Testimonials

Geralda Vastey
Haiti and United States
Programs: UN 2008
Then: Undergraduate, College of Saint Elizabeth, New Jersey
Since: MS in Organizational Learning and Leadership, Barry University in Florida
“Athgo had a tremendous impact in my decision to choose my Master’s Degree. My year of attending the program, the forum was titled “Global Governance – Who Lead: Technology or a Distinct Mindset?’ “Global Governance” in terms of governing together, globally or locally, team-building and community building. The forum was about working with people from all over the world with different cultures, different perspectives and values for one common cause which was to develop a strategy in theme of sustainable energy for the improvement and enhancement of our global environment.
I was in awe in the way different people with different political groups and cultures were willing to work together when there is a shared aim. The Athgo experience gave me a different perception as to what direction I wanted to take in my career. I learned some very important lessons, the most rewarding aspect of it all, is the relationship I formed while I was there. I have friends from many parts of the world as a result. I try to carry these lessons I learned from the program with me daily in everything I do. People I encounter and work with are different from me in so many ways, thus it is important to know how to interact both in a professional and personal level.“
Programs: World Bank 2008
Then: Undergraduate, International Relations and International Business, Canisius College
Since: Associate, PFS Investments, New York; Startup, New York International Consulting Group
“My experience with Athgo International was fun and memorable. I was presented with real world challenges dealing with international affairs and governance and ways in which we the people can act as a united force to help mitigate those challenges. Athgo has made available a wide array of prolific speakers who are great in their field and inspirational. I can proudly say that they had inspired and provided me with an ample amount of knowledge on NGOs and good governance. The plans and proposals section have impact me the most because it challenge me and many of the participants by giving us the courage to create a policy and a business plan, which is a vital aspect, whether in business or our lives in general. From this venture I am currently working on a new start up, a small consulting firm in NYC. Overall Athgo has instilled me with great confidence, determination, drive, and inspiration to be entrepreneurial and to develop a matrix function of “one to many” and not “one to one.” My work at Athgo is still with me today as I grow and explore the world of opportunities. I have also maintained an expanded network of professionals from Athgo many of whom I am still friends with today. Thank you Athgo International and Chairman Dr. Armen Orujyan.“

Damion Blake
USA
Programs: Armenia 2006, 2007, 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student, Yerevan State University, Armenia
Since: Admin/HR Officer, Save the Children International Armenian Representative Office
“My affiliation with Athgo’s programs and being the part of the team has greatly impacted both me as an individual and my career. It helped me to choose the right direction and I can truly say that without the experience I gained while being a part of the organization I would not be able to become the specialist I am now.“

Anna Khachaturyan
Armenia

Youmani Jérôme Lankoandé
Burkina Faso and USA
Programs: UCLA 2008, UCLA 2009, World Bank 2011
Then: Student, Political Economy at Laval University, Quebec, Canada
Since: Entrepreneur, Co-founder, Innovation Quebec; President, Junior Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Saint-Laurent and Mont-Royal, Montreal, Canada
“Since 2008 I’ve attended 3 Global Innovation Forums as an intern, a research fellow and an evaluator. Athgo programs helped me improve my research skills and taught me creative thinking. Thanks to Athgo programs I developed a broad network of potential business partners through North America and learned innovation lessons from many successful entrepreneurs who attended the forums as panelists.“
Programs: UN 2007, 2008; UCLA 2008; World Bank 2013
Then: Intern, Foreign and Immigrant Affairs Department, New York Senator, Ms. Hillary Clinton
Since: Analyst, Accenture
“My relationship with ATHGO has been an integral part of my career and an outlet for making a lasting change. Many of the people I met and worked with became my close friends and trusted advisors. It also provided me access to meet and speak to some of most successful individuals ranging from U.N ambassadors, Heads of States to business leaders and Nobel Prize winning academia. These individuals inspired and instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, soon enough they will pass the baton on to us and we will be charged with addressing the many challenges faced by today’s society. The structure of the forums also helped me understand that solutions come when different groups work together. “

