My name is Mane Hovakimyan. I was born in Yerevan and raised in Saint Petersburg. My family’s roots are from Iran. 

I received my degree from the Saint Petersburg State University of Economics. Currently I work in the hotel industry. 

In 1999, I became acquainted with the Armenian community of Saint Petersburg, began to take Sunday classes, and joined the dance ensemble. Since then, I consider myself a part of the Armenian community of Saint Petersburg. 

In 2015, for 11 months, I volunteered for Birthright Armenia and gained invaluable experience. 

Today, I lead the “New Generation” youth organization tied to the Saint Petersburg Armenian Apostolic Church, which has been operating for 20 years. I have taken on the responsibility of passing on the idea of Diasporan unity to the next generation and informing them about significant projects related to the homeland. 

It is a great honor for me to be a Diaspora Youth Ambassador, to contribute my efforts, skills, and knowledge to the common goal of strengthening ties within our city’s community and between Armenia and the Diaspora.