AYF D.C. Hosts Second Annual Capital Ball

The Armenian Youth Federation's Washington D.C. chapter held its second annual Capital Ball on May 2, 2026, in Bethesda, Maryland, drawing AYF members, alumni and supporters from across the Eastern U.S.

The event celebrated chapter accomplishments and fundraised for cultural and educational initiatives, including the upcoming AYF Junior Seminar. Chapter leaders reflected on the organization's role in preserving Armenian language, culture and identity among diaspora youth.

Treasurer Arpa Shahnazarian emphasized the event's connection to the chapter's 1942 founding and highlighted the need to combat assimilation. Junior Chapter Chair Victoria Penenian and Central Executive member Nayiri Shahnazarian spoke about how AYF programs—from junior camps to leadership seminars—have shaped their Armenian identity and community engagement over years of participation.