The Quiet Strength of Endurance

Growing up as an Armenian in the diaspora meant constantly balancing between two cultures, never fully belonging to either one. The society around me felt open, modern, and deeply individualistic, yet it often seemed to overlook the traditional values that, in my view, form the foundation of any society. My family and the small Armenian circle I knew in my childhood valued cultural customs, faith, and unity, yet at times were cautious, even hesitant to embrace change.

As I grew older, however, my perspective began to shift. What I had once calledtoo conservativeturned out to be the unseen framework that had carried our people through centuries of foreign domination and the trauma of genocide and exile. When I finally visited Armenia, I felt exactly that. Every street, every song, and every church on a hill carried the quiet strength of endurance and connection.

For this reason, I believe that while progressive thinking may set the direction for our future, it is this enduring sense of identity and continuity that shapes our path as a nation and inspires us, the younger generation, to return to our homeland. To move forward, we must understand and protect what defines us, not out of nostalgia but out of responsibility, as our ancestors once did.

Yet maintaining that sense of rootedness can be a challenge. That is why Birthright Armenia will always have a special place in my heart, as it gave me the opportunity to rediscover my homeland while learning from and contributing to the community.

From the very beginning, I was welcomed with friendliness and a genuine sense of ease that makes you feel comfortable right away. What makes Birthright Armenia truly special is the personal care they give to every participant. The team stays in close contact throughout the entire experience, so you always feel supported, not like a stranger but like part of a community.

As part of my Birthright Armenia experience, I was placed in two different organizations that allowed me to explore both my academic interests and Armenia’s cultural life. At theEuropean Institute of International Languages, under the direction of Hasmik Torosyan,I had the opportunity to lead classes and support students in their learning process. It was a rewarding task, as it allowed me to apply my studies in linguistics in a practical environment. I quickly learned that leading a language class is not just about grammar and vocabulary but also about improvisation and occasional laughter.

My second placement was with Music of Armenia, an organization focused on music events and music marketing. There, I had the chance to meet creative professionals and to assist the director Hasmik Movsisian in her daily work. This experience was inspiring as it gave me insight into Armenia’s cultural scene.

It was a pleasure to work for two Armenian women in leadership.

Since not everyone has the privilege to volunteer, I value this journey even more and hope there will be more opportunities in the future to give back and stay connected to Armenia. It will surely stay with me in the stories, the people, and maybe even in the extra luggage of dried fruits and Grand Candy.