AJA East Coast, USA Mission
Armenian Jewelers Association East Coast (AJA East Coast, USA) is a non-profit organization that represents and supports Armenian jewelers and related businesses on the East Coast of the United States. The organization was founded in 2018 and is based in New York City.
The mission of AJAEC is to promote the interests of Armenian jewelers, foster collaboration among members, and preserve and promote Armenian jewelry-making traditions. The organization aims to provide a platform for networking, education, and advocacy for Armenian jewelers and related businesses.
AJAEC hosts regular meetings, events, and educational workshops for its members, as well as participation in trade shows and other industry events. Members of the organization benefit from access to resources and information about industry trends, marketing strategies, and business development.
One of the primary goals of AJAEC is to promote the unique and high-quality craftsmanship of Armenian jewelry. Many members of the organization are master jewelers who have been trained in traditional Armenian techniques, such as filigree, engraving, and stone-setting. AJAEC works to raise awareness about the value and beauty of Armenian jewelry, both within the Armenian community and among the wider public.
In addition to supporting its members, AJAEC is also committed to giving back to the community. The organization has partnered with various charities and non-profit organizations to support social and humanitarian causes, including the Armenian Relief Society and the Armenia Fund.
Overall, the Armenian Jewelers Association East Coast plays an important role in promoting the interests of Armenian jewelers and preserving the rich heritage of Armenian jewelry-making. Through its advocacy, networking, and educational initiatives, the organization helps to support the success and sustainability of Armenian jewelry businesses on the East Coast.
Follow on –
History
Left to right, seated: Nazareth Nazarian, Garbis Kazanjian, Varoujan Baharian, Julia Hovhanessian (Secretary).
Standing: Apraham Deirmenjian, Razmig Arslanian, Berc Gokberk, Zareh Karagulleyan, Jo Taktajian, Minas Vanklian. (Missing is Haci Garipian).
On Wednesday, September 22, 1999, the Armenian Jewelers Association East Coast, USA was established with the participation of 70 members and the election of 13 members for the Board of Directors. In an elegant evening at the Diamond Dealers Club on 47th Street in NYC the Armenian jewelers of the Jewelers Exchange at 47th street and the greater New York area, came together to confirm the establishment of the Armenian Jewelers Association. The mission of this new organization is to bring together Armenian jewelers and develop the jewelry industry in Armenia.
Among those present, were the representative to the U.S. from Karabagh, Mr.Vardan Barseghyan, Director of the Nagorno Karabagh Republic Public Affairs Office and representing His Excellency Ambassador Movses Abelian, was the counselor at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Armenia to the United Nations, Arman Akopian. The AJA was first starred in Armenia in 1997 and now enjoys the existence of branches in Canada, Western United States and now the East Coast. Hratch Kaprielian, the AJA East Coast Representative to Armenia, was also among the honorary guests.
The purpose of this corporation is to unite individual businessmen, merchants. manufacturers, traders, agents, industrialists and executives of Armenian descent who are invoked in the jewelry industry to lobby and promote legislation and regulations affecting jewelry trade and commerce. The Armenian Jewelers Association also aims to promote foreign and local investments in Armenia and the export to foreign countries of Armenian-made jewelry and services. One of the first tasks of the corporation is to publish a directory of jewelers, containing their names. addresses and their line of business.
Mr. Garbis Kazanjian, who was chairing the meeting. reported that the association already enjoys the participation 105 members and that the drive for membership will continue.
The 13 members of the board who were nominated and approved by applause are: Varoujan Arslanian, Haci Garipian, Garbis Kazanjian, Nazar Nazarian, Varoujan Baharian, Joseph Tahtajian, Minas Vanklian. Razmig Arslanian, James Yenijag, Apraham Deirmenjian, Zareh Karagolian, Krikor Tekeyan and Berc Gokberk.
Now
Established with a vision of solidarity and support, our organization is committed to three core pillars:
Representing Armenians in the Jewelry Business:
As a community of skilled artisans and professionals in the jewelry industry, we take pride in representing Armenians on a broader platform. Through networking events, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, we showcase the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Armenian jewelers, contributing to the diversity and excellence of the industry.
Aiding Artsakh Refugees:
In the wake of the recent conflicts, we have prioritized our efforts towards aiding the refugees from Artsakh. Through various initiatives and fundraising campaigns, we strive to provide essential support to those in need, offering them hope and a path towards rebuilding their lives.
Raising Social and Political Awareness:
Recognizing the importance of advocacy and awareness, we actively engage in initiatives that highlight the cultural, social, and political issues affecting the Armenian community. By organizing events, discussions, and awareness campaigns, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and empathy for the challenges faced by Armenians worldwide.
