Dawit Yehualashet Kebede is a PhD student at the Balsillie School of International Affairs (BSIA), where his research explores the intersections of diaspora politics and transnational conflict. His current work examines recent violent clashes within Eritrean diaspora festivals in Canada, aiming to uncover how these events are influenced by broader geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa. By investigating the roles of both local and transnational forces, Dawit’s research contributes to understanding host-state and diaspora relations and provides insights for managing conflict in diaspora communities.

Originally from Ethiopia, Dawit’s academic journey began at Bahir Dar University, where he graduated with honors in History. After two years of teaching history at the high school level, he pursued an associate degree in travel management in Addis Ababa, transitioning into a role as a travel consultant and trip leader.

Dawit’s academic pursuits led him to the United States, where he studied Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies at Goshen College, graduating with honors in 2007. Under the mentorship of Professor Jan Bender Shetler, Dawit co-authored research on intercommunal peacebuilding in Ethiopia, presenting at the African Studies Association (ASA) conference. He later completed a Master’s in Public Affairs at Indiana University, also with honors. His work experience spans Ethiopia, the United States and Canada in areas such as teaching, travel consultancy, mediation, and academic research.