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I ’ m Ashot Gabrielyan from Artsakh , originally from the small town of Askeran . Growing up in this community instilled in me a deep appreciation for resilience and the strength of community . While my education in Artsakh laid a solid foundation , it wasn ’ t until I moved to Yerevan for university that I recognized the gaps in my understanding of the modern world .
Driven by a sense of responsibility , I immersed myself in volunteering focused on human rights issues . The events of 2020 profoundly altered my path , prompting me to reflect on where my efforts could have the greatest impact . I decided to return to Artsakh with the goal of educating others about the real implications of human rights violations . This led me to Kolkhozashen , a remote village where I began teaching with Teach For Armenia .
Teaching in Kolkhozashen was transformative . Despite the challenges of the blockade , my students demonstrated incredible resilience and determination . Together , we turned limitations into opportunities , using social media campaigns and creative activities to amplify our voices and advocate for our rights . Our viral social media videos , which highlighted the situation in Artsakh , garnered nearly 2 million views .
My experience with Teach For Armenia not only provided me with practical skills but also deepened my sense of social responsibility and empathy . Now , as an Emergency Response Team Manager , I work with a dedicated team of Alumni-Ambassadors to deliver emergency education to displaced children from Artsakh .
Though the path ahead is challenging , our collective spirit and determination drive us forward . We are making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by war and displacement , demonstrating that even in the face of adversity , hope and resilience prevail .
Ashot Gabrielyan
Seventh Generation Alumni-Ambassador Emergency Response Team Manager
Annual Report 2023
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