AYF announces forty-nine new members joining the AYF ranks

Pasadena, CA – The Armenian Youth Federation welcomed 49 new members into the Western Region on March 31, 2007 at the Pasadena Armenian Center.

All new members completed an intensive educational program, including information on Armenian history, current events and activism.

On behalf of the Central Executive, Saro Shirinian, chairman of the AYF Western Region, first congratulated the members for successfully completing the educational program and then, emphasized the importance of an individuals’ role within the societal standards today and to become active in furthering the Armenian Cause in general.

Thereafter, Shirinian introduced Unger Mourad Topalian the “Gnkahayr” of the evening to lead the oath ceremony. Topalian explained that the AYF is a great channel through which young active Armenians can voice their opinion and actually make a difference. In addition, by becoming an AYF member, one must have respect, determination, and a strong dedication towards the organization. Topalian then proceeded with the oath ceremony.

“Let this oath ceremony not be the one day you all pledge for the following, however live as though you renew this pledge everyday and strive to help Armenia regain its nostalgic identity once more,” said Saro Haroun, Education Director of the AYF. “We seek to reach out and hopefully double our numbers come around this time next year.”

After the ceremony, current AYF members as well as ARF members congratulated each new member and had the opportunity to interact.

The Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) is the largest and most influential Armenian American youth organization. With chapters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the AYF actively advances the concerns of Armenian American youth on a broad range of issues.