Diaspora Diaries : Zaynab Zubair on Identity, Culture, Creativity and Finding Serendipity

In this episode host Dee Gibson welcomes British Sri Lankan writer Zaynab Zubair. Dee and Zaynab explore a myriad of topics surrounding Sri Lankan identities and the diaspora experience and Zaynab reads an excerpt from her upcoming book 'Finding Serendipity,' which delves into themes of migration, identity, and the cultural interplay between Sri Lanka and Britain. They reflect on the historical influence of colonialism, the complexities of religious identities, and how cultural upbringing shapes personal narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in capturing the nuanced experiences of the Sri Lankan diaspora.The conversation also highlights the importance of communities like Hera project X in supporting creative Sri Lankan women globally.Summary00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:08 Meet Zaynab Zubair: A Sri Lankan-British Writer02:39 Reading from 'Finding Serendipity'08:42 Zaynab Personal Journey14:31 Exploring Identity and Culture20:04 The Role of Religion in Sri Lankan Life32:28 Blending Cultures: Zaynab Family Life36:27 The Hera Project and Community39:33 What's Next for Zaynab?LINKSShort StoriesCoromandel: A boyhood of love - Short Story (Frescoes Book 1) https://amzn.eu/d/hv4TYvCVesak in Dilmun: A short story https://amzn.eu/d/0NJZKqwFinding Serendipity Instagram for release updates! https://www.instagram.com/finding_serendipity.lk?igsh=MXV3a2Fpc2lrYXZnbw==Follow Zaynab Baobab.lk instagram https://www.instagram.com/baobab.lk/profilecard/?igsh=dmgzd2J3aG40aHBrTitle: Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotHost: Dee Gibson — Sri Lankan-born, award winning designer based in London and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka. www.kalukandahouse.com | instagram @deegibson2017 & @kalukandahousePodcast Themes:Modern Sri Lankan identity and cultureArchitecture, art, and designSustainability and heritageDiaspora experiences and storytellingWhy Listen:This podcast offers deep, intelligent storytelling about Sri Lanka’s evolving identity — a blend of East and West, ancient and modern. It’s for listeners who love culture, travel, architecture, and thoughtful conversation.