Since 2018, She Writes Press and SparkPress have been proud to play a role in the much-needed elevation of women writers of color with their annual She Writes Press and SparkPress Toward Equality in Publishing (STEP) contest. This year, one of the winners, Fartumo Kusow, won with her novel Winter of My Spring and she stopped by She Writes to share her journey, the inspiration behind the story and her writing lessons learned along the way.

What was your inspiration behind Winter of My Spring?

The inspiration for Winter of My Spring came from a profoundly unsettling reality: the abduction of over 200 Chibok schoolgirls by Boko Haram in 2014. While the world rallied behind the #BringBackOurGirls movement, what struck me was the lack of attention given to the girls’ voices—both those who were still missing and those who had returned. I wanted to explore what happens to these survivors after their ordeal. How do they rebuild their lives, reclaim their identities, and navigate a society that can reject and fail them? As a Somali woman, I also drew on the parallel experiences of girls in Somalia who endure violence and conflict without their stories being entirely told or understood. This novel was born to honour these voices and provide a space for their resilience and strength.

Why is this story so important right now?

Winter of My Spring is crucial right now because the world continues to grapple with violence against women and girls, especially in conflict zones. Too often, their stories are sidelined or reduced to statistics while their resilience, trauma, and humanity are overlooked. By centering the voices of Rada, Mika, and Sara, I hope to remind readers of countless survivors’ ongoing struggles and inspire meaningful conversations about accountability, healing, and justice. At its core, the story asks: What happens after the world stops paying attention? How can we create spaces of dignity and hope for survivors?

As you were born in Somalia and immigrated in 1991 at the onset of the civil war, how did you channel the setting of Somalia in your story?

Writing about Somalia was a deeply personal journey for me. Marka, the seaside town where Rada’s story begins, represents the beauty and turmoil of a country torn apart by conflict. I wanted to bring Somalia to life—not just as a place marked by war but as a place with a rich culture, community bonds, and individuals who find strength in the face of overwhelming odds. I channelled the setting by exploring its physical landscapes, traditions, and the impact of conflict on everyday life. I also imagined what it might feel like for young girls whose dreams are upended by violence.

What was your favorite, and most difficult, part of writing this story?

My favorite part of writing this story was giving voice to Rada, Mika, and Sara. Despite their suffering, they possess an unbreakable spirit, and capturing their resilience and determination brought me immense joy and hope. The most difficult part, however, was delving into their trauma and pain. Writing the scenes where they endure violence was emotionally draining, but I felt it was necessary to convey the full scope of their reality. Balancing their despair with moments of hope, healing, and small victories became my way of honoring their strength.

You’ve published two novels thus far. What have you learned in your journey as an author?

I’ve learned that writing is a personal journey and a profound connection. Each book has taught me more about vulnerability, resilience, and the power of stories to foster empathy and understanding. I’ve also come to appreciate the importance of persistence and courage to tell difficult stories, even when facing rejection or criticism. Above all, I’ve learned that every reader who feels moved, challenged, or empowered by my work makes the journey worth it.

Who are some of your favorite authors right now?

I’m deeply inspired by authors who voice marginalized perspectives and explore the complexities of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s work continues to move me, particularly her ability to weave personal narratives with larger socio-political themes. I also admire the works of Elif Shafak for her lyrical storytelling and exploration of identity and belonging. Te-Nehisi Coates has profoundly influenced me with his powerful reflections on race, history, and justice, while Nuruddin Farah’s novels capture the soul of Somalia with unmatched depth and nuance.

As an advocate, storyteller, and educator, what is your biggest goal with Winter of My Spring?

My biggest goal with Winter of My Spring is to amplify the voices of survivors and challenge societal norms that perpetuate their marginalization. I want readers to walk away with a deeper understanding of the resilience and humanity of girls like Rada, who refuse to be defined by their trauma. As a storyteller and educator, I hope to inspire dialogue, empathy, and action. By reading and discussing these stories, we can move closer to a world that uplifts, rather than silences, the voices of survivors.

What do you hope readers will take away from Rada’s journey?

I hope readers come away with a deeper understanding of the resilience, strength, and humanity of survivors like Rada. Her story is one of unimaginable pain and unyielding hope, courage, and the will to reclaim her life. I want readers to connect with Rada and her friends on a personal level, to recognize the complex and multifaceted nature of survival, and to question how our communities treat those who have been through such trauma. By telling this story, I want to inspire compassion, reflection, and a desire to do better in supporting and uplifting survivors of violence.

Why did you choose the title Winter of My Spring, and what does it signify for you?

The title Winter of My Spring represents the harshness and loss that Rada faces during what should have been the most hopeful time of her life—the “spring” of her youth. It reflects the cold and cruel reality she is forced into but also carries the hope of renewal and growth, even in difficult circumstances. For me, the title symbolizes both the starkness of her trauma and the possibility of resilience, healing and a return to life’s promise despite immense suffering. It underscores the tension between despair and hope and Rada’s determination to find her spring again.

How did you approach writing about trauma and resilience in a way that honors survivors?

When writing about trauma and resilience, I relied heavily on empathy and my reflections on the experiences of many girls and women who have faced violence. I drew upon my understanding of societal norms, cultural complexities, and the human drive for survival. I focused on creating authentic, layered characters with both vulnerability and incredible strength. I aimed to portray their pain honestly and highlight their resilience, hopes, and ability to reclaim their lives. My goal was to honour survivors by telling their stories with dignity, giving space for their struggles and triumphs.