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Kaitzak Receives MAPP Alumni Grant from the University of Pennsylvania

Kaitzak Receives MAPP Alumni Grant from the University of Pennsylvania



By Mariam Vahradyan at November 18, 2024

3 minutes to read


Kaitzak, the world’s first positive psychology-based diaspora organization, is honored to announce it has been awarded a grant from the University of Pennsylvania Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) Alumni Association. This funding serves as vital seed money to advance Kaitzak’s mission of amplifying diaspora voices and fostering a healthier, more interconnected global community.

“We are so excited by this grant and to have the support of such a prestigious institution. We can’t wait to use this momentum in our upcoming community work,” said founder André Vahagn Vartan-Boghossian. 

As the first organization of its kind, Kaitzak harnesses the evidence-based principles of positive psychology to promote storytelling, cultural preservation, and community-building. By focusing on strengths-based narratives, Kaitzak seeks to empower global diaspora communities and bridge meaningful connections across borders.

This recognition from the MAPP Alumni Association highlights the transformative power of positive psychology in addressing real-world challenges, particularly within diverse and multicultural contexts.

“Thanks to this grant, we can elevate stories of resilience and increase our collective capacity to create a flourishing future,” said co-founder and University of Pennsylvania alumna Mariam Vahradyan.

Kaitzak extends heartfelt gratitude to the MAPP Alumni Association and its network of changemakers for believing in the organization’s mission. Supporters and members of the global diaspora are encouraged to stay tuned for exciting updates on the projects supported by this initiative.

For more information, visit kaitzak.org or follow Kaitzak on social media.

About Kaitzak
Kaitzak is the first positive psychology-focused diaspora organization that promotes cultural heritage, community well-being, and cross-border connections. Inspired by the principles of positive psychology, Kaitzak aims to elevate diaspora voices, create spaces for resilience-building, and contribute to a thriving global community.

About the MAPP Alumni Association
The MAPP Alumni Association is a global network of graduates from the University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Applied Positive Psychology program. The association fosters innovation and collaboration among its members to apply the principles of positive psychology in meaningful ways across disciplines.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Mariam Vahradyan
Co-Founder, Director
Mariam is Kaitzak’s co-founder and a member of the executive board. She holds a Master's degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Mariam's research has been published in various research journals like the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin and she's presented at conferences like UNIS-UN at the United Nations General Assembly. With a background in education management and psychology, Mariam is committed to bringing strengths-based narratives to the global Diaspora community and reinstilling hope for a more agentic future.