TOURINFO-July 2023–Nina Hovnanian is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist with a diverse background in various fields. Nina Hovnanian, a graduate of Columbia University, played a significant role in developing Armenia’s tourism as an excellent destination.
She moved to Yerevan in 2001 and started the Armenian Tourism Development Agency (ATDA). During her tenure, incoming tourism grew from 20,000 in 2002 to over 700,000 by the time of ATDA’s closing in 2010.
To further promote Armenian culture and attract tourists, Nina opened “Treasures of Armenia,” a gallery featuring fine and folk art, artisan works, and couture designer clothing and accessories. Her efforts also focused on producing high-quality items for both the growing tourist market and export. She successfully displayed her designs in over 40 countries worldwide.
In 2015, Vahakn Hovnanian appointed Nina as his successor as CEO of Hovnanian International, a company involved in developing residential communities. One notable project was the Vahakni and Ararat Valley Country Club, Yerevan’s first gated, western-style residential community, and the first country club in the Caucasus region.
In addition to her business ventures, Nina is actively involved in philanthropy. She is also a founding member of the Board of the Armenian Society of Fellows and a Founding member of the Board of Trustees of the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation (YBAF).
She works with ORRAN, a benevolent NGO focused on helping families in need, contributing to the cultural enrichment of the city and making it more exciting.
How and when did the idea of a tourism information center arise in Armenia?
In 2000, my father’s visionary thinking gave birth to the idea of developing tourism in Armenia. He actively presented a proposal to the President of Armenia, seeking support to promote tourism in the country. The President, recognizing the potential, enthusiastically approved the idea. Through a strategic partnership with USAID, we established the Tourism Information Center in 2001, with me taking on the role of executive manager.
What difficulties did you face when establishing the center?
The government’s initial reluctance to fully cooperate and provide financial support was a major challenge. Additionally, there were funding standards set by USAID that required adjustments. However, over time, the government recognized the potential and benefits of tourism and became a supportive partner.
What disadvantages and advantages did you see in Armenia while working in the field?
Disadvantages included a lack of collaboration among tourism-related businesses and sanitation issues. However, the warm hospitality of the Armenian people and the country’s breathtaking natural beauty were significant advantages that supported our efforts.
How can Armenia strategically foster the growth and development of its tourism sector?
Maintaining peace and stability, improving infrastructure, providing excellent customer service, promoting local craftsmanship, and fostering optimism and confidence in the country’s potential is essential for the growth of the tourism sector in Armenia. I would also like to add that working together with cultural organizations in promoting our Cultural institutions and events should be the number one new “Product” for tourism companies.
Are you planning to be more involved in the tourism sector in the future?
While I am currently engaged in other responsibilities, my passion for the tourism sector remains strong. I may explore opportunities to contribute to the industry in the future.
As a sponsor and advertiser of TOURINFO MAGAZINE, what is your message on its 20th anniversary?
Congratulations on the 20th anniversary of TOURINFO MAGAZINE! It has been a pleasure collaborating with you to promote the beauty and cultural richness of Armenia to the world. Your dedication and commitment have elevated Armenia as a must-visit destination. Best wishes for the future, and may you continue making Armenia shine in the tourism industry!
