Gyumri Through My Eyes

My heart is so full

Volunteering in Gyumri has been an incredible journey. Returning to my birth city was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but now, I leave with an overwhelming sense of love for this place—because of the people. The Depi Hayk program was everything I had hoped for, allowing me to reconnect with my roots and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through this experience, I found a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper love for our beautiful Armenia. I am incredibly grateful to Birthright Armenia for their unwavering support throughout this life-changing experience.

I still remember the day I arrived in Gyumri—filled with a mix of nerves and excitement. Meeting my host family for the first time was an unforgettable moment. I had always dreamed of living with an Armenian family, and I was so lucky to experience it in Gyumri. From the very beginning, they welcomed me with open arms, their warmth and kindness making me feel at home. I will always be grateful for their generosity and hospitality, which made my time in Gyumri, Armenia even more special.

The people of Gyumri will always hold a special place in my heart. The volunteers I met here have become some of my closest friends, and the bond we share is incredibly strong. We’ve created unforgettable memories together, and I know these friendships will last a lifetime. In addition, one of the most meaningful parts of my experience was my Armenian language class with Roza. She was an amazing teacher, and thanks to her, I learned so much and felt more connected to my heritage. Our class was very special and we made learning Armenian fun.

Beyond the friendships, the Birthright Gyumri staff played a crucial role in my journey. Their constant support and kindness made my experience even more meaningful, and I’m deeply grateful for each and every one of them.

This program gave me the opportunity to experience the everyday rhythm of life in Armenia—something truly unique and exactly what I was looking for. Living and volunteering in Gyumri has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life, and I will always cherish the time I spent here.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially for Armenians, that will not only help you reconnect with your roots but also shape your understanding of the world. It’s an experience that will allow you to deepen your connection to your heritage and grow into a better, more self-aware version of yourself. Thank you Birthright Armenia for everything, all the experiences, friends, and memories I made will always hold a special place in my heart.