Tell us about yourself.
I am a Cuban writer, poet, and photographer based in the USA, where I blend visual arts and storytelling in my work. I hold a degree in Communication Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Education.
Since relocating to Florida in 2011, I’ve exhibited my photography and writing documentary projects at the NPTI Gallery and the Coral Gables Museum. In 2021, I held a solo exhibition, “Havana: The Gift of Diversity,” which included an essay and poems about Havana. This work was also published in a book by Gallery TEN in Tokyo, where the exhibition took place.
In addition to my creative work, I teach in Miami, where I inspire my students with a philosophy of lifelong learning and creativity.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Cuba, an island with a rich and diverse cultural and social background. From a young age, I was surrounded by the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music, the warmth of my Spanish and African heritage, and the traditions passed down by my grandparents. My grandparents taught me to read when I was just four years old, and from that moment, I’ve never been able to go a day without reading. Their love, wisdom, and the multicultural environment in which I was raised deeply influenced my worldview and shaped my writing.
My characters are built from this perspective, and the settings and historical backgrounds in my stories are inspired by the rich culture I grew up in. In particular, my poetry is influenced by the Spanish Décimas, a traditional form that my grandmother taught me. I write in both Spanish and English, which allows me to express myself in two languages and share the knowledge and roots of my country with a wider audience.
Growing up in Cuba has kept me grounded, and it has given me a unique, multi-layered perspective that I bring to my writing. My experiences growing up in such a dynamic, culturally rich environment allow me to approach stories from a place of depth and understanding, with multiple viewpoints woven into every narrative.
What was your journey to getting published like?
My journey to getting published has been quite an adventure, one that I navigated from the ground up. I took a hands-on approach, creating my books entirely on my own. This particular book, available in both English and Spanish, has been a unique challenge for several reasons. First, it's a blend of my poetry and photography. I wanted to illustrate my poems with fine art photographs that I created specifically for the book. The images are designed to complement the depth of the poems, helping to create a multisensory experience of healing and self-discovery for my readers.
Second, as a photographer, I had a vision for my work in magazines, but turning that into a book format was a whole different process. I had to teach myself how to lay out the pages and ensure the design worked seamlessly with the content. It was a learning curve, but an incredibly rewarding one.
Finally, while the self-publishing process is more accessible than ever, there were still many new aspects of it that I had to learn—especially the technicalities of Amazon Kindle’s platform. From understanding policies to managing paperwork, every step was a learning experience. But through perseverance, I was able to navigate it all and bring my book to life. It’s been a journey of growth, and I’m proud to have reached the point where I can share my work with the world.
What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve ever received?
The best piece of feedback I’ve ever received came from a reader who told me that my work:
“I cried, I laughed, I was transported and I loved, many mixed feelings when reading this book, it is very deep, I recommend it, she is a young and very versatile artist. She is Human, I already know part of her work since I follow her on social networks, she is Real.”
This feedback meant so much to me because, at the heart of my writing, I always hope to create a sense of shared humanity. For me, writing is about more than just telling stories, it’s about offering readers a mirror, a way to connect with their own feelings and experiences. So, hearing that my work had that kind of impact was incredibly validating. It reminded me of the power of words and reinforced my belief that writing can truly help heal and inspire others. That’s the kind of feedback that keeps me motivated and reminds me why I do what I do.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
First, I must say, read. Reading is a rich source of learning and inspiration. Second, always edit your manuscript thoroughly and don’t hesitate use self-criticism and listening to feedback from others, editing is essential for developing quality writing. Third, avoid comparing yourself to other authors; everyone’s journey is unique. Believe in yourself, everyone has a story to tell, and your book could inspire others’ lives.
What’s a fun fact about you that your readers might not know?
A fun fact that my readers might not know is that I love making my own bookmarks from recycled materials. I draw mandalas and animal designs on them, which makes each bookmark one-of-a-kind. Whenever I buy something in a box, I save the cardboard and repurpose it into a bookmark. It's a small way for me to be creative and sustainable at the same time. Plus, every time I use one of my bookmarks, it feels like I’m holding onto a little piece of my own art!
What’s your guilty pleasure book or genre?
My guilty pleasure genre is definitely romance. There’s something about the emotional journey and the connection between characters that I can’t resist. I love the mix of tension, vulnerability, and the ultimate sense of hope that romance often provides. It’s a genre that reminds me of the power of love in all its forms, and how love, in its many expressions, can be both transformative and uplifting.
What’s your favorite quote about writing?
{"If you don’t have the time to read, you don’t have the time or the tools to write."
― Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.
This quote resonates with me because it emphasizes the importance of reading as a foundation for writing. I believe that the more we expose ourselves to different styles, voices, and perspectives through reading, the more tools we have to enrich our own writing.
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I need a break from writing, I turn to a few activities that help me recharge and find new inspiration. First and foremost, I love reading. It’s a constant source of inspiration and learning for me, allowing me to discover fresh ideas and explore new perspectives. Spending time in nature also keeps me grounded, whether it’s going to the beach, walking through parks, or simply enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Always carry my camera to take some shoots. These moments of peace and connection help me clear my mind.
