The Women’s Fund, in collaboration with the OAK Foundation, has been actively supporting a range of impactful projects across Armenia. These initiatives, carried out by various partner sub-grantees, aim to address critical feminist issues in different areas. This article provides an overview of the diverse projects undertaken in cooperation with the OAK Foundation, highlighting efforts to advance women’s rights, promote cultural understanding, and address societal challenges. From educational programs and artistic endeavors to legal advocacy and community support, these projects reflect a commitment to fostering positive change and empowering women* across Armenia.
Armenian Center for Contemporary Experimental Art (ACCEA/NPAK) – During the annual Alternative Art Festival, the ACCEA team hosted several workshops and lectures focusing on Zapel Yesayan and the political implications of her work.
Lucy Martirosyan and Sona Grigoryan – Through their new feminist podcast, women with diverse life experiences will discuss various feminist topics, addressing problematic situations across different episodes.
Sona Khacharyan – For her graduation project, Sona Khacharyan created the film “Relic” which portrays the life of a visually impaired boy. This film was not only showcased as part of her graduation but also earned an award at the Golden Apricot Festival and will be featured at international film festivals in the future.
Center for Legal Initiatives NGO – Staying true to its mission, this NGO continues to engage with one of the most overlooked groups: women in prisons and probation services. The program included several workshops and welfare meetings, and will culminate in a series of podcast recordings addressing the issues and needs of women within the system. Additionally, several policy recommendations were developed through this project.
Tatevik Hovhannisyan – A group of girls from Nagorno Karabakh/Artsakh interested in pursuing journalism are receiving professional training funded by the Women’s Fund, in collaboration with Harbinger magazine and Oxford University. The project will result in their articles being published in Harbinger magazine.
Siranush Aghajanyan – Renowned artist Siranush Aghajanyan, along with her colleagues, continues to enhance the visibility of women artists and expand awareness about them within Armenian society and among fellow artists.
Creopia Creative Youth NGO – The Women’s Fund has always focused on combating sexism. Through this project, the Kreopia team will produce a series of new videos addressing the manifestations of sexism, aiming to raise public awareness and promote solutions.
Cultural and Social Narratives Center NGO – As part of the annual series of events, the School of the Complicated Past will place increased emphasis on gender issues this year.
Space for Women’s Solidarity NGO – Women from various Lori region communities, who face challenges traveling between their homes and workplaces, will learn to drive, pass the necessary exams, and independently manage their transportation between communities.
Gohar Khachatryan – Our collaboration with Gohar Khachatryan, which began a few years ago, involved her conducting self-defense training in different Armenian communities. This program will expand to include new participants from various regions of Armenia.
