SPEAKERS & SPECIAL GUESTS

Fuad Akhundov

An inquisitive researcher, an enthusiastic guide, and a beloved historian of Baku, Fuad Akhundov is an Azerbaijani journalist, researcher, TV presenter, lecturer, simultaneous interpreter, and tour guide.

Fuad has been a frequent and cherished guest at our events. His lectures and seminars captivate audiences with their depth, storytelling, and charm. He brings history to life with passion and precision, making each appearance unforgettable.

Mansura Mammadaliyeva

An art historian, critic, and researcher, Mansura Mammadaliyeva holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Art History from the Azerbaijan State Academy of Fine Arts. With over a decade of experience at the Azerbaijan National Museum of Art, she has contributed to various departments and engaged deeply with the museum field.

Her research focuses on gender in art, the creative legacy of women artists within patriarchal systems, and the representation of women’s artworks in museum spaces. She regularly writes articles, conducts research, and delivers talks on these topics.

Currently, Mansura is advancing her curatorial skills at YARAT Contemporary Art School, specializing in the fundamentals of curatorial practice.

Anna Goncharova

An art historian and art manager with international training from MoMA, the University of Melbourne, and Sotheby’s, Anna Goncharova is the founder of cultural initiatives across three countries. With over 100 lectures and art brunches to her name, she helps audiences see the art world through a fresh and inspiring lens.

Anna has hosted numerous events with us at Cult Baku, including art meetups and engaging lectures on artists, fashion brands, and the intersection of fashion and art.

Fuad Osmanov

Fuad Osmanov is an acclaimed Azerbaijani actor and recipient of the honorary title People’s Artist of Azerbaijan(2021). With a distinguished career in theater and film, he is widely respected for his powerful performances and contributions to Azerbaijani performing arts.

Fuad Osmanov was a special guest at our “Unveiling Orwell” event, where his presence and participation added exceptional depth and emotional resonance to the program. His involvement brought a unique artistic perspective that greatly enriched the audience’s experience.

Anna Ibragimbekova

Anna Ibragimbekova is a photographer and the director of the Maksud Ibragimbekov Creativity Center in Baku. With over two decades of experience, her photography captures atmosphere, light, and reflection through a conceptual and emotionally rich lens.

The center she leads is dedicated to the legacy of her husband, Maksud Ibragimbekov — one of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated writers, playwrights, and intellectuals. His work deeply shaped Azerbaijani literature and cinema, and his humanist vision continues to inspire generations.

Anna has frequently taken part in our events as a special guest, generously sharing her artistic perspective and her connection to Baku’s cultural life.

Alex Solely

Alex Solely is an award-winning musician, composer, and pianist who represents the modern classical music scene. His work blends emotional depth with contemporary sensibilities, creating immersive musical experiences.

Alex performed his signature “A Quiet Concert” at our club — bringing this unique format to Baku for the very first time. The evening invited the audience into a space of calm, focus, and deep listening.

Katarzhina Koch


Katarzhina Koch is a graduate of the CASA Culinary Arts School and a talented chef. She is the personal chef of the Brazilian ambassador and an expert in Latin American cuisine. Her deep passion for this culinary tradition is reflected in her sophisticated menus, showcasing the rich flavors and cultural diversity of Brazilian gastronomy.

Katarzhina was the chef behind our Brazilian dinners at the club, bringing unforgettable taste and atmosphere to each evening.

Sabina Gasimova

Sabina Gasimova is the owner of Ala Miche Bakery and a passionate baker dedicated to crafting high-quality, delicious baked goods. Her creations are known for their authentic flavors and artisanal approach, bringing people together through the joy of fresh bread and pastries.

Club hosted a special brunch with Sabina, where guests enjoyed a warm and memorable culinary experience featuring her signature baked delights.

Anar Heydarov


Anar Heydarov is a specialist in strategic management, leadership, and non-verbal communication. He studied in the United States and Russia and is a graduate of Harvard Business School.

Anar joined us at the club for the event “The Art of Diplomacy and Body Language”, where he shared valuable insights into communication and leadership through presence and gesture

Aliya Aghazadeh

Aliya Agazadeh has 28 years of experience at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. At our event “The Art of Diplomacy and Body Language”, she spoke about the role of women in diplomacy and the importance of balancing professional strength with personal intuition.

Elena Gridnevskaya

Elena Gridnevskaya is an acclaimed international photography artist whose award-winning work captures the spirit and soul of each subject through her lens. Her photography reflects a deep emotional connection and a unique visual storytelling style.

Elena took part in our event “Photography That Changed the World”, where she shared powerful stories behind her images and offered inspiring insights into the role of photography in shaping perception and history.

Nagi Nagiyev

Nagi Nagiev brings miniature imagery to life through ceramics, drawing inspiration from timeless works like Seven Beauties and Leyli and Majnun. Each detail of his art reflects a deep reverence for history and the national cultural heritage he has devoted decades to preserving.

As part of our program, the club visited Nagi’s workshop, where guests had the chance to experience his creative process up close and immerse themselves in the world of Azerbaijani visual storytelling.

Mubariz Akperov

Mubariz Akperov is a master of metal art whose handcrafted daggers, swords, and sabers preserve Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage while earning recognition far beyond its borders. His work blends historical precision with artistic craftsmanship, often echoing the spirit of the medieval era.

As part of our program, the club visited Mubariz’s workshop, where guests witnessed the artistry behind his creations and explored the rich symbolism embedded in every blade.

Elena Hagverdiyeva


Elena Hagverdiyeva is a distinguished Azerbaijani artist and Honored Artist of Azerbaijan, known for her poetic and expressive works that explore themes of memory, culture, and nature. Her art has been exhibited internationally — in France, Austria, Georgia, Russia, Kazakhstan, and beyond.

Her creative path has been deeply connected with the legacy of the late Ujal Hagverdiyev, People’s Artist of Azerbaijan, with whom she shared not only a life in art, but also meaningful joint exhibitions — including the memorable Two Hearts, One Destiny.

Elena has been a special guest at many of our events, offering thoughtful insights into her work and the wider Azerbaijani art scene.

Irada Agamoglanova


Irada Agamoglanova is an art manager at QGallery Baku, a gallery that exclusively represents some of the finest works of contemporary Azerbaijani art. With deep experience in the local art scene, she shares valuable insights on art etiquette, gallery culture, and the nuances of self-presentation at exhibitions.

As a guest at our event as a special guest, Irada offered a practical and engaging perspective on how to navigate the art world with confidence and respect.