9th Keren High School Reunion

Seattle 2025

​

Keren High School Reunion In Seattle

Report 2025 (Overview)

By  Hassen Fereg

​

Event Name:  Keren High School Reunion Conference July 5- 7, 2025

Location:  University of Washington, Seattle. Moderna Hall.

​

Seattle is called ‘Rainy City’ as it always rains.  However, this time, it compromised and it was dry for the three days of the event. It is always around 12 degrees centigrade, reminding us of the old climate of Keren.  We are delighted to share our happiness that the event was a great success, and far beyond our expectations for the work done, mostly by the local volunteer community members who sacrificed their time, energy, as well as financial resources to keep up with the standard of the event.  Around $14,000 US Dollars was contributed to cover the event!!

Our lion’s share of thanks goes to Jowet, Michael, and our chair, Abraha.  Job well done. Thanks.

Friday: (July 5th):  The event was officially opened around 6:00 PM (PST), however, participants were trickling in earlier than Friday.  There were around less than 150, excluding the locals. The Seattle Community provided visiting members with homemade food and drinks, including the local drink of “Sewa” for those who are interested.

The evening was full of laughter and joy.  The community's hospitality and generosity were beyond imagination. There was music and dance till midnight and after.  Everyone left to prepare for the next day.

Saturday (July 6th):  This is the day that the bulk of the activities took place.  The day opened with the event of candlelight vigil in memory of all those who gave their lives for the Independence of Eritrea, in the memory of all Keren classmates, childhood friends, etc, who passed away early, and all Kerenites who were part of this reunion since 2008 and departed.

This was followed by the Chairman's speech in introducing the union, members who worked hard for this event, and the effort exerted by the local Seattle members, Jowet, Michael, and Abraha.  Further, the Seattle volunteers who did make the event what it looked like.

This was followed by Hassen Fereg in expressing the Mission, Vision and Statement of the Union that reflect the discipline.  Aba Nuegesse's speech was no less. He stated that Keren is a mosaic Society and diverse; however, amid these, it maintains harmony, respect for each other, and tolerance.

The history of the only prominent factory of Sheshita (Societa) was shared with the attendees.

 Others who added flavor to the discussion are Awet Rusom (Youth Success); Dr. Sultan (Youth Health on Teen and Adolescence;) and How Youth Can Get Scholarships by Dr. Asfaw.  As well as a youth speaker on Technology, Tomas. Autism – Blain Essays Meheratb.

Youth Challenges and How to Tackle Problems by Araya Gebreselasie was very educational.

The speeches continued up to 6:00 pm, after which dinner, still donated by the community, was served, and music started.  It was a cultural night featuring traditional music, food, and performances that was an evening to be remembered.  It ended a little after midnight.

Sunday, July 7th: In general, this is the picnic day; however, it was more than that in Seattle. With more sheep slaughtered and abundant food provided.  Food was served on two fronts. For those fasting (Christian tradition) and those who are not fasting and can consume meat.  You cannot see the divide, but everything is served.  Thanks to the Seattle community for that.  Drinks-tea and coffee were served.  You can see the true meaning of Keren at the picnic.  Everyone was happy.  Families, individuals, visitors, and locals.

In conclusion, the Keren High School Reunion Conference was a deeply meaningful and inspiring event.  Particularly for the Youth who knew nothing of the union, or Keren for that matter.  With renewed energy and a clear action plan, the Keren Reunion is ready to play a vital role in the community's future.