We recently connected with Sahar Elhallak and have shared our conversation below.

Sahar, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

In my writing, I often find myself misunderstood. I grew up in a war-torn country, and I write about those experiences, which might lead to some mistakenly perceiving my work as political. However, my true focus lies in addressing crucial issues and thought-provoking topics that challenge the patriarchal system.

With each sentence I craft, I vulnerably pour the depths of my soul into the hands of my readers. How they perceive and respond to my words becomes a deeply personal journey, one where my vulnerability intertwines with their understanding.

This vulnerability is the very essence of the risk I’ve taken within my writing. It exposes me to the uncertainties of interpretation and judgment. However, it also unlocks the potential for profound connection, empathy, and transformative change.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m an immigrant from the SWANA region, and my upbringing as a refugee was filled with challenges. However, every experience I’ve endured has shaped me into the person I am today. Gratitude fills my heart for the opportunity to be where I am today, especially considering the difficult days when life seemed unconquerable.

Writing has become my escape and grounding force. I express myself in both Arabic and English, but there are days when my native language is my preference, particularly when I’m feeling down and in need of uplifting. I strive not to translate my work between languages, as doing so may compromise the meaning and essence. Instead, I honor each language’s uniqueness. My rescued cat frequently finds a place in my writing along with the color purple. Beyond writing, I find joy in the kitchen and exploring exciting new travel destinations.

Pride now fills my soul as I’ve overcome the fear of sharing my work and the notion that it may not be “good enough.” I have evolved into an artist who values my creations, shattering the old belief that only certain people can claim the title of an artist. My journey has taught me that true art emerges from passion, authenticity, and the desire to connect with others.

My goal and mission are firmly rooted in sharing my work with others to ignite inspiration and bring about change, particularly regarding the status of women. It has become my responsibility to raise awareness about critical issues such as child brides, the constrain of religious beliefs, and mental illness—subjects I have experienced firsthand and wish to prevent others from enduring. My words become my voice in shedding light on these challenges, with the hope of making a positive impact on the lives of women facing such hardships today.

I continue to write, embracing my identity and purpose, and my hope is that my words reach those who need them most. Through my art, I find escape, healing, and empowerment, and I strive to ignite that flame in others. My story stands as a testament to the resilience and transformative power of creativity.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey commenced many years ago as a little girl seeking shelter from air strikes, writing short stories in the midst of chaos. However, it truly took flight when I started sharing my poetry publicly. This path of creativity has been a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs, but it has also granted me the opportunity to meet incredible individuals and learn from seasoned professionals, all of which have helped me refine my craft. Workshops and classes have been valuable tools along the way, supporting and nurturing my creative journey.

This journey is powered by a deep passion for personal development and building authentic relationships with others.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The creative journey is undoubtedly challenging. Constantly evaluating ideas on the scale of creativity, there is no definitive right or wrong in art—just the act of creation. Creating from the heart holds the power to touch other hearts, yet therein lies the difficulty. The interpretations of art vary among people, and criticism may come my way. However, the rewards of sharing my work make it all worthwhile.

When I receive feedback from others expressing astonishment, realization of hidden truths, or finding their own experiences mirrored in my words, it becomes a gratifying experience. Hearing comments like “I feel your pain” or “I’m determined to prevent this from happening again” solidifies the impact of my art. Witnessing people nodding in agreement, knowing that I’m not alone in my struggles, is incredibly uplifting. The sense of shared understanding brings comfort and strength, making the creative journey all the more meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.saharelhallak.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at_home_with_sahar/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sahourtii
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahar-elhallak-
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sahoura117

Image Credits
Rebecca Warner