Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Patil Toutounjian. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Patil, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose through a series of transformative experiences and self-reflection. Initially, my journey began with a feeling of emptiness despite professional success. It was a persistent longing for the sense of belonging and community that I had experienced in my earlier years in Aleppo. The pivotal moment arrived when I decided to take a leap of faith and volunteer in Armenia through the Birthright Armenia program in 2018. Immersed in the culture and surrounded by like-minded individuals, I discovered immense fulfillment in connecting with the Armenian community and contributing to something larger than myself.
My purpose began to crystallize during this time. I realized that my passion lay in creating connections, empowering others, and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Armenia with the world. This newfound sense of purpose was reinforced by my entrepreneurial venture, Tatik Streetwear, which not only provided a platform for Armenian artists but also served as a means to tell our stories globally. Furthermore, during challenging times like the Artsakh war, my efforts to unite and support the community amplified this sense of purpose.
Through these experiences and moments of reflection, I found my purpose in bridging cultures, empowering artists, and narrating our collective stories to a global audience. The journey has been dynamic, but it’s in these connections, creations, and community endeavors that I’ve discovered my true calling and sense of purpose.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Tatik Streetwear is more than just a platform—it’s a narrative, a celebration of Armenian heritage, and a testament to the talent and creativity of Armenian artists worldwide. What excites me the most about Tatik Streetwear is the opportunity to empower these artists by providing them with a platform to showcase their creations on a global scale. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their designs come to life through streetwear, bridging cultures and spreading awareness of our collective stories. Moreover, Tatik Streetwear is not just about fashion; it’s about weaving a tapestry of narratives that resonate with our community and beyond.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities and skills stand out as pivotal in shaping my path: resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. These traits were instrumental in navigating the challenges and transitions I encountered.
Resilience played a crucial role in facing setbacks and unexpected changes, allowing me to bounce back and stay focused on my goals. To develop resilience, it’s essential to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. This involves building a positive mindset, cultivating self-awareness, and seeking support when needed. Embrace setbacks as learning experiences and focus on your strengths while learning from failures.
Adaptability was another key factor. The ability to adapt to new environments, cultures, and circumstances allowed me to thrive amidst change. To enhance adaptability, I’d advise early journeyers to embrace curiosity and openness to new experiences. Embrace diverse perspectives, explore different paths, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Flexibility and a willingness to learn from unfamiliar situations will prove invaluable.
Continuous learning was fundamental in my journey. It empowered me to evolve, seize opportunities, and expand my skill set. Early journeyers should prioritize a growth mindset, actively seeking knowledge and skills that align with their passions and goals. Embrace lifelong learning through books, courses, mentorships, or networking. Don’t shy away from learning new things outside your comfort zone—it’s often where the most growth occurs.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As I continue on my journey of fostering connections, empowering artists, and highlighting Armenian heritage through Tatik Streetwear and my YouTube channel, “The Armenian Traveler,” collaboration remains a vital aspect of my mission. I’m always open to partnering with individuals or organizations who share a passion for celebrating culture, empowering artists, and creating meaningful connections within the Armenian community and beyond.
I’m particularly interested in collaborating with artists, creatives, content creators, and organizations dedicated to cultural preservation, art, fashion, and community building. If you’re someone who resonates with these themes and is enthusiastic about making a positive impact, I’d love to explore potential collaborations.
Collaborations, whether they involve artistic endeavors, cultural projects, or community initiatives, are opportunities for us to unite our strengths and narratives. If you share a vision for celebrating culture, promoting creativity, and fostering connections, I’m excited to explore potential collaborations and collectively create meaningful experiences for our audience and community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tatik.ca/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tatik_streetwear/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TatikStreetwear/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/26236684/admin/feed/posts/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TatikStreetwear
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4tgXq5u9VNB0m-PiZdnrPA
