THRIVE is an AIWA project dedicated to highlighting individuals who are doing remarkable things in their personal and professional lives to better themselves and those around them. These individuals are inspiring, dynamic, innovative and interesting. Today, we feature Arine Aprahamian, Architect + Designer, Co-Founder of MÜLLER APRAHAMIAN.

I owe my career in architecture to my childhood neighborhood Bourj Hammoud (Lebanon),  which was originally designed by the French for Armenian refugees. A low-income part of the city with small plots, it is home to locals, refugees, and immigrants as it evolves like a living organism adapting to the newcomers’ needs.

Here, space is of utmost luxury; public spaces are non-existent. Bourj Hammoud is where I first learned what space and its design could really mean, how inseparable and valuable they both are, and how their manipulation impacts the lives of its inhabitants to their societies, for better or indeed worse. It’s the reason I am an architect today.

I first discovered AIWA when looking for ways to fund my undergraduate studies at the American University of Beirut. AIWA graciously supported me in a time of need.

I have been on the receiving side of these generous endeavors numerous times during my formative years, and as my career is at last on the precipice of taking flight, I look forward to finally being on the supporting rather than receiving side of this community.

For me, being Armenian is having access to a global community of practically strangers who will support and help you in time of need, nurture talent and dedication, and generally cheer you on as you move throughout your life and career.