Heart-to-Heart Talk: An Interview with Dr. Ann Marie Hansraj

Carl Scharwath, ILA Magazine Co-Editor/Interviewer:

Good morning Dr. Ann Marie, thank you for your time today and for sharing your thoughts with the ILA Magazine readers. We appreciate your thoughts on being both a writer and an editor.

1. INSPIRATION and BEGINNINGS: Dr. Hansraj, you began pursuing your childhood dream of becoming a published author during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Can you share what sparked that decision and how the lockdown influenced your creative process?

DR. ANN MARIE:

Absolutely . The COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 was a time of deep reflection for many, including myself. Amid the silence and uncertainty, I found a space within me that had long been waiting to be heard. Writing had always been my childhood dream to publish a book one day. I never stopped writing, I would write on every book or piece of paper that came to me, but life’s responsibilities kept it on the back burner as far as publishing is concerned. In my younger days I did publish a few pieces in the Newspapers. The lockdown, however, gave me the pause I didn’t know I needed.

Finally during COVID-19 I had the time to focus on my writing fully. Writing is and has always been my self-therapy it went a very long way and kept me intact all through my life to this day it is still my self-therapy. Despite whatever I was facing it always gave me my peace and answers to overcome whatever the situation faced.

It was during those quiet moments when the world stood still that I began to reconnect with my inner voice. Emotions were heightened, and I felt a strong urge to document not just what I was feeling, but also stories that had lived in my heart for years. The isolation stripped away distractions and fears. I wasn’t writing to impress; I was writing to express.

In many ways, the lockdown unlocked my creativity. It reminded me that life is fleeting, and if you have a purpose or a gift, you must act on it. That’s when my journey as a published author truly began with clarity, courage, and a sense of mission. After publishing my first book a new window opened for me I couldn’t stop. I had so much to share and this was my avenue to reach out to others and help them best way I can through my writing.

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2. WRITING STYLE: Your work is known for its vivid imagery and emotional depth, blending real-life experiences with themes of love, resilience, and personal growth. How did you develop your unique style, and what techniques do you use to evoke such strong emotions in your readers?

DR. ANN MARIE:

Thank you that mean a lot. My writing style is truly an extension of who I am deeply observant, emotionally intuitive, and grounded in lived experience. I developed my voice over time by embracing vulnerability. I’ve always believed that the most powerful writing doesn’t come from trying to sound poetic it comes from being honest..

Growing up, I was moved by the way simple words could stir profound emotions. I would observe people, their struggles, their joys, and internalize the feelings they left behind. When I write, I aim to translate those impressions into vivid imagery something the reader can not only see but feel.

To evoke strong emotions, I often use sensory language and metaphor, but I balance that with restraint sometimes what’s not said speaks the loudest. I write from the heart, not from a formula, and I think readers connect with that authenticity.

Themes like love, resilience, and growth are universal, but I try to present them through a personal lens grounded in truth, yet open to interpretation. I want each reader to find a reflection of their own journey in my words.

Knowing that a lot of people suffer in silence and by reading my work they know they are not alone and in reading they can also find answers within themselves.

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3. WORDSMITH INTERNATIONAL EDITORIAL: As the founder of Wordsmith International Editorial, how do you balance your roles as an editor, journalist, and creative writer? How has founding this organization shaped your career and creative output?

DR. ANN MARIE:

Balancing the roles of editor, journalist, and creative writer has been both a challenge and a gift. Each role feeds a different part of my soul. As a creative writer, I tap into emotion, imagination, and personal truth. My mind often feels like it’s running in overdrive constantly thinking, creating ideas, or finding something to write about. Whether it’s a situation, an experience, a particular topic, or a conversation, I’m always in “writing mode.”

As a journalist, I stay grounded in facts, relevance, and clarity. As an editor, I serve as a bridge between a writer’s raw voice and its polished potential. Wordsmith International Editorial allows me to bring all these elements together in harmony.

Founding Wordsmith was a turning point in my career. It wasn't just about creating a platform, it was about creating purpose. I wanted to build a space where global voices could be heard, where both emerging and established writers could shine. This vision has expanded my world.

I have connected with countless and talented individuals, learned from diverse perspectives, and grown both professionally and personally.

Being surrounded by such varied talent has also shaped my writing. It constantly pushes me to refine my craft, keeping me humble, curious, and inspired. Wordsmith isn’t just an editorial platform it’s a living, breathing creative ecosystem, and I’m honored to be at the heart of it.

When I first wanted to publish my work, it was a test of patience and determination. I reached out to many, inquiring about the process, but few were willing to guide me. I conducted extensive research and eventually learned how to navigate the path myself. It wasn’t an easy task, but I did it.

Since then, I have helped many others, and Wordsmith International Editorial continues to support and empower writers globally.

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4. CULTURAL INFLUENCE: Being from Trinidad and Tobago, how does your cultural background influence your writing, particularly in terms of themes, settings, or perspectives in your novels and poetry?

DR. ANN MARIE:

Absolutely my cultural background and travels have both played a significant role in shaping my writing. Being from Trinidad and Tobago, I carry with me a rich tapestry of history, diversity, and resilience. The rhythms, colors, and voices of the Caribbean often find their way into my themes sometimes subtly, sometimes boldly.

