Ruzanna and Syuzanna Aghababyans

Tavush Marz, Ijevan

In August 2009, our initial involvement with the Children’s Development and Social Inclusion Center of the “Bridge of Hope” NGO in Noyemberyan marked a significant turning point in our lives. The small debate group, led by young advocates for self-rights, transformed through the guidance of “Bridge of Hope”, leading us towards greater engagement with society. It instilled within us a profound understanding of our own important mission: to continuously educate ourselves, enhance our skills, seek platforms for self-expression, and champion inclusive values. We became catalysts for an inclusive society, committed to dismantling barriers and dispelling stereotypes for all individuals.

“Bridge of Hope” also inspired us to pursue professional education. Upon completing secondary school, we enrolled at Yerevan Kh. Abovyan State Pedagogical University, specializing in social pedagogy. For nearly 9 years, we have served as social educators at “Bridge of Hope”, dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to the development and social inclusion of children with disabilities—just as “Bridge of Hope” supported us during our own childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood.

We were empowered to believe in our own potential, and now we strive to instill the same belief in children and youth with disabilities in our community. We firmly believe in their immense capabilities to overcome obstacles, improve their quality of life, and build a secure and vibrant future for themselves.