Sharing Circle with Hani Abdile and Mizgeen Barakat

Sharing Circle

We warmly invite multicultural storytellers, poets, and story partners to join us for a vibrant Sharing Circle.

Bring a story, a poem, a memory, or simply yourself. Together we'll gather over a cuppa to listen deeply, celebrate our diverse cultures, and honour the stories that connect us. Whether you speak, perform, or simply listen, your presence is part of the conversation.

This is a welcoming space for creators, emerging storytellers, and community members to share, inspire, and discover the power of their own voice. Every story matters, and every voice belongs.

PRESENTED BY: Word Travels and STARTTS
FACILITATORS: Hani Abdile and Mizgeen Barakat

Please register for free to be a part of this exciting initiative in creative endeavours.

Hani Abdile is a Somali-born spoken-word artist and cultural activist whose words resonate with raw emotion and social consciousness. 

Abdile uses her art to advocate for social justice and empowerment, particularly within migrant and refugee communities.  Based in the country of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, in Sydney. 

Hani’s first book of 43 poems, I Will Rise, was published by Writing Through Fences in 2016.  I Will Rise 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 throughout Australia. She 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’s work has appeared in ABC, The Sydney Morning Herald, Shark Island Productions, and she has received many awards for her community work and creative art.

Mizgeen Barakat is a community worker who is passionate about supporting women and families from multicultural backgrounds.  Barakat enjoys helping others, learning new skills, and building meaningful connections.  Barakat's goal is to make a positive difference in their community by providing support, encouragement, and practical assistance to those who need it.


This event features Australian Poetry Slam artists and is presented by Word Travels.

This project is supported by the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund, STARTTS and Coffs Harbour Libraries.

Content Warning: Most poetry and story events are all ages and some content may not be suitable for children. Performances may include strong language and / or adult themes.

Photo: Hani Abdile – photo credit Sunyata Cousens. Photo: Mizgeen Barakat

This event takes place at Level 1, Harry Bailey Memorial Library – Yarrila Place Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450