Pawel Walczuk
Poland and USA

Gohar Minasyan
Armenia
Programs: Armenia 2006, Geneva 2007
Then: Student, American University of Armenia
Since: Representative of Extension Program and English Language Instructor, American University of Armenia
“Honestly, participation in Athgo forum was one of the greatest achievements I have had in my life. It gave me a great opportunity to develop myself both personally and professionally, as well as to get up to date knowledge from the experts of ICT sphere, to participate in interactive discussions with young professionals and to give the solutions to real life problems, also to meet many wonderful people with whom I still keep in touch. Being part of Athgo forum made me feel more confident, allowed me to express my ideas and thoughts more freely and also gave me the feeling that young generation has the power to solve the problems that global community is facing nowadays.“
Programs: World Bank 2008, UN 2008
Then: Student, Political Science and International Relations, York University in Toronto, Canada
Since: EU Corporate Citizenship Coordinator, Microsoft
“My participation in the two ATHGO conferences has really confirmed my interest in philanthropic work, the potential of civil society organizations and public-private partnerships, and my passion for the power of technology to change the lives of people for the better. My time with ATHGO was truly an inspirational experience, and solidified my belief in the potential of young people that are equipped with the necessary tools and support to succeed. This is why one of my favourite aspects of my current role involves contributing to the organization of Microsoft’s social innovation hubs called Innovate4Good, along with other initiatives that create similar opportunities for young people in Europe, and observing the change that’s sparked as a result.“

Polina Emelianova
Canada

Jessica Eischen
Indonesia and USA
Programs: World Bank 2009
Then: Summer Intern/Litigation assistant at Orlow, Kaplan and Hohenstein Immigration Law Firm in Philadelphia, PA
Undergraduate, International Studies, Fairleigh Dickinson University Metropolitan Campus
Since: Managing Director, ISAPhiladelphia
“The forum gave me the opportunity to experience first hand project management from the conception of an idea, brainstorming sessions, research, planning, presentation and projected outcome. When I was given the opportunity to manage a nonprofit organization in Philadelphia which involves leading a group of bright, inspired, and dedicated Indonesian high school students, I knew that the information and skills gained during the forum would apply to my new leadership role. It was exciting to be in place where young professionals who shared the same passion for creating a better future through the sharing of information and ideas were able to learn, gather and share resources at an event such as the Global Forum.“
Programs: UN 2008, World Bank 2008, 2013, Armenia 2008, UCLA 2009, Rwanda 2013
Then: Student, Wesleyan University
Since: New Mobility Sector Lead, NextEnergy
“Participating in Athgo’s forums is valuable to any young person with an idea and also a ton of fun! For me, learning about sustainability issues, creating global peer networks, and interacting with executives and government leaders provided the foundation, global insight and confidence to go after nontraditional experiences and to succeed in positions that require collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
If you’re interested in learning more about how great Athgo events are and how they impacted my world perspective, you can ask me in person at the event. I’m taking a week off of work to join the Athgo team in DC and really looking forward to the energy & passion Athgo forums always inspire!“

Aniela Kuzon
USA

Robert W. Murray
Canada
Programs: UN 2006, Geneva 2007
Then: MA student, Brock University; PhD student, International Relations, University of Alberta
Since: Director of Legislative and Political Affairs for the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association; Adjunct Professor of Political Science at the University of Alberta; Member Scholar, International Institute for Qualitative Methodology
“It is impossible for me to distinguish between my work and passion for international affairs, youth engagement and education without my links to ATHGO. Having been able to connect with world-class minds at an early age, and to delve into the key issues facing our world, I saw and accepted the challenge of doing my part to make the world a better place. The impact of the ATHGO conference heavily influenced my MA work on United Nations reform and security theory, and also contributed to the beginning of my PhD in the fall of 2007. During the 2007 Athgo Scholars Summit in Geneva, I was a doctoral student at the University of Alberta in International Relations. The wealth of knowledge and experiences gained at the Summit led me to continue working on international political issues, ultimately leading to the completion of my PhD from the University of Alberta, while also serving as a political affairs consultant to various levels of government and corporations. Working simultaneously in international relations and education, my hope is that I can somehow inspire today’s youth to not only take a keen interest in the world around them, but to work tirelessly on behalf of change.“
Programs: UN 2007, 2008, Rwanda 2013
Then: Student, Management and Leadership, Berkeley College, New York
Since: Social Media and Digital Outreach Strategist at Political Party campaign of a former European Commissioner Meglena Kuneva
“Athgo is truly the starting point of my professional career. It is the organization that empowered me with the basic skills, initial knowledge and deep belief in the fact that every young person has a unique mission only s/he can achieve. Athgo’s forums provoked my interest to learn more about the Millennium Development Goals and led me to establish a student organization that promotes these ideals. That, in turn, helped me network with hundreds of like-minded individuals across the globe and map out projects and initiatives to explore and secure sustainable development.
When I first attended Athgo’s events, I was still a senior in college and upon graduation I was curious to realize that one of the most impressing assets on my resume when I interviewed for jobs, was precisely my involvement with the organization. Since then, I have been able to use much of the skills I acquired thanks to Athgo’s training, as well as the priceless guidance and mentorship of the organization’s chairman, Armen Orujyan, and thus find myself in a position where I can genuinely feel I can make a positive impact on my society and the world at large.“

