An Inspired Chat with Miriam Calleja of Birmingham

We recently had the chance to connect with Miriam Calleja and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Miriam, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
One of the biggest misunderstandings I encounter is around the value of writing. So many people think they’ll ‘get to it later’—after retirement, or when they finally have the time. There’s also this belief that writing isn’t urgent or essential, especially during moments when the world feels like it’s on fire. But imagine if more of us knew how to express ourselves clearly, to tell our own story, to make an argument without slipping into anger. Writing isn’t just about art—it’s about clarity, communication, and connection, all of which are deeply needed right now.

The second misunderstanding is around play, particularly in my creativity workshops. Many believe play is only for artists or children, when in reality, play is one of the most powerful tools we have as adults. It teaches us how to take calculated risks, experiment safely, and approach challenges with fresh perspectives. Play makes problem-solving easier, it encourages innovation, and, I would argue, it helps us better understand one another—by loosening rigid thinking and opening us to different points of view. Both writing and play are vital practices, not luxuries.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Miriam Calleja is a Maltese poet, writer, translator, editor, and workshop leader, now based in Birmingham, Alabama. What is special about her work is the way she forges connections—across languages, cultures, and art forms—using poetry, storytelling, and collaborative workshops as tools for unity and deeper understanding. Her creative writing and poetry workshops are thoughtfully designed as spaces of inclusion, self-expression, and play, welcoming beginners and experienced writers alike to explore their voices and stories through prompts, movement, and creative exercises.[1][2][3][4][5]

What makes Miriam’s workshops truly unique is her belief that writing and creative play are not luxuries or hobbies saved for “someday,” but vital, nourishing practices for right now—even (and especially) in times of upheaval. By blending her own experience as a multilingual poet and her collaborative approach to art, she provides a brave, accessible space where participants learn to express themselves, take creative risks, and see the world—and each other—anew.[2][4][5]

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that truly shaped how Miriam Calleja sees the world was losing a part of her eyesight. This experience brought an immediate sense of urgency to her life and prompted a deep re-evaluation of just how quickly things can change or be lost. It also instilled a daily appreciation for what remains, especially the ability to see, and awakened a richer awareness of how much is left to absorb and accomplish in a single lifetime.

This unsettling event fundamentally shifted Miriam’s perspective, making her more attuned to presence and possibility—and this sense of vulnerability and urgency is now visible in her creative work and the way she approaches both art and life.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been many times when Miriam Calleja almost gave up. She describes moving forward even when feeling scared, and acknowledges that her days range from feeling truly appreciated and believed in, to feeling like she’s wasting her time and facing closed doors. The fluctuations between recognition and rejection are real, and moments of doubt are frequent. However, she continues to persevere, fighting “tooth and nail” for what she believes in, refusing to give up on her work and her passion—even (or especially) when it’s difficult.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am deeply committed to a project that bridges my background in pharmacy and sciences with my work as a poet and writer. Through my project *Blindspot* at the Mobile Medical Museum, AL, (opening September 20th), I explore missed opportunities and overlooked issues in women’s health—highlighting the gaps in research, diagnosis, and care that affect women’s bodies. Using the unique power of language alongside scientific insight, I advocate for a world better adapted to women, where these blind spots are illuminated and addressed. I am dedicated to this work because it combines my roots and my creative voice to push for systemic change that honors and supports women’s well-being.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Staying in spaces (physical and mental) where I am not appreciated.

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