ANCA-WR Intern Spotlight: Joseph Kazazian

GLENDALE—The Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region Summer Internship Program gives students an opportunity to immerse themselves in grassroots political advocacy. Joseph Kazazian, a recent college graduate, was chosen for his work in the community and dedication to the importance of Armenian-American advocacy.
“I am thrilled to be working with such a passionate group of individuals. It’s a beautiful thing to see many different personalities, with different skill sets to come together and work for one cause,” said Kazazian.
He recently graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Kazazian is no stranger to working in the field of politics. After volunteering from a young age, he brings his experience to the bigger stage associated with Armenian-American advocacy.
The rigorous 10-week program teaches interns the facets of being part of a grassroots organization, as well as provides them with the essential tools to move forward as citizens who help raise awareness on Armenian issues. Along with this, the interns will be involved in projects throughout their time spent in the offices of the ANCA-WR, which allow them to gain experience in a number of fields that the organization has been pushing forward.
This internship takes on a special place for Kazazian. “I started working on campaigns when I was 16, and I helped get some of the ANCA-WR endorsed candidates to win. That taught me a lot about the teamwork it takes to get the job done in the high pressure environment of politics.”
Kazazian was also a part of the delegation which represented the ANCA-WR at the 2005 California Democratic Party’s Convention in Los Angeles, where he discussed Armenian issues with gubernatorial candidates and leading organizations in California.
He has worked in the community for Genocide Recognition and Awareness, as well as represented UCSB’s Armenian Student Association at the All-ASA Conference. After graduating from Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, Kazazian took his studies to Glendale Community College, where he remained active in Armenian-American Grassroots advocacy. He then transferred to UCSB and helped foster community ties with Santa Barbara’s Armenians. With his combined experience, he looks forward to working with a talented group of Armenian-American activists.
The Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANCA-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.