We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shalida Askanazi. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shalida below.

Hi Shalida, thanks for joining us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I hope the legacy I leave behind is that I was a strong activist and advocate for the disability community. I hope my books are read years from now and can still leave an impact of hope. I would like to think that people say that I was brave and talented, and that I didn’t back down when it came to ableism.

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 a writer and activist. I have a self published poetry collection titled The Lazarus Girl. I will also be having a memoir published by Pilgrim Press. I use my writing as a way to advocate for the disabled community. I have a rare birth defect called sacral agenesis because of it I’ve been in a wheelchair since I was three. I incorporate these life experiences into my writing in hopes it will inspire others.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I get to create things that will also be a part of history. It’s so cliche but there is a power in words.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

I think non-creatives don’t understand that we simply can’t give up our dreams and go for the safe option. When you love what you do especially if it’s bringing art into the world you’ll find a way to make your dreams work.

Contact Info:

• Website: Shalidaaskanazi.com
• Instagram: @shalidaaskanazi
• TikTok; @Shalida.Ask

Image Credits
River L. Jax Kai Flowers