GUEST CURATOR – HANI ABDILE

“Story Week is a vibrant celebration where creative minds come together to share and collaborate. For me, stories are more than just words; they embody the courage to explore, the knowledge that guides our journey, and the understanding that transforms our perspectives. It’s hard to articulate the depth of insight we gain from festivals like this.

One of the things I cherish most about life in Australia is its rich tapestry of narratives—some are poignant, others uplifting, but all resonate with a collective desire for change. Even in our most challenging moments, stories spark laughter and foster meaningful conversations within our communities.

As we navigate the unique landscape of 2024, the world feels alive with possibilities and new challenges. Being part of the guest curation team has been a true privilege, allowing me to connect with fellow artists through phone calls and good old Zoom sessions, as we reflect on life and our shared passion for poetic expression.

My mission is to nurture platforms like this, as literature serves as our most profound record of history.”
Hani Abdile: Story Week 2024 Guest Curator – Chasing Home: A Journey of Resilience

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Hani Abdile is a writer, student and spoken word poet based in the country of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, in Sydney. Hani was forced to leave her home country of Somalia and came to Australia seeking protection in 2014. During her 11 months in immigration detention, she found healing in poetry and developed a love for writing.

Her first book of 43 poems, I will rise, was published by Writing Through Fences in 2016 and explores how the power of our collective voices can help shape the world to be a better place, for the next generation.  

Hani has performed her work around Sydney and interstate and continues to write for freedom and human rights.

Hani is an honorary member of PEN International, a lead member of Writing Through Fences, and an Ambassador for the Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS).

Hani has received numerous awards for her community work and creative art.