AGBU Western Region, Pasadena, CA Videos

STEAM Ed to help your child SUCCEED! Innovation Studios summer session starts July 15 and we’re excited to open our doors to new young innovators! ROBOTICS STUDIO (ages 8 - 10): We’re turning the future into a playground for imagination, where kids can invent extraordinary body parts and gadgets that stretch the limits of creativity. They’ll learn to think big, build quickly, and improve their creations with helpful feedback. Our projects touch on the magic of 3D printing organs, seeing like superheroes with special lenses, and even gadgets that connect with our brains, showing kids the power of science and imagination combined. ARCHITECTURE STUDIO (ages 11+): This studio challenges students to rethink conventional building designs in light of increased home occupancy, engaging with innovative materials and methods to create responsive and sustainable environments. Students will investigate architecture’s social influence, particularly within Armenian-American communal spaces, proposing enhancements that reflect their active role in shaping community environments. VISIT TO LEARN MORE AND ENROLL agbu.org/innovation-studios

Youth Innovation Day
Youth Innovation Day recap of the day's events! From STEAM education and a culinary experience, to skill development, TED Student Talks, and hands-on learning experiences, the event provided a space for parents and youth to engage with industry experts and learn about advancements in science and tech. Summer sessions for AGBU Innovation Studios start in July. This is your last chance to join the youth program that has made waves in the LA Armenian community in providing invaluable opportunities for our youth to excel. To learn more, visit https://agbu.org/innovation-studios For inquiries, email [email protected] or call 626.794.7942

10 days away for a monumental event in the western region. Our AGBU Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Cultural Center will be filled with parents and youth engaging with industry experts and immersing in hands-on experiences. Not to miss! Register today - Limited spots. REGISTER agbu.org/youth-innovation-day-reserve

Armenian parents are cultural guardians and play a crucial role in preserving their children’s moral compass and Armenian identity. Our AGBU Innovation Studios parents are exceptionally dedicated to their child’s growth and development. Their unwavering commitment and active involvement has been instrumental in the program’s success. Upcoming events: 🔹Thursday, May 23rd - Guest Lecture Series w/ Zareh Zurabyan 🔹Saturday, June 8th - Youth Innovation Day 🔹Saturdays July 15 - July 26 and July 29 - August 9 Summer Sessions

AGBU Innovation Studios Spring Session Wrap Up
The AGBU Innovation Studios Spring session came to a thrilling conclusion, offering three dynamic studios simultaneously: Artificial Intelligence: Collaborative Futures for ages 11 and above, Animation 2.0 for ages 11 and above, and Deep Sea Robotics for ages 8-10. Under the expert guidance of coaches Henri Hovhanesyan, Philip DiGioia, Tatev Ghulyan, Aldo Rodriguez, and Innovation Studios alumnus and intern Kyle Chilingirian, young innovators delved deep into their respective pursuits, exploring the intersections of technology, creativity, and innovation. The session culminated in a vibrant showcase where students, coaches, families, and friends gathered to marvel at the final portfolios of our young innovators. These portfolios, meticulously crafted over the course of 10 weeks, serve as a testament to the students' skills and progression, showcasing their achievements in the studios. These portfolios not only celebrate the students' accomplishments but also serve as invaluable assets for future endeavors, including university admissions, internships, and beyond. Moreover, the Spring session saw the continuation of sponsorship for 20 GUSD students- substantiating the program's success throughout the city of Glendale. As our program in Toronto wraps up its successful Spring session, we're filled with gratitude for the creativity, dedication, and innovation demonstrated by our students, coaches, and families abroad. The enthusiasm and support from the Toronto community have been instrumental in making this session a success. Looking ahead, we're excited about the possibility of expanding Innovation Studios, bringing our unique blend of technology, creativity, and collaboration to even more young minds across the globe. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to grow and inspire the Armenian innovators of tomorrow.

Dynamic SUMMER coming up! AGBU Innovation Studios will host Summer sessions tailored for youth aged 8+. Over the past two years, our program has experienced remarkable growth, expanding into Toronto and enriching the local offering in Pasadena. With an array of innovative studios, we welcome budding young minds to explore, create, and innovate. Our upcoming 2nd annual “Youth Innovation Day” promises an engaging experience for the community, featuring insights from industry experts and, most importantly, a lot of fun! Don’t miss out on this event – register today! Summer Session 1 runs from July 15 - July 26, and Session 2 from July 29 - August 9. Sessions are held Monday - Friday from 9 am - 3 pm. Early bird discounts are available until June 8. Registration 🔗 https://agbu.org/innovation-studios-register

A not-to-miss event featuring beloved Armenian Pop singer Tigran Asatryan! Enjoy an evening of fine dining at Vertigo Event Venue and connect with our community. Tickets on sale now https://agbu.org/pg-soiree-reserve For inquiries, call 626.794.7942

Fine dining + Music + Good Cause! Join us at the “Armenian Soirée” at Vertigo Event Venue. Enjoy an upscale evening of dynamic entertainment by world-renowned Armenian Pop singer Tigran Asatryan. Not-to-miss! Reservation agbu.org/pg-soiree-reserve Space is limited.

