On Sunday, January 26, 2025, the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) hosted an inspiring author talk with esteemed author and academic Nicole Watts. The event celebrated Watts’ latest book, Republic of Dreams, which explores the history and resilience of Iraqi Kurdistan through the extraordinary journey of AUIS alumnus Peshawa Ahmed.
The talk, held at the Moulakis Library, drew a captivated audience, including students, faculty, and distinguished guests. Among the attendees was the Sulaimani governor, Dr. Haval Abubakr, whose presence underscored the significance of the event to the local community.
Republic of Dreams offers a unique perspective on the political and social history of Iraqi Kurdistan, blending meticulous research with a deeply personal narrative. The story follows Peshawa Ahmed, whose life journey—from a childhood refugee to a figure of resilience and determination—serves as a lens to examine themes of dislocation, identity, and perseverance in the face of war and genocide. 
During the event, Nicole Watts shared insights into her inspiration for writing the book and the collaborative process of capturing Peshawa Ahmed's story. She emphasized the importance of preserving personal narratives as a means of understanding broader historical and cultural contexts. 
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, where attendees engaged with both Nicole Watts and Peshawa Ahmed on the book’s themes, its creation, and its broader implications for Kurdish and global audiences.