Muslim Writer's Awards

What a night! I spent the last few hours in the company of some of the richest, diverse and talented writers I’ve seen in quite a while. The first thing that struck me, I was listed for a VIP table. I don’t know if it was a mistake but I wasn't about to complain. I guess wearing a sparkly gown, headscarf and matching handbag and not forgetting my gorgeous silver heels, I did fit into the evening nicely! Everyone kept asking me what award I was up for? I was a little tempted to make something up but the sheer thought of being caught out stopped me. After all, I was given the best seats in the house. I had to be on my best behaviour because my kids were watching!
The night began with powerful poetry from Dreadlock-Alien, an electrifying performance from Warsan Shire and hypnotic rhymes from Amir Sulaiman. I have to confess, Warsan Shire haunted me all evening. She is a talent to watch out for! Not just a Somali poet, but a writer, freelance journalist and spoken word artist. She won 2007 international slam champion.
There were some great guest speakers lined up too. The Rt Hon Stephen Timms a pleasant man with a positive message. He spoke for people to see Muslims writer’s as talented individuals and not just members of the Islamic faith. Another favourite speaker of the night was Sadiq Khan, Minister for Communities. He talked about his invlovement in projects to help Ethnic Minorities in Britain.
Personally, I felt let down by the presentation of the awards. The presenters Shelina Zahra Janmohamed and Hasan Mahamdallie were fabulous in keeping us the audience entertained. But, once the winners were announced, they collected their awards and were quickly whisked off stage. I was hoping to hear some of their readings but I was told there wasn’t enough time. The MWA (Muslim Writer’s Award) were running on a tight schedule of two hours. Behind me, lights were blasting from huge cameras and I knew it was being televised live to many countries around the world.
Afterwards, I was able to speak to some of the winners and get their opinions of the night. My first contact was with Hanzla Arif Macdonald, winner of the short story competition for the 14-16 age groups. He was excited to attend the awards with his parents and younger brother. To my surprise he had won an award last year at the MWA. He was described by one judge “he will come to be a name to remember”. Another judge referred to Hanzla's work, “His work won in the end because of its sophistication and originality” So, I’m not surprised he’s already made a mark in the writing industry.
Other humble winners were Shameam Akhtar for unpublished poetry and Reba Khatun for unpublished –children’s story. Both ladies were a little shy to talk about their success but very glad to have submitted to this year’s MWA.
Well, I guess it goes to show you if you don’t write you won’t know. If you have a passion to write and with local elections round the corner, it's no time like the present to have your say!