Workshop on Sustainable Development: People-Centered, Inclusive, and Localized

Masis Community, Ararat region: On November 9–10, 2024, participants of the Rapid Social Inclusion through Asset-Based Community Development program engaged in a powerful workshop that introduced them to the core principles of the development sector through non-formal education.

The goal: to equip young people with the mindset and tools to drive the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Armenia—not as charity, but through strategic, people-centered action.

Through a balance of theory and practice, participants learned to distinguish between traditional aid and development rooted in participation, inclusion, and sustainability. The workshop highlighted how local action, when grounded in community strengths and equity, contributes to lasting global impact.

“Every localized development program has the potential to impact global sustainability,” shared Hayasa Tahmazyan, ArmeniaCorps founder and workshop expert.

 

This experience challenged assumptions, expanded perspectives, and reaffirmed that meaningful change begins with informed, empowered communities.

Armenia Corps Development Initiative designed the Rapid Social Inclusion through Asset-Based Community Development Program to promote social inclusion in the Masis community, which includes 26 villages and Masis city. The program brings together 36 local and displaced youth to create localized solutions that foster social inclusion and generate community-level recommendations for better integration.

The program is funded through a Department of State Public Diplomacy Section grant, and supported by the Masis Community Administration. The opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed herein are those of the ArmeniaCorps and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of State.