We are honoured to feature four remarkable poets who bring their lived experiences and powerful perspectives to the stage:

Suman Gujral A multidisciplinary artist and the founder of Third Space, Suman’s work is profoundly shaped by her parents’ displacement during the 1947 Partition of India. She channels conversations with her mother, Trilochan Kaur, into poetry that explores the intergenerational impact of Partition, the ongoing cycle of displacement, and how we stay connected to our heritage through art. Her readings at prestigious venues demonstrate her powerful voice on identity and belonging, and she also serves as literary lead for South Asian Heritage Month.

Koushik Banerjea From a background in youth work focused on social inclusion to a career as a journalist and author, Koushik brings a unique breadth of experience to his writing. He is celebrated for his moving poems and novels, using his craft to delve into complex social issues and personal narratives. His work invites deep reflection on the human experience, particularly through the lens of identity and belonging.

Rishika Williams Rishika’s long-form narrative poetry emerged after lockdown, centring on crucial themes of gender-based violence, Partition, and activism in Sindh. Her unique voice has been recognized through shortlistings for prestigious awards, showcasing her powerful explorations of challenging histories and the fight for justice through art.

Naila Dunleavy As an integrative therapist, writer, and artist, Naila brings a deeply empathetic and insightful perspective to her work. She explores profound themes of identity, migration, displacement, and individual, ancestral, and collective trauma, particularly focusing on women’s issues, autonomy, faith, and culture. Her powerful performances, including at the Royal Albert Hall, demonstrate her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, sharing stories that resonate with the migrant experience.

You can find more of her work on Instagram at @migrantwomenhistories.

We want to thank Renard Press for the generous support ing publishing both Third Space anthologies. Learn more about them: www.renardpress.com

This is more than just a poetry night. It’s an evening of reflection, remembrance, and connection — as South Asian Heritage Month is formally welcomed into Together for Hope at Coventry Cathedral. Through powerful performances and meaningful conversation, we’ll honour where we’ve come from and courageously imagine where we’re going.

Whether you’re a poetry lover, a curious ally, or someone seeking space for connection and meaning, you’re warmly invited.Come join us — for poetry, conversation, and a moment of shared remembrance.