Dear reader ,
I am happy to see the initiative brought to life in a long-lasting partnership between Viva-MTS and the Panarmenian Geographic Association continue . Here , in this book , we present the Armenian philanthropists of the world . Those are people , who personify real humans and whose characters guide us as role models in today ’ s life . Armenians have been through many hard times and have always kept their heads up as they have overcome the toughest twists of life paths . Along those trails , there have always been people , who have stretched a helping hand and have been the ones to lean on , against all odds and despite everything . Philanthropy is not just about doing good things to others : philanthropy is a belief , hope and love for the humankind in a complexity of its victories and defeats , its grandeur and its misery . Philanthropy is also a testament of one ’ s preparedness for an act of devotion and sacrifice . Who , if not we , Armenians , are able to comprehend the meaning of every single manifestation of philanthropy ; who , if not Armenians are able to value the importance of being ready to return more than one gets ? The volume telling about the outstanding Armenian philanthropists is a humble expression of our gratitude and revere towards those people . Let us get to know our compatriots , whose devotion and readiness have helped us , and equally foreigners , to believe that one can overcome any situation , where there is a Real Man by one ’ s side .
Armen Avetisian Viva-MTS General Director
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