Iva Iordanova
Bulgaria

Jennifer Czincz
Canada
Programs: UN 2006, Geneva 2007
Then: PhD student, Clinical Psychology, University of Ottawa in Canada
Since: Assistant Director of the Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Education Center at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut; Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the State of Connecticut
“My participation in Athgo had a profound impact on me both personally and professionally. Originally I attended the Athgo program out of a sheer interest in learning more about international development, not viewing it as a possible connection to my Ph.D. program in psychology or future career aspirations. However, the connections I made and information I learned at both the NYC symposium and as a 2007 Geneva Scholar definitely served as a catalyst to redirect my career path. As one of the only psychology representatives at these programs, I was drawn to explore the role that psychology could play at a systemic level both domestically and globally.
I continued to pursue these interests throughout the remainder of my doctorate program and eventually completed my predoctoral fellowship at The Consultation Center at Yale University. I believe that my experiences through Athgo also helped to significantly strengthen my application for this competitive fellowship. I now work to develop and implement interventions both at the individual and group/systemic level in the area of trauma and sexual assault which is an area I had focused on both clinically and academically throughout my doctorate program.“
Programs: World Bank 2008, 2011, 2013
Then: Finance Manager, Fund for Armenian Relief International
Since: Operations Manager, UNICEF Armenia
“I was inspired by the quality of work ATHGO is doing and had plans to attend the forums every year. I joined ATHGO team as an intern to help with organization work later during ATHGO forum organized in DC in August 2011 and am very happy to be alumni and have associations with ATHGO! After I met ATHGO people and international students attending the forum I understood there is a lot to do in Armenia to get the same quality and the level of confidence in youth. After I return back to Armenia I joined immediately UNICEF Armenia team and have been working here since 2008 October in the capacity of Operations Manager.“

Marina Ter-Sargsyan
Armenia

Nicole Andrea Rapista
USA
Programs: World Bank 2011
Then: Student, Georgetown University
Since: Director of Social Innovation, The International Youth Council
“Before Athgo, I was not sure of what I wanted to study in college and what I wanted to do afterwards. After the Athgo forum in 2011, I developed a more comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and how entrepreneurship can be a means to further international development while creating green jobs. Athgo helped cultivate a passion for social entrepreneurship and international affairs. Since then, I have worked at Ashoka to help bring innovation and social entrepreneurship to higher-education. This led me to become the Director of Social Innovation at the International Youth Council. It is a global coalition of over 5,000 young leaders across 30 countries committed to sustainable development.“
Programs: World Bank 2008, Armenia 2008
Then: Study Abroad, Kansai Gaidai University, Osaka Japan
Since: Principal at Moeish Consult Limited
“Athgo helped me look at businesses and ideas in a more global perspective where I learned to leverage on resources around the world to get work done. The Innovation Forums also provided fantastic opportunities to Network with amazing minds whom up-to-date I am in touch with and who have assisted me in both business and social aspects of life. The Athgo programs also inspired me towards Entrepreneurship and gave me the foundational information on how to go about setting up my own business. I am currently running my Own Company called Moeish Consult Limited that focuses on Market Entry and Business Development Consulting plus fundraising for projects and companies in Africa. And last, the Athgo CEO, Dr. Armen Orujyan is also an inspiration to me and I am happy at the fact that to date, he still has the time to respond to an email or assist with queries I have.“

