Fold 2026: Writing the Real - Making Memoir

In partnership with the .

In this in-person panel discussion, memoirists Roza Nozari and Ardra Shephard sit down with moderator Hudson Lin for an engaging conversation about writing nonfiction that is personal, purposeful, and resonant.

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Q&A and book signing to follow.

Roza and Ardra's books will be available to purchase onsite.

ROZA NOZARI is a writer, artist and therapist based in Tkaronto (“Toronto”) and known as YallaRoza on social media. Her work weaves together writing and visual art to share stories of wounding, healing and community. It invites radical reimaginings of our world, towards one more invested in cross-generational, collective healing and liberation. She is the author of , and an illustrator of three children’s books: Little People, Big Dreams’ Mindy Kaling (2021), Fluffy and the Stars (2023) and The Anti-Racist Kitchen (2023). Her illustrations have been featured locally and internationally—from university campuses to sports arenas and pride festivals.

ARDRA SHEPHARD is the author of (Douglas & McIntyre, 2025), nominated for the 2026 Forest of Reading® Evergreen Award™. She is the blogger and podcaster behind the award-winning Tripping On Air, and the host and creator of television’s Fashion Dis (AMI+). A columnist with Healthline’s BezzyMS (“Ask Ardra Anything”), Ardra is a sought-after writer, consultant, and speaker. Named one of The Kit’s Changemakers, she is a leading voice in the disability rights movement, serving on multiple advisory boards advancing accessibility and inclusion in Canada and beyond.

We oversell these events to make sure that the most people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets are only guaranteed until 15 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line. Seating first come, first served. Tickets do not guarantee seats.

Kitchener Public Library has assistive listening devices available for library program participants who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Please call or email us if you would like more information on this equipment, or to request to use it in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. Phone 519-743-0271 or email [email protected].

Info: Memoirists Roza Nozari and Ardra Shephard sit down with moderator Hudson Lin for an engaging conversation about writing nonfiction that is personal, purposeful, and resonant.

Info: Roza Nozari and Ardra Shephard will sign copies of her latest book. Both books will be available for purchase onsite.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Canada

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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