Story:Saleema Imam
Photo:Cameron Raphael-Storm
Muno began writing creatively at about 12 years old and by 14, encouraged by her teachers at Fir Vale School, was producing poetry in the English language and winning school competitions. One of her poems about the Iraq war also won a prize in an American Competition.
The youngest of seven siblings, she came to this country from Somalia at the start of the civil war when she was three, only visiting her place of birth Burco once last year when all the family returned to visit.
Muno’s parents encourage the whole family to speak only Somali at home so that they don’t forget the language and their cultural heritage. Though both her mother and father recite traditional poetry in their native Somali, Muno is the only member of her family to compose in English. Her poetry is written to be read out loud but so far she has only aired it before family and friends.
She finds her inspiration anywhere and everywhere, carrying pencil and notebook with her always, as she says “Just in case! I was once on a bus and saw a homeless person. Immediately ideas came to me and I had to jot them down before I forgot”.
Just starting the final year of a BA Hons. Education Studies degree at Hallam University, 21 year old Muno plans to teach in a local secondary school when she has gained her PGCE English, following in her chemistry teaching sister’s footsteps.
Also in the pipe-line is a new Burngreave- based group aiming to increase the literacy achievement in 13-16 year olds, through, creative writing, poetry and journalism.
“I’m passionate about staying in the local area to work, to pay back a little for all the support, encouragement and inspiration I received from my teachers at Fir Vale School and the Burngreave community.”
Soldier…
I am a soldier but not in a war
I never shot a gun or seen all the gore.
But I go into battle each and every day
from my intended purpose I shall not stray.
There are people who need me, this I know
and from this experience I will grow.
If the truth be told, I'll say it first
I need them more, It's them I thirst.
They don't always like what I have to do
in time though, I think they'll gain a clue.
It does get tough, I will not lie.
Sometimes it's easy to just stop and cry.
Am I a soldier? Yes! You can call me that.
But you'll never see me in straight combat.
Those who know me call me by another.
What was that word? oh yes, it was mother.
I am a Muslim…
I am a Muslim
And God I praise
For all His blessings
My voice I raise.
In one God I believe
No equal has He
Lord of the universe
Compassionate to me.
Muhammad the Prophet
Taught me the way
To be honest and truthful
Throughout every day.
The holy Quran
To life is my guide
It's teachings I follow
By it I abide.
Islam my religion
Preaches good deeds
Mercy and kindness
To the right path it leads.
Upon all humanity
God showers His grace
Regardless of colour
Nationality or race.
Through working together
Our hopes increase
To live in a world
Full of love and peace.
I am a Muslim
And God I praise
For all His blessings
My voice is raise.
Don't Be Afraid…
Don't be afraid to shed a tear,
When you're feelin' sad,
Your heart will lose its tenderness,
If you are always glad.
Don't be afraid to lend a hand,
To someone you don't know,
For you will be rewarded,
For the kindness that you show.
Don't stand there and be spoken to,
As if you have no worth,
Speak up and speak your mind,
It's been your right since birth.
Don't be afraid, anymore,
For courage is your might,
Always hold your head up high,
And be prepared to fight.
