This is @anisa_nandaula, a Queensland slam-poetry champion, theatremaker, stand-up comic and storyteller. Anisa’s work revolves around her own personal experiences of race and gender growing up in Meanjin/Brisbane.

Her greatest achievements as an artist (so far!) have been writing and publishing her book ‘Melanin Garden’ in 2017, as well as directing, writing and starring in her own theatre show, “The Grass is dead on the Other side" at the @bris_powerhouse in 2018 and embarking on her journey as a stand-up comedian. This interview took place at Anisa’s home in Runcorn, where her creativity thrives. Anisa works best when she is alone with her thoughts – making her own home the perfect space for imagination. When creating, Anisa will usually sit with her thoughts and free-write for an hour or so. From the results of her free-writing sessions, she can create a captivating, powerful story.

Anisa is one of our ‘12 to Watch’ as she explores themes increasingly prevalent in contemporary Australia in an innovative, compelling fashion. She has performed all across the country and won numerous awards for both slam-poetry and comedy, while also expanding her storytelling into the realm of education by facilitating poetry workshops in schools and universities. On top of all her other achievements, Anisa also co-founded ‘Voices of Colour’: a space for migrant, refugee and First Nations artists to share their work. So do yourself a favour and make sure to catch Anisa’s next show!