Tell us about yourself.:
I am a Cuban writer, poet, and photographer based in the USA, blending visual arts and storytelling in my work. I hold a degree in Communication Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Education. Since 2003, I have been publishing poetry, stories, and articles, and I collaborate with renowned international magazines such as EYE-Photo Magazine, Shades of Grey, Vogue, Azahar (Spain), and Nagari (Miami).
Collaboration with artists and art groups is vital to my creative process, as it allows me to nurture my work, learn from others, and share experiences. After relocating to Florida in 2011, I exhibited my photography and writing documentary project at the NPTI Gallery and the Coral Gables Museum. In 2021, I held a solo exhibition, “Havana: The Gift of Diversity,” which included an essay and poems about Havana. This work was also published in a book by Gallery TEN in Tokyo, where the exhibition took place.
In addition to my creative endeavors, I teach in Miami, where I inspire my students with a philosophy of lifelong learning and creativity.

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up in Cuba, an island with a rich and diverse cultural and social background. From a young age, I was surrounded by the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music, the warmth of my Spanish and African heritage, and the traditions passed down by my grandparents. My grandparents taught me to read when I was just four years old, and from that moment, I’ve never been able to go a day without reading. Their love, wisdom, and the multicultural environment in which I was raised deeply influenced my worldview and shaped my writing.
My characters are built from this perspective, and the settings and historical backgrounds in my stories are inspired by the rich culture I grew up in. In particular, my poetry is influenced by the Spanish Décimas, a traditional form that my grandmother taught me. I write in both Spanish and English, which allows me to express myself in two languages and share the knowledge and roots of my country with a wider audience.
Growing up in Cuba has kept me grounded, and it has given me a unique, multi-layered perspective that I bring to my writing. My experiences growing up in such a dynamic, culturally rich environment allow me to approach stories from a place of depth and understanding, with multiple viewpoints woven into every narrative.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
It all begins with coffee— “I drink coffee, then I exist,” as I like to say! It’s my ritual to start the day. The warmth of the coffee helps me clear my mind and prepare for writing. Once I’ve had that first cup, I feel like I’m truly ready to dive into my work.
Another habit I have is combining writing with photography. When I’m working on a poem, I often find myself inspired by images, or vice versa. I like to have my camera nearby, and sometimes I’ll stop writing to take a photograph, or the photograph will spark a new poem. I think the blend of both creative outlets helps me stay inspired and focused.

What authors have influenced you?
I grew up in Cuba, an island with a rich and diverse cultural and social background. From a young age, I was surrounded by the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music, the warmth of my Spanish and African heritage, and the traditions passed down by my grandparents. My grandparents taught me to read when I was just four years old, and from that moment, I’ve never been able to go a day without reading. Their love, wisdom, and the multicultural environment in which I was raised deeply influenced my worldview and shaped my writing.
My characters are built from this perspective, and the settings and historical backgrounds in my stories are inspired by the rich culture I grew up in. In particular, my poetry is influenced by the Spanish Décimas, a traditional form that my grandmother taught me. I write in both Spanish and English, which allows me to express myself in two languages and share the knowledge and roots of my country with a wider audience.
Growing up in Cuba has kept me grounded, and it has given me a unique, multi-layered perspective that I bring to my writing. My experiences growing up in such a dynamic, culturally rich environment allow me to approach stories from a place of depth and understanding, with multiple viewpoints woven into every narrative.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
I must say, reading is rich source of learning and inspiration. Always edit your manuscript thoroughly and don’t hesitate to reedit as many times as necessary. Self-criticism and listening to feedback from others are essential for developing quality writing. Avoid comparing yourself to other authors; everyone’s journey is unique. Believe in yourself, everyone has a story to tell, and your book could inspire others’ lives.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I’ve ever heard, my grandma once told me: "Stay true to your voice and your story." This reminds me that authenticity is essential, both in writing and in life. It has helped me trust in my own voice and style, knowing that my experiences, emotions, and viewpoints are valuable. This advice encourages me to write honestly, never shying away from expressing what feels true to me, even if it doesn’t always align with mainstream expectations. It’s a reminder that the most lasting and impactful work often comes from a place of personal authenticity.

What are you reading now?
I am rereading Edgar Allan Poe's poetry is deeply atmospheric and explores themes of darkness, love, and the supernatural, all of which can evoke a powerful emotional response.

What’s your biggest weakness?
One area I’ve been working on is being too detail-oriented at times. I can sometimes get caught up in perfecting small elements of a project, which can take longer than expected. However, I’ve learned to set clearer priorities and focus on the big picture to ensure deadlines are met without sacrificing quality. This has helped me become more efficient while still maintaining my attention to detail.

