About Us
Who We Are: Freedom Loving Youth (FLY) is a 501(c)(3) international organization founded in 2012 by mother and daughter Karoline and Alina Samuelian. We are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families living in poverty by providing the resources and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives and create brighter futures. With compassionate teams in Los Angeles, Armenia, Syria, and Lebanon, FLY carries out its mission both locally and internationally—bringing hope to children and families wherever the need is greatest.
Past Initiatives: From 2012–2022, FLY passionately supported thousands of children and families in Syria, offering crucial humanitarian aid amidst the war. In 2020, following the devastating Beirut explosion, FLY provided food for 500 families and delivered medical aid to 7 urgent care centers, ensuring critical relief reached those most affected. That same year, during the Artsakh war, FLY supported over 800 displaced families, as well as fallen soldiers’ families, POWs, and injured soldiers—bringing urgent aid and hope in a time of national crisis.
Our Focus: Since 2016, FLY has dedicated its efforts to uplifting single mothers and children living in some of Armenia’s harshest conditions, including families struggling to survive in metal containers. Through humanitarian aid, education, empowerment seminars, and job training, we give our beneficiaries the tools to create brighter futures, build meaningful careers, and break the cycle of poverty with dignity and independence.
What We Do
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Immediate Assistance (Stabilize) We provide urgent humanitarian aid—food, clothing, school supplies, and hygiene products—so families’ basic needs are met and children can feel safe.
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Empowerment & Education (Strengthen) Through empowerment seminars, therapy sessions, and mental health support, we help mothers and children heal, gain confidence, and build the foundations for learning and growth.
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Job Training & Placement (Sustain) We offer vocational training and career guidance that open real pathways to employment. With practical skills and employer connections, families move toward lasting independence.
The FLY Center — Scaling Our Impact
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All three steps come together at the FLY Humanitarian & Educational Center in Gyumri, Armenia. This transformative space expands our model on a larger scale—providing classrooms, counseling spaces, and training labs that turn urgent relief into lifelong change. The Center ensures that every family we serve can move through the pathway from crisis to self-sufficiency, with dignity and hope.
Meet Our Team
Karoline Kouzouian Samuelian
Karoline Kouzouian Samuelian was born in Aleppo, Syria, the youngest of four children. From an early age, she was guided by her grandmother Zakieh, whose unwavering faith and selfless love shaped Karoline’s lifelong devotion to God and service to others. At just thirteen, Karoline immigrated to the United States with her family. She later married Vasken Samuelian, and together they were blessed with a daughter, Alina. In 1995, Karoline became President of Cosiani Menswear. That same year marked a profound turning point in her life. Karoline lost her beloved brother, Hagop Kouzouian, to depression and suicide—an unimaginable loss that forever transformed her heart and calling. From this deep sorrow emerged a divine purpose: to stand for those who feel forgotten, especially vulnerable women and children enduring extreme poverty. Guided by faith and purpose, Karoline founded Freedom Loving Youth (FLY) in 2012, dedicating its humanitarian mission to her brother’s memory. What began as grief became action—bringing hope, dignity, education, and opportunity to children and families around the world. Karoline has always believed that no child should carry the weight of suffering or deprivation. Her heart remains deeply connected to the innocent lives impacted by poverty, and she continues to lead with the belief that faith and love can change destinies. “I am eternally grateful to God for revealing my true purpose in life. Serving the Lord and His children brings me immeasurable joy. My heart aches for every suffering child in the world, yet I firmly believe in our collective power to create change. With God’s will, we can make a profound difference for the unfortunate. I am deeply thankful to my family, the devoted FLY Board, our teams, and every individual who has embraced this mission with love and faith. Together, let us continue transforming the lives of our brothers and sisters, offering them opportunities life once denied. May all our endeavors reflect God’s greatest glory.” With heartfelt gratitude, we honor Karoline for her lifelong dedication and selfless commitment to FLY.
Founder
Alina Samuelian
Born in Pasadena, California, Alina Samuelian was raised with a deep love for her Armenian heritage and faith. She manages her family business, Cosiani, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management. At just 17 years old, Alina joined her mother, Karoline, hand in hand in founding FLY—making a lifelong commitment to serve the less fortunate and create lasting change. She went on to establish FLY’s Youth Team Division, empowering her generation to become actively involved in giving back and leading with compassion. Since 2016, Alina has traveled to Armenia twice a year on charity missions alongside her mother. Her hands-on work with children and families living in severe poverty has profoundly shaped her life, strengthened her purpose, and deepened her calling to humanitarian service. “FLY is my greatest challenge and my greatest blessing. I am eternally grateful for the honor of serving God and His children. Witnessing the suffering of the most vulnerable is incredibly painful, yet it has given gratitude in my life an entirely new meaning. Being able to turn that suffering into hope—into transformation—and to help someone stand up and begin a new life is a fulfillment beyond words. I found my purpose at 17 through my mother’s dream, and it has allowed me to give back, to work alongside the most beautiful souls, and to meet donors who embody true kindness. FLY has been a central part of my life and, at most times, has taken priority over everything else. As my mom says best, ‘We have a plate of food in front of us, but they don’t’—and that realization lights a fire inside you that nothing can turn off. I am wholeheartedly committed to standing beside these innocent children for as long as I live, and I look forward to passing the importance of this mission on to my future children so FLY’s work continues for generations to come.” We are deeply grateful for Alina’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and vision since the very beginning of FLY.
