On September 13th and 14th, 2024, the Artsakh Exodus Response Charity-fair was held within the framework of YMCA Roots for Peace bringing a wave of solidarity and support to the heart of the Armenian capital.
Set against the historic backdrop of Cross-stones Park, the fair once again brought together 30 Armenian artisans from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and Middle East, creating a vibrant cultural and compassionate hub in downtown Yerevan. The event not only showcased the rich artistic heritage of displaced communities but also emphasized the ongoing commitment to supporting those affected by war.
Nadezhda Sargsyan, representative of the Hadrut Youth Centre, expressed her excitement as a participant: “Today we are presenting the handmade work of our students and craftspeople from Artsakh. We have about ten stands for this charity-fair displaying a wide variety of different crafts; carpet weaving, embroidery, knitted bags, leatherwork, and more. We have been partnering with the Roots and Next Foundation for a while now and were involved in several of their projects. We hope to continue this cooperation and look forward to future events.”
Among the artisans was Atur Postahyan, a jeweler from Syria, who shared his long-term connection with the fair: “I make jewelry from silver. We have been partnering with Roots and Next Foundation for about four years now and are very pleased about it. It’s not only about promoting our work but also an opportunity to connect with our community.”
YMCA Generation Next Scholarship holders from the American University of Armenia (AUA) played a significant role in ensuring the event’s successful implementation. Nine (9) YMCA Scholarship holders were actively involved in engaging with artisans and visitors, providing translation for tourists, performing as DJs and enhancing the cultural exchange. They also organized a raffle, adding a touch of excitement and encouraging visitors to participate in the fair.
The Rootsmade Charity Fair served as a showcase of artistic talents and a reminder of the resilience of displaced communities which continue to rebuild their lives and preserve their cultural heritage. For the artisans, the fair was not only an opportunity to generate income but also a testament to the strong community and organization supporting them in their journey.
