Njteh, a Lebanese-Armenian, found himself at a crossroads in 2021, like many others who faced the challenges of economic crises and instability in Beirut. When searching for a stable and secure home outside of Lebanon, Njteh knew he already had personal and familial ties in Armenia. After spending 27 years in Beirut, Njteh’s journey to Armenia was marked by a complex blend of love for his birthplace and the potential he saw in Yerevan for a new home.
Leaving Beirut, but Not the Love for It
“I didn’t leave Beirut and say I don’t want to come back,” Njteh shared.
Despite the challenging circumstances he faced there, his bond with his hometown is still strong.
“Whenever I visit Beirut, I say, ‘Yeah, I belong here.’ But sometimes, I say I belong here in Armenia. I belong to both.”
Initially, his decision to move was influenced by his brother, who had already settled in Armenia. Njteh mentioned that having a strong social support network with friends and family helped him adjust to his new life. The thought of being closer to family during uncertain times was comforting.
“When my mother said, ‘I can move with you.’ That’s when I thought, let’s do this. Let’s move together.”
From Tourist to Resident
Growing up, Njteh had visited Armenia countless times as a tourist. Like many, he had been captivated by the picturesque streets of Yerevan, the rich culture, and the familiar language. But living in Armenia was a completely different experience.
“We all have this perfect image of Armenia when we visit,” Njteh explained, “But when you move, you take off your rose-colored glasses—there are challenges you’ll face here too, just like in any other country.”
From navigating the public transport system to adjusting to new routines, Njteh’s life in Armenia was far removed from his days in Beirut. Before, his schedule was jam-packed with radio shows, freelance work, and active engagement in the local Armenian community.
“My day started at 7:30 and ended at 10:30. I didn’t even have time for sports. But I was happy.”
In Armenia, things felt very different.
“To this day, I feel like every day was Sunday. It was calm, relaxed.”
The slower pace, though initially disorienting, eventually became a source of peace. Njteh even found himself embracing new hobbies, like running in parks—a luxury he didn’t have back in Beirut.
Facing Challenges with an Open Mind
One of the most significant adjustments Njteh had to make was the different social life. As an active member of the Lebanese-Armenian community – whose voice and persona was recognized from his stage and radio work – Njteh was well-known by many and even spotted by strangers on the street.
“I’ll confess that I’ve been stopped a few times in Beirut by people who recognized me” he says with a timid smile. “In Armenia, it’s different. Not everyone knows you here. But I like the opportunity it grants me to create a new life from scratch.”
But through these challenges, Njteh shares that he’s grown immensely as a person. Living in Armenia pushed him to step outside his comfort zone, to adapt to a new work culture, and to take on more responsibility.
“You don’t know everything here, and you don’t know everyone. So, you need to take responsibility for yourself. That has definitely made me more independent as a person.”
Building a New Life
Over the three years he’s spent here, Njteh’s love for Armenia has deepened.
“When I first came here, I didn’t know what to expect. But now, after almost four years, I have my routine, my job, and my hobbies. I belong here too.”
His story highlights the essence of repatriation—not as an end to one’s relationship with the homeland left behind, but as an expansion of one’s identity to embrace two worlds.
For those considering repatriation, Njteh offers valuable advice:
“Prepare yourself. Living in Armenia is different than visiting. But if you come with an open mindset, willing to adapt and embrace the challenges, you’ll find your place.”
Njteh’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Armenian diaspora. Through his experience, he reminds us that repatriation is not just about returning to a homeland—it’s about creating a new sense of belonging, one that bridges the past and the future, and two places he now calls home.
