Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle.
Hi Michelle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I graduated with a Master of Education, majoring in English, from the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City, Philippines. I was once a college professor, teaching subjects like literature, speech and oral communication, creative writing, drama, and theatre arts at Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod and Riverside College. I also had the privilege of being an English teacher at St. Mary Mazzarello School and VICMICO in Victorias City before I ventured into book publishing.
I also hold a degree in Mass Communications, majoring in Journalism, from Centro Escolar University in Manila.
As a freelance creative writer, I stay active in my writing profession. My poems are published in different Digital Platforms such as Spillwords and Masticadores. I am currently the editor of Hotel By Masticadores, Masticadores Philippines and Co -Editor for LatinosUSA- English edition.
My writing is always inspired by the people around me. Sometimes, something interesting someone says or does will spark an idea for a piece. Other times, I might be sitting at a café, overhearing conversations, and suddenly feel inspired to write about what I’ve heard.
Being a mother has shaped my life in ways I could never fully explain. My children are my world, and I would do anything for them. A lot of my works are inspired by them, and I pour my heart into every word I write with them in mind.
I passionately blog at michnavs.wordpress.com, where I share my prose and poetry on love, life, motherhood, and my advocacy for raising awareness about abuse and violence.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Writing about abuse, violence, and other difficult themes is undeniably challenging. These topics often remain taboo in many countries and cultures, making it difficult for writers to express themselves freely. Addressing such dark and complex subjects can evoke intense emotional responses, both from the writer and the reader, which is why it is often avoided. This reluctance to confront uncomfortable truths can make it even harder for writers to find an audience or publishers willing to take a chance on their work.
Mainstream contemporary literature often tends to gravitate toward more accessible, topics that are easier for broad audiences to digest. As a result, publishers may be hesitant to support books that address abuse, trauma, or violence due to the fear of alienating readers or dealing with the complexities of promoting such work. The stigma surrounding these subjects often leads to fewer opportunities for authors who wish to engage in these essential conversations.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a published author with 10 poetry books to my name, five of which have reached #1 on Amazon. My ‘After Rain Skies’ book series addresses the pressing issues of abuse and violence, aiming to raise awareness about these pervasive societal problems. A portion of the proceeds from this series is donated to a foundation dedicated to supporting victims of abuse and violence. I intentionally price my books affordably, ensuring they are accessible to all, especially those who may struggle to purchase them, so that the message of healing and empowerment can reach as many people as possible.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I collaborate with fellow authors and creatives on a variety of meaningful projects. Currently, I’m preparing to release After Rain Skies, a global anthology featuring prose and poetry that addresses abuse and violence. This collection brings together writers and poets from different countries, shedding light on these pressing issues.
In addition, I work closely with organizations dedicated to supporting victims of abuse and violence. At present, I also serve as the editor for Masticadores Philippines and Hotel By Masticadores, both part of the larger Masticadores Global network founded by J. Re Crivello. Our mission is to provide vital platforms for both emerging and established writers, enabling them to share their voices with a global audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michnavs.wordpress.com/
- Instagram: @Poetry by Mich
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AEV6YQazi/
- Twitter: PoetrybyMich
- Youtube: PoetrybyMich
