In this inspiring episode of The Muslim Storytellers Podcast, we sit down with Suad — a writer whose journey is a powerful reminder that passion, purpose, and tawakkul go hand in hand. Allahumma barik, Suad’s story is filled with wisdom about pursuing your craft on an unconventional path while staying deeply rooted in faith.

We explore how writing can be a way to make sense of the world and serve Allah, and how embracing the identity of “writer” — even before the world sees you as one — opens doors to growth, confidence, and support. Suad shares how her early drafts built her skills, how declaring her calling invited her loved ones’ encouragement, and how seeking publication deepened her understanding of purpose, intention, and reliance on Allah.

Her beautiful reflection — “Without Allah, you couldn’t write a single word” — captures the heart of this conversation: writing is not just a craft, but an act of worship.

Tune in to be reminded of the power of starting, the importance of renewing intentions, and the joy of writing for the sake of Allah.

✨ Stay Connected: Visit muslimstorytellers.com for resources and services, and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates.

✍🏽 Join Our Challenge: This November 2025, we’re hosting a 30-day writing challenge with prompts, workshops, prizes, and a chance to be published in our anthology — all happening on the Muslim Storytellers Discord. Sign up on our website to participate!

As always, thank you for listening — and until next time, as-salaamu ‘alaykum and more ink to your pen!

Episode Summary Take a virtual seat at our July Masterclass, From First Draft to Publication. In this episode, we deep-dive into the full publishing process—from idea to finished book—with a panel of seasoned experts:

• Hajera Khaja – Writer, editor, and creative writing teacher
• Khadijah Hayley – Book doula and editor
• Ayaan Mohamud – Award-winning author

Whether you’re just starting your first draft or preparing for publication, this session is filled with practical advice, insider knowledge, and motivational gems to help you on your journey.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The step-by-step journey from manuscript to published book
• How to choose between traditional, self, and hybrid publishing
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
• Tips for staying motivated through every stage of the process

🎶 Track: Words – Vocals of Africa 📌 License ID: P425-296 🔗 License tracks now: https://halalsoundtracks.com

In this throwback to our first Masterclass of the year, we sat down with a panel of Muslim writing experts—editors, publishers, and authors—to dissect the writing and publishing process. Together, we explored a central question: “What part of the publishing, writing, or marketing process do you find most challenging—and why? And what strategies have you discovered to make it easier?”

Whether you’re struggling to finish your manuscript, navigate publishing options, or market your book, this episode is packed with real-world advice and actionable tips to help you move forward.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The biggest challenges Muslim writers face in writing, publishing, and marketing
• Practical strategies to overcome common obstacles
• Insights from editors, publishers, and writers who’ve been through the journey
• Encouragement to stay the course on your path to publication

Panelists - Suad Kamardeen (Writer, Editor, Founder of Qalb Writers Collective), Emma Halim (Award Winning Author), Arooj Hussain (Taha Publishers), Asmaa Hussien (Ruqaya's Bookshelf)

🎶 Track: Words – Vocals of Africa 📌 License ID: P425-296 🔗 License tracks now: https://halalsoundtracks.com