About Zara Selam
Zara Selam is a platform dedicated to dialogue, understanding, and community growth. Our mission is to create a space where Eritreans across the world can engage with one another respectfully, learn from one another, and contribute to a healthier and more united diaspora.
Our Purpose
We believe that meaningful change begins with honest conversation. By addressing social, cultural, political, and religious issues with clarity and fairness, we aim to strengthen trust and rebuild relationships within our community.
Our Commitment
We are committed to:
- Promoting peace and mutual respect
- Encouraging informed and balanced discussion
- Supporting cultural and spiritual identity
- Providing educational and community‑focused content
Zara Selam is not just a media platform — it is a bridge. A bridge between generations, between perspectives, and between Eritreans everywhere
🌿 About the Founder – Tedros H. Birhane
Tedros H. Birhane is the founder of Zara Selam Media, a platform dedicated to promoting peace, unity, and cultural renewal among Eritreans at home and across the diaspora.
His commitment to the Eritrean people began at a young age, shaped by the values of his grandfather who raised him. Tedros became involved in the struggle for Eritrean independence early in life, and after arriving in the United States, he continued advocating for democracy, civic participation, and the preservation of Eritrean cultural identity.
Tedros has served the Eritrean community in multiple capacities for more than two decades. He worked with U.S. agencies that supported newly arriving Eritrean immigrants, helping them understand American democratic principles and cultural life. He also served in administrative and financial roles with the Arlington Community Action Program; a nonprofit organization focused on community empowerment.
Professionally, Tedros has over 21 years of experience as a consultant supporting various U.S. federal agencies in financial management, systems analysis, and reporting. His work has centered on improving accountability, transparency, and operational efficiency in government financial systems adhering to accounting principles and federal laws, rules and guidelines.
In the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church, Tedros has held leadership roles for nearly two decades — including three years as an auditor, three yearsas as a secretary and sixteen years as chairman of his local parish. He also served for more than five years as the Secretary of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Diocese of the United States and Canada.
He completed his AA, BS, master’s degrees and multiple licenses; while working full‑time — sometimes balancing both full‑time and part‑time jobs — a journey he shares to encourage the community to embrace education as a lifelong value.
Through Zara Selam Media, Tedros brings together his lifelong dedication to community service, cultural preservation, and peaceful dialogue. His mission is to help heal divisions, revive the values of Eritrean heritage, and create a space where truth, respect, and unity can flourish
🌿 About the Co‑Founder – Akberet A. Birhane
Akberet A. Birhane is the co‑founder of Zara Selam Media and a respected community leader whose life has been shaped by service, resilience, and a deep commitment to the Eritrean people. Akberet inherited a legacy of integrity, compassion, and responsibility toward her community from her late father, Ahferom Yehdego, a strong and principled village leader of her village/ community.
From a young age, Akberet became involved in the struggle for Eritrean independence, joining the movement before even completing high school. During those difficult years, she served in medical and social support roles, caring for both civilians and fighters with courage and dedication.
After arriving in the United States, Akberet continued her lifelong commitment to advancing democratic values, civic participation, and the well‑being of the Eritrean community. She has been an active contributor to community initiatives, cultural preservation efforts, and programs that strengthen Eritrean identity in the diaspora.
Akberet has also played a significant leadership role in the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church. She served for four years as a member of the Executive Committee, and for sixteen years as a member of the wider board and a key contributor to a five‑member working committee. She continues to serve the church today through additional committees and advisory roles.
While raising her children and supporting her family, Akberet pursued her education and earned degrees in Accounting and Computer Systems, demonstrating her determination and commitment to personal growth. She is widely respected in the community as a thoughtful adviser, a trusted voice, and someone people turn to guidance and wisdom.
Through Zara Selam Media, Akberet brings her experience, compassion, and lifelong dedication to community service. She stands alongside her husband in advancing a mission of peace, unity, and cultural renewal for Eritreans everywhere.