A story with heart: How Vanda Ayrapetyan is championing children’s literacy in Armenia
Vanda Ayrapetyan has always been keen on challenging stereotypes and societal expectations that confine individuals to narrow roles. She has proven that a life in the corporate world does not need to come at the expense of personal passions and creative pursuits. Through her gift of storytelling, she shares her love of writing while also championing philanthropic causes in Armenia, which she holds dear. In particular, her advocacy for children’s literacy has served as the bridge between her children’s book, Audrina’s 1st Tooth Party, and her homeland.
Audrina’s 1st Tooth Party tells the story of a young girl who follows her witty, sassy heart during the Armenian tradition of “atam hatik,” which celebrates a baby’s first tooth. When Ayrapetyan launched her book in 2021, it came in the aftermath of a tumultuous and traumatizing period for Armenians worldwide, as many were still coping with the aftermath of the 44-Day War with Azerbaijan.
Rather than being paralyzed by grief, Ayrapetyan volunteered alongside her mother and sister to raise funds for Armenian refugees and soldiers’ families. She also made the decision to donate all gross proceeds from the book to causes close to her heart — a reflection of the book’s central message: to follow one’s heart.
“I’ve always been an ardent believer in the ‘pay it forward’ mantra, but it especially resonated during the 44-Day War,” Ayrapetyan told the Weekly. “Like many Armenians, I was doing everything I could to help, but being thousands of miles away, I also felt a degree of helplessness.”
That sense of distance led her to dedicate the book in memoriam to fallen soldier Alen Margaryan, who had a deep love for books and children’s literacy. “I also decided to donate all funds from the book to charities focused on making a direct impact on children’s lives in Armenia, as they are the future of our homeland,” she added.
Through book sales and matching donations from her employer, Ayrapetyan raised $10,000 for the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), which she donated in memory of her late grandmother, Jemma Movsesyan. “My maternal grandmother, Jemma, was instrumental in my upbringing and instilled a strong sense of Armenian cultural pride in me and my siblings,” Ayrapetyan said.
After immigrating from Armenia in the 1990s and moving in with the family, Jemma made it her mission to ensure her grandchildren retained their cultural roots, including fluency in Armenian.
“She would walk me and my younger sister, Ani, to Saturday Armenian school at Alex Pilibos, take us to Armenian dance classes — always on foot, as she didn’t drive — and dedicate so much love and attention to our Armenian studies,” Ayrapetyan explained. “She was also incredibly generous with whatever little she had and never forgot to help family, neighbors and friends back home.”
“She was an inspiration and left an indelible impact on my life,” she added. The donation in Ayrapetyan’s grandmother’s memory supported the COAF’s Youredjian Child and Family Center (CFC), which opened in the village of Myasnikyan in 2024. The center is one of four COAF established to serve families in need across the Armavir and Lori regions. “I was particularly drawn to this initiative, given I was born in Lori province (Vanadzor) myself,” Ayrapetyan explained.
The center provides rural families with essential services, including social work, psychological counseling, early childhood education and speech therapy. Its resource hub also strengthens local capacity through training and professional development for educators and child specialists. By addressing challenges from early childhood through adolescence, the Youredjian Center supports family well-being and builds resilience for the next generation.
“I’ve always admired COAF for its innovative, creative and multi-pronged approach to learning and development,” Ayrapetyan said.
At the Youredjian Center, she noted, interactive art therapy is used to teach youth stress-coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
“When you look at the impact COAF is having — serving more than 500 beneficiaries across 15 communities through this one center alone — it was really a no-brainer for me to contribute to this remarkable organization while also honoring my culture and my grandmother’s legacy,” she added.
Haig Boyadjian, vice president of development for COAF, expressed his gratitude: “We are deeply grateful to Vanda Ayrapetyan for honoring her late grandmother, Jemma Movsesian, through this meaningful act of generosity. This contribution helps ensure that children in the Armavir region have access to early childhood education, speech therapy and psychosocial services. It not only preserves Jemma’s legacy of care but also creates opportunities for children in rural communities to thrive.”
Reflecting on the past five years, Ayrapetyan describes the journey as a full-circle moment. Her readings of Audrina’s 1st Tooth Party, both virtual sessions for young readers in Armenia and in-person events at schools in Los Angeles, have deepened her connection to the community. The experience, she says, has been “a balm for the soul,” as Armenians continue to process the losses of the 2020 war and the 2023 ethnic cleansing of Artsakh.
For Ayrapetyan, COAF’s work and the creation of the Youredjian Center embody the enduring Armenian spirit: to endure, rebuild and move forward. “Just as I know my grandmother is guiding me from the spiritual realm,” she said, “I believe we are guided by the strength of our ancestors — to preserve our identity, nurture resilience and keep our story alive.”
Follow Vanda Ayrapetyan on Instagram, and learn more about COAF’s initiatives at https://www.coaf.org/.
