Think Armenian Journal

“To think Armenian is to consider how each action, decision, thought, or economic activity supports and advances the Armenian cause. We must as a community amplify and augment our collective efforts into actions with direct impact in Armenia and Armenian lives. Every choice is an opportunity to enable a better Armenia for us and our future generations.” - Moushegh Hopar

This Newsletter aims to start thoughts, conversations, and communities with the specific focus on advancing Armenia and Armenian people.

The Armenian story has always been one of endurance—but endurance alone is not destiny. Across continents, Armenian identity has thrived in every form except coherence, fragmented across languages, borders, and the comfortable distances of exile. Yet for the first time in a century, the diaspora and Armenia share not only a past but also a horizon. To “think Armenian” is to recognize that we are no longer a scattered people mourning a lost home, but a distributed network capable of sustaining one. The diaspora is not a shadow of Armenia; it is her extended nervous system. For this system to function, however, the signals must flow both ways. (Source: ThinkArmenian)

Over the past two decades, Armenia has seen a renaissance in wine-making, reconnecting with its ancient viticultural heritage—yet this revival now faces the challenge of a changing climate. Average temperatures in Armenia have risen over 1 °C in the past century while rainfall has dropped by around 10%.  Armenian winemakers are witnessing earlier or more erratic harvests, hotter summers and milder winters, and are responding by experimenting with new practices: shifting vineyards to higher elevations, testing lesser-known native grape varieties for drought or heat resistance, employing different irrigation strategies, and using shade canopies to mitigate extreme heat.  However, the sector still contends with limited climate-specific data and relatively low awareness among growers about long-term climate impacts—factors that complicate planning and adaptation. (Source: EVN Report) 

With over 1,200 active startups and 22.8 percent annual growth, Armenia now ranks 54th in the Global Ecosystem Index, up from 58th last year. This progress reflects the country’s expanding innovation landscape, where once-small teams like Picsart, Krisp, ServiceTitan, and Renderforest have evolved into unicorns and global tech leaders. Driven by strong public-private collaboration and a growing investor network, Armenia continues to turn creativity into impact. (Source: LinkedIn)

A major initiative is underway to build an AI / supercomputing facility in Armenia, involving NVIDIA, Firebird, and other tech partners. Thousands of GPUs, high‑performance computing infrastructure, and power scale could position Armenia as a regional AI center. (Source: Telecom Armenia)

Ararat Box
Culture thrives when it’s lived - and bought, sold, and shared. Ararat Box delivers the taste of Armenia to homes worldwide through curated snack boxes filled with traditional sweets, dried fruits, teas, and more. Each box supports local Armenian producers and includes a cultural magazine and keepsake, connecting the diaspora through flavor and heritage. (Source: Ararat Box)

SOAR’s Documentary Initiative — “A Suitcase to Home”
As the diaspora reflects on identity and home, storytelling becomes a powerful bridge. SOAR is rolling out a new documentary, “A Suitcase to Home,” with global premiere showings slated for September–November 2025. This film explores diaspora return journeys, memory, and identity. (Source: SOAR)

“Little Armenias: The Travel Guide of the Armenian Diaspora” by Robin Koulaksezian
Across 101 countries, Koulaksezian maps the Armenian presence around the world — from churches in Buenos Aires to cafés in Beirut. This beautifully crafted guidebook celebrates how Armenian identity endures and evolves through food, culture, and community across continents. (Source: Amazon)

Orran Benevolent NGO
For more than two decades, Orran has provided daily meals, education, and vocational training to vulnerable children, families, and elderly across Armenia. Their programs restore dignity and opportunity for those most in need, reflecting the compassion and resilience that define Armenian community life. (Source: Orran)

Արեւոտ (Arevot) — Sunny / Full of sunshine
From արեւ (arev) meaning “sun,” arevot describes something bright, cheerful, or full of warmth. It’s often used to describe both the weather and people — “arevot mard” (a sunny person) conveys kindness and optimism.

Ghapama
A beloved autumn dish, Ghapama combines pumpkin, rice, honey, and a medley of dried fruits and nuts — symbolizing abundance and celebration. Traditionally prepared during holidays and special gatherings, it’s both a visual and cultural centerpiece. (Source: The Armenian Kitchen)

Ես իմ անուշ Հայաստանի (Yes im anush Hayastani) — Yeghishe Charents

A timeless poem by Charents, evoking both the intimacy of homeland and the ache of memory.

Are you making an impact in your Armenian community — locally or globally? Tell us how. Email us at [email protected] to be featured in the next edition.

This month’s stories — from cultural dishes to 5G and diaspora films — show how Armenia is moving forward while holding tight to its roots. Let’s think Armenian. Let’s build together. Support the mission. Subscribe free. Share with a friend who cares about Armenia’s future.