Promoting gender equality in Armenia
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be daunting for anyone looking to improve their prospects in life with little to no resources. Now just imagine what it takes for the women of Armenia—who represent over half its population— to break free of the traditional molds and ancestral mores that often leave them trapped in a state of economic struggle and stagnation.
This reality gave form to the AGBU EmpowerHer initiative: a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy designed to help Armenia’s women step into their full potential, become financially self-sufficient, and contribute to the health and wealth of their nation.
EmpowerHer helps women from all regions of Armenia gain a leg up in their lives with professional development courses, mentorship connections and access to a growing number of like-minded women supporting women. The suite of programs kicked off with our signature AGBU Women Entrepreneurs in 2017 followed shortly by AGBU Women Coders and Women Changemakers. These initiatives complement an already robust network of Hye Geen Centers across Armenia and Artsakh which aim to support expecting and new mothers and their families through a critical transition period.
All EmpowerHer participants report a sense of greater self esteem and confidence upon completion of their program.
AGBU EmpowerHer combines both educational and psycho-social components that work to change perceptions and teach skills essential to gaining financial and social independence. Recognizing that transformational social change demands consensus from diverse segments of society, AGBU has developed strategic partnerships and collaborations with in-country stakeholders, thought leaders and influencers, in both the public and private sectors.
With 400 participants to date and 50% of our women coming from outside of Yerevan, the EmpowerHer network is making its mark across the region.
EmpowerHer participants gain exposure and opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to them. Check out the latest happenings from our programs below.
45 participants completed our Women Coders Program, ready to take on the tech world with proficiency in UI/UX Design, Quality Assurance (QA) and Product Management.
AGBU WE launches in Artsakh with 25 women embarking on a journey of personal and professional development with the same level curriculum and support as offered in the flagship Yerevan location.
Women Coders had the opportunity to present their work to experts from Service Titan. The forum gave participants real world exposure and feedback.
AGBU WE participant Anush Saroyan was featured on Aravot Luyso's "My Business" series. Through the business skills she obtained, Anush has opened her own fashion house in Gyumri. Watch her story.
Marat Avanesyan from Synergy led a comprehensive workshop for AGBU Women Coders discussing the importance of product management and UI/UX design and the necessity of their coaction in the real world.
Twenty AGBU WE participants showcased their products at the 'Big Christmas Market' in Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concerts Complex Yerevan in December, offering important visibility for their diverse businesses.
Thousands of applicants each year means high demand for AGBU's offerings. Their promise to improve their lives relies on our power to deliver broad reaching programming. Together with your help, we can take AGBU EmpowerHer programming to the next stage.
To learn more about the areas in which you can direct your meaningful gift and the many ways of supporting AGBU, please contact our Director of Development and Outreach:
Karen Papazian
Kpapazian@agbu.org
212-319-6383