Today we’d like to introduce you to Hadiatou Wann

Hi Hadiatou, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Like many immigrants, I had to start from scratch when I migrated to the West. Although I took ESL (English as a Second Language) classes when I moved to the United States, I was made fun of in school for not being fluent in English. In the beginning, when people made fun of my English, I responded and ridiculed them in French because I was more fluent in French. They didn’t understand a word I said in French, but it gave me a peace of mind that I stood up for myself. Some days, I had to explain to classmates that back in Africa, I didn’t live on trees. Despite all the embarrassment I endured, particularly in middle school, I still showed up to class and completed my studies. Alhamdulillah (all praise is due to God).

I’ve always loved writing. However, for some time I compared myself to others who I thought were better writers. It took some time to get comfortable with my uniqueness. I discovered that I could write in high school when people brought it to my attention, but I took it seriously while I was in college. My writing took off when I finally understood that being a great writer is not about using big vocabulary words, but rather it is about being clear and strategically using words to connect with people in a meaningful way.

As I got comfortable with my writing style and being Muslim, I decided that I’d use my craft to educate Muslims and non-Muslims about Islam. To share how I experience(d) Islam. Not how the media portrays Islam. I am intentional about every book I publish. A lot of pondering, researching, analyzing, and planning happens behind the scenes to make sure that the work I produce is quality.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

It’s been rewarding to see how God is using me to make an impact. The topics I write about in my books are mostly faith-based. I have to make sure certain errors are not present in my work. Otherwise, it could misrepresent teachings of my faith and misguide others. Perfection is unattainable. I give it my all, knowing that I might fall short.

I wear many hats (i.e., mom, employee, and more). Finding a way to balance everything while meeting deadlines can be challenging. That’s why it’s important for me to revisit my intentions and vision. I always have to remind myself why I do what I do. Caring for a child requires A LOT of attention and energy. I have to get better with time management so I can continue to publish works the world can benefit from.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I write nonfiction and realistic fiction for adults and children. I am also the founder of the groundbreaking women’s empowerment blog I AM AFRICAN & I CAN. My blog features incredible women of color who excel in diverse professions. Their stories are a great source of inspiration for anyone seeking to learn from professionals who thrive in education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, engineering, architecture, accounting, law, and more.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?

The world is waiting for YOU to embrace yourself. Once you do that, it’ll open up to you. Don’t be afraid to share your story, because it might save or inspire someone else. Strive to improve EVERYTHING! And always challenge yourself to do what you think you can’t do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hadiatouwann.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorhadiatouwann/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorhadiatouwann
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-MAo9acvt1jf2uqH_LSBQ/videos
• Other: https://www.iamafricanandican.info/

Image Credits

-Independent Authors Book Expo
– Beth Brown