Sultana Shirin Shazi

Sultana Shirin Shazi, born to Dr. Omar Ali and Nurunnahar Begum, was raised in Lalmonirhat, Bangladesh. An author with six volumes of poetry and one short-story collection, Shazi completed her MA in English Literature from Dhaka University and later obtained a Diploma in Computer Programming in Montréal.

In her expatriate life, Shazi keeps herself involved in organizing various cultural activities. In 2018, she served as a convenor for the 32nd FOBANA conference in Ottawa. She continues her passion for the art community, presents her poetry at recitals, and works as a moderator in various programs. Currently, Shazi is an editor for the Bangla literary magazine Ashram.

Shazi has lived in Canada for over 30 years. Now, she crosses the path of life with her two sons, Rasheeq and Ryan, and Basmah, Rasheeq’s wife. In 2019, Shazi lost her life partner of 28 years, Mannan Mohammad Mithu, from cancer. 

Despite life’s many hardships, Shazi prioritizes optimism in her poetry. Living in itself is a privilege. Without life, we cannot create, and without creation, we cannot be happy. Living makes everything possible—Carpe diem.