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The Power of the Pen: Society in Motion
September 18, 2025 @ 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
The Power of the Pen: Society in Motion
“The pen is mightier than the sword”
The Power of the Pen: Society in Motion
At AWiB, September is traditionally a month devoted to Art. This time, we bring you a thought-provoking topic “The Power of the Pen: Society in Motion” as the focus of our monthly dialogue at AWiB Connects @ the Hilton.
Let’s take a look at THE PEN from a dualistic view, one as a sword and the other as a feather. One cuts and divides, the other teaches the power of lightness and unity. Imagine a classic feather pen with a sleek, elegant design, imagine the words that can pour from the minds and hearts of a person. As most tools, the outcome of what pours out depends on the one who picks it up—either to share messages of peace, forgiveness, and solidarity, or of rejection and division. The pen is a tool to connect with the collective and create a shift in perspectives, which makes it powerful and dangerous. Hence it shall be used with great responsibility.
In the Ethiopian context, the pen has long served as a vessel of both liberation and limitation. From the ancient Ge’ez manuscripts that recorded royal chronicles and sacred texts, to the revolutionary writings of poets and intellectuals during the Derg era, words have shaped national identity and struggle. Literature and journalism played a pivotal role during times of resistance—against colonial forces, oppressive regimes, and internal disunity. Writers like Haddis Alemayehu and Sebhat Gebre-Egziabher used fiction not only to reflect societal conditions but also to critique and inspire transformation. Today, Ethiopia stands at a crossroads, marked by tension, reform, infrastructural development, and social awakening. In this context, the pen continues to hold weight—whether in print, digital media, or spoken word. It captures the pulse of a society yearning for cohesion amidst diversity. Modern Ethiopian writers and journalists often walk a fine line, using language to heal and unify while confronting painful truths. The pen as a feather may still teach unity, but the risk of it becoming a sword—when wielded without care—remains ever present.
Talking Points
- What is the power that lies behind words? How can we individually & collectively use that power to bring harmony?
- What response do you experience when sharing your written or spoken words? What tips would you share on using words intentionally?
- Today, we see that information, knowledge, ideas, and opinions shared openly in abundance. How do we keep our focus on creating & sharing the ones that serve our highest good?
- What is the historical significance of writers throughout the years when it comes to the Ethiopian history?
The Power of the Pen: Society in Motion
Or Reserve by texting your name and “Pen” @ 0947350259
Speakers
Bedilu Wakjira (Ph.D.), Assistant Professor of Language and Linguistics at AAU
Bedilu is a distinguished poet, author, playwright, and linguist. He is an Assistant Professor of Language and Linguistics at Addis Ababa University, where he has taught and mentored a new generation of scholars and writers for many years. His creative and academic work is deeply rooted in Ethiopian languages, culture, and storytelling traditions.
Bedilu has published five widely praised collections of poetry, known for their lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and philosophical reflections on love, identity, and society. His academic publications include Literature in Language Teaching, a textbook used in many Ethiopian universities. His literary portfolio also features a novel and two collections of short stories, showcasing his versatility.
In addition to his writing, Bedilu is a respected linguist and researcher. He is the co-editor of The Oxford Handbook of Ethiopian Languages, a landmark volume that highlights Ethiopia’s linguistic diversity and supports the study and preservation of its many languages.
Bedilu is an accomplished scholar and literary creative, a unique voice who holds within him both the art of literature and the science of linguistics.
Ato Yikunnoamlak Mezgebu,
AAU Language and Literature Lecturer
Moderator
Fitsum Atnafework Kidanemariam, Trainer, Consultant, Writer
Fitsum is a consultant, trainer, writer, event organizer, and Master of Ceremony known for her integrity and commitment to personal and community development. She holds a Master’s degree, an International Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management, and a Bachelor’s in Management. With over 28 years of experience across government, NGOs, and the private sector, she has served in various leadership roles.
Her expertise spans Human Resources, Project and Procurement Management, Public Relations, and Communication. Fitsum is also the founder of the ongoing Self Reconciliation dialogue series, a transformative platform for healing and reflection.
A certified Toastmasters communicator, she is a former board president of YWCA and an active supporter of local charities. A proud AWiB member, she has served in leadership and mentorship roles. Fitsum is the author of Yehiwote Kignit and a translated motivational book for aspiring women leaders.
Share to your circles!