Everything in Vanadzor reminds Narine of Artsakh. Narine, a hairdresser from Artsakh, has become well-known in Vanadzor. Initially serving only Artsakh residents who settled there, she now has many clients from Vanadzor.
Forced to leave Artsakh, Narine and her family settled in Vanadzor on September 29, just a day after arriving in Armenia. Here, everything reminds her of Artsakh; the natural environment resembles that of her Vanq village. “My sister’s husband is from Vanadzor, which is why we decided to stay here. My husband’s and my parents also settled in Vanadzor. Being close to each other helps us overcome difficulties more easily,” says Narine.
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Born in Vanq village, Martakert region, Narine moved to Askeran region after getting married. At first her family lived in Noragyugh, and for the last 7 years in the city of Askeran. With over 18 years of hairdressing experience, she loves her work. “I couldn’t work for about two months after forced displacement. Psychologically unprepared, I left almost all my professional tools in Artsakh. Then I realized I couldn’t sit idly and started looking for a job.”
Narine’s husband, an auto electrician, rented a space in Vanadzor and began working. In January, Narine joined a beauty salon, where she was warmly received. “I bought essential tools and started working. Now, I have my own clients and can earn my daily bread.”
They currently rent their home but hope to have their own home in the future. Their family will become beneficiaries of the 3rd stage of the housing support program initiated by the Armenian government. They haven’t decided where to buy an apartment but lean towards Yerevan for their children’s schooling.
“Living in Vanadzor is easy; everything is affordable, but salaries are low, so we earn less,” says Narine. “The people of Vanadzor share our struggles.” Many locals still lack permanent housing after the 1988 earthquake, which fosters a sense of solidarity. They understand very well what it is like to lose a home. Maybe that’s what ties us together and we feel good here.”
Karine Bakhshiyan
“Aravot” daily newspaper, 03.07.2024
