Povo Launch

Australia is often referred to as The Lucky Country — a land of economic opportunity and vast natural resources. But how does this myth square up against the true experiences of Indigenous and culturally diverse Australians living in our nation’s most densely populated regions?

In this original and eclectic new anthology, thirty-seven emerging and established writers from First Nations, migrant and refugee backgrounds reveal the true wealth and beauty of Australia’s cultural melting pots.

Presenter Bios:

Adam Novaldy Anderson is a mixed-race Australian-Indonesian writer and activist. He grew up on Gomeroi land in Tamworth, and is currently based out of Narwee, Dharawal land, in Sydney’s south-west. Adam’s short stories and essays have appeared in various anthologies and publications. He is the editor of Povo(Sweatshop, 2024).

Forever Tupou is a Palawa and Tongan director-choreographer, writer and DJ from Marrickville. She holds a Master of Fine Arts (Directing) degree from the National Institute of Dramatic Art and Certificate IV qualifications in Dance and Performing Arts from Ev & Bow Full Time Dance Training Centre and Urban Dance Centre. 

Daniel Nour is an Egyptian-Australian writer. His works have been published in various platforms, including, The New York Times, SBS Voices, Meanjin and Griffith Review. Daniel is currently working on his debut novel as the recipient of the 2021 Affirm Press Mentorship for Sweatshop Writers.

Natalia Figueroa Barroso is a Uruguayan-Australian writer from Penrith. She has degrees in Communication and Media from the University of Technology (Sydney). Natalia has been published widely in SBS Voices, Kindling & Sage and various print anthologies such as Sweatshop Women, between Two Worlds and Povo. Natalia is currently working on her debut novel Hailstones Fell Without Rain (UQP, 2025)

Yasir Elgamil is a Sudanese writer, raised between Sudan and Dharug Country, currently residing in the latter. Yasir holds a Bachelor of Arts/Science, with a major in English from Macquarie University. His debut short story is published in Povo (Sweatshop. 2024).

Katie Shammas is a Palestinian Australian living on the lands of the Darug people in north-west Sydney. She studied English Literature and Environmental Science and now works in the environment and sustainability sector. She has been published inRed Room Poetry, Kindling & Sage, Meanjin and Povo(Sweatshop, 2024).

Winnie Dunn is a Tongan-Australian writer and editor from Mount Druitt. She is also the General Manager of Sweatshop Literacy Movement. Winnie’s debut novel is Dirt Poor Islanders (Hachette, 2024).