On May 21, 2026, the prestigious Taglyan Complex in Hollywood hosted the “Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles 2026,” bringing together world-renowned Armenians and influential Armenian figures from different countries around the globe. With the event, Prestige Media continued to write its story of major international success, bringing together leaders of the Armenian business world across new continents, a journey that over the past three years has led from Venice to Dubai, Paris, Dubai once again, and now Los Angeles. The evening became one of the most significant and elegant pan-Armenian international initiatives of the year.
The gala united representatives of the Armenian business community, internationally recognized professionals, philanthropists, cultural and artistic figures, community leaders, public personalities, and distinguished guests arriving from both Armenia and the Diaspora. Organized by Seda Gasparyan, Founder of Prestige Media and Prestige Holding USA, and Edgar Ayvazyan, Executive Producer of the Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles 2026, the ceremony was held with the support of the City of Glendale and attended by distinguished state and community officials.
In the opening remarks, special emphasis was placed on the importance of national unity, the preservation of Armenian identity, collaboration among Armenians worldwide, and the international recognition of Armenian creativity, talent, and excellence. Guests were welcomed with a glamorous red-carpet reception, while the evening’s exceptional atmosphere was enhanced by impressive performances from the Zvartnots Dance Ensemble and memorable moments throughout the ceremony.
Among the distinguished guests were Ardy Kassakhian, Mayor of Glendale; Ara Najarian and Elen Asatryan, Members of the Glendale City Council; Baytsar Thomassian, Representative of the Office of California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo; and other high-ranking officials and community leaders. The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of the United States and the Republic of Armenia, followed by a blessing and welcome address delivered by Rev. Fr. Yeghia Isayan, representative of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Seda Gasparyan and Edgar Ayvazyan, with special addresses presented by Mayor Ardy Kassakhian, Councilmember Ara Najarian, and Baytsar Thomassian, representative of Senator Maria Elena Durazo’s Office. Throughout the evening, more than thirty distinguished Armenians, business leaders, and organizations were honored with Personalized Gold Medals of Gratitude, Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles 2026, and special certificates presented on behalf of the Mayor of Glendale and California State Senator Maria Elena Durazo in recognition of their outstanding contributions to community development, philanthropy, culture, and business.
GOLD MEDALS OF GRATITUDE
The first Gold Medal of Gratitude was awarded to the City of Glendale for its significant contribution to community development, the preservation of multicultural values, and the strengthening of Armenian-American cooperation.
VATCHE AND TAMAR MANOUKIAN
Internationally Recognized Philanthropists from the United Kingdom, were honored for their international philanthropic activities, educational and cultural initiatives, and unwavering dedication to preserving Armenian values.
SIMON POGHOSYAN
Founder of SPS Cigaronne and Jardins d’Arménie Royal Brandy in Armenia, he was recognized for promoting Armenian brands in international markets and showcasing Armenian creativity on the global stage.
SILVIA CHAKMAKJIAN
Founder of Silvia’s Costumes in the USA, she was honored for outstanding achievements and leadership in fashion and creative design, as well as significant recognition in professional, community, and international spheres.
VAHE KARAPETYAN
Founder of AA Cater Truck and a philanthropist based in the USA, he was recognized for remarkable achievements in business, strengthening Armenia-Diaspora unity, and active humanitarian and charitable initiatives.
VARDGES AND MARY NAJARIAN
National Philanthropists from the USA were honored for exceptional dedication, humanitarian spirit, and their invaluable long-term service and contribution to the Armenian community and people.
Following the presentation of the Gold Medals of Gratitude, the Global Prestige Awards 2026 officially commenced, honoring individuals and organizations that have achieved exceptional success within their professional fields.
HONOREES OF “GLOBAL PRESTIGE AWARDS LOS ANGELES 2026”
THE ARMENIAN AMERICAN MUSEUM PROJECT
Led by Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian in the USA, the project was honored for preserving, promoting, and presenting Armenian heritage to future generations, and for creating a world-class cultural and educational institution that strengthens Armenian identity and intercultural understanding.
