Novelist - Author - Writer | Storyteller
Leïla Bahsaïn’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to her roots that spans two cultures. Born in the vibrant city of Salé, Morocco, Leïla grew up surrounded by the stories of her grandmother, Mina Bahsaïn, a woman who, despite being illiterate, was a powerful force for change in her community. Mina’s civic work in social mediation left an indelible mark on young Leïla, who carried that legacy with her as she moved to Marrakech at the age of eight. Leïla's academic journey led her to the Higher Institute of Commerce and Business Administration (ISCAE) in Casablanca, where she honed her skills in communication and marketing. But her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. In France, she pursued a Master’s degree in Human Relations Management at the Institute of Business Administration, where she graduated at the top of her class. This dual education in Morocco and France provided Leïla with a unique perspective that she would later channel into her writing and civic engagements. Her career took her through various roles, from human resources management to leading a communications agency in Besançon, France, where she eventually settled. Alongside her professional work, Leïla’s passion for storytelling began to blossom. In 2011, she published her first short stories in Magazine Littéraire du Maroc and later in the journal Apulée, curated by the acclaimed writer Hubert Haddad. These early writings set the stage for her entrance into the literary world.
Leïla’s breakthrough came with her debut novel, Le Ciel sous nos pas (The Sky Beneath Our Feet), which earned her the prestigious Prix Méditerranée in 2019. The novel captured the struggles and dreams of individuals caught between worlds, and it resonated deeply with readers. Her success didn’t stop there. She went on to receive numerous literary accolades, including the European and Mediterranean Book Prize in 2020 and the Jean Grosjean Media Library Readers' Prize.
But Leïla’s story isn’t just about literary success. Her heart has always been dedicated to making a difference in the world. She co-founded the Zitoun association in Morocco, which has been teaching hundreds of women in the Marrakech region to read and write since 2009. In France, she’s equally committed to social impact, serving as one of the directors of the INTERMED economic and solidarity group.
Leïla also inspires through her teaching, sharing her love of creative writing with university students and encouraging them to find their voices. Her influence extends beyond the classroom; she is a sought-after speaker, giving plenary lectures on the power of the French language as a tool for countering domination, as she did at the 2022 APFUCC conference.
Leïla’s literary journey continues with works like The Eggplant Theory (2021) and the upcoming What I Know About Mr. Jacques (2024). Each piece she writes is infused with her unique perspective, bridging the gap between cultures and illuminating the shared experiences of humanity. Leïla Bahsaïn’s story is not just about writing novels or winning prizes; it’s about using her talents and passion to empower others, inspire change, and build bridges between worlds. Through her words and actions, she continues to light the way for future generations, showing them that with perseverance and purpose, they too can leave their mark on the world.
Social Media Handles:
Comments