The Legacy Story

OUR ROOTSRUN DEEP.

Yemba community members in traditional cultural attire

A JOURNEY
OF TWO
WORLDS.

In the early 2000s, a handful of Menoua families in Houston found themselves longing for the rhythmic drums of their homeland and the collective wisdom of their elders. What started as informal living room gatherings quickly evolved into a formal organization dedicated to supporting one another in a foreign land.

YEMBA (Youth, Excellence, Menoua, Betterment, Association) was born from the necessity of preservation. As our community grew, so did our mission. We moved beyond simple social gatherings to establish educational funds, cultural workshops, and a robust support network that acts as an extended family for every member.

Our Mission

To foster unity among Menoua people in Houston, preserve our cultural identity, and empower our members through socioeconomic collaboration.

Our Vision

To be the leading cultural diaspora organization in Texas, recognized for our excellence in community service and heritage preservation.

Our Timeline

2004

Inaugural Gathering

Five families hosted the first Menoua living room session in West Houston.

2010

Formal Incorporation

YEMBA Houston became a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

2015

Scholarship Fund

Launched the Excellence Award for Houston-based students of Menoua descent.

2023

Cultural Center Vision

Acquired first community plots for the future Menoua House project.

Core Principles

The pillars that sustain our community and guide our decisions every single day.

Experience It With Us

Solidarity

We stand together in times of joy and challenge, upholding the Menoua spirit of mutual aid.

Integrity

Maintaining the highest ethical standards in our leadership and community interactions.

Cultural Pride

Preserving and promoting the Yemba language and traditions for the next generation.

Cultural Stewardship

Language Workshops

Teaching the Yemba dialect to our youth to ensure the tongue of our ancestors never goes silent.

Dance & Rhythm

Preserving traditional Menoua dances that tell stories of bravery, harvest, and unity.

Gastronomy

Sharing the flavors of our soil through community dinners and culinary demonstrations.

Traditional Menoua cultural gathering
The Leadership

Meet Our Management Team

A diverse group of dedicated individuals committed to serving the YEMBA Houston community and advancing our shared vision.

Jean-Pierre Dongmo

Jean-Pierre Dongmo

President

Dedicated to community growth and cultural preservation for over 15 years.

Marie-Claire Tsafack

Marie-Claire Tsafack

Vice President

Expert in diaspora logistics and event planning within the Houston area.

Samuel Kenfack

Samuel Kenfack

Secretary General

Facilitating communication and organization across all Yemba villages in Houston.

Want to make an impact?

YEMBA Houston is built on the passion of its volunteers. Join our committees and help us preserve our culture in the heart of Texas.