GLENDALE, Calif. – Thirty-five Armenian Youth Federation – Juniors joined the ranks of the AYF on Saturday during an oath ceremony that took place at the Glendale Youth Center.

The AYF – Western United States, along with the Juniors Central Council and the AYF Glendale “Roupen” Chapter, held an educational workshop the same morning for the 35 young activists that transferred to the AYF.

“The JCC body is so proud of the 35 AYF Juniors that have worked so hard to be here today,” said Saro Shirinian, chairperson of the JCC.

During the workshop, the Juniors transfers received a hands-on educational regarding AYF and ARF history, as well as a review of important dates and events. The workshop was organized by the AYF Central Executive and led by the Central Executive.

The transfers were then faced with a teambuilding and leadership challenge where they were given the opportunity to work and compete with one another. Aram Kaloustian, youth advisor to the AYF, concluded the workshop with a brief educational on the subject of what it is to be an Unger within the organization.

Upon completion of the educational workshop, Dr. Talar Chahinian administered the oath ceremony for the 35 bright and eager transfers. Chahinian welcomed the new members to the organization, recounting her days as an AYF member.

“It is always such an amazing feeling to watch such a large group of juniors take their AYF oath,” said Hrache Novruzyan of the AYF CE. “The group of AYF Juniors we had transferring this year are all very active in their respective communities and shared fresh new ideas with us throughout the educational workshop. I can say with confidence that our future is in good hands.”

Founded in 1933, the Armenian Youth Federation is the largest and most influential Armenian American youth organization in the world, working to advance the social, political, educational and cultural awareness of Armenian youth.