We’re thrilled to announce that on August 31, TEDxYerevanSalon will host another thought-provoking event themed “Redefining Horizons: On the Other Side of Power.” Our exceptional speakers will share their innovative ideas, offering new perspectives on the horizons in leadership.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the concept of leadership is being constantly redefined. More than ever, women are stepping into pivotal roles across various sectors, challenging traditional power dynamics and making substantial contributions to society. As we look to the future, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the transformative power of diverse leadership. This redefinition of horizons not only brings fresh perspectives and innovative solutions but also fosters more inclusive and equitable communities.
During TEDxYerevanSalon, we’ll highlight these crucial shifts through our theme: “Redefining Horizons: On the Other Side of Power.” This event will shed light on the vital contributions of women who are shaping government and public policy in Armenia. We’ll delve into the transformative impact of embracing diverse forms of leadership, highlighting how women in legislative, executive, and civic roles bring unique perspectives, innovative solutions, and comprehensive approaches to governance.
Our focus is on celebrating and highlighting the women who redefine the leadership horizons in the political landscape and drive significant societal change. Through their thought-provoking talks, we aim to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and engage in shaping a more equitable and dynamic future.
“Redefining Horizons: On the Other Side of Power” is more than just a theme; it is a call to action. It urges us to look beyond traditional structures of authority and embrace the potential of diverse leadership. This theme challenges us to reconsider our definitions of power and success, advocating for a more inclusive approach that values collaboration, empathy, and innovation.
As we gather to celebrate these remarkable women, we’re reminded of the importance of inclusive leadership in fostering a brighter future for all. Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and dedication serve as powerful examples of what can be achieved when diverse voices are given the platform they deserve.
By focusing on the unique contributions of women leaders, we aim to pave the way for a future where power is not a privilege of the few but a shared responsibility that drives collective progress and sustainable change.
And so, join us on August 31st, 2024, at the AGBU Hall for TEDxYerevanSalon’s event and be inspired by our lineup of speakers as they share their ideas on “Redefining Horizons.”
Mark your calendars for the event and read more about our amazing speakers below.
Meet our Speakers
Arevik Anapiosyan
Partnerships Adviser at United Nations Armenia
With two MA degrees, a PhD, and a Harvard Business School graduation under her belt, Arevik Anapiosyan serves as the Partnerships and Development Finance Adviser at the United Nations Armenia. The former Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sport of Armenia previously served as both the Executive Director and co-founder of the Institute of Public Policy think tank, in addition to holding a position on the Governing Board of the UNESCO Institute for Statistics.
For the past 16 years, Arevik has specialized in development coordination and finance, political and corporate leadership, impact financing, and ESG. Passionate about education policy, she focuses on research in brain neuroscience. Throughout her career, she has taught Public Policy and Research, Western Political Thought, and Religion and Politics at YSU, AUA, and the University of Graz. She was also a visiting fellow at the University of Essex, University of Massachusetts, and University of Tartu.
Viktorya Aydinyan
Advisor to Deputy Prime Minister of Armenia
Viktorya Aydinyan is a public policy and administration expert with over 8 years of experience in strategic planning, policy development, and public sector reform. She is the Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister, overseeing strategic and development aid coordination and public administration reforms. She has co-authored 9 national strategic documents and delivered more than 25 national initiatives on public management.
Holding a Bachelor’s in Political Science from YSU and a Master’s in Political Science and International Relations from AUA, she is currently pursuing an executive education program in leadership and change management at Stanford Graduate School of Business. Her career progressed to the public sector in 2017 as a researcher at the Center for Strategic Initiatives. After two years as an Assistant to the Deputy Prime Minister, she advanced to Advisor to the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs and Pillar Lead for Public Administration Reforms at the Ministry of Justice.
Sofi Bostanchyan
Head of Division of Human Trafficking and Women’s Issues, Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs of Armenia
Sofi Bostanchyan leads the Human Trafficking and Women Issues Division at the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, championing human rights and gender equality. With over nine years of experience, she focuses on combating gender-based discrimination, human trafficking, and systemic injustices while empowering women.
Sofi holds a Master’s degree in Jurisprudence from the Public Administration Academy of the Republic of Armenia and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Yerevan State University. Her strong academic background in legal frameworks and public policy supports her impactful work. Dedicated to advancing gender equality, Sofi is committed to creating a world with shared responsibilities and equal opportunities. Her passion for justice and social change drives her ongoing efforts to inspire and lead in her field. Outside of her professional life, Sofi enjoys both photography and traveling, with the shared goal of creating lasting memories.
Tatevik Stepanyan
Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs of Armenia
Since 2020, Tatevik Stepanyan has served as Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs of Armenia, leading the Department of Equal Opportunities, which addresses issues related to children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, women’s rights, gender equality, and counter-trafficking. Holding qualifications as an English and German Language Specialist and Teacher from Brusov State University, she also completed courses on supporting children with reading and writing difficulties at UCL and on autistic spectrum disorders at the University of California, Davis.
Tatevik participated in the Women’s Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Communication Program at AUA, and is an equal consultant at “Recovery College,” approved by the Armenian Psychiatric Association. While serving as General Manager at “EVANT Group” LLC from 2004 to 2020, she founded and led the “Step Forward” social NGO in 2017 and was also a member of Impact Hub Yerevan through the “Zartir Fellowship.”
Yelena Zohrabyan
Press Secretary for the Head of the Urban, Technical and Fire Safety Inspection Body
In 2019, Yelena Zohrabyan took on the dual roles of Press Secretary for the Head of the Urban, Technical and Fire Safety Inspection Body and Head of the Awareness, Consultation, and Public Relations Department at the Staff of the RA Prime Minister. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and a Master’s degree in Journalism from YSU.
Currently, Yelena is pursuing a postgraduate course in New Media and Communication and a Master’s degree in Jurisprudence, aiming to become a lawyer. At YSU’s Institute of Armenian Studies, she has been a junior researcher and Head of the Cyber Security and Data Analysis Department since 2012. She has also been a member of the Academic Council since 2013 and Vice-President of the Trade Union since 2015. Yelena has worked with Public TV of Armenia, “Vardananq” magazine, and the “Young Journalists” program. She has authored three scientific and two analytical articles and presented at numerous conferences and forums.
Artak Shakaryan, Host
Senior Program Manager at International Republican Institute
Artak Shakaryan is a Senior Program Manager at the International Republican Institute, inter alia supporting government reforms in strategic communication. He has 15 years of experience in the field that stretches from grassroots to national policy advocacy, from multi-country project management to multi-stakeholder collaboration on policy reforms.
Notably, Artak served as the founding manager of the esteemed School for Young Leaders in Yerevan from 2006 to 2016. During his tenure, he spearheaded an innovative executive education program that empowered over 600 young adults and mid-career professionals. These individuals, now serving in prominent roles across various sectors, bear witness to the importance of transformative leadership and mentorship. Dr. Shakaryan is the author of three monographs as well as numerous academic and analytical articles on Ottoman history and Turkish foreign policy.