Doreen Premdev
as an independent public sociologist.
She does research on women in traditional communities and their decision making and autonomy within these spaces.
“I have been writing since I was a little girl, my father prompted me to keep a diary every year since I was 8,” said Hassim. “I jotted down a sentence or two about daily happenings, the weather, something that happened at school, and especially enjoyed writing about my holidays.
“Over the years, the diary became a constant companion and persists until today, sometimes written and sometimes as a blog or private document on my ipad. I believe that this instilled a kind of discipline in me for writing daily, as well as for developing my own writer’s voice. Both are integral for writing books.”
Hassim has written nine books to date. Her current favourite, because she is continually writing them, is the Nisa Qamar series of novels for young adults. This is close to her heart because she loved reading even as a teenager and would have loved to read more characters she could identify with.
Nisa Qamar was first published in 2016 and her second instalment of the tale is due in October.
“I draw my inspiration for writing from inspiring people, in the ordinary nuances – their speech, choice of clothes, how they like their food,” she said. “Dialogue is underrated.
So as a social scientistcum-fiction writer, there is far more data to be had in forming fiction than in simply analysing the statistics. I’m a participant observer of all that life has to offer.”
She said she has met some of her enduring friends because of the books she writes and has also sparred with some formidable critics because of them.
She is in discussions with a film-maker to turn her book, Sophia into a film. However, she is rushing into nothing. She wants to be sure the final result will be worthwhile.
“The advice I received from my dad and grandmother is what has channelled me onto the path I have taken,” said Hassim.
“Keeping a journal has been the best advice given to me by my dad, and it’s been a source of fun, healing and allowed me to develop my writer’s voice.
“My grandmother’s advice has always been that God is the best friend to hold on to, everyone and everything else is temporary.
“This is a solace in sad times and a humbling reminder in good times.” Hassim’s maternal grandmother.