The Isoko Association of New York (IANY) is a vibrant community organization that represents and unites sons and daughters of Isoko Nation living in the Tri-State area of the United States – New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Incorporated in Brooklyn, New York, in 1994, the association has since grown into one of the strongest Isoko diaspora communities in North America.
The pioneer directors and founding members, including Mr. Ben Oyogho, Mr. Titus Isagba, Mr. Martin Odhovo, Mr. Charles Abakpa, and the late Mr. Diamond Ojada, laid the foundation for what has become a hub for cultural preservation, community support, and development. Since then, IANY has consistently provided a platform where Isoko people in diaspora can celebrate their identity, support one another, and contribute to the growth of the Isoko Nation back home in Nigeria.
Structure and Leadership
IANY is governed by an elected executive body that oversees the daily operations, events, and community projects of the association. The executive leadership includes the president, vice president, general secretary, treasurer, publicity & social secretary. financial secretary, and speaker.
The association also maintains committees and subgroups, including youth and women’s wings, to ensure inclusive participation and representation of all members.
Membership
Membership of IANY is open to all Isoko sons and daughters, as well as individuals affiliated with Isoko through marriage or adoption, who reside in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or neighboring areas. Members come from diverse professional backgrounds including medicine, engineering, education, business, law, science, and public service.
IANY members gather every last Saturday of the month in Mount Vernon, New York, for general meetings, cultural events, and fellowship.
Why Join IANY?
Becoming a member of IANY comes with many benefits, including:
- Cultural Preservation: Stay connected to your Isoko roots through cultural events, festivals, and language promotion.
- Networking: Connect with professionals and business leaders within the Isoko community in the diaspora.
- Community Support: Enjoy a strong network of support during celebrations, challenges, and bereavements.
- Development Projects: Contribute to projects such as the Isoko House – New York, a landmark project aimed at creating a permanent cultural and community center.
- Youth Engagement: Give the younger generation opportunities to learn and embrace their heritage while building leadership skills.
- Global Impact: Join hands with others in diaspora to support charitable, educational, and developmental initiatives back in Isoko Nation, Nigeria.
Major Projects and Activities
IANY has hosted several conventions, including the 9th Biennial Isoko Convention – Isoko Wadoh (2022), cultural nights, and end-of-year gatherings. Its flagship project, the Isoko House in New York, aims to create a cultural hub that will serve as a meeting point, educational center, and heritage archive for future generations.
The association also supports humanitarian causes such as bereavement contributions, disaster relief, and youth development both in the U.S. and in Isoko land.
Contact and Website
Location: Mount Vernon, New York, USA
Website: www.isokonewyork.org
Email: inquiries@isokonewyork.org
Phone: +1 (646) 389-4030