To my friend: Vanda, one of the things I’ve always loved and respected about you is your deep love for Armenia. Despite everything life throws your way, you never give up on your roots, your voice, or your purpose. That kind of strength and patriotism is rare. Wishing you continued success and for your beautiful work to reach hearts far beyond borders — Armenia appreciates you, and I appreciate you …. Armenians like you deserve the world.🇦🇲❤️🇦🇲
Thank you so much for the incredibly kind words and support! I’m uplifted and inspired by those like you around me who constantly serve as a reminder that the greatest legacy we leave behind in life is of being in service to others:) I’m truly humbled.
Vanda is one of those rare kind souls that you come across once in a lifetime if you’re lucky. I have been fortunate enough to not only read this lovely book about a childhood tradition that almost all families celebrate, but I had the privilege of meeting the author Vanda in person. She is genuine, respectful and knowledgeable. She is a very intelligent lady who spent a lot of time and consideration writing a children’s book that even children can understand and appreciate. It’s lovely books like these that instill a love of learning in kids. I highly recommend this book to anyone- Armenians and non Armenians who may have a similar celebration for a childhood milestone.
What a remarkable story of turning grief into action and philanthropy. That kind of resilience and creativity is so inspiring. So proud of you Vanda Ayrapetyan! I know your grandmother is especially looking down upon you with pride:)
I love that this article highlights someone who refused to let helplessness win. Vanda channeled her grief into something beautiful and lasting. More stories like this, please!
Talar, you’ve done a wonderful job capturing the essence of Vanda— a woman of depth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her roots.
This was beautifully written and captured Vanda’s spirit with such honesty and care. Those of us who know her have seen the heart, compassion, and strength she brings to everything she does. Her commitment to uplifting children and investing in Armenia’s future comes from a place that is deeply genuine, and it’s incredibly moving to see that reflected so thoughtfully in this piece. She leads with purpose, conviction, and a love that truly makes a difference.
We love you, Vanda. Keep shining like the bright star you are!🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩 can’t wait to meet you❤️
Vanda, your story is an inspiration and a powerful reminder of how one person’s creativity and generosity can nurture the next generation and keep our culture alive. Thank you for leading with love and purpose—you’re making a real difference, and I’m so proud of you! 🇦🇲❤️ Keep shining and sharing those stories.
Very heartfelt and touching journey of making an important impact on the lives of so many children, while also honoring your cultural roots and birthplace. Couldn’t be more proud to know you, Vanda Ayrapetyan!
Vanda, this made me so emotional reading it. I’ve really admire your heart and seeing the impact you are making, especially in honor of your grandmother is so beautiful. I love the way you’ve taken something creative and personal and created real support for children in Armenia. Your work is absolutely incredible!
It is so clear that you posses so much love and intention and it shows in literally everything you do. I’m so so proud of you ❤️🇦🇲
Just ordered a copy of the book. Can’t wait to read it.
It’s endearing that she donated to COAF in the memory of her grandmother. Grandma’s definitely have a special place in our hearts.
Not surprising to see Vanda involved with helping others, especially children, pets and motherland. Vanda has a very positive and inspiring attitude and I hope she keeps it up. World needs more people like her.
Vanda has always walked the walk when it comes to her sincere passion for causes close to her heart. Her love for art, writing, music, animals, her cultural heritage and the wellbeing of the next generation is something that I will always admire. Thank you for sharing how dedicated and sincere Vanda’s heart is for children and literacy.
My children love reading Adrina’s first 🦷 book and I loved gifting a copy to their preschool!! I look forward to more publications from you. Keep sharing your God given talents with the world.
Thank you for using your talents to always give back!
I absolutely adore your enthusiasm, love and drive to teach our youth about the culture and history of Armenia. You inspire those around you and have always shown an eagerness to grow and explore through your own personal experiences, travel, curiosity and research. Keep up the amazing work Vanda, we need more empathetic and caring souls like you!
Congratulations, Vanda jan. You are truly a gem of the Armenian community. Your courage, strength, and unwavering commitment to causes that uplift and impact communities around the world are remarkable and deeply admirable.
Please keep shining your beautiful light in this sometimes dark world — God knows we need it. 🩷
I’ve always admired the work of COAF in providing essential services for children in need in Armenia’s outer provinces, and I’ve always admired you (Vanda Ayrapetyan) for the heart and soul you put into everything you do…from children’s literacy to helping out those in need (both humans and animals). Thank you very much Talar for sharing this beautifully written story with us.
I’ve always admired the work of COAF in providing essential services for children in need in Armenia’s outer provinces, and I’ve always admired you (Vanda Ayrapetyan) for the heart and soul you put into everything you do…from children’s literacy to helping out those in need (both humans and animals). Thank you very much Talar for sharing this beautifully written story with us.
