Hairenik Media launches new YouTube series “Hye Roots” featuring George Aghjayan

BOSTON—Hairenik Media is proud to announce the launch of its new YouTube video program, “Hye Roots,” a groundbreaking series dedicated to uncovering the genealogy stories of Armenian families and their connections to the Armenian Highlands. Hosted by renowned genealogist George Aghjayan, “Hye Roots” aims to shine a light on Armenia’s rich history and enduring legacy through deeply personal and inspiring family narratives.
Through meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, George Aghjayan will explore the unique journeys of Armenian families whose roots trace back to the Armenian Highlands, painting a vivid picture of the great history and culture that were tragically erased by the Armenian Genocide. The program offers a meaningful opportunity to connect the dots of Armenian heritage, revealing how Armenian families remain resilient and interconnected across the globe.

“Hye Roots” is more than a genealogy series; it’s a celebration of Armenian history, identity and perseverance. Each episode will delve into the stories of ancestors, uncovering family records, photographs and oral histories to piece together the fabric of a shared Armenian past. By illuminating these connections, the series hopes to inspire Armenians worldwide to explore their own family roots and foster a deeper understanding of their collective heritage.
“The Armenian Genocide fractured our connection to the homeland, but it could not erase the strength of our identity and the bonds that tie us together,” said George Aghjayan. “Through ‘Hye Roots,’ we hope to not only honor our ancestors but also ensure that their stories become a bridge to our future.”
The first episode of “Hye Roots” will premiere on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 on Hairenik Media’s YouTube channel, which can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/@hairenik. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe to the channel to stay updated on new episodes as they are released. The series will also be featured on Hairenik Media’s Facebook page, ensuring that it reaches a global audience eager to reconnect with their Armenian heritage.
The debut episode sets the tone for the series with an in-depth exploration of George Aghjayan’s own family roots. Viewers will follow George as he uncovers records and personal anecdotes tracing his ancestors back to their ancestral village in the Armenian Highlands. The episode highlights how his family’s story mirrors the broader narrative of Armenian resilience and survival in the face of unimaginable hardship. By sharing his personal journey, George invites viewers to embark on their own path of discovery and sets a deeply emotional and engaging foundation for the episodes to come.
Future episodes will expand on this format, exploring the histories of other Armenian families and communities, uncovering hidden stories and piecing together fragments of a history that has often been obscured by time and displacement. With each new episode, “Hye Roots” aims to construct a mosaic of Armenian identity and heritage, reminding viewers of the enduring strength of their culture and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations.
“We want this series to inspire a global community of Armenians to rediscover their family histories and take pride in their heritage,” said Aghjayan. “Each story is a vital piece of a larger puzzle, and together, they tell the story of who we are as a people.”
The launch of “Hye Roots” marks an exciting new chapter for Hairenik Media, as it continues its mission to promote Armenian culture, history and identity through innovative media platforms. By combining archival research with modern storytelling, the series promises to resonate with Armenians of all generations and backgrounds.
About the Hairenik Association: Founded in 1899, the Hairenik Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting Armenian culture, language and history. Through its publications, multimedia platforms and community initiatives, the organization seeks to inspire Armenians worldwide and strengthen their connection to their heritage.
Did an interview with George on February 12.
George is great and has helped me find out a lot of information on my grandmother who survived a death march.
Thank you so much.
Cool, Greg! Aloha from Erika Mark’s friend.