About us
Our mission is to grow the database of YDNA test takers within the E-M2 Project. Right now, there are simply not enough men testing on YDNA. Those of us with complicated ancestries shaped by enslavement, colonization, or mixed roots across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas often don’t know what we don’t know until we test. Each new YDNA test grows the E-M2 branch, sometimes in surprising and unexpected ways, and strengthens our shared knowledge of African and African-descended ancestry.
Recruitment is just as important as testing yourself. When you “fish” among your autosomal DNA matches, you are looking for potential E-M2 testers. In every interaction with your matches, ask if they have YDNA tested or considered it. If they haven’t, explain that tools like YSEQ Clade Finder or unlocking uploads at FTDNA can give them a predicted haplogroup. If they are under E-M2, invite them to join the project so we can continue building this branch together.
👉 Watch these tutorials to see how prediction works:
1. Test or Upgrade
If you have only done STR testing (12, 25, 37, 67, or 111 markers), consider upgrading to Big Y-700. Big Y is the most powerful tool for discovering new branches and refining haplogroup placement.
2. Help Fund More Testing
Not everyone has the resources to test or upgrade, but their results are just as important to the growth of the branch. Contributing to test drives, funding campaigns, or sponsoring a relative can open new branches and bring in valuable data that would otherwise be missed.
3. Join a Project Meeting
We host monthly educational sessions on YDNA tools, haplogroup ancestors, and interpreting results. Even if you cannot attend every month, drop in when you can to learn and ask questions.
4. Recruit and Reach Out
When contacting your autosomal DNA matches, always ask if they have YDNA tested. If not, explain prediction tools they can use, and if they turn out to be E-M2, invite them to join this project. Every new E-M2 tester makes the branch stronger.
5. Share Your Results
Upload your Big Y results to YFull.com for additional analysis and dating estimates. Share what you learn in project discussions—your data benefits everyone.
6. Stay Informed
Use FTDNA tools like Discover, the Time Tree, and Advanced Matching. Follow resources such as the DNA-Explained blog for updates and best practices.
7. Be Part of the Growth
Every new E-M2 tester adds value. Each test helps uncover more about our shared history and strengthens the E-M2 branch for all descendants.