A Sweetly Bittersweet Film
On October 26, 2025, the Chicago chapter of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) opened its AREV Film Series at the Glenview Public Library. This program is the first initiative of the Kazarian-AGBU/Chicago Armenian Humanities Festival, a continuing celebration of Armenian heritage and culture within the city.
The First Film: “My Sweet Land”
The opening film, “My Sweet Land,” directed by filmmaker Sareen Hairabedian, tells the story of Artsakh Armenians through the eyes of a young boy named Vrej. The documentary portrays the struggles and courage of people living amid the tragic recent history of the Republic of Artsakh.
About the Filmmaker
Sareen Hairabedian, who grew up in Jordan in a family passionate about the arts, pursued her studies at the American University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in film and media studies. In 2016, she founded her own production company, HAI Creative. Through it, she has collaborated with organizations such as HBO, Sesame Workshop, and UN Women to produce media centered on pressing social themes.
Her Creative Vision
Hairabedian’s work is recognized for its deeply personal and human-centered approach. She often draws attention to marginalized voices, crafting emotionally charged documentaries that explore resilience and identity. Her distinctive storytelling has earned her multiple awards and widespread respect within the documentary film community.
“My Sweet Land” captures the enduring spirit of a people who continue to find strength and hope in the face of loss and displacement.
For many in the Armenian diaspora, the documentary also evokes memories of the 2008 mass wedding ceremony in Artsakh — a poignant moment that became a symbol of endurance and collective renewal.
Author’s Summary
This reflective account celebrates Sareen Hairabedian’s compassionate storytelling, highlighting how her film “My Sweet Land” honors the memory and resilience of the Armenian community.