Influencer: Meet Writer and Poet Kou Tukala Nyan

Our readers know you from your dining experience articles. Any favorites to share?

Oh my, this is like asking what my favorite plant in my garden is! If you’re in Providence craving great food and drinks (cocktails included), The Point Tavern, The Patio on Broadway, and Brickway On Wickenden. Some favorite brunch spots have been Slice of Heaven in Jamestown, The Rhody Hen Cafe (East Providence, North Providence, and Pawtucket), and Blue Plate Diner in Middletown. And Twin Oaks in Cranston (fall-off-the-bone meat, people!). I also loved the Crime and Cuisine tour on Federal Hill.

What do you like most about the writing process?

As someone who finds herself involved in many random activities, it’s hard to stop and reflect, and sometimes, you have moments when you think your efforts don’t matter. I want people to know that they matter. Every art form is communication. It’s heartwarming to know that whatever I put into the world makes people connect, be inspired, or make their day easier or brighter. I hope that through everything I do, I make a difference.

How did your poetry book come to be?

Jesus, Adulting, People in Poetry is a collection of poetry I’ve written throughout my young adulthood. The writing process was both easy and hard. My conflict and blessing is that I love to share and allow ideas to flow out of me, even when battling discomforts. Then, when the pandemic happened, it was just my book and me, so that’s how it was finally published. When readers finish, I hope they can feel inspired to write if they’ve been sitting on their poetic gifts.

One of your “random activities” is humanitarian causes. Tell us more.

I would call myself a “basic needs advocate.” Some of the humanitarian causes I’m most passionate about are those that help people’s social, educational, physical, and mental health at the most basic level. I once stumbled across a video online about homeless women trying to deal with periods, and I was immediately like, “How can I help?” With the help of my church and my friends, I was able to start Project OverFlo, which became a series of events to educate the community about self-care, activism, and effective positive change.

Any special plans for the year ahead?

I’m excited to publish my second book Try & Make It Home. It’s a collection of poetry and short stories about people encountering unusual circumstances while trying to go about their day-to-day lives. I’m looking forward to deepening connections and meeting new people. I’d love to continue my adventures in our lil’ ol’ state and beyond, tasting all the great foods and seeing all the great sights! Learn more at KouTukalaNyan.com.