Founded in 1999, Gibrahayer e-magazine began as a modest initiative, sharing Armenian news and community updates. Over the past two decades, it has evolved into one of the most widely recognized Armenian e-publications, delivering news and stories from Cyprus, the Diaspora, Armenia, and Artsakh — while proudly operating from one of the smallest Armenian communities in Europe and the Diaspora: in Cyprus.
"Today, Gibrahayer has a growing digital presence, with 32,000 followers on Facebook and activity on Instagram keeping the local community informed about events, developments, and covering news on Cyprus and the wider eastern Mediterranean region. It also operates a messaging service, providing timely event alerts and important announcements."
The growth of Gibrahayer has been shaped by the contributions of a number of dedicated individuals. In 2004, Professor Hovhanessian Pilikian of London joined the publication, introducing a dedicated section. That same year, Dr. Nazaret Armenagian of Limassol designed the magazine's first e-mailer. Artist and cartoonist Tatiana Ferahian also joined in 2004, bringing a distinctive voice through her illustrated commentaries, blending Armenian-Cypriot social observations with wit and irony.
In 2006, Sevag Devletian contributed by managing the "News in Brief" and "Sports" sections, while in 2008, Greek Cypriot scholar and researcher Alexander-Michael Hadjilyra joined the team, developing a Chronicle on Cyprus' minorities and becoming a respected voice on the history and life of the Armenian community.
If an email ever made it to your inbox, it first had to pass the twin-legendary Vahan Aynedjian / Alexander Hadjilyra approval process — a fierce screening so thorough, even the commas stood up straight.
At its core, Gibrahayer has always been driven by a strong network of contributors and readers, whose ongoing engagement, feedback, and shared information have been central to its success and continued relevance. The list is too long to mention them all, but we thank them from the bottom of our heart.
This dedication has been formally recognized over the years. In October 2010, during a special ceremony held as part of the All-Armenian Media Conference in Stepanakert, the capital of the Republic of Artsakh, the magazine received an International Media Award jointly presented by the Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia and the World Armenian Congress.
The award recognized the magazine as the laureate of the competition "Best Armenian Media Outlet in the Diaspora" and was presented by Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakopyan and World Armenian Congress President Ara Abrahamyan.
Today, Gibrahayer continues to serve as a platform connecting Armenians in Cyprus and beyond, preserving community identity while embracing the evolving landscape of digital media.
Fifteen years later, we are fortunate to have a website once again, thanks to the initiative and dedication of Maral Assilian. Her remarkable climb of Mount Kilimanjaro — widely followed online — combined with a crowdfunding effort, made this achievement possible.
We extend our sincere thanks to all contributors, readers, and supporters who have stood by Gibrahayer over the years. Your continued trust and engagement remain the foundation of everything we do.
