Our Team
Mirak Kazanjian
Founder
Hi! My name is Mirak Kazanjian. My grandparents were survivors of the Armenian Genocide. I gew up in Los Angeles going to Armenian school and deeply involved in the Armenian community. When I moved to Spokane, I greatly missed the Armenian community. When I started my business - Skewers Food Truck - in 2016, I realized the mission of my business was more than just making good Middle Eastern food. I realized that this business gave me a platform and opportunity to share my culture. When the war in Armenia started in 2020, I immediately recognized that I also had a mission to share the Armenian struggle with the Spokane community. Since July 2020, through Skewers based fundraisers, we've sent over $62,000 to Armenian humanitarian efforts and refugee relief. We Are Our Mountains is an opportunity to continue these efforts with more structure and purpose. I'm excited for this venture and the ability to fight for the survival of Armenia even though I am distant.
Lorin Richards
Co-Founder
I’ve always been proud of my Armenian heritage, but in 2021, when Armenia was under attack, I found myself drawn to my homeland and my people like never before. With the help of my friends and family, I was able to raise thousands of dollars to support six families who had been devastated by the war. Sending money didn’t seem like enough, so I booked a ticket to visit Armenia for the very first time. I hand delivered the funds, clothes, groceries, and other essentials. It was a life changing experience, and I knew that supporting Armenian families in Armenia was my calling. Earlier this year I was able to return to Armenia to deliver more funds. Mirak, our cofounder, was the first Armenian I met in Spokane, so it’s fitting that we started this nonprofit together. With the support of our friends and community, I know that we can make a difference in many lives.
