“My life can be divided into two phases: life in Armenia and life before Armenia.”
Sisters, repats, and founders of the educational movement M.A.M: Marina and Meline Ghazaryan have not only built a life for themselves after moving to Armenia, but are actively creating a strong foundation for upcoming generations to thrive in.
This repat story starts with Marina, who moved to Armenia in 2006 with her husband, marking the beginning of her family’s gradual return. Over time, the rest of the family followed, with Meline arriving four years later and their parents and younger sister moving back nearly a decade later.
“I’ve always known that my children will be born in Armenia and go to school here,” Marina said. This conviction was at the heart of her decision to move, despite the difficulties that came with starting over in a new country. “It’s hard to start a life from scratch – especially as an adult – to convince people of your worth and skillset. But once you start living and breathing this country’s soul, challenges, warmth, benefits—you see that every country has its strengths and weaknesses.” But it’s only in Armenia, Marina added, that you’ll be surrounded by your own people who speak your language and will welcome you with open arms.
Like a repatriation domino effect, Meline followed in her sister’s footsteps soon after. However, the Armenia she discovered was drastically different from the one she had bid farewell to in 7th grade. “When I moved back, I thought Armenia would be the same as I remembered it from my childhood,” Meline shared. “But everything had changed. I had changed, and, naturally, so had Armenia.” The process of starting anew, she explained, wasn’t just about adjusting to a new environment—it was about rediscovering herself.
The sisters’ return to Armenia wasn’t without its struggles, especially when it came to reestablishing their professional lives. Marina and Meline had to navigate the competitive job market, overcoming language barriers and the stress of proving themselves to a new group of people.“When you come to Armenia, you think you have this amazing skillset and all of the doors will open for you” Marina reflected. “But you should remember that there are other well-educated, well-skilled individuals who are a part of a competitive market. You do, however, have something unique to contribute.”
Meline’s experience echoed this sentiment. When she went in for an interview, Meline felt overwhelmed and uncertain about her chances of getting hired. “It’s one thing to converse with people in everyday Armenian and another to present yourself in a professional setting. When I got called back for a second interview, I was shocked.” Although this initial phase evoked doubts and fears, Meline shares that she was also proud to be competing with such well-rounded professionals.
Over the years, the sisters have established a strong community of friends and like-minded individuals who they see as part of their family. “If you find people who hold similar value systems, one of the most vital things about this country, and are ready to lend a hand to you, Armenia becomes an incredible place to live,” Marina shared with a smile.
Reflecting on the challenges that Armenia has faced, especially after the 2020 war, the sisters emphasized the need to give back and build a better future for the country – a responsibility that all Armenians should carry with pride and commitment. This is one of the reasons why they also founded M.A.M., an educational movement which provides interactive and dynamic online Armenian classes to children of the Diaspora. Language is one of the key pathways for maintaining ties to one’s roots, according to the Ghazaryan sisters.
“It’s better to have a small impact than to sit around wondering what will happen to our country. We carry the weight of history, and we have work to do,” Meline stated.
For both sisters, the decision to move back to Armenia has been life-changing. “My life can be divided into two phases: life in Armenia and life before Armenia,” Marina explained. For new repats or those considering the move, the sisters want to normalize the phase of doubting one’s decision. Struggle is a healthy and necessary part of this process, they believe. However, help is available nowadays and there’s no need to tread alone. Meline shared that there are countless resources available nowadays to help with everything from choosing a kindergarten to finding healthcare. Little by little, the discomfort fades and reassurance and community takes it place. “I took the best things from my life abroad and brought them into Armenia. This is, and will always be, our forever home.”
