15 October- 14 November 2023: Personal Journal 7
Welcome to the seventh installment of my monthly journal, where I share my endeavors in championing Nepali literature and writers (AB) while staying true to my vision. I invite you to journey along and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich my learning and endeavors.
Third Book Donation Program at Max Webber Library - Monday, October 16, 2023
Continuing with my plan, I organized the third book donation program, presenting a total of 16 books by Nepali authors. These books, authored by Dhruba Hari Adikary, Dinesh Adikari, Tej Parkash Shrestha, Shashwat Parajuli, Bibek Raj Acharya, Ram Prasad Koirala, Sima Roshi Acharya, and Saurav Kiran Shrestha, were graciously handed over to Margaret Redrup-May, Coordinator of Outreach Programs. I express immense gratitude to Joelmon Zungar, the Librarian of Multi-cultural Services, for his unwavering support. Additionally, discussions on organizing workshops for local authors from diverse communities were initiated.
The donated books included:
- "Night Guest," "Manly Romanch," and "Blowhole Muskan" by Tej Parkash Shrestha.
- "The Eyes of Swayambhu" and "Bijaya Raj Acharya’s Children’s Stories" by Bijaya Raj Acharya.
- "Kasko Ho Yo Anda?" and "Talau Najikaiko Gunda" by Saurav Kiran Shrestha.
- "Ratiko Sathi" and "Bicharo Bukhyacha" by Shashwat Parlajuli.
- "Mangal Grahako Yatra" by Sima Roshi Acharya.
- "Meri Uni R Ma" by Ram Prasad Koirala.
- "Jangalko Katha Jangalko Vyatha" by Dinesh Adhikari.
- "Mero Vishwas Mero Manyata 1 & 2," "Sandarbha and Vichaar," and "Sampadaklai Chitthi" by Dhurba Hari Adikari.
Picture Book Writing Prize 2023 Announcement and Picture Book Lunch - Tuesday, October 31, 2023
I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the picture book 'Paper-Flower Girl,' penned by Margrete Lamond and illustrated by Mateja Jager at WestWords in Parramatta. The event showcased emerging picture book writers, illustrators, and dedicated publishers like Dirt Lane Press. Heartfelt congratulations to both the author and illustrator for creating such a remarkable piece of work.
During the event, Michael Campbell, Executive Director/Publishing Director, announced the winner of the Picture Book Competition centered around the theme of 'BELONGING.' I was honored to become one of the two runner-ups for the writing prize, entitling me to a one-on-one Story Coaching Package with Margrete Lamond from Dirt Lane Press. My congratulations extend to all the winning writers and illustrators, including Libby Hyett, Zoe Gaetjens, Natasha Hagarty, Estee Sarsfield, and Tyswan Slater.
SydWest AGM and Book Launch - Thursday, November 2, 2023
SydWest Multicultural Services celebrated its 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) by launching a remarkable book, 'Bhutan Migration History: A Life in Three Countries,' penned by Virginia McLeod. The launch was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Mereline MurimwaRarami, featuring Mark Coure MP, Om Dhungel, and Virginia McLeod.
This insightful book sheds light on the untold journeys of Australian Bhutanese refugees, akin to 'Bhutan to Blacktown’ written by Om Dhungel. SydWest, a prominent organization in Western Sydney, has been steadfastly promoting multiculturalism, and it has been my privilege to work with them for the past 5 years. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the SydWest board members, CEO Elfa Moraitakis, and the entire leadership team for their unwavering dedication in fostering a multicultural society.
Paris Rosemont's 'Banana Girl' Book Launch - Wednesday, November 8, 2023
I joined the celebration of my colleague Paris Rosemont's debut poetry collection, 'Banana Girl,' at a launch event hosted at WestWords. Witnessing Paris's journey and dedication to becoming a published author was both prideful and inspiring. I conveyed my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for her future creative endeavors.
Paris's poetry delves into deeply personal yet universally relatable themes, exploring aspects of love, loss, heartbreak, lust, sex, violence, and the intricate dynamics of shifting power, accompanied by social commentary. Being a second-generation Asian-Australian, Paris bravely addresses issues of identity and displacement, reclaiming power through her literary expression.
This month marked a continuation of my literary engagements and community initiatives. It began with a significant book donation program, channeling the voices of Nepali authors into the Max Webber Library. I am pleased to share that I stood proudly as a runner-up in the Picture Book Writing Prize, earning a valuable Story Coaching Package.
Additionally, I attended and celebrated two book launch events: 'Bhutan Migration History: A Life in Three Countries' by Virginia McLeod and 'Banana Girl' by Paris Rosemont. These experiences have contributed to nurturing the creative spirit within the rich tapestry of our multicultural community.
As these events unfolded, they served as meaningful milestones in my ongoing journey, reinforcing the profound belief that literature serves as a powerful instrument for fostering unity, understanding, and the celebration of diverse human stories.
