GLENDALE–The Armenian National Committee ‘s Glendale Chapter and Glendale Youth Alliance began yet another season of partnership in bringing local students together with community activism to better the City of Glendale. Three local students, Benou Barsikhi, Poulineh Manasi, and Ilya Sahakyan, will be committing 160 hours each to the ANCG in various capacities including voter registration, grassroots organization, and community outreach.
“The Glendale Youth Alliance truly plays a vital role in providing endless opportunities and options for the youth in the area,” stated Elen Asatryan, Executive Director of ANCG. “ As a grassroots public advocacy group, the ANC Glendale Chapter is delighted to partner with such an organization to ensure that young adults have an opportunity to grow, become more active citizens, and obtain the necessary skills for their future,” added Asatryan.
Benou Barsikhi, a senior at Hoover High School, is very passionate about sports and is a member of his school soccer team. Benou, who arrived to the U.S one year ago from Tehran, Iran, has set many goals for himself and for his future. He hopes to progress in his study of English, and ultimately transfer to a university to study Business and Marketing.
Poulineh Manasi, an early graduate from Hoover High School, is currently attending Glendale Community College. Poulineh has been involved in various activities on campus and in the community including that of serving as the Public Relations representative and Activity Advisor for the Hoover High School Armenian Club, as well as, a member of the planning committee for the Annual GUSD Genocide Commemorative Ceremony. Poulineh is a majoring in Business and expects to transfer to USC in the near future.
Ilya Sahakyan, an honors student at Hoover High School is very excited for this opportunity. Aside from being an active member of the Armenian Club on campus, Sahakyan, volunteers for Prestige Auto Sales & Leasing CO. in order to learn more about sales and the nuts and bolts of running a business. After graduation, he hopes to continue his education at Glendale Community College and transfer to Cal State Northridge to study Business Marketing/Management.
“I believe that the Armenian National Committee has contributed immensely to the Armenian Americans in the city and plays a critical role in the general Glendale community,” stated Ilya Sahakyan. “I hope to learn more about my community and gain the necessary skills to be able to give back,” added Sahakyan.
Established in 1994, Glendale Youth Alliance provides job placement opportunities and preparation for youths ranging from the ages of 14-24.
“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Armenian National Committee and pleased that our youth workers will gain new insight and work experience,“ stated Kathy Piumetti, Program Specialist for Glendale Youth Alliance. “The committee continues to make a concerted effort to collaborate with GYA in mentoring our youth and providing them with valuable work experience,” added Piumetti.
The Armenian National Committee-Glendale Chapter advocates for the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of the city’s Armenian American community and promotes increased civic participation at the grassroots and public policy levels. It is the voice of this vibrant community, which seeks to advance and enrich Glendale.