The Armenian Jewellers Foundation (AJF) is doing its part to help Syrian refugees settle in Montreal and learn a trade.
In collaboration with the Birks Family Foundation (BFF), AJF has established a scholarship at the École de Gemmologie de Montréal (EGM). It’s there that 11 Syrian-Armenian refugees began their studies in gemmology last fall, learning about the formation of crystals, mining, gem cutting, and distribution. The curriculum will enable students to understand the basics of identifying gems, including separating natural stones from imitations.
AJF board of trustees chair Pierre Akkelian says the scholarship is in line with the group’s mission to research and document the contribution of Armenians to the jewellery industry.
“One of AJF’s core mandates is to develop future industry leaders; what better way to do this than by motivating and encouraging talented youth to pursue education and careers in our industry,” he tells Jewellery Business.
“In 2014, we started our educational program in Armenia and since then, 15 students from various geographical locations—including expatriates from Syria and Iraq escaping the carnage—have graduated with GIA-equivalent diamond certification courses. When Canada offered Syrian refugees the opportunity to settle here, we sprang into action to do the same for our new compatriots.
“Syrians of Armenian origin have always been known as expert jewellers, which is why this is an optimal combination. We are grateful to the Birks Family Foundation and many volunteers who committed to make this project a reality.”
The 45-hour introductory course comprises three hours a week for 15 weeks. Students receive course notes in English, however, a former EGM student of Armenian origin is on-site to help translate for those who require it.
EGM president and founder Odile Civitello said the students were highly motivated, eager to learn, and all passed with flying colours.
According to AJF, thousands of Syrians of Armenian origin have fled the war, many of them resettling in Montreal. This year, it is looking to offer 20 to 30 new scholarships, although given the federal government’s plan to welcome more refugees, AJF says it expects interest to grow.
“Depending on the funds raised, we hope to have a similar program in Toronto and hopefully have 25 to 50 graduates in Canada,” Akkelian adds.
Hay Doun, a non-profit organization that settles Syrian refugees in Montreal, is working to help the students find jobs. In addition, Akkelian says AJF recently organized a gathering with the Armenian Jewellers Association’s (AJA’s) Montreal chapter where students met with established local jewellers. Factory and business tours are also in the works to allow students to distribute resumés.
For more information, e-mail hk@ajf.foundation.
