I live in Lagos, Nigeria, where the energy is unmatched. But if I could teleport, I’d be in Jos, where I was born and raised, or somewhere in North America, where much of my family lives and where home still feels like home.

I’m an “almost” hijab-wearing Muslim woman. I like my faith, but I also wrestle with it in real ways. Some days I get it right, some days I don’t. I’m learning grace in the middle of devotion and contradiction, and I’m thankful for the journey, even when I stumble.

I believe stories are how we stay alive, both the living and the dead. Telling stories is my joy. Over the years, I’ve explored this through essays, documentaries, podcasts, TV shows, films, and even radio.

But if I had to pick a favorite, I’d pick video. I’m inspired by storytellers like Cleo Abram and Celine Song who make visuals feel intimate, emotional, and expansive all at once.

I’m not much of a reader. Podcasts are more my vibe. Audiobooks too, because traditional reading sometimes feels like homework. My top five podcasts right now are This Is Uncomfortable, Acquired, Ear Hustle, Female Criminals, and Founders.

That said, every now and then I surprise myself. You might catch me reading something like Will Smith’s autobiography while waiting for a flight or bingeing the entire Bridgerton collection because I love the show.

I also write poetry. Slowly, privately and obsessively. And one day, I hope to publish a collection. 

A few other things about me:

• I love tea. Especially black tea.
• I love Korean TV shows. Sprinkle in some Korean words like kamsahamnida or annyeong haseyo, and you’ll have my full attention.
• I’m a feminist. 
• I’m an introvert. Big crowds are a hard pass. Give me my close friends, a good K-drama, and maybe Jordan Adetunji’s Kehlani for a solo mirror dance session, and I am content.
• I don’t have a lot of close friends, but I’m always open to making friends across the world with people who share similar interests.
• Lately, I’ve been diving deeper into scriptwriting for movies and TV. It’s a new challenge, and I’m loving every messy, painful moment of it.
• I have very little patience for prejudice, whether it’s against women, minorities, or anyone society tries to sideline. Life’s too short for small minds and loud ignorance.
• At my core, I’m someone who loves to make things happen. Whether it’s creating, collaborating, or just dreaming out loud, I’m always up for something new, especially if it involves storytelling.

   

If you want to chat about K-dramas, poetry, or documentaries, or if you have a project you think I’d love, you can email me at salaudeenaishatu(at)gmail(dot)com.

Let’s create something amazing. 😉