ENANA Hosts 6th Annual Nursing Professionals Luncheon in Silver Spring

Faisale Shefawe

Over the weekend, the Ethiopian Nurses Association in North America (ENANA) celebrated its 6th Annual Nursing Professionals Luncheon in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event drew a packed room of founders, members, government officials, national nursing organizations, and community leaders who gathered to recognize achievements and discuss the future of the profession.

ENANA’s mission focuses on guiding individuals pursuing nursing careers, supporting career advancement, and easing the pathway for internationally trained nurses to practice in the United States. The organization is now expanding its reach with new initiatives aimed at making an even greater impact both locally and in Ethiopia.

Visionary co-founder Metasebia Kefelegn (Meti) announced the launch of a mentorship program for nurses and nursing students. She also revealed plans for a project to upgrade the nursing lab at Kidus Petros Hospital in Ethiopia, reflecting ENANA’s commitment to strengthening healthcare capacity back home.

Since its last luncheon in May 2025, ENANA has remained highly active. The group has organized multiple free health screening events in partnership with local hospitals, offering blood pressure checks, BMI screenings, diabetes screenings, and mammograms to community members.

At the event, ENANA received official recognition from the Montgomery County Council and Maryland’s District 14 for its outstanding service and dedication to the community. The organization presented its Nursing Excellence Award to Dr. Eden Taye for exceptional patient care and leadership, and the Community Service Award to nurse Sara Zemenu Senay for her advocacy and community upliftment efforts.

The program featured inspiring speakers from various sectors, including a political candidate encouraging voter participation, a CPA sharing tax optimization strategies, and a real estate professional discussing pathways to homeownership.

ENANA officer Sitota Tadelle expressed delight with the turnout, noting the venue was nearly at full capacity. She indicated that the organization may need a larger space for future events as interest and membership continue to grow.

Overall, the 6th Annual Nursing Professionals Luncheon highlighted ENANA’s growing influence, strong community ties, and commitment to advancing the nursing profession on both sides of the Atlantic.