When Suad Amiry’s father tried to return to his home in Jaffa after 1948, he found that an Israeli family had moved in. They refused to let him enter. And when he returned to their home in Amman, it was the first time Suad had ever seen him cry. Years later, Suad would build a career on remembering what others tried to erase. 

Palestinian architect and writer, Suad Amiry, shares how her parents’ strength, wit, and belief in her became the foundation of her own confidence and sense of humor. She reflects on a life lived as both an architect and storyteller, exploring the absurdities of daily life under occupation, the coexistence of heartbreak and humor, and the defiant power of laughter. 

From founding the Riwaq Centre for Architectural Conservation in 1991 to writing her book Sharon and My Mother-in-Law in 2003, and many since, Suad Amiry has dedicated her life to preserving Palestine, its culture, and its stories. 

This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Dima Sharif. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. 

This conversation was recorded on September 10, 2025. You can watch it on YouTube, here. 

Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists, including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  

In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. 

Follow us on socials @tarwidapodcast

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Relevant links and Resources: 

• Follow Suad Amiry on Instagram (@suad.amiry)
• Learn more about the Riwaq Centre for Architectural Conservation
• See below to learn more about the books mentioned:
  • Mother of Strangers
  • Golda Slept Here
  • Murad Murad
  • Sharon and My Mother-in-Law
  • My Damascus