As a Ghanaian-American author with roots deeply tied to the Hausa culture, my heritage is the heartbeat of my stories. It’s not just where I come from—it’s how I see the world, how I create, and how I connect with readers. Growing up, I straddled two worlds: the vibrant traditions of Ghana and the fast-paced life in America. This duality shaped my voice, infusing my writing with layers of identity, belonging, and discovery.
In my childhood, storytelling wasn’t just entertainment; it was a way of life. I grew up hearing folktales passed down through generations, each brimming with wisdom, humor, and humanity. These stories, often narrated by elders, weren’t just tales—they were lessons, histories, and reflections of who we are. As I ventured into writing, I found myself unconsciously weaving those rhythms, morals, and vivid imagery into my work.
Heritage isn’t just about the past; it’s alive in the present. The themes I explore—love, loss, resilience, and self-discovery—are universal, but they carry the distinct flavor of my cultural experiences. For example, when I write about resilience, I think of the strength of my ancestors, who overcame unimaginable challenges with grace and tenacity. When I explore love, I think of the deep connections within my community, where family isn’t just immediate relatives but anyone who shares your joy and pain.
Even my book, Petals of My Heart, is steeped in the essence of my heritage. The cover, inspired by my younger self, reflects a yearning to reconnect with the pure, untarnished girl I once was—a girl shaped by her Ghanaian roots but navigating new worlds. The imagery of the flower in the hands of a little Black girl speaks to the growth and beauty that stem from embracing your identity.
Writing has also been a bridge—a way to connect my two worlds. It allows me to honor my heritage while addressing the complexities of living in a different cultural context. I write to create stories that resonate with people like me, who often feel caught between multiple identities. But I also write for those who may not share my experiences, inviting them into a world that is both personal and universal.
In every word I write, I see pieces of Ghana—the colors of the Kente cloth, the echo of traditional drums, and the warmth of communal laughter. I also see the streets of New York, where I spent my teenage years, and the calm, reflective spaces of Pittsburgh, where I now call home. My heritage inspires my stories not because it’s a box I fit into but because it’s the lens through which I view everything.
For me, writing is a celebration—a celebration of roots, growth, and the power of storytelling to connect us all. I hope my stories inspire others to embrace their own heritage, to find strength in where they come from, and to use it as a foundation for where they’re headed.
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