Rabbits Bring Profit to Armenian Teen

By Heifer International

October 3, 2019

Last Updated: March 13, 2013

Story and Photos by Anna Arakelyan | Business Education Expert | Development Principles NGO
Translated by Liana Hayrapetyan | Communication and PR Coordinator | Heifer Armenia

Arpine Poghosyan, from the Sariar community of the Shirak region in Armenia, is engaged in the Young Agriculturists Network of Armenia (YANOA) Project. Arpine attends the business education direction, or area of study, of the YES! Youth Club in her village. Through the project, Arpine received a $100 seed grant from Heifer Armenia and established a small rabbit farm. She is very happy to have her own business and to practice the knowledge and skills she gained during the club's business classes.

“With the money I was granted by Heifer, I bought four she-rabbits and one male rabbit. I also bought feed for them," Arpine said, with a modest smile. "The rabbits give birth several times during the year. That’s why my small farm is quickly increasing. Each of my four bunnies has already given birth to five baby rabbits. I have sold three of the new generation of my bunnies. I’m going to pass some of the money generated from the sales to another student from our club so that another girl or boy can start a business."

Arpine’s father helps her care for the rabbits. Together, they feed them, give them water, and bring grass and remnants of carrots, cabbages and other veggies to them. Arpine’s dream is to have a very big rabbit farm when she grows up. She is positive it is a profitable business that grows fast.

 

Find out how you can help teens like Arpine change their lives in Armenia.