#1ALoves: Your Monthly Dose of Armenian Culture
International Women’s Day may be over, but Women’s History Month is just getting started. And anyway, it’s never too late to celebrate the creative and enterprising women in Armenia and in the Armenian community around the world. With that in mind, we’re bringing you another edition of 1ALoves packed with all of our cultural faves, with a focus on women — enjoy!
What We’re Listening To
“AN[TSAV]” — Meghu
Relatively new to the music industry, we don’t know much about pop singer Meghu, except that her stage name means “bee” in Armenian. What we do know is that she’s got some great music. Give her new single “AN[TSAV]” a listen, and you’ll find yourself nodding along to chill melodies and groovy beats that make you want to get up and dance just like Meghu does in the song’s music video. We love this tune, and we’re excited to hear more!
“SHAKAR” — Ladaniva
If you’re looking for ways to sweeten your day, check out the newest single from Ladaniva, “SHAKAR,” which means “sugar” in Armenian. Founded in 2019 by Belarus-born Armenian singer Jacqueline Baghdasaryan and French multi-instrumentalist Louis Thomas, the musical group was named after the iconic Soviet Lada Niva off-roader. Their musical style takes inspiration from traditional Armenian, Russian, and Balkan music while weaving in sounds from Latin America and Africa. Following their release of the video for “Vay Aman,” Ladaniva’s popularity skyrocketed, and they’ve been releasing bangers ever since — like “SHAKAR!”
Can’t get enough of Lada Nivas? Take one for a spin on a road trip with 2492, our for-purpose arm, complete with 24/7 assistance and highly curated itineraries.
Who We’re Following
@artist_mara_aivazian | Armenia
@ana.type | Armenia
What We Want
Bespoke Footwear & Leather Goods Made in Armenia
Established in 1918 by shoemaker and university educator Sargis Harutyunyan, Eksy Leathergoods has been producing cutting-edge and high quality footwear for nearly a century in Gyumri. Today, the business is owned by Hovhannes Harutyunyan and managed by his daughter Bella, who recently rebranded Eksy as a luxury leather goods company that produces made-to-order orthopedic footwear as well as sustainable accessories made using the extra leather and thus contributing to a culture of zero waste.
Historically, Gyumri was known as the textile hub of Armenia and the Soviet Union, and Eksy is working to reinvigorate the city’s textile industry. Support local shoemakers and businesses and stop by the Eksy shop for a visit — you’ll come out with your very own dream pair of shoes.
By the way, did you know that women represent two thirds of the ONEArmenia team? If you like the work we’re doing, consider supporting with a donation as we continue to create local jobs for local people and move closer towards our goal of making Armenia the #1 destination in the South Caucasus.
This edition of 1ALoves was initially published as a newsletter on March 14, 2023.
