Hello there!

My name is Ibtihal, but for my writing I go by I.B.Y

I am so excited to be participating in the full 24 hours marathon this year! Last year, I did the half-marathon and it was truly such a pleasure. I enjoyed reading the work of others and I had lots of fun pushing myself. This year, because things are already pretty nuts, I figured I would go to my own extreme and participate in the full marathon. Wish me luck!

I’m an Educator and Communication Specialist who studied English Literature at a University in Canada. My passion for writing is what landed me in the careers I’m currently in. I think of Literature as a field that requires constant growth, learning and self discovery. At the base of it, I think I am at my happiest when I am learning – whether I be learning from others or more about myself, every experience feels like a victory.

That being said, I cannot deny that 2020, despite its difficulties, has been an easier year than the past 8 years combined. Many things have happened, and many unexpected changes in the past years have left me feeling disoriented. Poetry, however, (and writing in general) have been a constant. Through writing I am both grounded and elevated; I get to enjoy exploration and the wonder that lives in the simplest moments.

I would love to connect with you all, and learn what draws you to writing poetry!

Cheers,

I.B.Y