When the escalation of conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh forced Satenik to leave her home, she resettled in Hrazdan, with her school-aged son, facing the uncertainty of displacement and the challenge of rebuilding her life in a new environment.
A professional pianist, Satenik had always brought creativity not only to music but also to her kitchen. In her homeland, she had developed strong skills in baking and successfully managed a small home-based business that provided income as well as a meaningful outlet for self-expression.
Displacement, however, disrupted both her stability and her professional path.
Identifying opportunities through case management
During the first months after the relocation, the financial pressure became increasingly difficult to manage. Concerned about the situation at home, Satenik’s son even considered leaving school to start working and help support the family. For Satenik, this moment strengthened her determination to restore the family’s stability without compromising her child’s education. Determined to return to her beloved craft of confectionery, Satenik began preparing to restart her small business. However, producing high-quality pastries required professional equipment she could not afford on her own.
Satenik applied to the Armenian Red Cross Society’s small business support program supported by the European Union. Through the livelihood grant she received, she was able to purchase the necessary professional equipment, significantly improving both her productivity and the quality of her products.
The support allowed her not only to generate income but also to regain confidence in her professional abilities.
Rebuilding Two Careers
Through consistent collaboration with her case manager and individualised guidance, Satenik also explored opportunities to reconnect with her original profession.
With the support of referrals and employment guidance, she secured a position as a piano teacher at a music school in Abovyan.
Today, Satenik combines two professional activities: managing her small confectionery business from home while teaching piano at the local music school.
Together, these sources of income allow her to cover household expenses and maintain stability for her family.
A step toward stability
Today, Satenik’s household has regained stability.
“Quality of life changes when you are truly heard and understood,” Satenik reflects.
Satenik’s experience demonstrates how tailored livelihood support combined with individualised case management can help displaced individuals rebuild their professional lives and regain independence.
Through coordinated assistance provided by the Armenian Red Cross Society, Satenik was able to restart her business, return to her profession, and ensure that her son continues his education.
Today, the family is gradually rebuilding stability while adapting to their new life in Armenia.
The RENEW project, implemented with the support of European Union Humanitarian Aid, aims to improve the living conditions and psychosocial well-being of 16,020 women, men, girls, and boys displaced by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which escalated in 2023 and led to a massive influx of over 100,000 individuals seeking refuge in Armenia. Implemented in the regions of Ararat, Armavir, and Kotayk, the project focuses on supporting displaced persons in rebuilding their lives and fostering stability and resilience within their new communities.
