An impact-reflection meeting was held in the Yezidi-populated community of Arevut, Aragatsotn region, within the framework of the project “Budget4Change: Promoting Gender Equality and Inclusion.” The event was marked not only by the presentation of results but by a visible surge in self-confidence and civic engagement among local women: a transformation the residents themselves have dubbed a “small revolution.”
The project, implemented by the OxYGen Foundation, aims to foster inclusivity and ensure that local budget formation processes address the diverse needs of all groups, with a specific focus on women.
During the meeting, both residents and local government representatives testified to the group’s tangible growth. “We started with only six people, and today we are twenty,” participants noted with pride. However, this growth is more than just numerical; the community members have learned to trust one another, listen to diverse opinions, and co-create long-term vision plans.
From Daily Chores to Leadership
For the women of Arevut, whose days are typically consumed by household chores and livestock farming from dawn until dusk, the project has become a unique “cultural break” and a platform for self-expression. “We stepped away from our daily worries for a while and became more active. We feel much more self-confident now,” they shared.
The discussions successfully identified key infrastructural gaps and the need for material resources that could alleviate the burden on working women and improve their quality of life.
From Local to National: OxYGen’s Approach
Participants specifically highlighted OxYGen’s unique working style. Unlike many other initiatives, the work here begins directly with the citizens: a “bottom-up” approach that ensures the voices of those facing daily challenges are heard first.
Kristine Mkhitaryan, Programs Manager at OxYGen Foundation, addressed the women of the community: “It is incredibly inspiring for me to see these changes. During our first few meetings, we barely heard your voices or your ideas. Today, we see an active, well-formed group that provides us with strength and new ideas. Today’s discussion proved that a real movement has begun in Arevut.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to staying actively involved in community life to promote gender equality and a better future.
The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK International Development support.
