Join Barj S. Dhahan, founder of the Dhahan Prize — the world’s largest fiction award among South Asia’s indigenous languages. He’ll share insights into how award-winning books are selected by juries. He’ll explore what makes fiction stand out and why authors should write with excellence in mind. The session will highlight the need for literary awards to elevate the cultural sector and motivate writers beyond the lure of book sales and royalties. He’ll also speak to the importance of diversity and representation in literature and the arts.

For a short addition, Harman Atwal, a past Dhahan Youth Award winner, will speak briefly on the importance of involving youth in the writing process.

Location: Room C245, UBC Robson Square

Sponsored by: Dhahan Prize

Participants: Barj S. Dhahan, Harman Atwal

Barj S. Dhahan, Harman Atwal

Since 2013, Barj S. Dhahan has been the founder and director of The Dhahan Prize for Punjabi Literature—the world’s largest award for fiction books in the Punjabi language, established in Vancouver, B.C. In founding the Prize, his goal was to highlight the richness of new, global Punjabi literature produced yearly. He wanted authors to be recognized for the merit of their work alone—free from bias for age, gender, religion, nationality, past publishing history or other immutable characteristics. Since its launch, the Dhahan Prize has earned acclaim and exposure, setting the stage for winning authors to reach broader, multilingual audiences. A Canadian entrepreneur and family man, Barj has long been active in local and international non-profit initiatives. A recognized community leader, he is regularly sought for his insight on politics, policy, business, education, policing, and other social issues.