There's something electric about a room full of people who understand that representation matters. When the Armenian Film Society announced its fourth annual Armenian Women in Film event, it wasn't just another panel discussion—it was a recognition that Armenian women have been quietly reshaping cinema, one frame at a time.
On Monday, March 23, Vertigo in Glendale will host an extraordinary gathering of Armenian women who have left indelible marks on the film industry. The evening brings together Arsinée Khanjian, the internationally renowned actress known for her collaborations with Atom Egoyan; Christine Haroutounian, an independent filmmaker carving her own path; Madeline Sharafian, whose Pixar short "Burrow" earned an Academy Award nomination; and Teni Melidonian, the Academy's Chief Oscars Officer who works behind the scenes of cinema's biggest night.
Moderating this powerhouse panel is none other than Sona Movsesian, Conan O'Brien's longtime assistant who has become a beloved personality in her own right, bringing her signature wit and warmth to the conversation.
Arsinée Khanjian's career spans decades of critically acclaimed performances, particularly in films exploring diaspora, identity, and displacement—themes that resonate deeply within the Armenian experience. Her work with director Atom Egoyan has earned international recognition, making her one of the most respected Armenian actresses on the global stage.
Madeline Sharafian represents a new generation of Armenian storytellers at major studios. Her 2020 Pixar short "Burrow" charmed audiences worldwide with its tale of a young rabbit learning to ask for help—a universal story told with the kind of heart that earned it an Oscar nomination. In interviews, Sharafian has spoken about how her Armenian heritage influences her approach to storytelling, emphasizing community and connection.
The panel format promises intimate revelations about the realities of working in film—the successes that make headlines and the setbacks that rarely get discussed. These women will reflect on the defining moments that shaped their careers, offering insights that go beyond typical industry advice.
The Armenian Women in Film event begins with a VIP cocktail hour at 6pm, giving attendees the opportunity to network with the speakers in a more intimate setting. The main panel discussion starts at 7:30pm, with general admission tickets available for those who want to experience the conversation without the pre-event reception.
This gathering is particularly meaningful during International Women's Month, as it highlights not just individual achievement but collective progress. The Armenian Film Society, through events like this, creates space for community members to see themselves reflected in professional success stories, to ask questions, and to imagine their own paths forward.
Sponsored by PTD Business Management, Wonder Project, and Strobia Foundation, the event demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting and celebrating Armenian women in creative fields. It's an investment in visibility, in mentorship, and in the future of Armenian storytelling.
For young Armenian women dreaming of careers in film, seeing Khanjian, Sharafian, Haroutounian, and Melidonian on one stage sends a powerful message: the path exists because others have walked it, and they're willing to share the map.
Tickets are available now, with VIP admission at $100 and general admission at $50. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a film enthusiast, or simply someone who believes in the power of representation, this is an evening that promises both inspiration and practical wisdom from women who've navigated one of the world's most challenging industries while carrying their Armenian identity with pride.