Isha Kasule
Uganda

Ozlem Yucelener
Turkey
Programs: World Bank 2007, LA 2009
Then: Student, Global and International Affairs, State University of New York, Binghamton; Internship, American Security Council Foundation in Washington, DC
Since: Marketing and Communications Specialist at Accenture, Turkey
“Joining Athgo for the first time in 2007 provided me with an immense network of students, academicians and business professionals from all over the world. Because of the invaluable experiences I had in 2007, I attended my second forum in 2009 “Global Clean Technology” in beautiful campus of UCLA. Through the forums I participated and brilliant network of people I met in ATHGO, I not only developed my academic knowledge, but also came up with business models of civic entrepreneurship to catalyze my enthusiasm to world problems with feasible solutions. In such a short period of time, I have learned to overcome challenges as a team to achieve a common goal. I will always be a proud alumna of Athgo, a unique conduit for forward-looking approaches for the good of the environment and others. Athgo is also a life-time school for great network and opportunities.“
Programs: World Bank 2011
Then: 2nd year PhD Student, Electrical Engineering at Villanova University
Since: Entrepreneur, Co-founder, SolarBright; Adjunct Instructor, Rowan University
“The Athgo Forum gave me the tools of putting a technical project in a business context. As an engineer I was only concerned about the technical aspect of a product design, however, working to put a project on a market made me realize how social, economic, and environmental factors play a role in making a successful project. In addition, the Forum put me in touch with very smart people that I am still working with till now. As a team, we currently have a prototype of a solar backpack that we thought of at the program. Several options were tried since and now we finalized the product design. Our product can power cell phones or an LED light. It has a power output of 1.6 W at full sunlight generating over 5 hours of energy source for students without power supply.“

Amal Kabalan
Lebanon and USA

Bernard Ndoping
Cameroon and USA
Programs: World Bank 2007, UN 2008
Then: MBA student, International Business, New Mexico Highlands University
Since: Masters in Professional Accounting, University of Texas, Austin; Audit Associate, Deloitte & Touche, Houston Office; Certified Public Manager and Certified Fraud Examiner; Executive Member, Association of Government Accountants, Austin Chapter
“The ATHGO Forums enabled me meet other young and bright students and individuals from all over the country, enabled me build and sustain long lasting relationships. The resources, personalities and people I met at these conferences inspired me to always think critically, globally but act locally. I ever since then became even more motivated to succeed. During my time there, I kept in touch with ATHGO and its programs and was surprised when I got a call one day from the Chairman and founder, Dr. Orujyan asking whether I could help in an entrepreneurial project. This definitely made me feel special and ever since, Dr. Orujyan has been an inspiration and a mentor to me and many of my friends in their pursuit of success.“
Programs: UCLA 2006, UN 2007
Then: Bachelor’s Magna Cum Laude, Legal Studies, St. John’s University
Since: MS, Center for Global Affairs, New York University; Member of Fundacion Pro Ayuda Comunal (FUPAC) an organization that promotes access to food, medicine and education for the Dominican Republic and Caribbean community
“After graduating St. John’s University magna cum laude with a degree in legal studies in 2006, I was most certain i wanted to pursue law school and work in the field of international law and human rights. However, both of Athgo’s conferences made me aware of other important subjects such as sustainability and the need for public private partnerships to address a myriad global issues. I first learned about the significance of globalization at Athgo’s forum in 2006 and since then I have been on a quest to learn more and do more by involving myself in a variety of activities.“

Samapti Rahman
Bangladesh and USA

Mary Badalyan
Armenia
Programs: Armenia 2006, World Bank 2007
Then: Student, American University of Armenia
Since: CEO, EmmAroma
“The Forums had significant impact both on my future career and on my personal world vision. I realized how much it was important to work with skillful people, to meet with them and share experiences. I remember a breakfast meeting that Athgo founder Dr. Armen Orujyan organized at the World Bank’s café with me and other ladies from Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey. That was very useful meeting for all of us. We were very young and it was very important to show us that there are things much more important than politics. Person matters in this world still!!!“
Programs: World Bank 2008
Then: MA Graduate, History, San Diego State University; Program Manager, Citizen Diplomacy Council of San Diego
Since: Research Relations Specialist, UC San Diego
“Participation in the Athgo program has greatly influenced my current work, especially in regards to advising students in research projects, creating exchange opportunities through international affairs, and how I measure the impact of various projects. The capacity building components of the “Miracles of Development” program encourage me on a daily basis to look beyond the simple fix towards sustainable solutions. As students come to our office for advice on seeking mentors or proposed funding for research projects I encourage them to push the envelope to look beyond merely fixing a problem, but towards creating a long-term solution.“

