Is it even legal to be this cool?

Today marks exactly two months since I came to Yerevan, and I want to share my amazing experience with you. I heard about the Birthright Armenia program from a friend, and in the middle of October, he invited me to join him. I didn't think twice and immediately checked out the program on their website, applied, and contacted a mentor. Two weeks later, I was in Yerevan.

Birthright Armenia and its support

Let me explain if you still don't know what Birthright Armenia is. It's a team of incredibly kind and competent people who help you with anything you need. They organize housing, volunteering opportunities, activities, and personal development programs. The wonderful staff at Birthright Armenia manage all of this every day. Even though my friend and I quickly decided to come to Yerevan as volunteers, they prepared several work offers for us and arranged our accommodation. As a singer and masseur, finding a job can be challenging even in Russia, but within three days, I was at an interview and starting my job. During this time, I've had the chance to meet and work with many creative people in Yerevan, which is very important to me and a fantastic opportunity. Let me tell you more about it.

Regarding my host family, I was lucky to stay with David, an incredibly educated and hospitable person. We quickly found common ground, and I was especially fortunate that he's a teacher, as he's been helping me learn Armenian. Despite being a guest, I feel at home here and am grateful to David for that. It's like having another older brother. Early on, Birthright Armenia advised program participants to get involved as much as possible in the local community, attend events, and embrace opportunities. As a result, in the past two months, I've visited various Armenian theaters, attended events, met some wonderful people, and discovered various creative opportunities. In general, engaging with the local environment and being open to new experiences can profoundly change your perspective.

Regarding activities and development, Birthright Armenia organizes interesting weekly excursions and forums for volunteers, providing plenty of space for positive experiences. We also have Armenian language classes twice a week. I arrived with zero knowledge, but after two months, my skills have improved significantly—I understand much more and can manage everyday conversations.

Job sites for volunteers and new opportunities

Regarding job placements, I didn't expect to have so many opportunities. Birthright Armenia can help you find a job in almost any field that interests you. What's even more amazing is the opportunity to combine different professions. Along with my work as a massage therapist, I help a director with filming commercials and work with a group of singers in a theater.

I feel immense pride and gratitude for what the Birthright Armenia team is doing.

Armenia is a place where you are welcomed and embraced. However, I hope that everyone who comes here aims to contribute something of themselves to this country. Armenia doesn't just deserve it—it needs it.