echos of home: 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!

timestamps

timestamps

  • 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:

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eyes on haiti

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ordinary thoughts: the price of happiness