Syriac Youth Association official emblemSyriac Youth Association

About the association

A community institution rooted in Damascus

Syriac Youth Association is a long-standing community institution in Damascus. It brings together heritage, language, youth participation, culture, community activities, development initiatives and social solidarity.

Three association officers seated behind microphones at the head table of a general meeting
Association officers chair a general meeting from the head table.

Who we are

A community role across generations

The association is part of the social and cultural fabric of the Syriac community in Damascus. Its work is carried by community participation: members, young people and volunteers who organise activities, preserve cultural memory and respond to social needs.

  • Geographic roots in Damascus, with connections to Syriac communities abroad.
  • Founded in Damascus in 1930, the association has served the community for more than 95 years.
  • A deep connection to Syriac heritage, language and cultural continuity.
  • Service open to Syrian society: public reporting indicates the association's work seeks to serve people across different affiliations.
  • A current phase of organisational renewal and expanded community work.

Our values

HeritageServiceParticipationDignitySolidarityInclusionPartnershipAccountability

These values have guided the association's work in Damascus since 1930 and shape every activity we run today.

What we do

Six areas of work

Our activities in Damascus run across six connected areas, from language and heritage to family solidarity.

Heritage and Syriac language
Youth participation
Cultural and social life
Community development
Solidarity with families
Partnership with institutions

Future direction

Continuity, participation and partnership

The association's stated direction combines cultural continuity with practical community development: strengthening language and heritage work, widening youth participation, and building partnerships that support families and small initiatives.