Co-Founder
A pillar of faith, humility, and unwavering service, Bishop Armash Nalbandian has been with FLY since the very beginning—as one of its founding members and the charity’s steadfast right hand. Born in Aleppo, Syria, and educated at the Gevorkian Theological Seminary, Bishop Armash has dedicated his life to serving Christ and His people. From shepherding Armenian communities in Germany to his ordination as a celibate priest in 1998, elevation to Archimandrite in 2003, and consecration as Bishop in 2006, his journey has been marked by devotion, wisdom, and servant leadership. As Primate of the Diocese of Damascus, Bishop Armash brings the same heart, care, and humility to FLY—guiding the organization spiritually and strategically. Through his dedication and steadfast support, FLY has grown from a vision into a global mission, now established with chapters in three countries, impacting countless children and families in need. Bishop Armash is a true servant of Christ—leading quietly, loving deeply, and giving selflessly. We are profoundly grateful for his faith, guidance, and tireless commitment to FLY’s mission. Thank you, Bishop Armash, for being a foundation, a shepherd, and a blessing to us all.
Vice Chair
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Fr. Armenag Bedrossian
David Bedros was born in Kameshli, Syria. Hereceived his elementary and secondary education in Hasaki City, Syria. David attended law school in in Aleppo University in Syria and completed 3 years of law degree studies in 1989. . In 1993 he entered Saint Paul University in Harrisa, Lebanon and completed his studies in philosophy, theology and Islamic studies. David was ordained a priest and adopted the religious name Fr. Armenag on September 18, 1999. He was assigned as the lead parish pastor in Holy Family Church in Hasaki, Syria. In 2002 Fr. Armenag was appointed by Bishop Manuel Batakian, Exarch of the Armenian Catholic Church in the USA and Canada, to the lead clergy position in St. Mark’s Armenian Catholic Church in Philadelphia. Fr. Armenag’s role was very important and successful in the Armenian Catholic Church and its communities in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Washington DC. In July of 2010 he was appointed as assistant pastor in St. Gregory Armenian Catholic Church, Glendale, California. In September 2012 he was appointed to his current assignment as pastor of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Armenian Catholic Church in Los Angeles, the first Armenian Catholic Parish in California. Fr. Armenag also currently leads the Armenian Catholic Missions in San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco. During his fifteen years of service, Fr. Armenag participated in many spiritual and charitable activities and had numerous accomplishments.
Board Director
Lucy Roumdikian Tahanian
Lucy Roumdikian Tahanian was born in Los Angeles, CA, into a family devoted to giving their children a prosperous future and a deep love for the Armenian people. Her father volunteered in three Armenian organizations, inspiring her lifelong commitment to community. A devoted mother to George and Julie, Lucy balances her work as a bookkeeper with her passion for helping others. Her Armenian heritage has always been central to her life, and she dedicates her heart and energy to supporting children in need. Thank you, Lucy, for your compassion, generosity, and dedication to FLY since the very beginning.
Treasurer
Vasken Samuelian
A Lebanese Armenian who immigrated to Los Angeles in 1985, Vasken turned his passion for music into a lifelong career, founding HeartBeat DJ in 1986. Alongside his family, he also runs clothing stores during the week—bringing the same dedication and passion into both business and community. Since FLY’s founding in 2012, Vasken has stood steadfastly beside his wife and daughter, supporting their calling and mission from the very beginning. Known for his generous heart and unwavering dedication, his impact continues to touch countless lives. Thank you, Vasken, for your compassion and commitment to making a lasting difference.
Board Director
Markar Karatas
For the past eight years, Markar Karatas has served as a devoted leader on FLY’s Board of Directors — and as the enthusiastic MC who brings our fundraisers to life. With 34 years of expertise in IT and a lifelong commitment to service, Markar is driven by the desire to strengthen community and create meaningful impact. His move to Los Angeles with his wife and sons, Alessandro and Noah, was inspired by a mission close to his heart: ensuring his family remains deeply connected to their Armenian heritage. “FLY is the backbone of many families, evolving to meet their needs — this is why I love FLY,” shares Markar. Markar, thank you for your passion, your leadership, and the joy you bring to our mission every step of the way.
Board Director
Maria Nagapetyan
Maria has been a board director since 2018. Her journey with FLY is deeply personal. The 1988 Gyumri earthquake took her grandmother’s family, leaving a mark that shaped her life. From a young age, she promised herself that one day, she would make a difference for Gyumri. Meeting our founders, Karoline and Alina, she immediately felt their sincerity, humanity, and unwavering dedication — and knew she had found her mission. Today, Maria stands with FLY, helping families find hope, support, and a brighter future. Thank you, Maria, for your heart, your courage, and your dedication.
Board Director
John Ksajikian
John Ksajikian is a valued member of FLY’s Executive Board, sharing the organization’s commitment to creating a brighter future for children and families facing extreme poverty. His involvement reflects the importance of coming together as a community to support education, opportunity, and a better tomorrow. FLY is grateful to have John as part of its mission and the community of people who believe that every child deserves a chance at a better life. Thank you, John, for being part of FLY and supporting a mission that continues to make a meaningful difference.
Board Director
Armine Margaryan
Armine lives with her family in Gyumri, Armenia, and joined FLY in 2016 – from the very start of its mission in the country. As the leader of the FLY Armenia team and program, she organizes and oversees all humanitarian projects, dedicating extraordinary time and energy to ensure daily missions reach those in dire need. “I was born in Gyumri, Armenia. I love helping and protecting people in need, and giving my care and attention to children. FLY became very dear to me. Through FLY, I am able to lift people out of the most difficult situations and bring positive change to their lives. I love the feeling of being helpful and compassionate, guided by the golden rule: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ FLY is not just a job or a service — it is my way of life,” shares Armine. Thank you, Armine, for your tireless dedication, compassion, and leadership. We are eternally grateful for you.