Finding Home in My Homeland: A Journey of Volunteering, Design, and Belonging in Armenia

From the moment I arrived at the Zvartnots Airport and was greeted by a Birthright Armenia staff member, I knew I was in good hands. The warmth of that first welcome stayed with me as I was driven through Yerevan’s glowing night streets, to the home of my host family where I was welcomed with open arms.

I live with a grandmother and her granddaughter, who have welcomed me with such warmth that I truly feel like a part of their family. Amid the stress of moving to a new country—with a different culture, unfamiliar people, and volunteer work unlike anything I was used to back home in Canada— my host family gives me a constant sense of comfort, making home feel like a safe and welcoming place to return to each day.

That support gives me the stability and confidence to fully engage in my volunteer placement. I am fortunate to work as an interior designer at an architectural firm, where I can apply my skills in a completely new environment. At the firm, I get to meet a wide range of professionals — along with a few little furry friends — each with their own perspective and approach. Who are incredibly generous with their knowledge, taking time to explain local practices, design philosophies, and even technical skills that were new to me. Through these daily interactions, I become more deeply immersed in the field, not just as a student of design, but as someone contributing to real projects in Armenia.

One of the most meaningful parts of the Birthright experience has been the opportunity to take Armenian language classes. It is the first time I have been able to study the language of my ancestors—not just from a textbook, but through real conversations and everyday interactions. Birthright goes far beyond just volunteer work; it offers a rich cultural immersion. Each week is filled with engaging forums and havaks along with Saturday excursions that allow us to explore the country’s beauty and complexity. It is a program that encourages both contribution and personal growth. After two months here, Armenia no longer feels like a distant homeland, it feels like home.