In a moment of both personal triumph and broader significance for Armenia’s ecological future, Rousanne Arustamyan, Director of the Armenia Tree Project (ATP) in Armenia, has been awarded the prestigious Climate Change and Women in Armenia 2024 Award. This honor, presented by the NGO Women in Climate and Energy in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, UNDP and the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, highlights her exceptional contributions to climate change mitigation solutions.

The awards ceremony, which was designed to recognize and strengthen the role of Armenian women in sustainable development and women-led solutions, was a defining moment for Arustamyan and the Armenia Tree Project, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The event featured several categories recognizing women in various facets of climate action, including climate change adaptation solutions, climate community action and policies, reporting on climate issues and solutions, climate education for all, climate finance and innovation solutions, and youth in climate action. However, it was Arustamyan’s work in climate change mitigation solutions that earned her this special award.

Arustamyan’s career with the Armenia Tree Project began on June 1, 1998, when she joined the organization as an Administrative and Financial Assistant. Over the years, her role evolved as she steadily rose through the ranks within the organization. After gaining valuable experience in finance and administrative roles, Arustamyan advanced to Finance Manager, where she assumed greater responsibility in overseeing ATP’s financial operations and strategy. In her current role as Director of the Armenia Tree Project in Armenia, Arustamyan has been instrumental in leading broader initiatives and shaping the overall direction of the organization. Each phase of Arustamyan’s career has brought unique challenges and opportunities for growth, which she met with resilience, dedication, and commitment to the Armenia Tree Project’s mission.

As a woman in a leadership position, Arustamyan’s achievement is particularly significant. In a field where female leaders are often underrepresented, her recognition sets a strong example for other women in Armenia and elsewhere. It underscores the critical role women play in fighting climate change and shaping sustainable development strategies for a better future. Winning the 2024 Climate Change and Women in Armenia Award in the Climate Change Mitigation Solutions category is a testament to her hard work and unwavering belief in the power of community-driven environmental initiatives.

This award also recognizes the Armenia Tree Project’s legacy as an organization founded by a woman, Carolyn Mugar, and currently led by another woman, Executive Director Jeanmarie Papelian. The organization’s commitment to empowering women in environmental leadership is exemplified by Arustamyan’s success. In addition to her role as Director at ATP, Arustamyan also helped found Armenia’s Forest Alliance, a coalition of environmental NGOs working to protect, restore and reforest Armenia’s forests. Her participation in this alliance on behalf of ATP demonstrates her deep commitment to preserving Armenia’s natural landscapes for future generations.

ATP reflects on 30 years of work in the region, and Arustamyan’s recognition comes at a crucial time. Over the past three decades, ATP has been a cornerstone of Armenia’s environmental efforts, planting millions of trees and working to restore the country’s devastated landscapes. In addition to focusing on reforestation, the organization has adapted its strategies to meet the evolving needs of the land and the people of Armenia. From empowering local communities to implement sustainable practices to advocating for policies that protect Armenia’s natural resources, ATP continues to make significant strides in environmental protection.

The Climate Change and Women in Armenia 2024 award is not only a recognition of Arustamyan’s achievements to date, but also an incentive for her future endeavors. As the Armenia Tree Project looks to its next chapter, Arustamyan’s leadership will no doubt continue to inspire innovative solutions to the most pressing environmental problems facing Armenia and the world.

Arustamyan said: “Without the teamwork and hard work of my ATP colleagues over the last 30 years, I could not have won this award.”

With this award, Arustamyan has proven once again that the synergy of strong leadership, community involvement and an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship can produce impressive results. Her journey reminds us of the critical role women play in building a sustainable future, one tree at a time.

Armenia Tree Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reforestation and environmental improvement in Armenia. Since its founding in 1994, ATP has planted millions of trees, educated thousands of people about environmental stewardship, and promoted sustainable development in Armenia. Learn more at ArmeniaTree.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.