"They Won Through Living" is a documentary that delves into the lives of orphaned girls who found refuge and resilience in the Near East Relief Orphanages in Alexandrapol/Gyumri during the turbulent years from 1919 to 1930/31. Directed by Ani Manukyan and produced by Lilit Mkhitaryan, the 55-minute film is based on the book of the same name and weaves together the voices of survivors with those of their daughters and granddaughters, who reflect on the lasting legacy of survival and memory passed down through generations.
The documentary is presented in Armenian with English subtitles.
They Won Through Living will be available for screening from April 11 to May 11, as part of our commemorative programme marking the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
About the Director
Ani Manukyan is a linguist, holding a PhD in English Teaching Methodology. She also specializes in American Studies. Her experience includes being a visiting scholar at Arizona State University’s School of Historical, Philosophical, and Religious Studies in 2013, where she developed a course on American Studies for Armenian Universities. In 2014, A. Manukyan contributed to Yerevan State University’s joint MA program with ASU by creating two courses focused on women’s leadership and political transition. Passionate about translation, she has brought important works from Armenian to English and vice versa, most notably translating Souren Hannesian’s “Through the Depths”, a survivor’s account of the Armenian Genocide. Following the release of “They Won Through Living”; in 2022, A. Manukyan continued her literary journey with the publication of her second book, “Crossed Destinies” (novel, 2023). Through her work, she endeavor to preserve and share the stories of resilience and strength that define her heritage.
