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“This book began as something of a practitioner’s manual for refugee settlement. But as I researched it, I realised I couldn’t write about the refugee experience without describing my own. This book is not a comprehensive history of the expulsion of the Bhutanese, the camps in Nepal, the democratic movement that sought repatriation of the refugees, or of the settlement of Bhutanese refugees in Australia and other countries. It is above all one person’s story, an attempt to share what I saw and learnt during my struggle, shared by so many migrants, to bring my family together in one place; my search for belonging.”
Panel discussion with Hon Andrew Giles, Minister for Immigration and Sandra Elhelw, CEO of SCOA, moderated by Hon Kate Thwaites MP.
Panel discussion with Gillian Aldridge OAM, Mayor of City of Salisbury, Hari Sharma, a community leader and Blur Abdulla, incoming manager of AMES SA, moderated by Michael Schult, Manager AMES SA.
Panel discussion with AFL player Akech Makur Chuot and Hedayat Osyan, moderated by SBS Director Mandi Wicks.
In conversation with Mridula Amin, an award-winning journalist and a photographer.
In conversation with Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, the Governor of South Australia.
Book signing with Kamal Dahal, a community leader and Dr Gopal Siwakoti, President INHURED International.
In conversation with Fran Kelly, a TV and radio host and one of Australia’s leading interviewers and commentators.
Moderated by co-author James Button a panel discussion with Cath Scarth, CEO of AMES Australia along with Liza and Jalal who shared their lived experience perspective.
Panel discussion with James and I, moderated by Elly Varrenti, a freelance writer, actress and broadcaster.
Speaking about Bhutan to Blacktown at the World Community Development Conference in Darwin.
Panel discussion with Violet Roumeliotis, CEO of Settlement Services International moderated by Professor Jane McAdam.
James and I on a panel discussion with Elfa Moraitakis, CEO of SydWest Multicultural Services.
“His story isn’t just inspirational – it’s a lesson to us all in compassion, dignity, and the importance of understanding where humanitarian entrants are coming from and walking in their shoes.The more we can offer agency to refugees and humanitarian entrants, the better the outcomes will be.”
– Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs
“Having finished the book last week, I cannot recommend it highly enough. We will be buying a few copies to have in each office as well. I feel privileged to know Om and call him a friend and I know his ongoing work at Fairwater is a crucial ingredient to the success of that project and that community. The impact he has had on so many lives and the unwavering energy he has to improve the wellbeing of others is an amazing legacy and we are so lucky to have him on our team.”
– Anthony Boyd, CEO, Frasers Property Australia
“You are a remarkable human being, Om Dhungel! It was an absolute pleasure and honour listening to you speak today and hearing parts of your life story! Your positivity is infectious and you are an incredibly resilient person, who has clearly achieved so much in your life. We are blessed to have you here in Australia and there are so many Bhutanese refugees who have benefited from your advocacy and assistance. Keep up the great work and thank you for everything you do!”
– Suzannah Brook, Teacher, Adelaide
“Brilliant book, It’s kept me up the last few nights! Inspirational story that celebrates life and family. Unofficial Mayor of Fairwater.”
– Cameron Jackson, General Manager, Frasers Property Australia
© 2024 Om Dhungel