Massachusetts Ethiopian Support Association
Who We Are
Massachusetts Ethiopian Support Association, Inc. (MESA) is a non-profit organization registered in the State of Massachusetts since 2014. With a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, MESA was founded with the vision of building a strong Ethiopian-American community, proud of its culture and continues to work to preserve its heritage.
The History of MESA
In 2008 a small group of volunteers decided to celebrate Enqutatash, a festive holiday celebrated to commemorate the Ethiopian New Year, together and organized the first event in Arlington, Massachusetts.
By 2011, this small group had transpired into an organization with many more members and led by elected officials with a vision to bring all Ethiopians in the Greater Boston area together.
Since 2014, the organization’s general assembly has adopted its’ by-laws, and is registered and recognized in the State of Massachusetts and welcomes members from the Boston area regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.
​
Click here to view MESA Vision, Mission, Core Values, and Purpose (PDF)
MESA's Long-term Plan
MESA plans to facilitate the acquisition of an Ethiopian Community Center which will have the space and amenities that our community needs in order to strengthen its bond while enriching the lives of each member. Our goal is to have a community center that incorporates the following amenities: Function Hall, library, museum, Gym, child care facility, adult care center, entertainment center and offices
Meet Our Team
Board Members
Alem Zelalem
Board Chairman
Alem brings her thoughtful, yet joyous perspective to everything we do at MESA. She is great to work with and her leadership is much appreciated.
alemzelalem@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Worku Getaneh
Board Secretary
Worku is one of the founding members of MESA. He has an amazing ability to communicate with people and make connections. His ability to solve problems and envision new horizons makes him an invaluable leader.
workugetaneh@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Nigest Zemede
Board Member
Nigest is a reliable member of MESA. She always ensures that MESA follows best practices and makes sure to do her part to improve the organization.
nigestzemede@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Executive Committee
Sara Debebe
Chairwoman
Sara joined Massachusetts Ethiopian Support Association with the vision and drive to improve upon our Nonprofit Organization, and focused on developing the organization with experience and integrity
saradebede@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Biritu Taye
Event Co-ordination Director
Biritu brings organization and order to our efforts. Her ability to meticulously plan out every detail of an event has helped out organization succeed. She is very responsive to the requests of the team, making our efforts efficient.
Yared Abebe
Secretary
Yared is a reliable member of our team. He brings her experience and skills to the forefront in helping our organization grow and succeed. As the youngest member, he brings a youthful perspective that is engaging
yaredabebe@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Nigest Zemede
Community Development Director
Nigest eagerly serves MESA and the Ethiopian community by planning educational event, sharing community relevant info and documenting events. She brings her enthusiasm and drive to improve our community building efforts
Tulu Dimitu
Treasurer
Tulu is a joy to be around. He is very thoughtful and always makes sure that the interest of the community is at the forefront of out work. His approachable and calm personality makes it a pleasure to work with him.
tuludimitu@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
Worku Getaneh
Culture & Heritage Director
Worku is a dedicated and fun member of our team. He is truly a joy to be around and makes it a pleasure to come to work in MESA. He always does a wonderful job in making sure that the kid in our community maintain their cultural heritage.
biritutaye@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
nigestzemede@mesa.com | 123-456-7890
workugetaneh@mesa.com | 123-456-7890