Nvard Manasyan is a distinguished professional renowned for her expertise in addressing equity issues and her dedication to advancing gender equality. With a robust background in educational and experimental project management, she consistently demonstrates a strategic and innovative approach in her work. Based in Yerevan, Armenia, Nvard possesses a diverse skill set that includes connecting people and groups, strategic planning, and empathic communication. Her ability to navigate and lead in complex environments has been honed through extensive experience with international organizations and educational institutions.

Throughout her career, Nvard has played key roles in numerous high-impact projects. As a consultant, she has contributed to significant initiatives such as assessing organizational resilience for feminist funds across several countries and developing strategic actions for gender equality with major institutions like UNICEF, UN Women, and the World Bank. In her role as Project Manager for Transparency International Armenia, she led efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in Yerevan’s municipal operations. At the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Women, she has been instrumental in coordinating advocacy campaigns and strategic planning, furthering her commitment to social justice and gender equity.

Nvard’s academic and professional journey is marked by a series of notable achievements. She holds a Master of Community Planning degree from the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Arts in Political Science and International Affairs from the American University of Armenia. Her career began with roles in community development and education policy, evolving into influential positions in academia and with international organizations. Nvard has also been an active member of various boards and committees, contributing to policy research, educational reforms, and gender studies. Her publications and media appearances reflect her deep engagement with issues of gender stereotyping and inclusive growth, making her a respected voice in her field.

“You could not live in Armenia and not become a feminist. As someone born with an entitlement to freedom, each step was a challenge and a potential conflict. I grew up with a sense of being a troublemaker as society refused to acknowledge that something was wrong with what was happening. I lacked the vocabulary to explain the makings of the patriarchy, but it felt deeply wrong.”

Nvard is passionate about equality for all, dedicating her life to advocating for gender equality. As a feminist, her views have been shaped by the social realities of Soviet times, which often masked deeply entrenched and hidden discriminatory practices impacting women and girls.

“Being part of the Coalition is a conscious decision to dismantle the worst form of sanctions, i.e., violence, and in this case, gender-based violence, so easily and frequently used against women. I want the next generation of women not to have the same sense of anger and denial. I dream of a world free of violence in all its forms, and I want to have my part in making this planet a peaceful one.” – Nvard MANASYAN