AGBU plays a crucial role in maintaining Armenian traditions and values, adapting to the needs of the diaspora. Since its establishment in Cairo by Bohos Nubar Pasha in 1906, AGBU has remained true to one goal: to create a foundation for the prosperity of all Armenians worldwide. At the General Assembly that took place on October 12, 2024 in New York, USA, a new chairman was elected – Mr. Sam Simonian.
The activity of AGBU Sofia began in 1992 under the initiative of Mrs. Sevda Sevan, the first chairperson of AGBU Sofia. After that, for almost 22 years, the chairperson of the organization was Mrs. Sonia Avakian-Bedrossian, and currently the chairman of the organization is Mr. Velizar Agopyan.
Attracting young, educated and motivated Armenians to work for the benefit of the Armenian community is one of the organization's top priorities. Over the years, AGBU Sofia has organized a number of cultural events, such as book presentations, exhibitions, fashion shows, summer international Armenian camps to popularize the Armenian culture in Bulgaria and beyond.
The organization holds a Sunday school (HayLer Sunday School) where more than 40 children learn their mother tongue, Armenian dances, traditions and culture.
The organization has established and maintains the AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra and for over 17 years with have performed numerous concerts, mainly in Sofia. At every concert we invite Armenian guest soloists from all over the world to showcase the richness of Armenian music - not only classical like Komitas, Arno Babajanian, Aram Khachaturian but also daring performances like a tribute-fundraiser concert of System of a down.
AGBU Sofia have already hosted the European Armenian Games in 2002 and 2012 and the World Armenian Games in Albena in 2004.
During all these years since its opening, AGBU Sofia has established a prestigious name in Bulgaria and around the globe with all the activities executed and highest standards maintained.
The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), headquartered in New York and with branches in 31 countries and 74 cities, is the world's largest non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Armenian heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs.