Day 1: Introductions and warm up sessions

Today the Write in Armenia International Writing Camp 2022 kicked off in Dilijan. Unlike its online issue, it is a pleasure to host young authors from Armenia, Georgia and Ukraine in a live format. During his opening speech, Mr. Stephan Malerius, Head of the Regional Programme “Political Dialogue South Caucasus” of the Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung emphasized the importance of literature in building bridges during turbulent times of global conflicts and everlasting lack of dialogue between societies. In her turn, Arevik Ashkharoyan, the Director of ARI Literature Foundation talked about the stereotypes about each other to be overcome and direct communication necessary to really get to know each other first hand, without mediators. On their sides, the coaches of three countries, Davit Gabunia, Armen of Armenia, and Olena Kuzmina appreciated the efforts of writers in improving the literary environments of their respective countries.

Team-building activities were followed, during which the participants introduced themselves and identified similarities and differences in their viewpoints.

The day was focused on context-setting sessions by the mentors that presented the current situation of literature and publishing industry in their countries, as well as gave valuable information on how to boost young authors’ visibility in literary environment and increase their chances on bringing change in overall creative atmosphere. Team-building activities were followed, during which the participants introduced themselves and identified similarities and differences in their viewpoints.

More practical exercises and lectures will be conducted during the following days of the Camp. Follow us to learn more through our daily updates and read daily pieces by program participants. 

The material is prepared by program participant Samvel Khachatryan