The Sydney Jewish Writers Festival ran from 21-25 August 2024 at the Bondi Pavilion. We gathered against a backdrop of stunning ocean views to explore, speak, listen, write and dream. This year’s program theme was Genesis, SJWF 2024 was a true celebration of Jewish creativity, writing, authors, art and ideas. The Festival culminated with the inaugural Australian Jewish Book Awards and celebration of the shortlisted and winning authors.

For the first time, SJWF included two ‘Writers in Residence’ who attended sessions of their choosing. We hope you enjoy this session recap from our high school writer in residence, Judith Alia.

My Life as a Jew: Michael Gawenda in conversation with Vic Alhadeff OAM

The Sydney Jewish Writers Festival featured a wonderful sit-in conversation with award-winning author Michael Gawenda and Vic Alhadeff OAM, in which Michael’s latest book, “My Life as a Jew” was discussed in depth. The book itself contains a fascinating story detailing Michael’s Jewish journey and the challenges he was forced to combat along the way. As a former editor of The Age, Michael spoke about the stigma and unfair treatment that he faced as a Jewish journalist, as well as the numerous friendships and contacts that he had lost to political opinions concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict. Michael admits that “this was the hardest book I’ve ever written” due to the growing world-wide rise of antisemitism and the deeply personal nature of this particular book. This session, as well as Michael’s writing itself, was truly inspiring and instilled the audience with a desire to act for the Jewish community around the globe.