Our Founders.
Renya Benjamin
Renya Benjamin is a chemical engineer by trade and one of GISHRU’s founding members. Her journey with GISHRU began as a participant in the 2013 trip, where her passion for reconnecting Assyrians to their roots inspired her continued involvement. Renya plays a key role in GISHRU’s special projects and long-term initiatives, helping shape programs that connect diaspora youth to their homeland. She currently resides in Chicago with her husband, Joseph Danavi, and their three children.
Joseph V. Danavi, DO, FACC
General & Preventive Cardiology
Dr. Joseph V. Danavi is a Chicago-based cardiologist specializing in preventive cardiology. As a founder and current board director of GISHRU and the chair of education for the Assyrian American National Federation (AANF), he leads programs centered on advocacy, cultural preservation, and community well-being. Dr. Danavi proudly credits GISHRU for shaping both his professional and personal journey—he met his wife, Renya Benjamen, on the 2013 GISHRU trip, and today they have three children, two of whom have been baptized in the Assyrian Homeland.
Suzan Younan
Suzan Younan is one of the original co-founders of GISHRU and a lifelong Assyrian activist. Her dedication to community work and cultural preservation has guided GISHRU’s partnerships and programming in the homeland. Now based in Iraq, Suzan serves as a vital link between GISHRU’s global network and local organizations, ensuring each trip strengthens ties to the Assyrian people and land. Her leadership continues to inspire a new generation to give back and stay connected to their heritage.
Our Team.
From organizing trips to managing community partnerships, our team works year-round to make GISHRU’s mission possible. We’re proud to be a group of young leaders dedicated to preserving culture, inspiring connection, and shaping the next generation of Assyrians.
Audrana Esho
Executive Director
Nina Tamou
Alumni Coordinator
Sarah Isho
Program Manager
Daniel Sada
Social Media Coordinator
Our Partners.
Thanks to our coalition's support and belief on the ground in Assyria, the vision of being the bridge between the diaspora and the homeland is nearing reality. Meet the organizations spearheading this revolution.
Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq
Established in 1991, the Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq is one of the first humanitarian organizations working with the UN in the region.
Khoyada
Also known as "Khoyada", the ChaldoAssyrian Student & Youth Union is the largest organization of Assyrian youth and young professionals in Iraq.
Assyrian Democractic Movement
Established in 1979, the Assyrian Democratic Movement, also known as Zowaa is one of the only independent Assyrian political parties in Iraq within the parliament.
Our Sponsors.
We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors who make our work possible:
Assyrian American National Federation
Dr. Bilus Poles of
Omni Dental
