On March 8, 2022, an event dedicated to the International Women's Day titled "Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow", this year's theme of the Day, was held at the Vanadzor Technology Center, with the participation of around two hundred local young people.

In her welcoming speech, Tatevik Stepanyan, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, mentioned that gender inequality, discrimination, unequal access to resources and opportunities are a serious obstacle to the progress of the society. "Especially at this stage, one of the most important issues for Armenia is to ensure sustainable socio-economic development, including the gender component, which is in line with the policy of our country, which has adopted the path of creating a democratic, social and legal state."

Tsovinar Harutyunyan, UNFPA Armenia Head of Office, emphasized that the International Women's Day expresses the struggle for women's rights. "This day, in fact, is for all of us, because full equality of rights will lead to economic and social well-being, will contribute to the development of our country and the world as a whole."

The event started with the inspiring speeches of Mariam Torosyan, the founder of "Safe YOU" platform, Ruzanna Torozyan, the president of "WINNET Armenia" network of women resource centers, and Kristinne Grigoryan, the RA Human Rights Defender.

Concluding her inspirational speech, the Human Rights Defender Kristinne Grigoryan addressed the youth: "You are smart, you are educated, you have many talents, do not be afraid of making mistakes, hence do not hesitate to take on active roles; you can!"

The inspiring speeches were followed by a panel discussion in an expanded format, addressing the issues of economic empowerment, innovation, and women's rights.

An exhibition of handicrafts made by the beneficiaries of the "WINNET Armenia" women's resource center network, and a master class conducted by the representatives of WINNET center's in Kapan, Goris and Vanadzor, followed.

The event was attended also by girls who held an open air modeling class for the participants, while the students of Vanadzor Art School painted NE, the symbol of  the Girl Child, as a superhero, on eco-bags. By the way, the bags were made by the members WINNET centers in Vanadzor, Kapan and Goris.

The event was organized in the framework of EU funded “FUTURE TODAY: Empowering women, youth and children for deepening democracy in Armenia” Project implemented by UNFPA, in partnership with the MLSA, UN Armenia, WINNET Armenia, SafeYOU platform, Enterprise Incubator Foundation and Vanadzor Technology Center.