writing and identity with dhayana alejandrina

Our first guest on Ordinary Thoughts is poet, mentor, community facilitator, and author Dhayana Alejandrina!  She began her literary journey at 9 years old in Santo Domingo, continuing to write as her family migrated to the United States in 2009. Her work explores the transformative power of words, delving into inner growth, culture, identity, and healing. Alejandrina recently assumed the role of Lead Poetry and Cultural Collaborator for Afriqué Noire Magazine and is working on her second poetry collection. Tune in for a winding conversation about writing, migration, identity, hair, healing, and much more! Don’t forget to support Dhayana’s work and follow along on her journey in the links below.  Moments:  1:40 Meet Dhayana  8: 05 How language and migration shape writing and identity  18:20 Honesty and reflection in writing  21:58 Our parents' roles in our creative journeys  28:05 Natural hair, representation, and healing 41:15 Advice to aspiring artists  Connect with Dhayana:  Signed copies Agridulce : https://dhayana-alejandrina.square.site/product/agridulcebook/1 Agridulce on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Agridulce-poetry-prose-Dhayana-Alejandrina/dp/1662912064 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dhayanalejandrina/?hl=en Website: https://dhayana-alejandrina.square.site/ Creative Writing Mentorship and Workshops: https://dhayana-alejandrina.square.site/mentorship-services Feature Opportunities with Noire Magazine: https://tr.ee/LasrGfMrUA Connect with us:  blog: narrativemedia.co/blog narrative on Instagram: instagram.com/narrativemedia.co Cybele on Instagram: instagram.com/cybelina Isaiah on Instagram: instagram.com/diazmays