5th Annual AYFA Assembly

This year's 5th Annual AYFA Assembly kicked off as attendees flew into California and were warmly greeted by members of our Western Member Organization, CCASYA, who ensured a smooth welcome and transportation to the hotel. The Memorial Day weekend event was filled with collaborative discussions and enticing energy that allowed our youth to come together to focus on our own united goal, preserving our culture.

On day one, the group headed to the Assyrian Civic Club to attend a special performance of MessMatchmaker- a lighthearted and entertaining show that had the audience laughing and engaged. Later in the evening, we headed to Caffe Amore for a relaxed night of socializing. It was the perfect setting to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new ones, and set the tone for the meaningful weekend ahead. The night was full of laughter, conversation, and of course, Assyrian dancing that brought everyone to their feet.

DAY 2 Lecture by Rabi Anwar on the preservation of the Assyria Language in the diaspora

AYFA Assembly attendees with Rabi Anwar. Thank you, Rabi, for delivering such an insightful lecture! The preservation of the Assyrian language is vital to maintaining our identity and cultural heritage.

On day two, we launched into a full day of programming after breakfast, beginning with introductions to the AYFA, AJM (The Assyrian Youth Federation of Central Europe), WAAY (the World Assembly of Assyrian Youth), and CCASYA. The morning's highlight was a thought-provoking lecture from Rabi Anwar Atto, who spoke on the preservation of the Assyrian language in diaspora, the importance of learning our language, and the deep link between language and identity. His words sparked meaningful conversation and reflection among attendees. The afternoon and evening offered time to connect more casually. We closed out the day by attending the first State Convention party as a group, continuing to build bonds and celebrate together.

Introductions by representative from the Assyrian Youth Federation of Central Eirope (Left)

Introduction to AYFA and WAY by AYFA Treasurer, Ramsin Youkhana (Middle)

Introduction to AYFA and WAY by AYFA Treasurer, Ramsin Youkhana (Middle)

Day three began with a workshop on strengthening member organizations, led by AYFA Secretary Ramail. This was followed by a practical and engaging session led by AYFA President Nyree on organizational improvement, exploring how understanding personality types can help us work more effectively as a team. After lunch, AJM gave a presentation on how local organizations can support their national counterparts and discussed ways AYFA and AJM can better collaborate in the future. We then wrapped up the formal programming with closing remarks.

That evening, we came together once more for the second convention party, ending the Assembly on a high note.

Lectures by AYFA President, Nyree Khamo (left); AYFA Secretary, Ramail Nissan (middle); and AJM (right)

Breakout group discussions

Second State Convention Party

A Heartfelt Thank You

The AYFA Assembly is always a special time to reconnect, reflect, and re-energize. It reminds us of the strength we carry in community, even across the distances of diaspora. A special thank you to our incredible hosts at @ccasya209! Planning a weekend-long event for a group of 30 people is not easy, but we are so grateful for the time and effort this CCASYA put together for such a wonderful weekend.

Another special thank you to our generous sponsors, whose financial contribution made this weekend possible!

◦       The Assyrian American National Federation (AANF)

◦       The Assyrian National Council of Illinois (ANCI)

◦       Atour Sargon

◦       Tony Kalogerakos

Later in the evening... AYFA Attendees at the first State Convention Party

See you next Spring!