Vanda jan you are an incredible person with a heart of gold, the mere thought and impact your making to the future generation of our nation is beautiful. After such a devastating time in Armenia, like many other fellow Armenians, you put your time and effort to help out and raise the funds for the fallen soldiers, showing your true selfless spirit. I am honored to have you as a friend and inspired by the work you do and mission you so caringly possess.
What an inspiring and heartfelt story! ❤️ Vanda, your journey beautifully illustrates how creativity and compassion can come together to uplift a whole community. Through your gift of storytelling and your deep commitment to children’s literacy in Armenia, you’re not just writing books—you’re building bridges of hope, culture, and resilience for young minds and families. 
I’m especially moved by how you honored your grandmother Jemma Movsesyan and dedicated your support to the Children of Armenia Fund’s Youredjian Child and Family Center—transforming personal love into tangible, life-changing opportunities for others. 
Your work reminds us that when we follow our hearts and give generously, we nurture not only literacy but also identity, pride, and a future filled with possibility for Armenia’s children. 💛📚 Thank you for being such a light and inspiration!
It is inspiring to see diasporan Armenians like Vanda using their talents and passion to make a positive impact on the future of Armenian youth. We should all aspire to make similar contributions in our own ways to ensure a brighter future for our homeland. My hats off to COAF, Vanda and of course to Talar for always highlighting such beautiful stories.
Vanda is truly a gifted author, storyteller, and human being with a heart of gold. It is not every day that you come across individuals like Vanda who give so compassionately and strive to make this world a place of equality, heart, and community. I can’t wait for more publications from her in the future!
Vanda is truly a gifted author, storyteller, and human being with a heart of gold. It is not every day that you come across individuals like Vanda who give so compassionately and strive to make this world a place of equality, heart, and community. I can’t wait for more publications from her in the future!
Vanda Jan, your passion, your desire and your story is so inspiring. You are truly an incredible person in every aspect. Thank you for taking the lead and being the face and voice for our diaspora. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all that you do for the future children of Armenia. Your heart will always continue to light up anything you touch.
Vanda Ayrapetyan is a powerful example of how storytelling and philanthropy can work hand in hand. Through her children’s book, Audrina’s 1st Tooth Party, she celebrates Armenian culture while supporting children’s literacy and the Children of Armenia Fund. Her dedication to preserving heritage, honoring legacy, and uplifting communities in Armenia is truly inspiring.
Vanda, you’re always finding ways to make a real difference while keeping Armenians at heart. You’re truly one of a kind. Thank you for representing our people with pride and for being a constant source of inspiration.
Your tireless dedication to nurturing the next generation and improving our world is a true inspiration! Thank you for your incredible heart and selfless service 🌟💖
Vanda, what a beautiful story of honoring your grandmother’s legacy, supporting COAF’s work in Armenia, and sharing your passion for children’s literacy. Keep shining and being your authentic self!
Inspirational article! As an Armenian-American youth, I am motivated and inspired by Vanda Ayrapetyan to give back to the community and better the lives of those in need. Super proud! I’m also happy to learn about COAF through this article and all the amazing work they’re doing in Armenia.
Vanda, like the main character of your children’s book, so happy to see you following your heart and passion in making a positive change in your homeland. Very cool to see this all come to fruition with COAF. Bravo to the writer, Talar, for a beautifully written piece. All the best!
She is one of the smartest people I know and funniest too!
I’m so glad others are seeing what a gem of a person she is.
I grew up with many Armenian friends, whose families always talked about leaving Armenia for Boston to better their lives after the collapse of the Soviet Union and challenging times that followed them in the early 90s. Really glad to hear about this remarkable young lady (Vanda Ayrapetyan) and COAF doing wonderful work around bettering the lives of Armenia’s children. I will be sure you share the article with my Armenian friends and neighbors!
Couldn’t be more proud of my friend, Vanda Ayrapetyan! I love how you’ve applied your passion for storytelling, for your homeland, and for writing to benefit so many others. I continue to be inspired by your resilience and authenticity. Keep going sister!!!
Talar, great job on this article highlighting such an important initiative being carried out by a fellow diasporan. More uplifting stories like this!
I went to school with Vanda, and I’m not one bit surprised reading this article about her drive to help others! Keep rocking, Madame President!!
Very inspiring story full of a lot of heart. The most positive thing I’ve read online all week…bravo!
What a great read, especially on International Women’s Day!!!
Learning about COAF and this incredible author for the first time…thanks for helping us discover gems in our community, Talar.
Fantastic article….great job Talar Jan!
This is such a heartwarming and meaningful piece! Vanda’s dedication to preserving her Armenian culture while giving back through the Children of Armenia Fund is truly admirable.
Loved reading this. A great example of how storytelling and giving back can go hand in hand.
A touching tribute to her grandmother and a meaningful way to support children through the Children of Armenia Fund.
Inspired to go make an impact this coming summer in Armenia….thank you, Vanda!
Great job following through on your dreams, Vanda Ayrapetyan. I know how much giving back (especially to your homeland) means to you:)