Courtney Giordano
USA

Kelsey Wolff
Canada
Programs: World Bank 2008, Online Internship 2010
Then: Undergraduate student, University of the Fraser Valley, BC, Canada
Since: MBA and MS of International Business, Vancouver Island University in BC, Canada
“What a great opportunity that other young people should take advantage of in order to get inspired! Prior to attending the Athgo Forum, I was naive in believing that one individual can create so much change. During and after the conference, I was inspired to make a difference. When I got home, I got together young people in my community, and helped to create Project World Citizen; a non-profit organization to help build schools in rural communities in Ghana. We were successful in building a school in Ghana after a year.“
Programs: UN 2008
Then: MBA student, University of Buckingham – European School of Economics
Since: Doctor of Law and Policy (LP.D.), Northeastern University; Rotary Peace Fellowship, Australia; Publications in law, economic, and public policy journals
“It was in the capacity of an intern that I was involved with Athgo’s Forum in 2008. I had the privilege of meeting key influential diplomats and scholars and working with youth entrepreneurs and helping teams to craft solutions to the world pressing needs. Athgo gave me the opportunity to help coordinate the event which brought together hundreds of young people from around the world to collaborate with national and international decision-makers, corporate executives, renowned scientists, UN diplomats and area experts on various projects.“

Christopher Zambakari
USA

Julie Tran
Sweden and France
Programs: UCLA 2007, 2009
Then: Undergraduate Student, Double BA International Affairs and International Economics, American University of Paris, France; Foreign Exchange Student, Politics and Business courses, University of California, Santa Cruz
Since: Political Advisor, Centre Party in Sweden
“Athgo has always been an inspiring factor, due to its capability to see into the future. Athgo is aware of the great talent possessed by young people and use their creativity to find useful solutions to global problems. Their attention to “constructive entrepreneurship” is key to their success. This is also, what I have brought with me in my work today. Creativity and entrepreneurship is something that we encourage a lot at my work because it very often generates innovation and good results.“
Programs: World Bank 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student, Chapman University
Since: Legislative Aide, Colorado State Capitol
“I found it to be really enriching and inspiring to meet like-minded people at the Athgo forum, some of whom are still my close friends, and be in an environment where we could share ideas. I also enjoyed the somewhat competitive nature of the conference. The World Bank was a great venue to hold it because it sort of reminded me of what to aspire to, since WB is such an influential player in the field and employs so many talented people.“

Sasha Milanova
Russia and USA

Eunhee Jung
South Korea and USA
Programs: World Bank 2006
Then: PhD, Instructional Technology Program, University of Virginia
Since: Founder and Executive Director, IVECA International Virtual Schooling
“Athgo helped me open my eyes towards people in disadvantaged communities and find how young people can change the world. My enthusiasm and commitment to improve international relations and economic capacity through globalized education systems have become stronger. I founded a non-profit organization, IVECA Center for International Virtual Schooling in 2009. IVECA began with schools in Virginia and Korea. Over the time, more schools and teachers in New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Panama, Bhutan, and Taiwan have been involved in the programs. “
Programs: UN 2007
Then: Associates Degree in Journalism, Bergeren Community College; VP of the Student Government
Since: Social Media Assistant at an apartment rental company in Barcelona; Soccer journalist covering FC Barcelona
“The UN Athgo Youth Program changed me as a person. Not only did I realize that I could achieve anything that I set my mind to, but that there is no limit. The program taught me how to perform under pressure and a deadline, and also taught me the value of others opinions. After completing the program, I went on to work for NJ Democratic Senator for two years, where everything I had learned during the program was applied in practice.“

Michelle Ackerman
South Africa and Spain

Aydil Ozer
Turkey
Programs: UN 2006, 2007
Then: Legislative Director
Since: Innovation Policy Analyst
“Athgo’s programs provided an excellent opportunity to network and share ideas with like-minded people. They also provided useful exposure to the workings of institutions involved in addressing important global problems. Many years after first getting involved with the group, I enjoy still following its initiatives.“
Programs: UN 2007
Then: Associates Degree in Journalism, Bergeren Community College; VP of the Student Government
Since: Social Media Assistant at an apartment rental company in Barcelona; Soccer journalist/columnist covering FC Barcelona
“The UN Athgo Youth Program changed me as a person. Not only did I realize that I could achieve anything that I set my mind to, but that there is no limit. The program taught me how to perform under pressure and a deadline, and also taught me the value of others opinions. After completing the program, I went on to work for NJ Democratic Senator for two years, where everything I had learned during the program was applied in practice.“

Dan Prudhomme
USA

Abbey Watkins
USA
Programs: World Bank 2011
Then: 3rd Year Marketing Student, Georgia College
Since: Associate at GA Tech, School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
“Athgo impacted my life in many ways. I am more driven and confident than I was before attending the conference. I was lacking an eagerness to learn new things. Now, I am constantly testing my boundaries and trying new things. I love every minute.“
Programs: UCLA 2009
Then: MBA student, Pepperdine University
Since: Principal, Everfield Consulting
“Athgo experience gave me so much aspirations. It showed me that leadership and innovations can come from people of all ages. It also open my eyes about the industries involved in clean technologies and the possibilities to exercise social responsibilities. Since my involvement with Athgo, I took on leadership role as a Marketing Director for National Association of Women MBAs. I recently completed a project, diverse communities outreach program for capital improvement projects, for Orange County Transportation Authority. “

