Name : Anoushka Elise Berberian (Noosh for short)

Place of birth: London, England

Your family roots : Cypriot Armenian but my family originates from Adana and Erzurum Turkey.

You occupation / work / profession : Social media manager / Youtuber

How and why did you get involved with AI? I was introduced via Facebook where I spotted the "What's In a Name ?" event that was hosted by Susan Pattie. Through this I had the chance to meet her and found that AI was looking for another member for the team! I thought this would be a great opportunity to use my developed skills in media but also grow and learn further.

Tell us a special memory about AI : Going to the new office in Farringdon and seeing the library there was a moment I won't forget. To be in a room full of Armenian books that I had no idea existed prior to this was very moving.

What are 2 or 3 of the most memorable AI events you have attended? I have enjoyed every single event that I have attended at AI but the ones that stood out are Manti Mania, an event where we learnt to make traditional Armenian Manti, and the other being the Diaspora Forum. The Diaspora Forum was a great evening in which young Armenian panelists discussed their similarities and thoughts on what it is like to be a part of the Armenian diaspora. As one of the panelists I was able to share my feelings with others in the same position as me, with my family coming to England from Cyprus and originally Turkey, it is always a bit of a confusion to non Armenians and I loved having an open talk around people that understand.

What are your hopes and ambitions for AI; where do you see its future? I hope to bring more youth to the institute as I believe the younger generation are interested in their roots but are unaware of where to go to meet other Armenians. With my social media background I hope to bring more of us youngsters into the community through the medium of events and online engagement.

Which languages do you speak? I speak Western Armenian and English.

Favourite book: The Narnia Chronicles

Favourite film: Lord of the Rings or any fantasy

Favourite music / musician / band: I like most Electronic music, and would die without it. I can’t pinpoint one artist but some of my favourites would be The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx, Armand van Helden and Purple Disco Machine.

Favourite artwork: Tim Walker's Photography (yes, all of it)

Best advice you’ve been given: Focus on yourself before focusing on others.

Your motto: Keep smiling and love one another.

Coffee or tea and what kind: I don’t drink caffeine because I’m very Intolerant to it but my favourite tea is Peppermint and Liquorice.

Favourite place in London: Camden town. There is no place like Camden.