AWWA Podcast: Armenian Voices

Dancing Across Generations: Lilian Tahmasian’s Armenian Story from Australia

Lilian Tahmasian’s connection to her Armenian identity has been shaped through rhythm, movement, and tradition. Raised in Australia, she grew up immersed in Armenian culture through private Armenian schooling, over 23 years of traditional folk dance, and a family of musicians who brought Armenian music to life both at home and on stage. Today, as a creative influencer and co-owner of a social media marketing agency, Lilian carries that heritage into the digital world—sharing Armenian culture with a global audience. In this episode, she reflects on preserving identity across generations and how modern platforms can keep traditions alive, relevant, and deeply rooted no matter where you are in the world.

Open Doors, Open Hearts: Narine Minasyan on Armenian Hospitality and Identity

Born and raised in Glendale, Narine Minasyan grew up in a home that was always full—of family, food, music, and celebration. As a first-generation Armenian-American, her earliest memories are shaped by a house that served as a landing place for relatives from across the diaspora, reflecting the deep-rooted Armenian values of hospitality and community. In this episode, Narine shares how those experiences shaped her identity—from the influence of her grandfather, a Genocide survivor, to the pride she carries in representing Armenian culture in her work as a producer and children’s book author. Through her series The Adventures of Andre and Noemi, she creates space for Armenian stories in modern storytelling, ensuring the next generation sees themselves reflected. Her story is a reminder that being Armenian isn’t just about where you come from—it’s about how you gather, how you give, and how you keep the culture alive.

The Taste of Being Armenian: Kristel Arabian on Food, Memory, and Identity

For Kristel Arabian, being Armenian is deeply connected to hospitality, family, and the flavors of childhood. Born into an Armenian family in Beirut and raised in a culture where food brought people together, those early memories, especially moments in the kitchen with her grandmother, shaped how she understands her heritage today. In this episode, Kristel reflects on how a few simple dishes prepared by her maternal grandmother carry powerful meaning, revealing the warmth, generosity, and cultural pride at the heart of Armenian identity. Through stories of food and family, she shares how traditions passed down through generations continue to shape who we are and how we connect with others.

From Law Offices to Forests: Jean-Marie Papelian’s Journey with Armenia Tree Project

Jean-Marie Papelian’s path to environmental impact began far from Armenia’s forests. Raised in Milford, Massachusetts, in a close-knit Armenian-American community, his early connection to heritage deepened during a transformative trip to Soviet Armenia in 1987—an experience that changed the course of his life. After building a successful 23-year career as a lawyer in Boston, Jean-Marie felt a growing pull toward service. That calling eventually led him to leave law behind and become the Executive Director of the Armenia Tree Project in 2015. Over the next decade, he helped advance a mission that has planted more than 9 million trees across Armenia, revitalizing communities, creating jobs, and restoring the country’s natural landscape. In this episode, Jean-Marie reflects on his journey—from discovering Armenia during the Cold War to dedicating his career to environmental restoration and community impact. It’s a story about heritage, purpose, and the lasting power of giving back.

From Yeghegnadzor to Game Worlds: Arsine Mkrtchyan’s Digital Heritage

Raised in Yeghegnadzor and now studying Game Art at Ringling College of Art and Design, Arsine Mkrtchyan is building new worlds while staying rooted in ancient ones. A UWC East Africa graduate, she weaves Armenian heritage into everything she creates, from 3D modeling and visual storytelling to traditional art inspired by cultural motifs. In this episode, Arsine shares how she bridges tradition and technology, using digital tools to preserve culture and reimagine Armenian identity for new generations. Her journey reflects a growing movement of artists who carry their roots into the future of creative expression.