How Ruben’s Initiatives Continue to Thrive Across Cities Around the World
On the occasion of Ruben’s birthday, his close associates organized a thoughtful evening discussion in Yerevan titled “Dialogue with Ruben.” At 6 Baghramyan Avenue, attendees reflected on the life philosophy and core values of this visionary social entrepreneur. The choice of venue was deeply symbolic: it was within these walls that Ruben once convened gatherings to deliberate on issues of utmost importance — the future of Armenia, our collective responsibility, and the essence of Armenian identity in the 21st century. It was here that he conceived and launched many of his groundbreaking projects, from the Wings of Tatev cable car to the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative. During the event, Ruben’s collaborators recounted his profound influence on the world around him and shared personal stories about the philanthropist.
“Within our family, Ruben alone was born in Yerevan. Our father hails from Etchmiadzin, mother from Tbilisi, and I from Moscow. But Ruben is a true Yerevan native. He was a remarkably bright child — his very first word was Բարև (‘hello’). From early childhood, he was eager to greet the world, offer kind words, and meet people’s gaze. Each of us enters this world as a distinct ‘type,’ charting our own path. Yet Ruben arrived carrying an inner light, which he generously bestowed upon all around him,” shared Ruben’s sister, Marina Ales.
It comes as no surprise that Ruben’s benevolent deeds are celebrated far and wide. Events honoring him were held in Dilijan, where his numerous projects continue to enhance people’s lives to this day.
The International UWC Dilijan school recently held a graduation ceremony for students representing over 80 countries. During the ceremony, many international students expressed heartfelt gratitude to the school’s co-founders, Ruben Vardanyan and his wife, Veronika Zonabend.
“There are approximately 800 people gathered here, with many more watching online. Veronika, you and Ruben have touched every life in this hall, transforming the futures of countless individuals for a lifetime. While I doubt we will ever fully grasp the magnitude of your impact, one truth remains evident: your legacy is enduring. Ruben remains imprisoned in Baku for defending the interests of the people of Artsakh,” remarked Adam Armanski, head of UWC Dilijan, in his address.
At the expansive festival of unity and gratitude “Bolorov” in Dilijan, fundraising efforts were launched to support the construction of a church — a project also initiated by Ruben. This edifice will serve as a new spiritual and cultural hub for the city. The “Bolorov” festival featured a crafts market, creative workshops, and a performance by the Nexus Center for the Arts. Additionally, a voucher for participation in the UWC Dilijan JDI summer camp was raffled among young attendees.
The Dilijan Community Center also launched an international online campaign, #ThankYouRuben, as a heartfelt tribute to Ruben’s invaluable contribution to the spirit and life of Dilijan.
“Dilijan has blossomed into a unique educational and cultural center, offering vast opportunities to our youth. My three children are just one example of this. Thanks to your efforts, they were granted the chance to pursue their studies free of charge at prestigious institutions worldwide. You opened horizons previously beyond our dreams,” wrote Gayane Sahakyan on Facebook.
“Your endeavors in Armenia and abroad are not only a source of pride but also a profound example of dedication, wisdom, and leadership. Your contribution leaves an indelible mark on countless lives,” shared Facebook user Artur Grigoryan.
In the Noôdome community, which Ruben co-founded, a musical evening was held in celebration of the philanthropist’s birthday. The New Opera Theater choir performed compositions based on the poetry of the medieval Armenian monk, philosopher, and theologian Grigor Narekatsi, from The Book of Lamentations. Through this concert, Ruben’s friends and family expressed their support for his ongoing projects, including the construction of a domed basilica in Dilijan. The church will accommodate 300 congregants and feature a facade adorned with the Armenian alphabet and biblical inscriptions. You too can support this project through the provided link.
In May, to honor the philanthropist’s birthday, a campaign was launched inviting participants to share audio recordings reflecting on the lessons they learned from Ruben. Drawing from these heartfelt audio recordings the initiative group, together with Nexus Artists, composed a song in tribute to Ruben.
On May 31, approximately 2,000 faithful from Armenia and abroad embarked on a grand pilgrimage to the Tatev Monastery. The pilgrims participated in a solemn ceremony encircling the “Tree of Life,” which had been planted the previous year. Moreover, an architectural installation entitled the “Circle of the Keepers of the Roots” was inaugurated at Tatev, symbolizing the vital role of Armenian philanthropic organizations in preserving the heritage and traditions of the Armenian people.
It is important to recall that Ruben devoted considerable effort to enhancing infrastructure in the village of Tatev and restoring the monastery itself. Remarkably, thanks to Ruben and his agency We Are Our Mountains, a garden comprising a thousand fruit trees — including apples, pears, plums, and cherries — was established near the monastery. This garden stands as a symbol of life and renewal, with each sapling embodying support for Ruben and his compatriots who are unjustly detained by Azerbaijan.
In honor of Ruben’s 57th birthday, an audio article titled “15 Principles for the Future of Armenia” was released. It is based on the book At the Crossroads: A Time For Solutions, co-authored by Ruben and Nune Alekyan. This book emerged from in-depth discussions between Ruben Vardanyan, Noubar Afeyan, and their associates.
“Whether one agrees or disagrees with the ideas presented, whether one debates or proposes alternative solutions, indifference is not an option. I earnestly hope and believe that one day the author himself will be able to hear this work in freedom!” – emphasized the channel’s narrator.
In the wake of the philanthropist’s birthday, attention must also be drawn to another of Ruben and his family’s endeavors — the multidisciplinary non-profit charitable foundation IDeA, registered in Armenia. This organization designs and supports long-term economic, social, and cultural programs aimed at Armenia’s prosperity. To date, the foundation and its partners have implemented 700 sustainable initiatives.
Recently, acclaimed actor and director Vardan Petrosyan spoke publicly about Ruben’s ongoing trial. He expressed confidence that the philanthropist, currently held captive in Azerbaijan, possesses the moral fortitude to withstand this trial.
“The greater the pressure and pain inflicted, the more God magnifies his [Ruben’s] strength. The larger the person, the harsher the trials. As the saying goes: ‘A great ship makes a great voyage.’ Large stones are hurled at great ships. Ruben is being struck by heavy stones. Thus, we must wish him resilience, perseverance, and the capacity to withstand,” Petrosyan stated.
We reiterate that Ruben’s detention in Baku is purely politically motivated, as clearly evidenced by his life’s work. The foremost weapon against injustice in Azerbaijan is global awareness and solidarity. The world must know about the sham trial of this internationally renowned philanthropist, who has consistently supported and developed humanitarian initiatives.
