About us

Youth Leading Change, Protecting Communities

Save Your Holy Land Association (SYHLA) is a youth-lead, child, youth and women rights organization, legally registered local Civil Society Organization (CSO) under Registration No. 0382 with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Authority for Civil Society Organizations. Established in December 2001, SYHLA is non-profit, non-partisan, non-political, and non-religious, with a strong community-rooted foundation in Lalibela and now the head quarter is located in Addis Ababa. SYHLA was initiated by two visionary young University graduates who shared a deep commitment to community service and youth empowerment. Since its inception, the organization has grown into a dynamic force for change, dedicated to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly youth and women.

Our Mission

To empower women, youth, and communities through inclusive, rights-based programs that enhance health, protection, education, humanitarian recovery, livelihoods, environment, good governance, peace building, and climate resilience— advancing gender equality and ending all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG)

Our Vision

A just, peaceful, and resilient Ethiopia where women, youth, and children thrive in dignity, equality, and environmental harmony.

Our Values

Empowerment with Purpose, Excellence and Innovation, Equality and Justice, Meaningful Participation, Integrity and Accountability, Resilience and Sustainability

Journey of Lasting Impact

Save Your Holy Land Association (SYHLA) was founded in December 2001 by two visionary university graduates in Lalibela, Ethiopia. Driven by a passion for community service and youth empowerment, they established a non-profit dedicated to uplifting vulnerable populations. Registered as a Civil Society Organization under Registration No. 0382, SYHLA began with grassroots initiatives focused on education and health, laying the foundation for its future growth.

In 2010, SYHLA expanded its headquarters to Addis Ababa, enhancing its reach and operational capacity. This move marked a significant milestone, enabling partnerships with international donors like USAID and the European Union. The organization introduced innovative programs in climate resilience and gender equality, solidifying its reputation as a dynamic force for change across Ethiopia.

By 2015, SYHLA’s impact grew with the launch of its Triple Nexus Approach, integrating humanitarian, development, and peace-building efforts. Successful projects, such as community-based composting in Amhara and youth media literacy training, showcased its commitment to sustainability. This period also saw the management of over USD 500,000 in funding, reflecting strong financial stewardship.