SOAR - Oslo Chapter
Oslo joined the SOAR family in April 2018. The number of Armenians in Norway is estimated between 1,000 and 2,000, emigrating primarily from countries in the Middle East. Recently, Norway has seen influx from Armenia. Most Norwegian Armenians live in the capital Oslo and belong to the Armenian Apostolic and Armenian Catholic Churches. The Armenian Cultural Association in Norway is devoted to promoting Armenian culture and traditions in Norway.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Khazhak Arakelyan
President
Khazhak Arakelyan is a 20-year-old Armenian student currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science for Business at BI Norwegian Business School. With a strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving, he completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program in Armenia before continuing his academic journey in Norway.
Khazhak is particularly interested in machine learning and data-driven solutions to modern challenges, constantly seeking ways to apply his knowledge to real-world problems. He is passionate about using data science to drive meaningful impact and is eager to contribute both to the Armenian community and the broader international landscape. With a long-term goal of deepening his expertise in computational finance and advanced analytical methods, he aspires to further his studies and professional development in a global setting.
Zoe Aramian
Zoe lives in Oslo together with her Shiba Inu puppy (Kimi) and her very norseman (Mats). She was born in Moscow, raised in Malaga, Spain, afterwards built her career in France, Greece and even in Thailand. Zoe’s multicultural background together with her Armenian/Greek roots, has deeply influenced her perspective on community-building.
Zoe is currently working on her Master’s in Landscape Architecture in AHO and she works as a part-time interpreter at the US Embassy in Oslo.
She is a board member of the (YBAF) Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation, supporting initiatives that promote Armenian culture and art on a global scale. She is excited to support SOAR Oslo in fostering ties between Armenian youth and the global Armenian community.
Vahe Grigoryan
Vahe Grigoryan currently lives in Norway, specifically in Oslo. He was born and lived in Yerevan, Armenia. Before moving to Oslo, he lived in Barcelona. Vahe is a business student, studying in BI Norwegian Business School. In the future, he is interested in pursuing a career in finance.
Vahe is always looking for new connections and is open to new opportunities. He also has a passion for sports, such as martial arts.
Adam Zakarian
Adam Zakarian lived the first 18 years of his life in the motherland, Armenia, before moving to Oslo for studies. He is a business student at BI Norwegian Business School, always curious about problem-solving, finance, and strategy. Adam has enjoyed working with students and faculty to improve their academic experience and make sure everyone’s voice is heard.
Outside of school, Adam is passionate about endurance running and loves pushing his limits. Whether it’s training for a marathon or tackling a new challenge, he enjoys the process of growth and discipline. He is always looking for new opportunities to learn, connect with people, and take on exciting challenges.