What is your favorite book of all time?
This is a difficult question, as I have many favorite books across different genres and styles. For example, I am drawn to the haunting atmospheres of Edgar Allan Poe and Stephen King. I also admire Sylvia Plath and Emily Dickinson for their evocative poetry. As a bilingual reader and writer, I have a deep appreciation for Latin American writers like Jorge Luis Borges, César Vallejo and Dulce María Loynaz, whose works explore the intricacies of identity.

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I need a break from writing, I turn to a few activities that help me recharge and find new inspiration. First and foremost, I love reading. It’s a constant source of inspiration and learning for me, allowing me to discover fresh ideas and explore new perspectives. Spending time in nature also keeps me grounded, whether it’s going to the beach, walking through parks, or simply enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. These moments of peace and connection help me clear my mind.
I’m also passionate about handcrafts and recycling. I love creating things with my hands, whether it’s making my own bookmarks, candles, or other small projects. It’s a way for me to express my creativity in a different form, and the process of crafting things from recycled materials brings me joy and a sense of accomplishment.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first book I ever read by myself as a child was The Little Prince. It made a lasting impact on me, both because of its gentle storytelling and its profound lessons about life, love, and human nature. The way the story blends simplicity with deep philosophical insights resonated with me deeply. It taught me the importance of seeing the world with childlike wonder, while also encouraging me to value the invisible, the emotional, and the things that truly matter in life. The Little Prince helped spark my love for stories that explore complex emotions and universal themes, which has influenced the way I approach writing today.

What has inspired you and your writing style?
My writing is inspired by many aspects of life, but primarily by the people around me, my family, friends, and students. They all provide a deep well of inspiration. Growing up in Cuba with grandparents from Spain and Africa, and now living in the USA, I’ve had the privilege of being exposed to a rich tapestry of cultures. This multicultural background has allowed me to establish new connections and adopt fresh perspectives, all while staying rooted in my origins.
I’m also deeply inspired by the process of learning. The knowledge I acquire from others, especially through conversations with people from different countries, helps nurture my writing. These interactions expand my worldview and encourage me to write more complex, authentic stories, that are personal yet resonate with a universal audience. Through this blending of diverse experiences, my writing becomes more nuanced and real, reflecting the world around me.

What are you working on now?
Now I am working on the continuation of my Inner Journey series as I write in English and in Spanish, my books come out in both languages. At the Same Time, is the first book in a trilogy that blends my poetry with my photography, but I have two more books coming out. As Novalis once said, "Poetry heals the wounds inflicted by reason," and this series is my way of helping, inspiring, and reminding readers that they are not alone in their quest for peace and renewal.
In addition to the series, I have several writing and photography projects with some magazines, and I’m also working on a psychological thriller that I’ve been putting aside for a while. It’s a genre I’m excited to explore, and I can’t wait to return to it when the time feels right.

What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
I actively engage with my readers through social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. These channels allow me to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of my writing process, offer insights into my work, and share personal reflections. I also host special contests related to my books and actively ask my readers for their feedback on my ideas and writing. This direct interaction helps me maintain a close connection with my audience, keeping them engaged and involved in my creative journey.

What’s next for you as a writer?
In addition to the series Inner Journey that has two more books coming out, I have several writing and photography projects with some magazines, and I’m also working on a psychological thriller that I’ve been putting aside for a while. It’s a genre I’m excited to explore, and I can’t wait to return to it when the time feels right.

How well do you work under pressure?
I work well under pressure. I understand that deadlines and high-stakes situations can create stress, but I approach them with a focus on staying organized and prioritizing tasks effectively. For example, in a previous project, I was given a tight deadline to complete a writing piece while also coordinating a photoshoot for a new series. I broke the projects into smaller, manageable tasks and set mini-deadlines for both. This helped me meet the deadline without sacrificing quality.

How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
As a writer, my unique voice should shine through, but it’s important to adapt it to the context. I may choose to shift it slightly depending on the piece. The audience and the topic at hand will also guide the choice of tone. For example, my poems reflect intimate, emotional, lyrical tone, while my articles are more neutral, objective and straightforward but still maintain my personal touch.

If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
I’m deeply grateful to have you in my life, to count on your support, and to share my journey with you. Your encouragement means the world to me. I want to remind you: Never underestimate the power of your own voice. Your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are unique, and they matter. Writing, much like life, is a journey of self-expression and discovery, and I believe that each of us has the ability to create something truly meaningful. So, trust in yourself, because you are amazing, and I am so proud of you!

Mia MP’s Author Websites and Profiles
Amazon Profile
Goodreads Profile

Mia MP’s Social Media Links
Facebook Page
Instagram
LinkedIn
Pinterest
YouTube Account