For the second time, the “Menq & Moonq” humanitarian program brought together Artsakh women who have resettled in the Gegharkunik region. This session welcomed nine women from different parts of Artsakh, providing them with a creative and therapeutic space to connect.
During the handicrafts workshop, the women collaborated on a large canvas, embroidering with vibrant threads, coloring with crayons, and writing heartfelt wishes. They inscribed prayers and dreams in their native Artsakh dialect, then wove colorful threads around the canvas, transforming it into a symbolic and artistic tablecloth.
The therapeutic evening provided a space for the women to open up about their past lives in Artsakh, the challenges of adjusting to new environments, and their emotional experiences.
Laura Hambardzumyan, who relocated from Martuni to Sevan, reflected on the resilience she and her loved ones discovered: “Before the war, I never realized how strong I, my family, and my relatives truly were. Each new hardship felt unbearable, yet time and time again, we found the strength to move forward. We are much stronger than we ever imagined.”
Ruzanna Gevorgyan, who moved from Stepanakert to Gegharkunik, spoke about the lingering sense of displacement: “We have been welcomed warmly here—people are kind, and our basic needs are met. We work, we live, like everyone else. But in our dreams, we are still in Artsakh, at home, sitting by our gates under the sun. I’ve heard many others say the same, and I, too, have yet to fully accept this new reality.”
The evening was enriched by a live performance from musician Tamara Atanesyan of the “Shushiki” band, as the women joined in singing traditional songs and learning about their origins.
At the end of the workshop, each participant received sewing machines and school supplies for their children. Some were skilled seamstresses, while others were eager to learn, but all appreciated the opportunity to ease their daily burdens and explore new possibilities.
The Menq & Moonq program is financed by the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) in partnership with Sign of Hope (SoH). The project is implemented by the Development Principles NGO.
