There’s a popular saying that travel leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller. This sentiment seems to perfectly capture the journey of Instagram influencer and digital creator Mahvish Ahmed, known as Safarnamay, who has recently released her debut novel, On My Way.
Ahmed’s foray into storytelling is particularly noteworthy in an era where digital content creation often isn’t seen as a serious profession, and there’s a pressing need for more South Asian voices in literature.
Ahmed believes that her book will resonate with every woman. In her own words, On My Way chronicles her experiences as a woman from the subcontinent, navigating the roles of a daughter, wife, and mother.
Through a series of personal anecdotes, she explores issues such as body shaming, societal pressures, toxic relationships, and the challenges of building a healthy marriage. The novel captures both the unique aspects of her Pakistani heritage and universal themes that many can relate to.
Ahmed’s transition from content creation to writing was driven by the genuine engagement and feedback she received on her Instagram stories. Encouraged by the positive response to her captions and blogs, she decided to delve deeper into storytelling. It was also her courage to venture into uncharted territory that fueled her pursuit.
One of the central themes of the book is displacement, which Ahmed reflects on through her seven years living abroad. She describes the persistent sense of not being fully settled, missing elements of home like language, food, and familiar surroundings, while also appreciating the growth and new connections her experiences abroad have provided.
Ahmed’s novel On My Way offers readers a chance to see their own lives reflected in its pages, providing lessons on relationships, motherhood, and life’s transitions.
Despite some initial challenges in translating her story into a book, including finding the right team and publisher, Ahmed’s dedication has paid off. Her book is already a bestseller on Amazon and has sold out at Pakistani retailers, a testament to its impactful storytelling.
For readers, On My Way promises not only an engaging narrative but also valuable insights and wisdom, making it a worthwhile read for anyone navigating similar life experiences.
