In this episode host Dee Gibson welcomes British Sri Lankan writer Zaynab Zubair. Dee and Zaynab explore a myriad of topics surrounding Sri Lankan identities and the diaspora experience and Zaynab reads an excerpt from her upcoming book 'Finding Serendipity,' which delves into themes of migration, identity, and the cultural interplay between Sri Lanka and Britain.

They reflect on the historical influence of colonialism, the complexities of religious identities, and how cultural upbringing shapes personal narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in capturing the nuanced experiences of the Sri Lankan diaspora.

The conversation also highlights the importance of communities like Hera project X in supporting creative Sri Lankan women globally.

Summary

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:08 Meet Zaynab Zubair: A Sri Lankan-British Writer

02:39 Reading from 'Finding Serendipity'

08:42 Zaynab Personal Journey

14:31 Exploring Identity and Culture

20:04 The Role of Religion in Sri Lankan Life

32:28 Blending Cultures: Zaynab Family Life

36:27 The Hera Project and Community

39:33 What's Next for Zaynab?

LINKS

Short Stories

Coromandel: A boyhood of love - Short Story (Frescoes Book 1) https://amzn.eu/d/hv4TYvC

Vesak in Dilmun: A short story https://amzn.eu/d/0NJZKqw
Finding Serendipity Instagram for release updates! 

https://www.instagram.com/finding_serendipity.lk?igsh=MXV3a2Fpc2lrYXZnbw==

Follow Zaynab
 
Baobab.lk instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/baobab.lk/profilecard/?igsh=dmgzd2J3aG40aHBr

Title: Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
Host: Dee Gibson — Sri Lankan-born, award winning designer based in London and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka. www.kalukandahouse.com | instagram @deegibson2017 & @kalukandahouse

Podcast Themes:

• Modern Sri Lankan identity and culture
• Architecture, art, and design
• Sustainability and heritage
• Diaspora experiences and storytelling

Why Listen:
This podcast offers deep, intelligent storytelling about Sri Lanka’s evolving identity — a blend of East and West, ancient and modern. It’s for listeners who love culture, travel, architecture, and thoughtful conversation.