This quarter’s Member Spotlight is Ghenet Besera, a dedicated EDN Member since 2014. Ghenet serves on EDN’s Professional Development (PD) team, where she plays an integral role in fulfilling PD’s mission to grow and harness the professional potential of the diaspora community. Learn more about Ghenet, her work, and her commitment to EDN below:

Name, profession, location

Ghenet Besera, ASPPH/CDC Public Health Fellow, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA

Why did you decide to be a member of EDN?

I decided to become a member of EDN because of the opportunity to connect, meet, and work with other Eritreans in the diaspora in a meaningful way.

Tell us about the work you do in your work group?

I am a member of the Recent Arrival Support and the Professional Development work groups. As a member of the Recent Arrival Support group, I have assisted with supporting EDN’s efforts in developing a written resource of available public services to Eritreans recently resettled in the Baltimore area. In my work with the Professional Development workgroup I support efforts to connect members of the Eritrean diaspora in a professional way, and provide opportunities for networking and mentorship.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of EDN?

 I enjoy working with the other members and leadership team of EDN. Also, connecting with other Eritreans and providing information to recent arrivals and young professionals that is hopefully helpful to them.

If you could describe EDN using 3 words what would they be?

Welcoming, passionate, and fun.

What would you tell someone looking to be volunteer or future Member of EDN?

Do it! Connect with the EDN Leadership Team or other members to figure out how your interests can align with the work EDN is doing and how you can contribute.