Impressions of the 2014 ARS Youth Connect Program

By Anna-Marie Danayan

This year’s ARS Youth Connect Program was full of excitement. The program’s director Khatchig Mouradian and Silva Bedian welcomed us with opening remarks. The day consisted of various panel discussions, heartwarming stories, and educational advice.

The first part of the day concentrated on discussing the Armenian-American experiences with Nancy Kricorian, Raffi Khatchadourian, and Talin Avakian. Nancy Kricorian presented two of her novels Zabelle and Dreams of Bread and Fire, which were truly heartbreaking yet motivational stories. Filmmaker Talin Avakian presented her “Demi Pointe” film and shared a quote by Grace Paley: “The only recognizable feature of hope is action.” This quote really touched my heart, as it is our responsibility to help our fellow Armenians and our motherland Armenia.

After a short break, Mouradian discussed his journey and experiences among Islamic Armenians. One thing that he said that really got me thinking was how there are some children who are Armenian but are raised in Turkish or Kurdish families and “go into hiding” so that nobody finds out that they are Armenian. We also had three more panelists who discussed the challenges facing Armenia: Alex Sardar, Krisi Rendahl, and Antranig Kasbarian. It was very enjoyable to see the youth interacting with these panelists and challenging them with questions. Also, it was very useful to hear what panelists had to say and what knowledge they were able to share with us.

The overall experience was just so incredible. It was amazing to connect with old and new friends and to discuss how we, as Armenians, can get together to help, motivate, and inspire one another, as well as others. I will definitely attend the next ARS Youth Connect Program!