TADEVOSYAN’S FOUNDATION
Founded by Samvel Tadevosyan in Armenia, the foundation was recognized for outstanding social, charitable, healthcare, and educational initiatives benefiting young people.
LION’S PARTNERS INSURANCE AGENCY
Founded by Maria Nahapetyan and Emin Ajemian in the USA, the agency was recognized for significant achievements in the insurance industry, providing financial protection and reliable services, and serving the community with professionalism and integrity.
NINA GARAYAN
Founder of GARAYAN LAW GROUP in the United States, was honored for outstanding legal advocacy, exceptional contributions to the protection of individual rights, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring access to justice.
SARYAN DENTAL CLINIC
Founded by Harutyun Saryan in the USA, the clinic was recognized for advancing modern dentistry, improving quality of life, creating healthy and confident smiles, and implementing charitable and social dental initiatives.
FLORA AGHABABYAN – 90
A world-renowned Armenian-American pastry chef and Executive Pastry Chef and Designer at Wynn Las Vegas in the USA, she was honored for showcasing Armenian talent through extraordinary handcrafted sweet creations and elevating pastry artistry to international recognition.
CENTRAL RESIDENCE
Co-founded by Karen Mkrtchyan in Armenia, it was honored for shaping a new culture and vision in regional residential development through innovation, quality, and modern urban planning approaches.
HARUT SASSOUNIAN
A renowned publisher and public figure in the USA, he was honored for advancing Armenian-American relations, principled advocacy of Armenian issues, and active participation in public life.
MARY KOSTANYAN
Founder of KOSTANYAN LAW APC in the United States, was recognized for outstanding legal services, unwavering dedication to protecting the rights and interests of individuals, and a strong commitment to justice and professional excellence.
BIG SQUARE
The company was honored for providing the Armenian community and the wider public with fresh, high-quality products, diverse selections, exceptional customer service, and a modern retail experience.
NEW LOOK SKIN CENTER
Founded by Maria Hambardzumyan in the USA, the center was recognized for enhancing confidence and well-being through aesthetic care, advanced treatments, and the promotion of natural beauty.
MURAZ GRIGORYAN
Founder of Erodent Dental Clinic and an implantologist in Armenia, he was recognized for introducing modern methods in dentistry and implantology and demonstrating ongoing professional excellence and development.
NOR VOCH JEWELRY
Founded by Karen Ayvazyan and Piruza Papoyan in the USA, the brand was honored for creating a new vision in jewelry artistry by combining craftsmanship, innovation, and elegance while setting new standards of style and creativity.
LIANA VARDANYAN
Founder of Benefits Advocate Inc. and Law Group of Mfon Antony Icon in the USA, she was recognized for being a trusted advocate in benefits and pension protection and providing support through complex legal and administrative processes.
NAGHASH LAVASH
Founded by Sirekan Kostanyan in the USA, it was honored for preserving and promoting the authentic aroma and tradition of Armenian lavash in the United States.
P. ABAJYAN LLC
Founded by Peruz Abajyan in Armenia, the company was honored for long-standing dedication to Armenia’s construction industry, technical expertise, quality assurance and certification, professionalism, and trust.
18 KARATS
Founded by Sofya Avetisyan in the USA, it was recognized for preserving the value of love and luxury through exceptional engagement rings and fine jewelry crafted with remarkable artistry.
Dr. LIANA IGITHYAN
A podiatrist in Armenia, she was recognized for professional contributions to healthcare, foot care, and aesthetic medicine.
AGNES CAKE
Founded by Agnes Avagyan in Armenia, it was honored for introducing a new level of aesthetics and creativity in Armenian cake and pastry production.
ZARRA BAGHIKYAN
A real estate sales professional in the USA, she was honored for setting high professional standards in real estate sales and earning trust through excellence and professionalism.