During #armenianhistorymonth we spotlight the talented young dancers of our AGBU LA Dance School. Armenian dance has roots reaching back to the fifth millennia B.C. in the Armenian highlands. It serves as a medium for storytelling of the various regions of Armenia with diverse dance routines conveying unique narratives and cultural richness. The school caters to youth ages 5-18 with classes held Tuesday and Thursday evenings in our Pasadena dance studio. For inquiries, call 626.794.7942 or email [email protected]•

AGBU Camp Amaras 2nd annual Mother-Son brunch at the AGBU Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Cultural Center, where you can bask in the warmth of the spring sun while enjoying a delightful afternoon of brunch, engaging activities, and memorable moments. Join us for a day filled with love, laughter, and appreciation for the beautiful relationship between mother and son. Reservation link agbu.org/mother-son-brunch-reserveFor inquiries, email [email protected] or call 626.794.7942

Want to explore Armenia and help those in need at the same time? AGBU’s Discover Armenia summer program for ages 15-18 allows you to connect with diasporans and perform rewarding volunteer work. In addition, this fantastic three-week initiative takes on incredible sightseeing adventures that include boating, hiking, and cooking classes! Take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity! Spots for this summer’s program are already limited so sign up before the June 15 deadline. VISIT https://agbu.org/discover-armenia

Recently, the AGBU AYA San Fernando Valley Scouts and AGBU AYA Pasadena Scouts held their winter ceremonies, respectively. Scouts received new badges, commendations, and well-deserved recognition for their unwavering commitment and hard work throughout the past year. Leaders were also acknowledged during the ceremony. These dedicated individuals play a crucial role in guiding and nurturing the troops, ensuring that the scouting experience is enriching and impactful. As they move up in their rankings, their leadership skills continue to flourish, setting an inspiring example for the entire scouting community.Scouting holds a special place within the AGBU. It is one of the core programs that fosters leadership, community service, and cultural enrichment among Armenian youth. We take immense pride in all the achievements of our scouts—their dedication, community spirit, and commitment to personal growth. The Western Region congratulates our future Armenian change agents.

Meet the writer of “It’s Vardavar” on Disney
“Creativity takes courage.” - Henri Matisse. Innovation Studios empowers young Armenians to break barriers and think differently. Innovators like Kathleen Sarnelli serve as an example of making an impact through creative pursuits. In penning the first time a multinational entertainment conglomerate represented Armenian culture, we recognize her courage and creativity at an event that welcomes all youth to meet Kathleen and hear about the inspiration behind “It’s Vardavar.” Join us in celebrating this milestone at Vardavar at Disney: Behind the Scenes with Kathleen RSVP mandatory. Visit https://agbu.org/vardavar-disney-reserve

“Armenians in Film” showing in Pasadena! Presenting 6 short films by 6 award-winning Armenian filmmakers. Special performance by Zela Margossian Quintet. TICKETS $25. Following the screening, audiences will be able to participate in a Q&A session with the filmmakers moderated by a renowned film industry professional. For more info, call 626.794.7942

It’s almost Spring! Can you believe it? That means Easter break and time for kids to play and celebrate the holiday. Enroll your child in our full day camp“Easter Adventures Camp” is back with themed activities for kids 4-11. We’re egg-cited to welcome your little bunnies at Camp Amaras. Registration agbucampamaras.org

Ten weeks of creativity at AGBU Innovation Studios! The Animation studio immersed students in the limitless world of creating moving images through a sequence of frames. By employing leading animation software ToonBoom, students progressed from basic ball movements to animating figures. Our Guest Coach, Henri Hovhanesyan, utilized the 12 principles of Animation to impart essential knowledge and practical skills, effectively awakening the inner artist in each student.Thank you to our coaches for their guidance! We’re excited to welcome young innovators Feb 24, 2024 for AI and Robotics studios. Early bird discount until January 20th. Visit agbu.org/innovation-studios Questions? Email [email protected] or call 626.794.7942

It’s a wrap for another semester well spent with AGBU Innovation Studios and St Gregory Hovsepian School! 5th to 8th graders engaged in immersive, project-based learning at Innovation Studios to meet their Science requirements and unveiled impressive innovations, such as a multitasking system designed to assist pilots during emergencies or a creation aimed at supporting firefighters in high-temperature conditions. The studio environment proved to be a catalyst for their imaginative exploration. This is where young innovators take flight! Spring session now open for registration. Visit agbu.org/innovation-studios Questions? Email [email protected] or Call 626.794.7942

Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for the positive aspects of one's life and think of those facing trials and tribulations. Currently, over 100,000 displaced refugees from Artsakh are attempting to restart their lives after being forced from their homes. A donation to AGBU's Global Relief Fund will go a long way in helping them receive healthy food, medical and mental healthcare, and job training. In unity is strength.

On November 15th, AGBU Innovation Studios partnered with KOMITAS HOUR concert event on an extraordinary musical journey through the works of one of the pioneers of ethnomusicology. The young innovators unveiled two distinctive installations. "Komitas Revealed: An Anamorphic Tribute" showcased meticulously crafted wood cutouts of Komitas that come together harmoniously in frontal view. The second installation featured AR/VR animation panels illustrating four stages of Komitas' life where concertgoers scanned the image and learned about his legacy. Lead Coach Vahe guided the young innovators in seamlessly bridging STEAM with Armenian culture through these impressive installations. The program stands at the intersection of art & tech, cultivating the necessary skills to succeed and thrive. Spring session starts February 24th. Registration agbuinnovationstudios.org

AGBUWR x AGBU MDS Clothing Drive for Artsakh Families
Our ‘Clothing Drive’ has been a huge success thus far but more so a teaching moment for young Armenians to instill a sense of responsibility to help their fellow Armenians. Thank you Voice of America for the feature. Please continue donating new clothes. As winter approaches, the displaced Artsakh families in Armenia need our support. Drop off clothes at WR Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm or AGBU MDS Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Deadline: Nov 15