About me

Tell the story; explain the system

I’ve always described myself as operating at the intersection of systems and storytelling. I believe that in order to tell the whole story, it needs to be grounded in its wider social, cultural or global context. Professionally, I’ve worked in many spaces; often finding those roles where I can both tell the story and explain the system—from political speechwriter to c-suite communications advisor to destination marketing copywriter

I have a master’s degree in public policy from Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs, and that background often informs the way I approach my work. Whether I am writing about women’s health and beauty or crafting a travel essay, I most enjoy stories where I can connect individual experiences to larger social and cultural frameworks.

I’m a proud Caribbean woman and much of my writing is grounded in that identity. In my capacity as a journalist, I try to pursue stories that highlight underrepresented experiences and voices in global media.

I like to think my writing lives where personal stories meet broader global systems, and am especially passionate about the Caribbean, and the wider African diaspora.

I am available for commissions involving travel, culture, lifestyle and women’s health, as well as all things Black women or in some way connected to the Caribbean, If you’d like to work together (or you’d just like to chat!), you can find me at: zahra@zahra-spencer.com