Somali Canadian Children's Author Awarded $15,000 from Edmonton Arts Council

The Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund (EATF) recognizes an artist’s work and contribution to the community.

The $15,000 awards provide financial stability for artists to renew, develop, create or experiment.

These awards are supported by the proceeds from the Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund, held by the Edmonton Community Foundation.

Rahma Rodaah is a children’s book author (Dear Black Child, Dear Muslim Child) whose journey is rooted in her experiences as a first-generation Somali immigrant. Through her writing, teaching, and advocacy work her goal is to create stories that serve as mirrors for underrepresented children and windows for others to gain new perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic world.

In response to her win, Rahma stated on her social media: "This year, I told myself I would apply even when my hand shook, and my mind said, “You are not ready yet.” I did it despite the very high likelihood of heartbreak after rejection. There were many rejections, by the way, but after each heartbreak, I took a deep breath and applied again. When my application for this trust was denied last time, I asked for feedback, and I was told, “It just wasn’t your time.” I kept that close to my heart because I knew my time would come one day. Alhamdulilah it’s finally my time! I am happy to share that I am one of the recipients of the Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund. I would like to acknowledge and personally thank Ahmed Knowmadic for his support letter, which enabled me to apply. Thank you, Ahmed, for believing in me when I had doubts and encouraging me to keep going. Thank you to Edmonton Art Council and the Edmonton Community Foundation for this incredible opportunity that will allow me to focus on creating and writing for the following year. Keep pushing until your time comes!"

To learn more about Rahma Rodaah's work visit https://rahmarodaah.com/