Avak Abraham

Avak supports PANA’s day-to-day operations and provides general support to PANA’s leadership and organizing teams. 

Avak is a Kurdish Syrian refugee. He studied in Syria where he received a college degree in mechanics and went on to become an electronic technician. After civil war broke out in Syria, Avak sought refuge in Lebanon then moved to the United States in June 2016. He soon after became connected with PANA when he took part in a refugee day they organized at the San Diego Zoo. He began teaching art classes to refugee children and volunteering at PANA events before becoming a staff member. 

Avak is an incredible painter, father, and community member. He is trilingual, speaking Arabic, Kurdish and is now learning English.