celebrASIA Panel: Telling stories, fact & fiction

New for celebrASIA 2026, we are hosting a series of expert panel talks exploring storytelling, food, fashion, heritage and culture.

How do we tell stories of ourselves that are authentic and celebratory, but that also don’t shy away from difficult truths?

Join renowned authors Ivy Ngeow, Khairani Barokka, Nicola Dinan and Will Harris for an engaging discussion that delves deep into the art of storytelling and the profound influence of identity on narrative. This thought-provoking conversation will explore how we can share our personal tales in ways that are both authentic and celebratory, while also confronting the challenging truths that shape our experiences. Discover the nuances of crafting stories that resonate, challenge, and inspire, as these talented writers share their insights and perspectives.

About your hosts:

Ivy Ngeow is the author of ‘The American Boyfriend, ‘ which won the Singapore Book Awards 2024 for Best Marketing. She is the commissioning editor of the Asian Anthology New Writing series.

Khairani Barokka is a writer, poet and artist. Among her honours, she has been a UNFPA Indonesian Young Leader Driving Social Change and the first non-British Associate Artist at the UK’s National Centre for Writing.

Nicola Dinan’s debut novel ‘Bellies’ was nominated for six literary prizes and won the Polari First Book Prize. Her second novel ‘Disappoint Me’ also won the New Adult Book Prize.

Will Harris is the author of the poetry books ‘RENDANG’ and ‘Brother Poem’. He has won the Forward Prize for Best First Collection and been shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot Prize.

Location: Arches Lane Theatre, Circus West Village, Battersea Power Station
Ticket Price: £15 + booking fees
Age Restriction: 16+
Date & Time: Sunday 13th September, 3:30pm-4:30pm

Booking Info: We strongly recommend pre-booking to avoid disappointment, walk-ins welcome based on availability.

Please note: audio may be recorded during this event and used at our discretion. If you want to ask a question and do not wish to be recorded, please inform a member of staff on the day.