My Diasporic Diary

Book excerpt: My Diasporic Diary is a reflective journal for members of the diaspora worldwide. Divided into 10 sections, the journal is filled with contemplative prompts and artistic challenges to help members of the diaspora better navigate and discuss their feelings, experiences and perspectives. The creator of this journal, Anisa Hagi-Mohamed, is a 1.5 generation Somali immigrant residing in the U.S. She created this journal for fellow diaspora, wherever they are in the world, and whatever their origins may be. The inspiration behind this journal is Anisa's countless life experiences of feeling lost in translation, of lacking a sense of belonging and facing unique diasporic challenges but also her burning desire to document her journey. To write about her family, culture and language alongside topics like love, healing and passions in order to fully capture her experiences. This journal is her gift, her legacy to those young and old who wish to journal their diasporic journeys. To jot down their thoughts, unearth and unpack their feelings and hopefully leave a literary inheritance for their descendants. It's not often we are asked about our perspectives on having complex identities or our sense of belonging; our traditions, family, food, and cultures - especially not in one sitting, and never in one reflective journal. It is Anisa's hope that you will find love, healing, and self-discovery within the pages of your journal.