Kristina Aznavour is a French-Armenian humanitarian leader, singer, and cultural advocate, best known as the CEO of the Aznavour Foundation. She is married to Nicolas Aznavour, son of the legendary French-Armenian artist Charles Aznavour. Together, they have continued Charles Aznavour’s legacy through extensive philanthropic and cultural initiatives in Armenia and beyond.
Early Life and Personal Journey
Kristina’s connection to the Aznavour family began through her marriage to Nicolas Aznavour. In 2019, the couple relocated to Armenia with their son, embracing a life dedicated to cultural and humanitarian work. Kristina has shared that her own life was once touched by Charles Aznavour’s humanitarian efforts, which inspired her deep commitment to giving back. She describes her role at the foundation as a personal calling rooted in gratitude and empathy.
Leadership at the Aznavour Foundation
As CEO of the Aznavour Foundation, Kristina oversees a wide range of programs focused on education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and social support. Under her leadership, the foundation has:
- Opened a rehabilitation center in Vanadzor for veterans of the 2020 Artsakh war.
- Launched the Aida Aznavour Scholarship to support young artists in music, acting, and performance.
- Partnered with Armenia’s Ministry of Education to merge and rename the Yerevan State College of Culture and Arts in honor of Charles Aznavour.
- Distributed over 35 tons of humanitarian aid to Armenia during the 2020 conflict.
Kristina has emphasized the importance of decentralizing services and expanding access to healthcare and education across Armenia’s rural regions.
Musical Tribute and “Aznavour Classique”
In addition to her humanitarian work, Kristina has embraced her passion for music. In 2022, she performed in the “Aznavour Classique” concert series, where Charles Aznavour’s songs were reimagined with a symphonic arrangement. This project was inspired by pianist Erik Berchot, a longtime collaborator of Charles Aznavour. Kristina sang in both French and Russian, fulfilling her father-in-law’s wish to translate his music into new languages. The concert proceeds supported wounded Armenian soldiers through a foundation-led grant program.
Ongoing Impact
Kristina Aznavour continues to lead the Aznavour Foundation with a focus on long-term social change, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment. Her work reflects a blend of personal experience, artistic passion, and a deep commitment to humanitarian values.