Fartumo Kusow

Fleeing her home country at the outbreak of the Somali Civil War, Fartumo immigrated to Canada in 1991, seeking refuge and new opportunities. Her passion for storytelling began long before her arrival, with her first novel, Amran, serialized in the October Star newspaper, published by the Somali National Press in 1984. As the only woman at the time to have her novel serialized in Somalia, she broke barriers, inspiring future generations of Somali women writers.

Before the war forced her to leave, Fartumo also wrote a popular column for the paper, where her voice resonated with readers, offering insights on social issues. Despite the upheaval of the civil war and the challenges of resettling in a new country, Fartumo continued to pursue her passion for literature and education.

After arriving in Canada, Fartumo earned a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Language and Literature, as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor. She now teaches English literature courses with the Greater Essex County District School Board, where she inspires young minds with her love for storytelling and the power of language.

In 2017, Fartumo published her debut English-language novel, A Tale of a Boon’s Wife, a powerful story that explores the complexities of Somali culture, gender, and identity. The novel has been well received, showcasing her unique narrative voice and her ability to bridge the gap between Somali and Canadian literary traditions.

A devoted mother of five adult children, Fartumo currently lives in Windsor, Ontario. In addition to writing, she is also the host of a podcast where she shares deeply personal stories about her mother’s journey with Alzheimer’s disease, offering listeners heartfelt reflections on love, memory, and resilience.

Fartumo Kusow continues to be a voice for her community, a champion for education, and a beacon of resilience in both her teaching and writing.