About Us

The Ethiopian Nurses Association in North America (ENANA) became incorporated in the state of Maryland in 2021, but the idea sprouted in the heart of Metasebia Kefelegn “Meti” while she was a nursing student. Considering the lack of effective resources and support available for immigrant communities and nurses, Meti knew something had to change.  Her initial step was geared towards building connections with other like-minded nurses, which helped her formulate her ideas and come together with a bigger vision. However, due to the demands of working as registered nurses and scheduling conflicts, the idea for a formal nurses association was rather supported by informally joining events and volunteering for causes. 

It was not until 2020, the year nurses were challenged to face a wild threat to humanity while putting their lives at risk, Meti’s dream came to reality. This was the year that ignited the creation of ENANA, when Metasbeia Kefelegn, Tsion Gebresellasie, Degie Gela, and Beemnet Kebede were checking on each other to see how they were dealing with the COVID-19 threat. Soon after phone calls and text follow-ups, that wild threat turned into a wildfire within us to make it known that nurses always stand with their community, with or without the presence of an actual threat. Reflecting on the pressing need for an organized platform to support and empower nurses in their vital roles and united by a common purpose, these four nurses embraced the virtual platform to ensure their voices were heard, and their communities and colleagues were well prepared. 

Now there is a better opportunity fueled by extraordinary nurses in various sectors to help us grow in leadership for a better tomorrow, both for fellow nurses and our community. The cyclic nature of nurture between our community and nurses is inspired and supported by ENANA, as we call on each other and say, 

“Together We Rise!”