«Where an Armenian lives, he is hardworking and can create his business out of nothing»

Raffi Rshtuni met his future wife Yolanda in 1990 when he moved from his birthplace Al-Hasake to Aleppo. Newly established family lived in Sulemani neighborhood of Aleppo resided by many Armenians. Raffi Rshtuni’s private enterprise repairing cars and elevators was very popular in the whole city. A well-paid job provided Raffi’s large family with prosperouse life. Hospitable and sociable Yolanda was always busy with upbringing of her three children – Yeva, Sargis, Titar. But war broke out in Syria destroyed the peace and future plans. It took not only home and permanent job but also cherished dreams of their children.

They came to Armenia in October of 2012. Before that Raffi Rshtuni had applied for receiving Armenian passport. Shortly after coming to Armenia it turned out that because of acrimonious war in Syria return was postponed for indefinite period.Available financial resources were only enough for renting an apartment and living for some time but the hope to return to Aleppo was decreasing. However, there was a necessity to work for living…

–         I failed to find a job in Armenia on my profession, and agree that for a 57-year-old man it is difficult to get a new profession. We decided to deal with production of oriental sweets which are so popular in Aleppo.We cook variety of sweets in home conditions and in order to save I prepare shape containers of pastries myself. My former profession was necessary to some extent, – says Raffi Rshtuni.

–         Yolanda who had become a master in preparing different kinds of dishes, pastries, decided also to master table decoration craft, which is highly demanded. She attended courses for some time. Now customers ordering dried fruits, cinnamon and pastries prefer only her products. Rshtuni spouses often receive orders for weddings.

Although we were a little confused as we were forced to stay in Armenia in an uncertain situation, but it took short time, as frustration would mean inactivity. We started to act promptly and I used my knowledge of Syrian cuisine in our small business. By The advice of the Ministry of Diaspora we also participate in exhibitions, I think it will help to expand the range of customers and find new partners. I also practice some dishes from the Armenian cuisine. We have already got accustomed to lifestyle of Armenia, have great friends and neighbors. We have no hope of returning to Syria, but if the situation calms down there we will be able to move our belongings here,- says Yolanda.

Their children are not unemployed. The eldest daughter is now studying at the Faculty of Law of the University of Latakia. Very soon she will return to Armenia to live here. The younger daughter will finish school and continue education in the preferred profession and Sargis is already involved in a small business.

-Irrespective of the fact where an Armenian lives, he is hard-working and can create his  business out of nothing. The matter is the Armenian market is very small and geographic location – enviable, unlike Syria which has great market. But we are really glad to be home, where we can sleep quietly at night without fear of constant bombing.

But there are problems everywhere and we will overcome as there is a family affection, love and mutual trust, and in new surroundings you are not treated as a stranger. Anf that is the most important thing.

 Anush Nersisyan