2024
Stories of Fortitude & Renewal

A warm and poignant finale to Writers Fête ’24 brought together remarkable writers who have forged a deep friendship. Laotian and Syrian refugees, Souvankham Thammavongsa and Jamal Saeed, captivated the audience with stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph, evoking both tears and laughter. They shared their journeys of finding meaning during challenging times and creating a sense of belonging in unfamiliar places. 

Lawrence Scanlan highlighted the profound difference one person’s actions can make, while host Frances Itani inspired everyone with a powerful call to action: “Tell your stories.” Together, they celebrated the human spirit’s remarkable ability to overcome adversity and embrace hope for a brighter future. 

A beautiful and moving conversation in a fabulous venue—an unforgettable experience!