Lory in Ha! Ha! Land
The divine comedy of writer, actor, and producer Lory Tatoulian
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May 05, 2011
Young Professionals of Montreal Host Opportunities Fair
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Some of the organizers and presenters at the February 10 "Opportunities Fair" organized by AGBU YP Montreal.
On February 10, 2011, the AGBU Young Professionals (YP) Montreal organized an "Opportunities Fair" to teach local university students of Armenian descent different ways to work and volunteer during their time off from school. Over 70 students participated in the event, which was attended by many YPs and alumni from several organizations. Those on hand used the opportunity to share their experiences with the students and explain the benefits of internship programs, volunteer work, and unique international experiences, particularly those in Armenia.
Alique Akkelian and Laura Chadarevian shared their enriching experiences participating in the AGBU internship programs in Paris and New York. "I arrived not knowing what to expect, but the local AGBU chapter guided all interns throughout their two-month stay," Chadarevian said. Akkelian encouraged the students to push themselves to try something new. "The things you fear most will end up being those most worthwhile in your life," she said.
The vice-chairwoman of YP Montreal, Maral Kassemjian, went into detail about her own experience helping to build a home for a family in need with the world-renowned Habitat for Humanity organization. "Everyone deserves a roof over their head. We all need a house, a place we call home," said Kassemjian. She mentioned that Habitat for Humanity will be building houses in the Tavush region of Armenia later this year.
During his volunteer assignment with the Canadian Youth Mission to Armenia, Alexandre Meterissian arrived in Armenia with his English-Armenian dictionary and the goal to contribute to a renovation project. The difficulties in communicating and living in an Armenian village didn't stop him from creating what he calls "some of the best memories of my life so far." Karl Armen Boudjikanian introduced Birthright Armenia to those who attended and explained their commitment to "making service to and experiences in Armenia an essential rite of passage afforded to all young Armenians around the world." YP community liaison Chahe Tanachian spoke to the audience about his inspirational trip with Discovering Armenian Jerusalem. Tanachian stressed that the ten-day spiritual journey was a must for all young Armenians. He is currently enrolled to return for his second trip later in the year.
YP vice-president of finance Ayrem Ohennisian presented information on the Land and Culture Organization, while YP chairwoman Sarine Chitilian spoke about the importance of connecting with leaders in the community, alumni members of associations, and with other students and peers. She informed the students of the launch of the new online International Armenian Students Network, AgbuAcademics.com, which went live on February 27, 2011.
At the conclusion of the presentations, Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan, Primate of the Canadian Diocese of the Armenian Church, gave a closing message to the students and encouraged them to get involved in their community.
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