ACTION AGAINST HUNGER HOLDS ENTREPRENEURSHIP FORUM IN ARMENIA
Action Against Hunger South Caucasus held an Entrepreneurship Forum within the French embassy-funded project Supporting the socio-economic inclusion and employability of refugees and the most vulnerable social groups in Tavush, Armenia. The event was held in Dilijan, offering the opportunity to share updates on the status of the project, but also offering an entrepreneurial panel, a business exhibition as well as practical workshops.
After welcoming words were provided by the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, followed by representatives of the French Embassy and Action Against Hunger, the project process was presented by the project coaches. This presentation included testimonials from project participants that offered an insight into the project impact so far.
The entrepreneurial panel that followed shared success stories from refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh who received self-employment toolkits, having enabled them to launch small businesses.
In partnership with IRIS Business Incubator, a hands-on workshop was delivered that was focused on social media marketing strategies and provided practical tools on how to boost online sales.
The workshop was followed by a business exhibition, where participants were offered the unique opportunity to take part in small group consultations, allowing attendees to showcase their ideas, seek guidance and network.
The forum was attended by 90 persons, including our project coaches and Shuttle participants. When asking about their experience, Hrant Safaryan tells us that “the event was well-organised” and that he found the program “excellent and engaging. It was a pleasant atmosphere that encouraged the creation of new connections and the exchange of ideas.”
Anna Harutyunyan says that the “event was truly inspiring and useful.” Adding that the forum boosted her motivation, since everyone “had the opportunity to share ideas and gain new knowledge,” extending her thank to the organisers, “for the warm atmosphere, professional approach, and for making us feel valued.”
Reflecting on the panel held by people forcibly displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh, Alvard Hovhannisyan – himself being a refugee – says that “today’s event was an important opportunity to share our ideas and renew our motivation.”
Project coach Alice adds that the event was “not just about transferring knowledge. It’s about creating platforms where people can speak up, take initiative, and feel they are part of the solution. This forum was exactly that kind of space.” Adding that “seeing participants sit across from experts, discussing socioeconomic inclusion models with clarity and confidence – That’s what empowerment looks like.”
The goal of this Entrepreneurship Forum was to emphasise skills development, confidence-building, and to promote inclusive entrepreneurship in the region. This experience was made possible thanks to the support of our partners and everyone who participated in the panel and workshops. We are thankful to all who joined us for the event and for sharing insights and ideas!
