Getting inspired from entrepreneur and philanthropist James Tufenkian

This past week, Birthright Armenia participants had the opportunity to sit down for a cozy discussion with entrepreneur and philanthropist James Tufenkian, owner of Tufenkian Carpets, Tufenkian Heritage Hotels, and founder of the Tufenkian Foundation. It was in essence a meeting of two generations of engagers and participants in Armenia’s day-to-day reality.  The get together provided for a unique opportunity to hear from an inspirational individual whose personal and career ambitions have gelled into a successful engagement with Armenia over more than a decade. James reflected on his childhood, his later connection with his Armenian identity, and bringing his business knowhow and philanthropy to many of Armenia’s regions and Artsakh.  More than half of the 90-minute chat dealt with questions from Birthright Armenia participants, “the smartest questions I’ve encountered from any group,” acknowledged Mr. Tufenkian. To one particular question on how can he avoid the syndrome of being distanced and jaded from the realities of the people and their lives while being on top of a successful business operation, he answered by stating that he makes an effort to go out to the regions and relate to his employees and people in the villages, and that those experiences give him the greatest satisfaction. 

His final words to the volunteers were to follow their passions and to think outside the box since “Life is too precious to deal with bureaucracy.”