WELCOME TO EDIGET MENTORSHIP
Join Our Virtual Community Today
building BRIDGES TO KNOWLEDGE AND SUCCESS
Welcome to Ediget Mentorship – a youth-led platform dedicated to empowering Ethiopian and Eritrean youth.
Ediget (እድገት), meaning "growth" in Amharic, helps youth thrive academically, personally, and professionally. We offer mentorship, academic resources, monthly webinars featuring inspiring Ethiopian and Eritrean speakers, workshops, and collaborations. Whether you're exploring your identity, preparing for university, navigating your studies, or building your career, we’re here to support your journey.
If you’d like to mentor and make a meaningful impact, join us remotely to help foster growth and success in the next generation.
Behind Ediget youth mentorship
Our final-year Habesha Bachelor of Oral Health students took time to share their experiences and insights, showing the importance of representation in higher education and health. We’re incredibly proud of them for paving the way and inspiring others!
Our final-year Habesha Bachelor of Oral Health students took time to share their experiences and insights, showing the importance of representation in higher education and health. We’re incredibly proud of them for paving the way and inspiring others!
Access to higher education opportunities isn’t always straightforward, especially for those who had to figure it out alone. Many Eritrean and Ethiopian professionals in Aotearoa shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of mentorship and guidance. Thank you for sharing your stories!
“MAKING THE SYSTEM WORK FOR ME”
“I HAD NO PATH TO FOLLOW, SO I MADE ONE”
“WHAT IF I TRIED”
“The journey into higher education wasn’t the easiest—I had to navigate scholarships, applications, and university life largely on my own because of the lack of guidance available for a Habesha in New Zealand. Coming from a minority background & labeled as a student with a refugee background, I didn’t always have a clear roadmap, but I was fortunate to find mentors and community support along the way.
I accessed the services that were available at university and utilized them as best I could so I could enter a higher education system more comfortably. Even if those systems weren’t put in place for a person like me, I made them work. How? I continued to pursue them because I knew that I had the right to access those services as much as everyone else and that those services would prove to be very helpful.”
— Joseph Asfaw
“MISSING OUT”
“When I was applying to university, I struggled on personal statement for a health science degree. I ended up missing out because I didn’t have the right information at the right time.”
— Anonymous
“Growing up, I never saw anyone who looked like me in the career I aspired to. No one in my family had gone to university, and I had no one to guide me through the process. I felt like I was figuring everything out on my own - I chose the wrong subjects, struggled to navigate the system, and constantly battled the feeling that I didn’t belong. But I refused to let that stop me. I worked twice as hard, sought out mentors, and carved my own path. Now, I want to be the role model I once needed, so others don’t have to walk this journey alone.”
— Anonymous
“I was doing good in school and told my career advisor I wanted to study medicine, but she pushed me towards nursing instead, saying it was a more realistic choice for me. Without guidance or someone to give me confidence I followed her advice, but I always wondered if I could have made it in medicine. I wish I had at least tried.”
— Anonymous
“FINDING OPPORTUNITIES SHOULDN’T BE THIS HARD”
“MISSED OPPORTUNITY”
“I found out about a full scholarship only after I had already started university and taken on student loans. If I had someone to give me info earlier in year 12 I would have applied and saved myself so much debt.”
— Anonymous
“We had to work twice as hard to even find out what is out there. Our families sacrificed so much for us, and they rely on us. That’s why we needed guidance that actually understands and supports our journey.”
— Anonymous
1. One-on-One Mentorship
Personalized guidance to help students navigate their academic journey, from secondary school to university, career choices, and personal challenges. Our mentors connect with students to offer tailored advice, encouragement, and support, ensuring they stay on track and motivated through every stage of their growth.
2. Workshops and Webinars
We host virtual workshops, webinars, and seminars covering a range of topics—from secondary to university preparation, mental well-being, and career development. Gain practical skills and insights, and connect with professionals from various industries who share their experiences, offer guidance, and inspire the next generation. All from the comfort of your home!
3. University Application Support
We assist students in navigating the complexities of university applications, scholarships, and financial aid—ensuring that no one is left behind.
4. Career Development and Internships
Get practical career guidance through resume-building workshops, mock interviews, and networking events.
5. Mental Health and Well-Being Support
We offer sessions focused on mental health and self-care, ensuring that students feel supported throughout their academic journey. Participate in peer support groups or attend well-being workshops.
6. Cultural and Community Events
Stay connected to your roots through celebrations through our youth activity days and career expos offer opportunities to engage with others, explore interests, and foster a sense of belonging within the community. These events create spaces for personal growth, cultural pride, and lasting connections.
