ANNOUNCING 2025 FESTIVAL AWARD WINNERS

“The introduction of our inaugural awards program represents a pivotal moment for AFFA,” said Founders and Directors Hourie Demirjian and Margaret Chater. “As we enter our 9th Edition in 2025, we celebrate exceptional filmmaking of Armenian filmmakers worldwide. This year’s program exemplifies the calibre of work we’re proud to honour.”

The awards program underscores the festival’s evolution as Australia’s premier showcase of Armenian and diaspora cinema.

Award winners were announced at the Closing Ceremony in Sydney.

JURY AWARDS:

1. BEST FEATURE – NARRATIVE: The Reverse Side of the Medal by Anna Maxim Harutyunyan (Armenia)
2. BEST FEATURE – DOCUMENTARY: My Sweet Land by Sareen Hairabedian (Jordan, France, Ireland, USA)
3. BEST SHORT – Romeo by Marina Arzumanova (Armenia)

AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARDS:

1. BEST FEATURE FILM: Cup of Salvation by Jason Wise (USA)
2. BEST SHORT FILM: Black Hole by Gor Aroushanyan (Poland)

JURY AWARDS were selected by the 2025 Jury, comprised of the following members:

– Nanor Petrosyan – Acclaimed actress, director, and writer based in Yerevan
– Andy Simon – Award-winning journalist and filmmaker behind Armenia Uncovered
– Tatevik Ayvazyan – London-based producer and co-founder of AFF London
– Lilit Martirosyan – Yerevan-based producer and director at Combinat Production

Congratulations to all the winners.