Neli's dream: girl child NE’s ambassador from Armenia striving for peace

Fifteen-year-old Neli Nersisyan, from Berd town near the northern border of Armenia, has a dream: to help the world achieve peace. Neli is already committed to making a difference, both in her community and beyond. She has participated in over 15 educational and community programmes that have shaped her interests and helped her find the path to her future.

"I want to become a diplomat and help countries achieve peace," she says, her bright eyes filled with hope.

Close-up of a smiling girl outdoors in a sunny setting, partly obscured by another person in the foreground. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Becoming NE’s ambassador

Neli’s journey into community activism began two years ago when she participated in an event celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child at NE Park, a space established with the support of the European Union and UNFPA by WINNET Berd Women’s Resource Center. On that day, Neli and other local girls were named ambassadors for NE, a symbol for girls in Armenia created by the UNFPA Armenia Country Office, which ties into the global movement for empowering girls.

A group of five young girls laughing and enjoying a conversation on a park bench surrounded by trees. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

"I, along with other girls, had the chance to voice my dreams and present small projects we had done for our community," Neli recalls. "That day, I learned about NE, a symbol for all girls striving to create change. It made me realize that no matter where we live — even 200 kilometers from the capital — we all have dreams we can achieve."

Neli, siting next to the NE's sculpture and looking at the camera. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

NE became a powerful source of inspiration for young girls in the Berd community. Now affectionately called "NE" by her friends, Neli has embraced her role as an ambassador, representing the potential in every girl. To her, this role is not just a title but a responsibility to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

A young girl standing and holding a laptop covered in stickers, standing next to a banner. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Neli’s leadership journey continued when she joined the WINNET Berd Women’s Resource Center, funded with the support of UNFPA within the EU-funded “Future Today” project. After participating in a graphic design course, she soon became the leader of the center’s volunteer group. She took on community improvement projects, which sparked her passion for social work and problem-solving.

"That’s when I started thinking about society’s problems. If we begin addressing them now, they won’t remain problems," explains Neli, who now coordinates youth programmes at WINNET Berd.

Two girls examining plants in a garden, one holding a watering can. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Breaking barriers in a border town

Berd, a small town in the Tavush region near the northern border of Armenia, faces many challenges. "We are very close to the border, and the fear of war is always there. It greatly influences us," Neli admits. "But I realize I must do something — in any case, we should be optimistic."

Portrait of a smiling girl wearing a grey vest and a cross necklace, standing in a sunlit wooded area. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

These experiences have shaped Neli’s worldview and fueled her passion for peace. The growing interest in serving her community and country led her to the field of international relations and diplomacy. She admits that she had concerns about this choice, considering that women are often discouraged from entering politics.
"I was afraid people would say a girl shouldn’t be in politics," she says. "But I realized I shouldn’t listen to those voices. I believe I can change something. Besides, by becoming a diplomat, I will be able to represent and defend my country’s interests on international platforms."

Five girls sitting on the grass in a park, engaged in a lively conversation and enjoying a sunny day. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Earlier this year, Neli attended a summer school organized by the Armenian National Assembly, where she met with government officials, legal experts, and diplomats. The experience solidified her decision to become a diplomat and broadened her understanding of global affairs.

"It was one of the best experiences of my life," Neli says. "We talked about everything — from economics and law to diplomacy and technology. It made me realize how much potential we have as young people to shape the future."

Two individuals smiling and examining roses in a lush garden, with two others in the background engaged in conversation. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Relying on solid family support

Neli credits her supportive family with much of her self-confidence and strength. "I have a younger sister and brother, and we live with our parents and grandparents. My strength lies in my family. My parents are always by my side, inspiring and encouraging me in all my activities and helping me balance everything with my school lessons."

A girl stands confidently on a rocky cliff with her arms stretched wide, embracing the open air. Photo: UNFPA/Artyom Dalyan

Looking toward the future, Neli’s path is clear: to study international relations and law. More than just achieving personal success, she dreams of creating opportunities for others, especially girls, to break barriers and reach their full potential.