The Young Assyrians

The Young Assyrians Welcome to the official page of The Young Assyrians (TYA).

The Young Assyrians (TYA) seek to provide a platform through which young people can actively lobby for the human rights of the Assyrian people.

For many, the story of the Nineveh Plains begins and ends with security. But the data tells a more nuanced story.Accordi...
16/06/2026

For many, the story of the Nineveh Plains begins and ends with security. But the data tells a more nuanced story.

According to a household survey of 696 residents across the Nineveh Plains, the greatest concerns identified by local communities were not security threats alone. The top concerns were the lack of opportunities for young people (25%) and unemployment (23%), followed by reconstruction (15%) and access to basic services (10%).

Security remains important. Yet these findings suggest that if we are serious about preserving the future of the Nineveh Plains and its indigenous Assyrian communities, we must also create the conditions that make staying possible: meaningful employment, quality education, economic opportunity, and hope for the next generation.

People do not simply remain because they feel safe. They remain because they can build a life, raise a family, and envision a future.

As policymakers, community leaders, and advocates, we must ask ourselves: How do we build a future worth staying for?

Source: SIPRI Research Policy Paper, Strengthening Social Cohesion in the Nineveh Plains of Iraq: Issues of Common Concern and Local Cooperative Solutions (2024).

The Middle East is changing.Long-standing assumptions are being challenged. Alliances are shifting. New geopolitical rea...
15/06/2026

The Middle East is changing.

Long-standing assumptions are being challenged. Alliances are shifting. New geopolitical realities are emerging. In a rapidly evolving region, the decisions made today will shape the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.

What does this mean for the Nineveh Plains?

It means our people have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to be active stakeholders in our own future destiny. To move beyond simply reacting to events and instead contribute to the conversations that influence policy, security, development, cultural preservation, and democratic participation.

The Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains is about asking difficult questions and exploring practical solutions. How can we ensure that Indigenous Assyrian voices are heard? What role can evidence-based advocacy play in shaping international engagement? How do we build a future that is secure, sustainable, and grounded in the aspirations of our people?

More than a conversation. A call to action.

Yesterday, members of The Young Assyrians (TYA) and the Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc. (ANCA) attended the L...
15/06/2026

Yesterday, members of The Young Assyrians (TYA) and the Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc. (ANCA) attended the Leadership and Networking Forum hosted by the Assyrian Australian Professional Association (AAPA).

The event highlighted the importance of creating stronger connections between Assyrian professionals and university students, providing a valuable platform to network, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded individuals who are passionate about contributing to the future of our community.

It was also inspiring to hear from Ms. Mary Orham, who shared her personal and professional journey, offering valuable insights into the challenges she has overcome and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the impact that dedication, perseverance, and community support can have in achieving success.

As we count down to the 2026 Policy Summit, we wanted to share a story of hope and possibility.This feature highlights t...
13/06/2026

As we count down to the 2026 Policy Summit, we wanted to share a story of hope and possibility.

This feature highlights the restoration of the Monastery of St Behnam and St Sarah, where Indigenous Assyrians played a leading role in preserving and rebuilding their own cultural heritage following the devastation inflicted by ISIS.

Through local knowledge, artistic skill, and a commitment to identity, what was once targeted for erasure was carefully brought back to life.

It serves as a powerful reminder that when Indigenous Assyrians are empowered to lead, they are not merely beneficiaries of reconstruction efforts; they are the custodians, creators, and architects of their own future.

As we gather in Canberra to discuss the future of the Nineveh Plains, this success story offers an important lesson: sustainable solutions are those that place local communities at the centre of rebuilding, preservation, and decision-making.

Read the full article: https://www.theyoungassyrians.org/news/the-generation-rebuilding-nineveh-restoring-the-monastery-of-st-behnam-and-st-sarah

We are pleased to welcome Mr. Dennis Suro as a panellist at the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains.As Pre...
10/06/2026

We are pleased to welcome Mr. Dennis Suro as a panellist at the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains.

As President of The Young Assyrians and Vice President of the Assyrian Students’ Association of Australia, Mr. Suro represents a new generation of community leadership committed to practical, evidence-based advocacy.

He has authored a number of policy briefings and reports, contributed to high-level advocacy initiatives, and has addressed a Senate Inquiry on issues impacting our communities in the Middle East.

