Mario Migirdic Atakliyan: Sports and Jewelry Together

Yes, I’ve been to Armenia and loved it — especially the food, like local dolma and khorovats (barbecue). I only visited Yerevan, but it left a lasting impression. My favorite Armenian figures include the national hero Andranik Ozanian, chess player Tigran Petrosian, and singers Charles Aznavour and Paul Baghdadlian. As for sports, my heart belongs to the Yerevan soccer team, Ararat.

Last year, I published a study on Armenians in Africa. In 2003, the Armenian population in South Africa was estimated to be around 300. Are you familiar with other Armenians in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town?

When I lived in Johannesburg, I knew many Armenians, and we used to gather frequently. In Cape Town, however, I only know eight Armenians. Others here work in fields like finance, insurance, and retail.

Have you started a family in Africa?

Yes, I have a wonderful son, Sabro, named after my late father. He’s 22 years old, very handsome Armenian boy, who models professionally. A few years ago, he ranked among the top 15 mountain bikers in his age group in South Africa. Now, he also helps me at the jewelry shop.

My mother is still alive — she’s 86 and lives in Istanbul, along with my three sisters and two brothers. I visit them every year for six weeks.

How do you maintain your physique after turning 50?

I still go to the gym four times a week and play indoor soccer twice a week. Life is too short to worry about anything, so love everyone, take care of your health, and keep smiling!