I’m also passionate about handcrafts and recycling. I love creating things with my hands, whether it’s making my own bookmarks, candles, or other small projects. It’s a way for me to express my creativity in a different form, and the process of crafting things from recycled materials brings me joy and a sense of accomplishment.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first book I ever read by myself as a child was The Little Prince. It made a lasting impact on me, both because of its gentle storytelling and its profound lessons about life, love, and human nature. The way the story blends simplicity with deep philosophical insights resonated with me deeply. It taught me the importance of seeing the world with childlike wonder, while also encouraging me to value the invisible, the emotional, and the things that truly matter in life. The Little Prince helped spark my love for stories that explore complex emotions and universal themes, which has influenced the way I approach writing today.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
My writing is inspired by many aspects of life, but primarily by the people around me, my family, friends, and students. They all provide a deep well of inspiration. Growing up in Cuba with grandparents from Spain and Africa, and now living in the USA, I’ve had the privilege of being exposed to a rich tapestry of cultures. This multicultural background has allowed me to establish new connections and adopt fresh perspectives, all while staying rooted in my origins.
I’m also deeply inspired by the process of learning. The knowledge I acquire from others, especially through conversations with people from different countries, helps nurture my writing. These interactions expand my worldview and encourage me to write more complex, authentic stories, that are personal yet resonate with a universal audience. Through this blending of diverse experiences, my writing becomes more nuanced and real, reflecting the world around me.
How do you deal with negative reviews?
When I receive negative reviews, I approach them with an open mind. If the feedback is constructive and comes from someone who clearly understands the topic, I take the time to review the point and see if there’s room for improvement in my writing. I see constructive criticism as an opportunity to grow and refine my work. However, if the review is baseless, lacking foundation, and seems to be driven by negativity or bad intentions, I choose to ignore it. I believe it’s important to focus on feedback that helps me improve, while not letting unfounded criticism derail my confidence or creativity.
How do you connect with your readers?
Connecting with my readers is incredibly important to me. I aim to make my writing as authentic and relatable as possible, so readers can see themselves in my words. I focus on sharing emotions and experiences that are both universal and personal enough to feel intimate. Through my social media and one-on-one conversations with readers, I encourage open dialogue and actively listen to their thoughts and feedback.
For my recently published book, At the Same Time, I held a contest where readers were invited to title two of the sonnets in the book. The winners received a free copy, which was a fun way to engage with my audience. This kind of exchange helps me understand what resonates with my readers and deepens the connection between us.
I also strive to create a sense of community by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of my creative process, my inspirations, and the stories that shape my writing. This openness builds trust and allows my readers to feel like they are part of my journey.
What’s next for you as a writer?
What's next for me as a writer is the continuation of my Inner Journey series. At the Same Time is the first book in a trilogy that blends my poetry with my photography, aiming to create a multisensory experience of healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. As Novalis once said, "Poetry heals the wounds inflicted by reason," and this series is my way of helping, inspiring, and reminding readers that they are not alone in their quest for peace and renewal.
In addition to the series, I have several writing and photography projects with some magazines, and I’m also working on a psychological thriller that I’ve been putting aside for a while. It’s a genre I’m excited to explore, and I can’t wait to return to it when the time feels right.
Are there any Easter eggs or hidden messages in your work?
Yes, I love adding subtle Easter eggs and hidden messages in my work, particularly in the way I weave together my poetry and photography. For example, in my book At the Same Time, many of the images are not just illustrations of the poems, they also carry symbolic meanings that resonate with the themes of healing, self-discovery, and growth. There are small messages written inside the clocks, and visual cues within the photos, such as color choices, the textures, the high key exposure, that tie into the emotional undertones of the poems. These elements may not be immediately obvious, but they offer a deeper layer of meaning for those who take the time to look closely.
Additionally, I sometimes hide references to personal experiences or elements of my cultural background in my work. These can be seen in specific phrases, poetic forms, imagery, or even the titles of certain poems. For readers who are familiar with these references, it creates a sense of connection and discovery.
I enjoy the idea that my readers might find something new with each read, uncovering these layers as they continue to explore my work.
How do you approach writing dialogue for your characters?
When writing dialogue, I focus on making it authentic, natural, and true to each character’s voice. I think about their background, personality, and motivations, as well as how they would realistically express themselves in a given situation. Each character has their own way of speaking, shaped by their experiences, culture, and emotional state. I try to make their dialogue reflect this, whether it’s the tone, the choice of words, or the pacing.
I also pay attention to the subtext in dialogue—what’s unsaid or implied. Often, characters don't express everything they’re feeling, so I try to create moments of tension or vulnerability where the reader can sense what's beneath the surface.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
I’m deeply grateful to have you in my life, to count on your support, and to share my journey with you. Your encouragement means the world to me. I want to remind you: Never underestimate the power of your own voice. Your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are unique, and they matter. Writing, much like life, is a journey of self-expression and discovery, and I believe that each of us has the ability to create something truly meaningful. So, trust in yourself, because you are amazing, and I am so proud of you!
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