At Impact Hub Yerevan, we celebrate the incredible achievements of our members who transform challenges into meaningful change. One such story is that of Nimba, a social enterprise co-founded by Paruyr Jangulyan, Sharmagh Sakounts, and Hayk Daveyan. Their mission? To empower women and parents of children with disabilities in Armenia, providing them with the tools to achieve sustainability and independence.
A Mission Rooted in Empowerment
“Our goal is to teach the targeted group how to reach sustainability on their own by providing them with all the necessary tools,” shares Hayk. Nimba’s journey began with a clear vision to support vulnerable groups. Their first initiative was a sewing course for single mothers of children with disabilities. The program not only trained participants but also provided them with sewing machines upon completion, enabling them to work from home while caring for their children.
The fruits of their labor? Beautifully designed and vibrant bedding accessories created by the first group of trainees.
“This all would be almost impossible to achieve without Impact Hub Yerevan’s mentorship program. The mentors and program gave us an ‘insider’s perspective’ on the local and international market for these products and helped us build a valuable professional network,” Hayk explains.
Growing Impact
Through their participation in the Impact Hub Yerevan Zartir Fellowship Program, Nimba gained access to essential resources, expert guidance, and a supportive community. This provided the foundation for their growth, allowing them to announce the second round of sewing courses and expand their partnerships with local NGOs.
Their momentum didn’t stop there. Nimba collaborated with other Hub members to create impactful initiatives, such as the #MamaBalikRun, a charity run organized with Armenian Charity Runners Team and Mama Forum. Funds raised through the event directly supported Nimba’s mission.
From Community Collaboration to Market Success
In 2020, Nimba evolved into a thriving social enterprise producing high-quality home textiles, bed linens, and sleeping suits, employing parents from low-income families with children with disabilities. Their products combine functionality with beautiful designs, making them highly sought-after.
One of their notable collaborations arose when Nimba partnered with YWCF “Houso Aygi”. Through this partnership, Nimba provided sewing machines to “Houso Aygi,” enabling their beneficiaries to produce premium bed linens, which Nimba then marketed and sold. “It is our goal to present opportunities and encourage collaborations within our members and community, therefore we consider this a huge success,” shares the Impact Hub team.
A Model of Social Entrepreneurship
Nimba’s journey showcases the power of combining vision, collaboration, and a supportive community. By addressing real social challenges and empowering vulnerable groups, Nimba has created a sustainable model that inspires others to think creatively and act boldly.
As they continue to grow, Nimba remains a shining example of what can be achieved when passionate changemakers come together to drive positive impact.
Through Nimba’s story, we’re reminded that true impact is built on collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.