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Manal Younus
Writer, Spoken Word Poet, Public Speaker and Workshop Developer/Facilitator
Professional Background
Manal Younus, an accomplished freelance storyteller based in Australia, draws on her rich heritage from Eritrea to inform her writing and performance. An advocate for storytelling as a means of exploring fundamental aspects of life such as perseverance, identity, and truth, Younus has made a notable impact across various communities and artistic platforms. She has a robust professional history that includes pivotal roles in performance art, community engagement, and youth empowerment.
Beginning her career by studying at the University of South Australia, where she earned her Bachelor of International Relations, Manal has always been passionate about using her voice to empower others. Today, she serves as the Associate Director at ActNow Theatre, a role where she continually inspires those around her through innovative storytelling and performance art. Her prior experiences have included being an Operations and Community Engagement Coordinator at the Australian Red Cross, Assistant National Director at Welcome to Australia, and other noteworthy roles that showcase her dedication to social justice and multiculturalism.
Manal's remarkable journey in the arts took a significant turn in 2013 when she became a finalist at the Australian Poetry Slam National Finals, marking the beginning of her professional performance career. Since then, she has performed at iconic venues, including The Sydney Opera House, and has toured the country to showcase her poetic works. 2015 was a milestone year for Younus as she published her first poetry book, 'Reap,' which received positive acclaim and led to official launches in major cities like Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth.
Her love for storytelling is paralleled by her commitment to community outreach through workshops that facilitate writing, performance, public speaking, and intercultural awareness. Manal is ardently devoted to empowering youth and fostering intercultural dialogue, often collaborating with schools and community groups to help individuals find and develop their own storytelling voices.
Education and Achievements
Graduating with a Bachelor of International Relations from the University of South Australia, Manal Younus has cultivated a vast array of skills that bridge academia, the arts, and community engagement. Her education has been instrumental in shaping her perspective on global issues; it encourages her to tackle topics like migration, displacement, and racism through her performances and writing.
Notably, Manal has not only dedicated her career to artistic pursuits but has also contributed significantly to conferences and festivals. In 2016, she represented Australia at the Georgetown Literary Festival in Penang, Malaysia, an experience that highlighted her role as an ambassador for Australian arts and culture. She has also made her mark on prominent stages, such as the Adelaide TEDx Conference, and various multicultural festivals, showcasing her ability to connect diverse audiences through her unique narratives.
Furthermore, her involvement in reputable organizations as a speaker and workshop facilitator reflects her commitment to youth leadership and empowerment. Manal has had the honor of presenting at conferences such as the Halogen Foundation's Young Leaders Convention, the National Multicultural Women's Conference of 2016, the Adelaide Festival of Ideas, and the Council for International Schools Conference in 2017, among others. These engagements underscore her position as a thought leader and trailblazer in addressing critical social issues.
Achievements
Manal Younus's achievements are vast and varied, reflecting her multifaceted expertise and dedication to storytelling and community engagement. Some of her key achievements include:
- Finalist at Australian Poetry Slam National Finals in 2013: This experience served as an important launching pad for Manal's artistic career and opened doors for subsequent performances across the country.
- Published First Book of Poetry 'Reap' in 2015: This book was a significant milestone that showcased her unique voice and artistry, leading to a national tour for its promotion.
- Representative at Georgetown Literary Festival in Malaysia (2016): Manal's representation at this international literary festival highlighted her talent on a global stage and underscored her ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
- Performance and Workshops at Iconic Venues: From performing at The Sydney Opera House to facilitating workshops in schools and community groups, Manal has reached diverse audiences, nurturing their potential and encouraging them to share their stories.
- Participation in Influential Conferences and Events: Her presentations at events such as Adelaide TEDx, the National Multicultural Women's Conference, and the Open State Festival, among others, demonstrate her commitment to engaging with pressing social issues and inspiring change through narrative.
- Leadership Roles in Multiple Organizations: As a former Operations and Community Engagement Coordinator at the Australian Red Cross and other leadership roles, Manal has made considerable contributions to community development programs, emphasizing the importance of social impact and intercultural awareness.
In conclusion, Manal Younus stands out as an inspiring storyteller, thought leader, and community advocate with a commitment to promoting cultural understanding and empowerment through her art. Her journey from Eritrea to becoming a leading voice in Australian storytelling showcases the transformative power of language and performance in bringing people together, encouraging dialogue, and fostering a sense of belonging in the wider community.