What was the inspiration behind your piece?
I was motivated to write my piece because of a Guardian podcast discussing the hardships faced by refugees and immigrants and why they are being forced to result to sell their organs to pay for their travel. This was due to the harsh regulations placed by the EU that had put pressure on Egypt to keep immigrants out. I was also motivated due to the negative bias adopted by British newspapers when discussing the migrant crisis. I hoped that my story would change the narrative of the stories of those who aren’t being listened to.
Why did you pick the form you did?
I chose to write a short story because I felt that it was the best way to share migrant stories from an empathetic view. I wanted the reader to really connect with the story so they can understand the unfairness of the situation.
Why do you write?
I write because it is an alternative method to communicate political ideas and can connect with people in a way that oral debate can’t.
Any advice to fellow young writers?
Write about what you care about. If you care, your writing will be passionate and will be able to engage others.
What's a piece of writing/poem/novel/article that has influenced you?
‘Organ trafficking in Egypt: ‘They locked me in and took my kidney’ -Seán Columb, The Guardian
You can read Rhianna's entry for the Orwell Youth Prize, Out of Body, Out of Mind, right here on Voice.
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