Tina Howell
Taiwan and USA

Ashley Hinson
USA
Programs: UN 2007
Then: Undergraduate Student, Lesley University
Since: Master’s student, Responsible Management and Sustainable Economic Development, United Nations – mandated University for Peace, Costa Rica
“There are two things that the Athgo forum taught me. The first was how to bring an idea to fruition – how to go from talking about something to having a tangible product. The second thing I learned is that we cannot achieve great success alone. It is through others that we recognize our talents and weaknesses. It is the team that allows our unique, individual roles to shine – even for an “artist-economist” such as myself.“
Programs: UCLA 2009
Then: Undergraduate student, Mathematics, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Since: MS graduate in Applied Science, Revenue Management Analyst, the Walt Disney Company, Orlando Florida
“Participating in the forum was a great learning opportunity. It was very interesting to work with the other participants, listening to their ideas and trying to understand their thought processes. I still remain in contact with my group members as well as the other participants and speakers at the forum.“

Miranda Chrastil
USA

Rany Ibrahim
Egypt and Canada
Programs: World Bank 2008
Then: Interdisciplinary PhD Student, Dalhousie University
Since: Marketing Manager with the Government of Nova Scotia; Part-Time Instructor, International Business Strategy, Dalhousie University
“The program was informative and rewarding with meeting like minded people from around the world with a rich program and support from Athgo International and the World Bank. The international teamwork environment at the forum helped me in my academic and work duties working with an international multi-sector environments.“
Programs: UN 2008, World Bank 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student
Since: Self-employed
“Athgo has impacted me in a very positive way. Problems that are facing communities in undevelopment country are caused by bad decisions made by public leaders. Through the program, I learned that lack of leadership is a problem in our society.“

Luk G. Dugiew
Sudan and USA

Jamie Thalman
USA
Programs: World Bank 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student, Economics and Diplomacy and World Affairs, Occidental College
Since: Creative Director, Digital Media and Films
“The program first illustrated how important the convergence of public and private sectors can be in generating impact driven solutions to pressing global problems. It got me thinking in ‘social entrepreneurial’ terms even before I knew there was such a field.“
Programs: World Bank 2008, Armenia 2008
Then: MSc Biotech, Biotechnology, Georgetown University
Since: Chair, World Fashion 4 Development Program for Africa; Principal, Roberta Annan Consulting, LLC
“Athgo gave me the initial exposure to the UN/development world. It was really an opportunity to learn how to leverage relationships you build with high-level individuals. I learnt to work in a team, conflict resolution skills, and problem solving skills.“

Roberta Annan
USA and Ghana

Rhazi Kone
Cote d'Ivoire
Programs: UN 2007, 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student, Columbia University
Since: Project Manager, UNICEF
“Athgo played an important role in my introduction to international affairs and international development. It is through Athgo that I learned the true meaning of Global Citizenship, one powerful concept that has greatly influenced me and my career path.“
Programs: Armenia 2008
Then: Budding Entrepreneur
Since: Founder and Director, X-TECH Creative Studio
“The forum helped me to think and act globally. The main and the most important lesson I learned from the program is taking the responsibility of doing something good without the fear of failure. “

Arman Atoyan
Armenia

Sarah Houghton
USA
Programs: UN 2006, 2007
Then: Undergraduate Student, Hamline University, Minnesota
Since: Programme Officer responsible for the North American Task Force, UN Environmental Programme’s Finance Initiative
“The Forums have heightened my skills of consensus-building and resolution writing, but moreover I met really interesting people who I am still friends with and who continue to challenge me to grow.“
Programs: Armenia 2008
Then: Undergraduate Student
Since: Phd student, European Regional Academy, IT Project Analyst, Central Bank of Armenia
“Athgo forum help enlarge my knowledge base and develop team working experience. The experience from the program still helps me in my professional endeavors.“

Emily Ter-Hovhannisyan
Armenia

Janika Sundström
Finland and Sweden
Programs: UN 2008
Then: Student, Dowling College
Since: Masters, Communication, University of Gothenburg
“Athgo made me realize I really would love to work for the UN, either abroad or in my home country Finland.“