In this episode of Stories and Stanza, we welcome author and peace builder Somia Sadiq as she discusses her debut novel 'Gajarah.' Somia explores the cultural significance of Gajarah, a traditional flower assembly, and delves into its representation of beauty, tradition, and spiritual resonance. Throughout this heartfelt conversation, Somia shares her insights on language, identity, trauma, and the complexities of healing. Join us as we uncover the layers of her book, understand the nuances of cultural identities, and reflect on the responsibilities of writers in today's world. Somia also reads a poignant excerpt from her book, beautifully weaving poetry and prose to illustrate the journey of her protagonist, Iman.
00:00 Introduction to Gajarah
01:27 Welcome to Stories and Stanza
01:43 Meet Somia Sadik
04:34 Discussing the Book
09:51 Reading from the Book
14:14 Writing Style and Inspirations
21:20 Cultural Identity and Language
28:01 Themes of Trauma and Healing
39:05 Peacebuilding and Inclusivity
50:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Somia Sadiq is an award-winning Pakistani Canadian entrepreneur, peace negotiator, and conflict
transformation strategist. Rooted in the work of impact assessment, Somia founded Narratives, a
planning and design firm that emphasizes human-centric, trauma-informed story work, lived experience, and creating space for celebration of ancestral identity. Somia is also the founder of Kahanee, a nonprofit organization that works nationally and internationally amplifying storytelling and facilitated dialogue for peacebuilding.
Somia is a published author and a highly sought after keynote speaker, offering insights on women in
trauma-informed leadership, and fostering resilience in a rapidly changing environment. Recognized for her contributions to the Planning practice in Canada and internationally, Somia was recently inducted into the Canadian Institute of Planners' esteemed College of Fellows, the highest honor for a planner in Canada. Gajarah, her debut novel, comes out in September 2025.
