From Silence to Spotlight
In 2010, Mikael Kchanyan, known as MC Mike, attended a local dance bar as a guest. By chance, he ended up on stage, and that same night, he was offered a job. Grabbing the microphone, he felt an immediate connection, realizing that entertaining and inspiring people was his true calling. However, this moment was the culmination of a long journey overcoming deep-seated fears.
Overcoming Childhood Trauma
At the age of five, a traumatic event caused Mike to become extremely self-conscious, making it impossible for him to dance in front of others, even his parents. He spent years in the shadows, longing to express himself freely like those around him. At eighteen, he began going out, not to party, but to confront his fears. A little alcohol gave him the courage to move and feel again. Stepping onto a stage for the first time, he didn’t run from his fear; he danced with it. For now Mike is sober for 14 years already.
A Career Built on Courage
Mike’s early performances were marred by intense anxiety. He would shake uncontrollably and even vomit before going on stage. Despite this, he persisted, performing over a hundred times while battling his fears. As he continued, the stages grew larger, from clubs and festivals to national events and even the Olympics in Sochi 2014. He hosted a radio show that broadcasted across an entire country. Each new level brought new challenges, but he faced them head-on, emerging victorious each time.
Fatherhood: His Greatest Achievement
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mike considers being a father his greatest achievement. His two daughters transformed his perspective on life, making him softer, stronger, and more human. Their love is a source of endless pride and motivation for him.
Building a Community in Dubai
Currently based in Dubai, Mike is focused on building a community of like-minded individuals who seek freedom, self-expression, and joy. Through weekly events, he creates spaces where people can be themselves without judgment. His vision is to expand this community into a movement and eventually a music festival that embodies freedom, joy, and connection. As an MC, he believes it’s not just about holding the mic but about holding space for people to be unapologetically themselves.
The Vision: Mike Tower
Looking ahead, Mike envisions the creation of the “Mike Tower,” a 100-story building where dreamers and innovators from around the world can bring their ideas to life. This tower would offer financial, emotional, and professional support, fostering creativity and belief in what’s possible. His mission is to help people rise and, through them, make the world shine a little brighter.
Lessons Learned
Throughout his journey, Mike has learned that the heart always knows the way. In times of doubt, listening to that quiet inner voice can guide you. He emphasizes the importance of daring to dream beyond reason, as big dreams provide meaning and fuel. Authenticity, he believes, is not a strategy but a foundation. Being real and fully yourself is what truly connects with people and leaves a lasting impression.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Mike hopes to be remembered as someone who inspired others simply by being himself. He doesn’t seek fame but wants to be the kind of person others speak about with pride. Most importantly, he wants his daughters to say, with love and pride, “That was my dad.” In the industry, he doesn’t define himself by clubs or nightlife; those are just tools. His real work is with people, bringing light into dark rooms and making people feel seen, free, and alive—even if just for one night. Because sometimes, one night is all it takes to change a life, as it did for him.
Connect with MC Mike
- Instagram: @mcmikeofficial
- LinkedIn: Mikael Kchanyan
- Email: mcmikeuae@gmail.com
- Phone: +971 52 501 6969
Also read: UAE Residents Must Update Emirates ID with Fingerprints Soon
Also read: UAE Residents Must Update Emirates ID with Fingerprints Soon
