World Autism Awareness Day reminds us: culture is how we learn to see and embrace one another

April 2 marks World Autism Awareness Day.

An annual public awareness event titled “I Am Not Like You, But I Am One of You” was held at the “My Way” Social-Habilitation, Educational and Vocational Training Day Care Center.

The event was organized by the Autism National Foundation in collaboration with the Teryan Cultural Center and the “Side by Side” Inclusive Educational NGO, held within the framework of the “Culture Is My Way” program, financed by the UNESCO International Fund for Cultural Diversity and co-financed by AraratBank.

As part of the event, an inclusive concert was held with the participation of renowned musicians and beneficiaries of the “My Way” Social-Habilitation, Educational and Vocational Training Day Care Center. An exhibition-sale featuring paintings and decorative-applied art created by the Center's participants offered a window into their unique world, while supporting their creative development.

“The program implemented by the Teryan Cultural Center, financed by the UNESCO and co-financed by AraratBank, is not merely a form of social support — it is a long-term, sustainable model that brings together participants, their mentors, and parents, creating a unified platform for development and employment. Within the program, we go beyond education by fostering independence - equipping individuals with the skills necessary for living with dignity and earning their own income. I am confident that within a year, this initiative will evolve into a self-sustaining platform, presenting unique, high-quality products created by individuals with special needs,” says Lilit Melikyan, Executive Director of the Teryan Cultural Center.

“World Autism Awareness Day reminds us that inclusive education begins not only with legislative amendments, but with the willingness to recognize and accept one another. The “Culture Is My Way” program is a powerful demonstration that art and vocational education can serve as transformative tools for embracing people with special needs and bringing their talents and potential to the fore. For AraratBank, supporting this program is an expression of our belief that diversity is a strength, and that every person has the right to live with dignity and to create," said Anna Allahverdyan, Head of the Communication and CSR Programs Coordination Division at AraratBank.