He brings a strong youth perspective to the Summit, with a focus on empowering young people to engage in public life, shaping informed policy conversations, and ensuring that the voices of future generations play a meaningful role in the future of the Nineveh Plains.

In recognition of his leadership and service, Mr. Suro was honoured with the Young Assyrian of the Year Award in 2025, reflecting his commitment to empowering young people and strengthening community participation in public life.

We look forward to the insights and energy Mr. Suro will bring to this important discussion in Canberra.

A new generation is emerging across our community; one that recognises that meaningful advocacy requires more than passi...
09/06/2026

A new generation is emerging across our community; one that recognises that meaningful advocacy requires more than passion alone. Increasingly, young voices are helping shape more organised, evidence-based approaches grounded in practical solutions, informed dialogue, and a shared commitment to the future of the Nineveh Plains.

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Ms. Robina La...
09/06/2026

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Ms. Robina Lajin will join the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains as one of our panellists.

Ms. Lajin is currently undertaking a Master of Educational Sciences, with her studies focusing on identity formation, migration, family and child-rearing within the Assyrian community, as well as the impacts of trauma and displacement.

Ms. Lajin serves as Vice President of the Etuti Institute and is actively involved in a number of Assyrian organisations.

Through her academic research, professional work as a career counsellor in Germany, and community engagement, she has developed a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing younger generations of Assyrians in both the homeland and the diaspora.

As part of the Summit, Ms. Lajin will reflect on case studies from projects undertaken by the Etuti Institute in the Nineveh Plains, highlighting the capacity of young people in the region to lead, innovate, and contribute to the future of their communities.

Drawing on her experience in youth development and education, she will explore the role of young people as agents of change and the importance of investing in the next generation to support the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the Nineveh Plains.

We are honoured to welcome Ms. Lajin to this important conversation as policymakers, academics, community leaders, and stakeholders come together at Parliament House Canberra.

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Ms. June Isht...
08/06/2026

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Ms. June Ishtar Jako will join the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains as one of our panellists.

A dedicated humanitarian and community advocate, Ms. Jako has spent more than 15 years volunteering with the Assyrian Aid Society – Australia Inc., supporting initiatives that provide assistance and relief to Assyrian communities in Iraq.

Her longstanding commitment to humanitarian service has helped raise awareness of the challenges facing Indigenous Assyrians and the importance of supporting vulnerable communities in their ancestral homeland.

In addition to her community work, Ms. Jako has pursued academic research in Assyrian history, reflecting her deep commitment to preserving and promoting Assyrian heritage for future generations.

As part of the Summit, Ms. Jako will contribute to discussions on humanitarian challenges, community wellbeing, displacement, and the practical support required to help Assyrians remain and thrive in the Nineveh Plains.

We are honoured to welcome Ms. Jako to this important conversation as policymakers, academics, community leaders, and stakeholders come together at Parliament House Canberra to discuss the future of the Nineveh Plains.

Exploring Australia’s Role in the Future of the Nineveh Plains.The Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains wil...
08/06/2026

Exploring Australia’s Role in the Future of the Nineveh Plains.

The Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains will bring together policymakers, academics, community leaders, and civil society representatives at Parliament House, Canberra, to examine the challenges and opportunities facing the Indigenous Assyrian people of the Middle East.

Through evidence-based discussion and informed dialogue, the Summit seeks to advance understanding, strengthen partnerships, and explore practical avenues through which Australia can contribute to the future security, prosperity, and cultural preservation of the Nineveh Plains.

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Dr. George Ma...
07/06/2026

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) and The Young Assyrians are pleased to announce that Dr. George Marano will join the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains as one of our panellists.

A respected economist, academic, and community leader, Dr. Marano has made significant contributions to public policy, economic development, and community advancement. He is also actively involved in the Assyrian Business Council of Australia, supporting initiatives that strengthen entrepreneurship, professional networks, and economic opportunity within the Assyrian community.

Through his research and engagement with Assyrian affairs, Dr. Marano has highlighted the importance of sustainable economic development, investment, and long-term planning in creating prosperous and resilient communities.

As part of the Summit, Dr. Marano will contribute to discussions on economic development, community resilience, and the practical measures required to support long-term stability and opportunity in the Nineveh Plains.

We are honoured to welcome Dr. Marano to this important conversation as policymakers, academics, community leaders, and stakeholders come together at Parliament House Canberra to discuss the future of the Nineveh Plains.

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