From Surviving to Thriving: A Conversation With Samina Ali

About the Speaker
Samina Ali is an award-winning author, speaker, and activist. Her debut novel, Madras on Rainy Days, won the French Prix Premier Roman Etranger Award and was a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award in Fiction. She is a recipient of the Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers' Award, and her TEDx talk, What the Qur’an Really Says About the Hijab, has garnered over 8 million views. Ali’s writing has been featured in NPR, The Economist, and more. Her latest book, Pieces You’ll Never Get Back, is a harrowing yet redemptive memoir chronicling her near-death experience after giving birth, her struggle with a major brain injury, and her journey to recovery and self-reclamation. The book has been hailed as one of the most anticipated memoirs of the year, with television rights currently under offer.

About the "Strong Women For These Times" Speaker Series
This event is part of the Strong Women For These Times Speaker Series, created in response to the ongoing challenges facing women, gender non-conforming individuals, and marginalized communities. At YWCA Berkeley/Oakland, we believe that conversation is a catalyst for social change. By providing a platform for thought leaders, activists, and artists, we aim to challenge injustice, inspire advocacy, and promote resilience in the face of adversity.

What to Expect:
✨ Reception & Refreshments – Enjoy a selection of wine and cheese before the conversation begins.
🔥 Fireside Chat – A powerful discussion between Samina Ali and YWCA Berkeley/Oakland Executive Director, Dr. Monique LeSarre, covering themes of survival, resilience, and rediscovering identity after trauma.
🗣️ Q&A Session – Engage with Samina Ali in a thought-provoking discussion about her experiences and insights.

Ticket Information:
This event offers a sliding scale ticket price with three options: $5, $7, or $10—pay what you can to support our programming! If you need a free ticket, please email [email protected], and we will be happy to accommodate you until we reach capacity. We will also do our best to fulfill requests as needed.

Join us for an evening of inspiration, resilience, and meaningful conversation with Samina Ali. We look forward to seeing you there!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

YWCA Berkeley/Oakland, 2600 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, United States