Hanan Issa, a Welsh Iraqi-born poet, filmmaker, and artist, has been named the fifth national poet for Wales, becoming the first Muslim woman to hold the position, The Guardian reported on July 8, 2022.
Hanan will serve as the National Poet for Wales for three years, during which she will represent the diverse cultures and languages of Wales and be an ambassador for the people of Wales.
Hanan published her poetry book, “My Body Can House Two Hearts- My Body Can House Two Hearts” in 2019.
She also contributed to Welsh (Plural: Essays on the Future of Wales) and The Mab, which recounts heroic legends from Wales’ heritage, both published this year.
Hanan Issa’s posts
According to the British newspaper, Hanan co-founded the Cardiff Open Microphone Night, entitled “Where I Come From”, worked in the book room in the Channel 4 series on British television We Are Lady Parts, and was a member of the first group of writers who participated in the Welsh literature program to represent Wales in 2021.
Hanan Issa, from Cardiff, Wales, said being the first Muslim in the role was “a surprisingly positive step, and it’s exciting to think of Wales as a pioneer in this aspect of acting”.
She also added that Muslim women are often “locked in very narrow perceptions”, hoping that women “from all different demographics will see them and think: This is something I can achieve.”
mixed heritage
Hanan Issa comes from a mixed heritage, and said that “putting one foot on the shore of each of two different heritages makes you have a greater and deeper understanding of different points of view, ways of living and languages.”
Hanan grew up surrounded by people who spoke different languages, including Arabic from her Iraqi family, and Welsh from her grandparents.
Hanan continued, “I have always felt comfortable being in a place where I do not fully understand what other people are saying the UK, we have many micro-languages in addition to the languages spoken by second and third generations of immigrants, and I think it is a really important step forward for us to start seeing ourselves as a multilingual and multicultural nation.”
Kohani system
During her tenure, Hanan aims to introduce more people to the Kohani system of ancient Welsh poetry; It is a complex system of alliteration and internal rhyme, as well as encouraging “more people to interact with and appreciate poetry”. She also wants to “enhance conversations about identity and belonging, especially when talking about spaces of nature.”
Hanan differs in this role from Ivor Ab Glenn, who described her as “a wise and effective poet who will give a new voice to the national dialogue.”
Hanan was chosen as the national poet after a public call for nominations and an extensive selection process.
On behalf of the selection committee, Ashok Ahir, chief of staff and chairman of the National Eisteddfod of Wales – Wales’ national music and poetry festivals – said Hanan Issa has a “voice across different sections of society and speaks to every part of the country”.
Source: Arabic Post
