It was my pleasure to join my co-worker Jorge in speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for Peace Corps Armenia’s 28th round of volunteers on May 24th. This ceremony represented a pivotal moment for the 16 volunteers about to disperse throughout Armenia, as they pledged their oaths and prepared to begin two years of service in their assigned communities. Jorge and I aimed to deliver a speech befitting of the occasion to thank our host families and staff, celebrate these volunteers, and lastly, remind them of the challenges and rewards ahead. Below is the full speech we gave to commemorate the swearing-in of this dedicated group.
Peace Corps Armenia Swearing-In Speech
Welcome from Armenia, read by Jim Damoco
Honorable Ambassador Kristina Kvien, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Ms. Zhanna Andreasyan, government representatives, guests, Peace Corps staff, dear families and friends, my name is Jim.
I live in Hovtashen and admire the view of Mount Ararat and storks every day.
Ten weeks ago, our group of 16 people arrived in Armenia and started living with host families in Hovtashen, Noramarg, and Marmarashen communities of Ararat Marz.
Gaining Insight into Armenian Culture
During this time, we learned Armenian, got acquainted with Armenian culture, and also acquired professional knowledge and skills to work in Armenia.
Like all Armenians, we ate dolma, barbecue, lavash, and homemade gata.
Ten weeks ago, we knew almost nothing about Armenia, but then we met our families, got to know our communities and partners, visited several places of interest: Noravank, Khor Virap, Yerevan, Ashtarak, Garni, and Geghard, and were impressed by the culture of Armenia.
My friend George lives in Marmarashen and will now tell you about his experience.
Thanking Our Hosts, read by Jorge Zamora
Hello, I’m Jorge Zamora and I live in Marmarashen. It is a beautiful village that also has a wonderful view of Mount Ararat.
We will all remember with pleasure our time spent here, our mutual visits, and our various games with the children of the village.
We thank all our families for hosting us and welcoming not only us but all other volunteers. One by one, we also thank all Peace Corps employees for their patience and professionalism.
Looking Ahead to Future Service
In the next two years, we will live and work in 4 regions of Armenia: Aragatsotn, Kotayk, Lori, and Shirak. For example, I will live in Vanadzor and work in a school as an English teacher.
Just like before we came to Armenia, we are a little tense and anxious now, but we are sure that the two years of our service will go as smoothly as these ten weeks because now we are more prepared for our new experience in Armenia. and life.
I am sure it will be both difficult and pleasant.
Good luck to all of us and as they say in Lori . “dba lava”
Reflecting on My Own Experience
Delivering this swearing-in speech was an very meaningful experience. Looking out at my fellow volunteers preparing to depart to Armenia, I was reminded of my own time as a Peace Corps volunteer many years ago. I felt honored to play a small role in launching these 16 volunteers, my friends, on their journey ahead.
Launching a Meaningful Journey
While the road will not always be easy, I am confident our determination and compassion will allow us to embrace this life-changing opportunity. May our work empower communities, forge friendships, and shape own lives for the better. As we join the long legacy of volunteers who have served in Armenia, we know we have so much to offer and gain ourselves. We can’t wait to witness the impact they will make.