ZVARTNOTS DANCE ENSEMBLE
Founded by Vardan and Armine Aghajanyan in the USA, the ensemble was recognized for preserving, promoting, and developing Armenian national dance and presenting Armenian culture to the world.
ABC ACADEMY
Founded by Ani Saghatelyan in the USA, the academy was honored for fostering children’s education, personal development, and future success through innovative educational programs and a carefully designed learning environment.
ELADA’S CORNER
Founded by Nelly and Hrach Movsisyan in the USA, it was recognized for establishing a distinctive creative signature in pastry and cake design.
EDDIE ZARATSIAN
A luxury event designer and producer in the USA, he was honored for creating a unique world of design and artistry and setting international standards of creativity and innovation.
MY ROSE
Founded by Marat Grigoryan in the United States, the boutique was recognized for its artistic floral creations, its ability to communicate through the language of flowers, and its dedication to bringing joy, beauty, and inspiration to the community.
ARM DANCE SHOW BALLET
Founded by Gevorg and Lilit Khachatryan in the USA, it was honored for passing Armenian dance traditions to younger generations, promoting national culture, and opening a new chapter in dance education.
NARINE AVAGYAN
A writer, children’s author, educator, and linguist in Armenia, she was recognized for significant contributions to contemporary literature, culture, and education, and for representing Armenian culture within the international literary community.
MIKAYEL HAYRAPETYAN
President of the Sambo Federation of Armenia and Founder of Armenian Business Corner and Sip2Arm in the USA, he was recognized for significant contributions to strengthening Armenia-Diaspora economic and cultural ties and enhancing the international reputation of Armenian sports.
EMPIRE AUTO SALES & LEASING
Founded by Dro Dergasparian and Armen Ter-Yegishyan in the USA, it was honored for building trusted partnerships and demonstrating professionalism in automotive services and leasing transactions.
SAMVEL KRBOYAN
A philanthropist based in the USA, he was recognized for outstanding leadership, vision, significant contributions to the advancement and development of the Armenian community, and continued support of charitable initiatives.
VON VEMIAN
Founder of Vemian Fashion House in the USA, he was recognized for creating a distinctive fashion design style and presenting Armenian creativity on international platforms.
A2 DISTRIBUTION LLC
Founded by Armen Grigoryan in the USA, the company was honored for distributing Armenian-made products throughout the United States, creating new international market opportunities for Armenian brands, and strengthening Armenia-Diaspora economic relations.
MAYA TOKHALYAN
Co-founder of NextGenLab Studio in the USA, she was recognized for creating effective communication environments for international projects, fostering professional dialogue, and building platforms that connect diverse industries.
AGA KANKANYAN
Founder of AGA Beauty Studio LA in the USA and Armenia, she was honored for her distinctive professional signature in the beauty industry, innovation, international achievements, client-centered approach, and creation of a unique personal brand.
During the evening, the organizers expressed special gratitude to the event’s partners and supporters, including Taglyan Complex, Horizon Armenian TV, Meridian Production, Flipbook Frenzy, Vitola Cigars, My Rose, The Glenmark Hotel, and all supporting partners for their valuable contributions to the successful realization of “Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles 2026”. The evening was further enriched by unforgettable performances from beloved singer Martha Kirakosyan.
“Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles 2026” became far more than an awards ceremony. It emerged as a powerful symbol of Armenian unity, creative excellence, and international achievement. The mission of the awards is to serve as a strong bridge connecting individuals who proudly represent the Armenian name across the world, bringing together accomplished professionals and leaders from diverse fields whose work creates lasting value.
The “Global Prestige Awards Los Angeles” aims to become a prestigious annual international event that unites successful Armenians from around the world, promotes international cooperation, and highlights the global presence of Armenian talent, accomplishments, and achievements. Additional initiatives are planned for the near future, focused on developing business, social, cultural, and professional networks, encouraging collaboration, and creating new partnership opportunities.
