Jemima Shafei-Ongu

Jemima Shafei-Ongu is a Dharug/Sydney-based writer who is passionate about picture books. She has a professional background in psychology and teaching, and believes in the power of picture books to connect readers, of all ages, through honouring and celebrating diverse cultures and experiences. In her writing, Jemima explores themes of belonging, well-being and inclusion. Some of her writing is influenced by her collectivist heritage, where she explores disrupted connections. Jemima is the author of A Lemon for Safiya (Lothian, Hachette) and Aslan and Benny (Penguin Random House). She also co-authored the picture book Shirin and Amir and the Dragon Smoke as part of a project with the Australian National University to promote inclusive health messaging. She will have additional picture books with Allen & Unwin and Barefoot U.S. publishing within the next two years.

Jemima highly values the critiquing process and believes some of the best reflections happen in these spaces. When she’s not writing, Jemima enjoys long walks by her local river, drawing, watercolour painting, and learning to play the derbakeh. She lives with her partner, their mini schnauzer, and whichever of their three daughters is in the country at the time.

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Workshops and Events

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