A Journey Begins: Volunteering in Armenia through AVC

As a student of international relations with a strong interest in the South Caucasus, I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity than volunteering in Armenia for a month and a half through AVC. What started as a professional opportunity quickly turned into a transformative journey that allowed me to explore not only Armenia’s culture and history but also the hearts of its people.

Volunteering with AVC allowed me to connect with Armenia on a deeper level. My jobsite was the Institute for Security Analysis, where I contributed to research on regional matters—an experience that sharpened my understanding of the South Caucasus and the unique dynamics Armenia faces. The team at the Institute, especially Alvard and Diana, were incredibly supportive and made the experience enriching on both a professional and personal level. It was such a positive experience that we’ve decided to continue collaborating remotely after my return to Greece, something I’m really looking forward to!

While my professional journey in Armenia was incredibly rewarding, it was the chance to immerse myself in the country’s stunning landscapes that truly made this trip unforgettable. Thanks to the excursions organized by AVC, alongside a few of my own self-planned adventures, I was able to travel across Armenia and experience its diverse beauty firsthand. One of my personal goals was to explore all 11 provinces, and I’m thrilled to say I accomplished that! Among the many unforgettable places I visited were Lake Sevan, Parz Lake, Ararat Valley and Noravank Monastery—each one showcasing a unique aspect of Armenia’s natural charm.

In the vibrant capital of Yerevan, I was drawn to the iconic Cascade. I also made it a point to visit the Armenian Genocide Museum, a profoundly emotional experience that left a lasting impact, one that I would recommend to anyone visiting Armenia. As an added bonus, I took a short trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, where I had the opportunity to explore another layer of the South Caucasus region’s rich history and culture.

The Warmth and Resilience of Armenia’s People

What truly stood out to me during my time in Armenia, however, was the warmth and resilience of its people. Despite the hardships Armenians have endured in recent years, they are some of the kindest, most welcoming people I’ve ever met. Language barriers didn’t stop anyone from offering help, and I often found that a smile and a few words in broken English were enough to connect with someone.

Living in Armenia on my own was a life-changing experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. While Greece and Armenia share some cultural similarities, the differences were just as fascinating. From local traditions to everyday customs, there was always something new to learn.

This experience not only broadened my academic understanding of the region but also expanded my personal worldview. Navigating life in a foreign country, especially one with such a rich and unique culture, was both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

Finally, I’m incredibly grateful to AVC for their support throughout my stay. Their organization, from the placement to the excursions, made my journey in Armenia smooth and fulfilling.

As I reflect on my time in Armenia, I know that this journey has left a lasting impression on me. The beauty of the country, its people, and the incredible experiences I had will always stay with me. Armenia isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to learn from, grow with, and be inspired by. I’m already looking forward to returning, as this experience has only deepened my passion for the South Caucasus and my studies in international relations.

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Timoleon (Timos) Ilias is an undergraduate student in the Department of International and European Studies (IES) at the University of Piraeus (Greece). Passionate about South Caucasus affairs, he has been an active member of the Caucasus research group within the department’s Turkish and Eurasian Studies Laboratory since October 2022. He has interned at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic and, in September 2024, he joined the Institute of Security Analysis in Yerevan as part of the Junior Corps of AVC.