Welcome to The Manam Newsletter!

it's been on my mind.

Welcome to The Manam Newsletter! Manam, meaning mind in Tamil, has been brewing for quite some time. I’ve been wanting (maybe even needing) an outlet that I have ownership of - a place where my thoughts are free flowing, without an algorithm, or pressure to look a certain way. A space without the need to keep up with trends, and without the extra noise. Manam is a place for thought, discussion, creation, and curation. Manam is a space for mental peace and clarity. My hope is that eventually, Manam becomes a community that supports one another, shares stories (the good, the bad, the ugly), grows together and most importantly, enjoys the journey that is life.

I think we (as brown women) are exhausted of society putting us in boxes, and expecting us to stay there. We can and we will do it all. We work hard, and play very hard. We live our best lives, love ourselves, and each other. I’m constantly surrounded by incredible women who are doing their part in taking charge, fighting for their dreams, speaking for what is right, and much, much more. The Manam Newsletter is a mere step towards me doing my share.

To be honest, I guess I’m creating The Manam Newsletter out of my own need for a journal and creative outlet. To take control of my narrative. To promote and support the work and ideas of others. To have fun, and explore the world around us. To let go. The digital world can feel intimidating and difficult to navigate. Where should I pitch my stories? Who should I connect with? Am I a wannabe influencer? Can I even call myself a content creator? As a freelancer and writer myself, I constantly fight the internal battle of just going for it versus overthinking, ruminating, and comparing.

I figured it’s time I stop waiting for the ‘right time’ to come and make now the right time for The Manam Newsletter.

The younger me only wanted to be heard, and feel a sense of belonging. And that’s exactly what Manam will be. For me, for anyone.

So here I am, taking control of my own story, stopping myself from hesitating, and doing the damn thing.

Here’s to us learning, exploring, writing, and creating together.

Here’s to our minds.

Here’s to Manam.

For now, you can expect The Manam Newsletter to show up in your inbox bi-weekly.

I appreciate you and your support, always.

With love,
Nivita