On July 31, the solemn opening of the “SPITAK MANUSHAK” social enterprise founded by the Spitak Helsinki Group human rights NGO took place.
“SPITAK MANUSHAK” SE has been founded in the scopes of “EU4Women: Women’s Economic Empowerment through Social Enterprise” project, which is co-funded by the European Union.
During the opening ceremony the “EU4Women: Women’s Economic Empowerment through Social Enterprise” project as well as the vision and activities of “SPITAK MANUSHAK” SE were presented.
The representative of EU Delegation to Armenia Ms. Line Urban delivered the opening speech. Afterwards Arpine Baghdoyan, the president of the Near East Foundation Office in Armenia, presented the “EU4Women: Women’s Economic Empowerment through Social Enterprise” project, noting that it supports 12 civil society organizations to establish or develop social enterprises. Over the past two years, 12 CSOs have received training and support on business activities from the project to support women’s economic empowerment programs.
From the Lori region, only the “Spitak Helsinki Group” Human Rights NGO was involved in the project, establishing the ” SPITAK MANUSHAK ” social entrepreneurship. President of the “Spitak Helsinki Group” human rights NGO Ashkhen Babayan noted that the organization will produce oil from local herbs, involving 5 women in the pre-production work. In the future, the project will expand to include about 50 women.
The project also includes women from the Spitak care home who will design the boxes.
After the speeches, the expert conducted master class using oils.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor of Lori Gayane Markosyan, Spitak Mayor Gagik Sahakyan, Spitak City Administration Chief Anahit Gulazyan, representatives of various foundations, USAID Civil Society Programs Director Lusine Hakobyan, pharmacy staff and partner NGOs from Vanadzor and other communities.
The talented children of Spitak made the day more beautiful with their dance and music performances.
Many good wishes were expressed, the organization received gifts as well as gifted oils produced by the organization to the invited organizations.
Thank you to all the participants representing state and non-governmental organizations.