“They Won Through Living”: A book, a film and a mission to preserve memory
By Ani Manukyan
In 2022, my book They Won Through Living was published, telling the powerful story of 34 orphaned Armenian girls who found refuge in the Near East Relief orphanages of Alexandropol (now Gyumri). Among these stories of resilience is that of my grandmother, whose survival and the experiences of her peers in the aftermath of the Armenian Genocide are testaments to the strength of the human spirit. Two years later, in 2024, a feature-length documentary based on the book brought their stories to the screen. This film went on to win Best Short Documentary at the prestigious Pomegranate International Film Festival in Canada, ensuring that their voices would not fade into history.
Yet, my journey with this project did not stop with the book or the film. Inspired by the need to engage younger generations in the study of their past, I launched the Root and Sprout project, an initiative designed to help Armenian middle schoolers explore their own family histories. Through this program, students uncover and document their ancestral stories, making history personal and tangible. In 2024, a selection of the most compelling narratives from the student writing contest (22) were chosen for publication and preservation, further amplifying these vital family histories.
The Root and Sprout project is more than an educational endeavor; it is a bridge between generations. The students not only learn about their ancestors but also develop research skills, conduct interviews with family members, analyze historical photographs and documents, and present their findings in an annual essay competition. This approach fosters a deep, personal connection to history and empowers young Armenians to become the keepers of their family legacies.
As I continue this work, I invite those who believe in the power of storytelling to join me in this mission. Whether through reading They Won Through Living, watching the documentary, or supporting the Root and Sprout project, each act of engagement contributes to the preservation of Armenian history and identity.
Our past survives through memory, and our future depends on how we choose to carry those memories forward. Through books, films and educational initiatives, we ensure that the stories of survival and resilience remain alive for generations to come.
