Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is excited to announce that Abdi Nor Iftins will be speaking Sunday, January 27 at 4:30 pm at St.John's of the Mountain, 1994 Mountain Rd. Stowe.. Abdi is a radio journalist, public speaker and the author of "Call Me American," the true story of his heroic survival in war-ravaged Mogadishu and his incredible journey to a new life in America. He was 6 years old when civil war broke out in Somalia, his home country. Violence and uncertainty became constants in his life, as did his great interest in America. He taught himself English by watching action movies like "Rambo" and "Commando." Eventually, Abdi defied the odds to win the diversity visa lottery, which admits immigrants to the United States from countries that do not send many people here.

Abdi is a gifted storyteller and his memoir is incredible, harrowing and yet an inspiring true story of a boy living in war-torn Somalia who escapes to America--first by way of the movies; years later, through a miraculous green card. This talk is timely in our current political climate concerning immigration. Abdi Nor Iftins stories have been featured on various radio and television stations, including CNN, PBS and BBC. His story was one of 60 Peabody finalists in 2015. His new book, "Call me American," was released in June 2018. The book is a finalist for New England Bookseller's Association book awards. Abdi also has a film representation about his life already in place.

Oct 15, 2024, 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Oct 15, 2024, 6:30 to 7:30 PM

Oct 19, 2024, 9 AM to 12 PM