Balash Kasumov Media manager, what? where? when? Date of Birth: 20.10.1978 Country: Azerbaijan

1. Childhood and Early Life
2. Education and Early Career
3. Media Career
4. "What? Where? When?"
5. Personal Life
6. Present Role

Childhood and Early Life

Balash Kasumov, born Balakişi Qasumov on October 20, 1978, in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a media executive, television producer, and host. The eldest of four brothers, Balash inherited leadership qualities and a strong sense of responsibility. As a child, he was drawn to outdoor activities, playing football and engaging in street fights not out of aggression, but to establish his self-reliance.

Education and Early Career

After completing secondary school, Balash pursued a degree in Engineering Economics and Management at the Azerbaijan State Economic University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in 1999 and a master's degree in 2001. For four years, he worked as a financial consultant and business plan writer in the banking industry.

Media Career

Balash's career path took a significant turn when he transitioned to television, combining his passion for "What? Where? When?" with his professional endeavors. In 2007, he became the head of GameTV.az, a production center responsible for intellectual television programs in Azerbaijan. Under his leadership, international license projects such as Brainist, "Brain-Ring," and "What? Where? When?" were launched in the country. Balash not only produced the Azerbaijani version of the renowned game but also hosted it as well.

"What? Where? When?"

Balash's association with "What? Where? When?" began in 1993. Initially a spectator, he eventually formed his own team. Through perseverance and accumulated experience, his team began to achieve victories, competing in the game at various tournaments across the globe.

In 2007, Balash led a team of renowned "What? Where? When?" players to compete in Moscow. The team, composed of Dmitry Avdeenko, Yulia Lazareva, Mikhail Skipsky, Elizaveta Ovdeenko, and Vladimir Antokhin (later replaced by Elman Talıbov), has collectively won numerous "Crystal Owl" and "Diamond Owl" trophies. In 2010, Balash received the "Best Captain of the Club" award.

Personal Life

Balash maintains a private personal life, emphasizing the traditional Eastern values of respecting the boundaries of family and personal details. He is happily married with two children. His strong faith in God and belief in an afterlife guide his moral compass. Despite his avoidance of an active lifestyle, Balash enjoys sleeping, playing video games, or simply relaxing during his free time.

Present Role

Balash Kasumov currently serves as the General Director of iTV Azerbaijan. He remains the host of the Azerbaijani televersion of "What? Where? When?" and continues to lead his team in the ongoing series of games broadcast on Russia's Channel One.