But I’m also deeply influenced by my travels. I love observing how people live across different countries, their challenges, customs, beliefs, and everyday joys. Experiencing other cultures has opened my mind and deepened my empathy. It has helped me write with greater authenticity, whether I’m exploring themes of love, displacement, identity, or hope.

These cross-cultural insights allow me to blend local and global perspectives, giving my work a unique narrative voice. Every country I’ve visited has added a layer to my understanding of humanity and that, I believe, is the heart of good writing.

Traveling has truly been one of my greatest teachers. It has educated me and opened my mind and imagination in ways I might never have experienced otherwise. Each journey expands not just my worldview, but also the emotional and creative landscapes I draw from when I write.

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5. CHALLENGES and TRIUMPHS: Starting your publishing journey later in life, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced in becoming a published author, and how did you overcome them?

DR. ANN MARIE:

Starting my publishing journey later in life came with its fair share of challenges but each one taught me resilience, patience, and purpose. One of the biggest hurdles was navigating the unknown. I had the passion and the stories within me, but I didn’t know where to begin. I reached out to others for guidance, but surprisingly, very few were willing to help or even share basic information. That experience was disheartening but it also lit a fire within me.

So, I turned to research. I spent countless hours learning about formatting, self-publishing platforms, editing, and book promotion. It was overwhelming at times, but I kept going. I was determined to bring my work into the world. The process taught me not just how to publish, but also how to believe  in myself when others doubted or stayed silent.

Another challenge was overcoming self-doubt. I often asked myself, “Is it too late? Will anyone read this?” But my desire to fulfill my childhood dream to see my name in print and my words in readers’ hands was stronger than the fear.

Now, looking back, every challenge was a stepping stone. Today, not only have I published my own books, but I’ve also helped others do the same. That’s the heart behind Wordsmith International Editorial to create the support system I wish I had when I started. Because no dream should go unrealized due to a lack of guidance.

I overcame these hurdles by staying persistent, being open to learning, and surrounding myself with supportive people who believed in my vision. Every step, no matter how difficult, taught me something. And each book I published became not just a triumph of creativity, but a personal victory over fear and limitation.

I never gave up. It was determination, focus, and an unwavering desire to fulfill my dream of becoming a published author that carried me through. Finally stepping into that reality living my childhood dream was nothing short of overwhelming. It wasn’t just a personal achievement; it was the fulfillment of something my heart had held onto for years. That moment reminded me that no dream is ever too old and it’s never too late to begin.

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6. FUTURE PROJECTS: With an extensive portfolio already, what’s next for you? Are there upcoming books, projects, or new directions for Wordsmith International Editorial that you’re excited to share with our readers?

DR. ANN MARIE:

The journey is far from over if anything, it feels like I’m just getting started. I’m currently working on several new book projects, including a novel that explores themes of healing, identity and inner strength, as well as a new poetry collection that is now in its final stages of publication. In addition, I’m developing a series of reflective essays inspired by my travels and life experiences, which I hope will encourage readers to embrace their own journeys with courage and grace.

As for Wordsmith International Editorial, there’s much to look forward to. We’re expanding our global presence with new collaborative projects, themed editions, and increased opportunities to highlight emerging voice from around the world. I’m especially excited about launching mentorship initiatives designed to nurture and guide young and unpublished and unpublished writers, helping them gain the confidence and tools they need to succeed.

We’re also collaborating with various literary groups to produce special editions that showcase their members work. These projects will celebrate the achievements of poets, authors, storytellers, and artists, offering them visibility, recognition, and a platform to promote their books and creative talents. At Wordsmith, our mission is simple yet powerful: to give everyone a chance to realize their dreams, be inspired, and share their gifts with the world.

My vision remains rooted in the belief that literature is a bridge connecting hearts, cultures, and ideas. The future holds more stories, more voices, and endless opportunities to uplift, empower, and celebrate the beauty of human expression through the written word.

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DR. OMATEE ANN MARIE HANSRAJ is a motivational author, poet, novelist, journalist, and editor from Trinidad and Tobago. She is the founder of Wordsmith International Editorial and holds a Honorary Doctorate. It affirmed her lifelong commitment to writing and uplifting others through literature. Her literary work includes poetry collections, novels, short stories, and quotes, often inspired by real-life experiences and emotions. She began pursuing her childhood dream of becoming a published author during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, when she had time to focus on writing.

KEY WORKS:

Novels:

Broken Promises (her first novel, a love story about a long-distance relationship filled with passion and uncertainty)

Poetry Collections:

Love and Let Love (her first poetry book)

Love of Jasmine (co-authored with Imen Melliti, focusing on themes of love, purity, and resilience)

Stardust and Shadows (praised for its emotional depth and vivid imagery)

The Dance of Light and Shadow (available in eBook and paperback)

Poetry for the Mind Body and Soul (noted for its spontaneous and deeply felt style)

Morning Muse Edition One (co-authored with Dr. Prakash Tewari, described as inspiring and thought-provoking)

WORDSMITH INTERNATIONAL EDITORIAL

Wordsmith International Editorial on YouTube