also provides great sense of connection between the children, the parents, and the Ethiopian community in the Twin Cities.
Yeshiwas Bitew yeshbitew@gmail.com
I have enjoyed and loved every minute since I joined EKC in 2011. To know that we are making a big difference in each and every kid’s life is something I cherish every day. I grew up in Ethiopia and although I came to the US at a young age, I continued to teach myself to keep in touch with my culture and heritage. I became very passionate and my love for Ethiopian music, language and history grew with me. As most of the kids in EKC originate from Ethiopia, I want to be able to influence so that they have the same fire and the same passion I have about Ethiopia
Tanya Oetken treasurer.ekc@gmail.com
EKC has been a part of our life since 2007. We were excited to find an organization that helps foster connections to Ethiopia for our daughter.
I’ve helped with Mehabers and I organized and led two Genna celebrations. My favorite EKC activity is Family Camp...the campfires, gaga ball, and friendships made are the best. I’ve served on the EKC board as Treasurer for just over 2 years. I’m an accountant, so the role aligns with my skills perfectly. She keeps the financials organized and helps ensure that all funds and resources given to EKC are used responsibly.
Tamara Schryver tamaraschryver@gmail.com
The Schryver family has coordinated field games for four EKC Camp Outs and are most known for their bubble gum blowing contests, 3-legged races, and tug-of-war. I’ve served on EKC’s BOD for two years and looking forward to moving into a Communications role. My day job consists of translating nutrition science into relevant business and consumer applications.