A variable vane actuation system of a gas turbine engine is provided. The variable vane actuation system comprising: a vane arm having a radially inward facing surface, a radially outward surface opposite the radially inward facing surface, a wedge projecting away from the radially inward facing surface, an aperture extending from the radially outward surface to the radially inward surface, and an interlocking feature located in the aperture and circumferentially opposite the wedge relative to the aperture; and a vane stem having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a seat surface interposed between the first end and the second end, a primary portion extending from the first end to the seat surface, a secondary portion extending from the seat surface to the second end, and a stem notch configured to interlock with the interlocking feature of the vane arm.