“Aravot” has previously reported on the global Armenian network “Digital Julfa,” which unites the intellectual, technological, commercial, and cultural potential of Armenians worldwide.
The initiative was founded by Emma Arakelyan, CEO and Founder of Orion Worldwide Innovations and co-founder of Orion Score, together with her partners. Having worked across approximately 50 countries, Arakelyan established the network with the vision of redefining Armenia as a country associated with quality, innovation, and global impact, where national influence is built not only through individuals, but through a coordinated and strategic global Armenian ecosystem.
The Digital Julfa Network now announces its flagship initiative: “Digital Julfa Venice 2026.”
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On June 21–22, a two-day, invitation-only gathering will take place on one of the most symbolic Armenian heritage sites in the world, San Lazzaro degli Armeni. Organized by the Digital Julfa Network, the event will convene a select group of Armenian business leaders, family offices, scientists, and cultural visionaries.
The program builds on previous launches held in Yerevan and Dubai in 2025 and advances an ambitious mission: to transform the legacy of New Julfa, historically one of the world’s most sophisticated commercial networks, into a modern model of trust-based global economic cooperation.
The event will open with curated tours dedicated to Armenian heritage in Venice, highlighting the enduring legacy of Armenian merchants, scholars, and institutions within the city’s history. The program will then continue on San Lazzaro Island, where historical legacy will be explored not only as heritage, but as a framework for contemporary strategic thinking.
Opening remarks will be delivered by Father Hamazasp of the Mekhitarist Congregation and Emma Arakelyan. They will present a shared vision for reshaping global trade systems based on trust, long-term thinking, and cross-border collaboration.
The program will be moderated by Dr. Alain Navarra Navassartian, PhD in Art History and Sociology of Art, alongside Emma Arakelyan.
“In today’s fast-evolving innovation era, Armenian intellect and capability have a unique opportunity to once again become a driving force of global progress. Digital Julfa is designed to activate a trust-based global network that supports ‘Building Wealth and Advocacy’ by bringing together family offices and businesses through strategic partnerships and shared values,” said Emma Arakelyan.
The event will feature distinguished speakers including Dr. Rachele Zanone, Souren Israelyan, and Dr. Anna Vardanyan, who will explore themes bridging history and modernity, from the legacy of Armenian merchants to the strategic role of family enterprises in today’s global economy.
A central panel discussion titled “History is Not Legacy. It Is Strategy,” will feature leading figures in law, investment, and business, including Roy Arakelian, M&A and private equity expert and law firm partner, and Vahé Gabrache, Geneva-based entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. The discussion will focus on how Armenian commercial heritage can inform contemporary global strategy and decision-making.
The program will also include an exhibition by Rudik Petrosyan and a concert by composer and performer Joel A. Martin, known for his “Jazzical Komitas” albums.
A specially designed networking format will facilitate high-trust connections across generations, industries, and geographies.
A dedicated session will explore the legacy of the Scheriman family, examining how Armenian trading traditions continue to shape modern business leadership.
Digital Julfa Venice 2026 is intentionally designed as an invitation driven platform. It prioritizes depth over scale, relationships over transactions, and long-term collaboration over short term visibility.
