Oliver Phommavanh is an award winning author, comedian and teacher. He has written books such as Thai-riffic, Thai-no-mite and Con-nerd. We were fortunate enough to have Mr Phommavanh speak to the Year 7 students.

Oliver Phommavanh is a successful local author, living in Cabramatta West. Born in 1983, he has published seven books. Mr Phommavanh spoke to the students about his many different and extreme experiences. When Oliver was younger, he told us that he was always embarrassed by his own different culture and his parents. We were able to constantly relate back to his own personal experiences growing up as a child with a unique culture. Not only did Mr Phommavanh speak with us, but he also taught us a few basic words from his background. He brought many of his toys from his large collection and the many books that he enjoys reading.

The energy that he expressed through his presentation was mind blowing, Mr Phommavanh expressed a great interest in teaching us, making us laugh and inspiring us to read. Not only did he teach us these many different skills, he also introduced many authors and novels that we should read for inspiration and pure excitement. Amanda Cunningham from Year 7 stated, “It was very fun and enjoyable for me”. Many students enjoyed the presentation and stated that it was definitely something that they would remember.

From his talk, we were taught that we could do anything and aspire to write and read. He taught us that there can never be enough imagination and excitement in one’s brain. Oliver grew up like many students in our school, he felt different and left out in a way. We were taught that we can be unique and everything that we want to be. During question time, we were asked to not hold back and many questions were answered. He told us about his current works and that it took about one year to publish a book. Mr Phommavanh is a very successful and positive teacher, award winning author and a hysterical comedian.

In conclusion, Year 7 is very thankful for Mr Phommavanh who expressed an educational and entertaining talk with us. Mr Phommavanh constantly stated that he wanted to make us all laugh until we were forced to visit our good friend, the toilet.

 Diane Tran, Year 7