Writer–Poet–Editor–Speaker

Hi and welcome! I’m Prasanta, a writer, public health consultant, and mom of three fabulous kids. I was born under an Asian sun, raised in the Appalachian foothills in the south, and I now live in the Upper Midwest, digging out of snow piles all winter long.

Ever feel left out or you don’t belong? I’ve been there, too. My desire is to help us embrace our identity and culture, find belonging, and combat loneliness through words. I want you to know that you’re not alone and that you belong. I’m a storyteller (but I know how to work with numbers!), and write our stories in the areas of public health, health care,  loneliness, women, children, mental health, diaspora, culture, ethnicity, and faith.

If someone asks, I consider the south “home”, as it is where I spent most of my formative years, but to be honest, the answer to that question is truly complex and layered. Ever hear an Indian gal with a southern accent? Well, neither had anyone else. : ) Though midwestern winters have frozen that southern accent now, I can easily channel it and bring it right back up for you! Come on over to my front porch and we’ll talk over cornbread, chicken curry, cheese curds, and chai, because talking real and laughing with friends over good food is LIFE, am I right?

Most days, you can find me reading or writing, with a cup of chai in hand. When it’s warm and everything is blooming outdoors, you may find me out on a walk with a camera in hand, because trees and flowers speak to me. Not literally, but you know what I mean.

I’m so glad you’re here! I’d love to have you join this community. I send a FREE monthly e-letter where I share the latest from the website, plus exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else, such as articles I think you’ll find fascinating, tips on cross cultural communication, identity, and belonging, good books, and anything else I think will encourage and inspire you on your  journey of belonging. And I promise to include poetry, because “poetry is a life-cherishing force” (Mary Oliver). (P.S. Your email is always safe with me and only used for me to communicate with you.)

I’m a freelance writer, editor, and a speaker on the topics of belonging, cultural awareness, and public health. Feel free to reach out with inquiries via the Contact page.
Or connect with me on Twitter @VermaPrasanta, Instagram @prasantaverma or Facebook. Welcome, look around, and reach out and say hi!