The ARF Sebouh Gomideh proudly highlights the success of the AYF DC Ani Chapter’s annual November Dance, held on November 15, 2025—a vibrant evening that brought together community members, alumni, and friends to celebrate a year of pro-Armenia and Artsakh advocacy, community service, and youth achievement. Today, the AYF DC Ani Chapter and Sevan Junior Chapter together number over 130 dedicated members, a powerful testament to the strength and growth of Armenian youth in the Greater Washington region.
The program opened with welcoming remarks from Ungerouhi Lenna Kevorkian, who emphasized the purpose of the evening: recognizing the chapter’s growth over the past year and celebrating the dedication of its members across a wide spectrum of AYF initiatives. She invited several ungers to share reflections on their experiences, each illustrating the impact of youth engagement on both the individual and the broader Armenian community.
The first speaker, U. Arpa Shahnazarian, discussed her transformative summer as a participant in the AYF Internship in Armenia, where she spent nine weeks exploring the homeland, gaining professional experience, and deepening her connection to Armenia. She also reflected on her service as a counselor with the ARS Camp Javakhk program in Akhalkalak, highlighting the lasting value of this initiative and the relationships built along the way.
Next, U. Mary Markarian shared her experience attending the 12th AYF World Panagoum in Armenia. Joined by five members of the DC chapter, she recounted unifying moments among more than 400 AYF members worldwide, emphasizing the bonds formed, the collective energy of youth activism, and the strengthened commitment to Armenian identity and national priorities.
The program then turned to the next generation of leaders. U. Ardashes Hamparian, representing the AYF DC “Sevan” Junior Chapter, reflected on his journey in the organization—speaking about the values the AYF has instilled in him, the opportunities it has provided, and the memories he has formed as a junior member.
Closing the member reflections, U. Lila Paul spoke about her many years at AYF Camp Haiastan, describing how the camp shaped her personal and cultural identity. She underscored the importance of giving back to the camp and took a moment to celebrate the DC chapter’s achievements at the 2025 AYF Senior Olympics in Boston. To conclude, she presented custom jerseys to U. Hratch Najarian, U. Elizabeth Chouldjian, and U. Aram Hamparian—a gesture honoring their mentorship and ongoing support for the chapter’s youth.
The Gomideh extends its gratitude to the Norkef Ensemble, whose music made the night truly memorable; to U. Zareh Soghomonian for his technical expertise; and to U. Jemma Simonian, U. Chris Hekimian, and U. Alex Der Alexanian, whose efforts were central to preparing the event. We also thank the many friends, alumni, and community members whose support made the evening possible.
A special note of appreciation goes to Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church for its continued partnership and support.
As the AYF DC Ani Seniors and Sevan Juniors continue their educational, cultural, and advocacy-driven initiatives, we encourage our community to support their efforts.
To contribute:
• Online: https://givebutter.com/DCAni
• Venmo: @AYFDCAni
• Zelle: dc@ayf.org
To join the AYF:
• Sevan Juniors (ages 10–16): dcjuniors@ayf.org
• Ani Seniors (ages 17–26): dc@ayf.org
Through events like the November Dance, our youth continue to demonstrate their unwavering dedication to Armenia, Artsakh, and the Armenian Cause. The ARF Sebouh Gomideh proudly stands beside them as they build community, strengthen identity, and lead with purpose.
