Interview with Khady Fall Faye-Diagne

Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to become a researcher in Francophone literature?
"My favorite readings were the works of Léopold Sédar Senghor. They inspired my thesis topic: marronage as an essay on contemporary Negro-African aesthetics, reflecting on the Francophone writer's stance towards the French language. This work aimed to study the deviance at the heart of poetic language, from passion to provocative delinquency, from sublimated language to carnivalesque language. My personal journey using French as a second language fueled my desire to understand how 'one enters a language.' These objectives allowed me to explore this issue, borrowing keywords from Quebecois author and scholar Lise Gauvin: the writer's Langagement and linguistic overconsciousness."

What drew you to focus on the position of Afro-descendant women writers in contemporary literature?
"Until the early 1960s, African literature in French was dominated by men. Women's representation was limited to stereotypes. Mariama Bâ, with 'Une si longue lettre,' paved the way for a generation of African and Afro-descendant women writers. Their boldness in writing about their experiences enriched literature. Authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ken Bugul, and Léonora Miano have created a new global space for expression. This phenomenon, which I study, is what I call the new transatlantic literary salon of women writers."

What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career similar to yours?
"Being a teacher trainer for AEFE is an experience of linguistic, educational, and cultural diplomacy. It's crucial to respect the host country and its values. Prepare your professional profile well to be operational and effective in your responsibilities."

How has living in Singapore influenced your work?
"Singapore, a hub of performance and high technology, is rooted in traditions and looks toward the future. Its rigor and quality of life have influenced my daily work. Its gentle, green environment has nurtured my literary inspiration, reminding me of my childhood in Saint-Louis."

What are some of the challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered as a teacher trainer in the Asia-Pacific region?
"The first challenge was adapting to the cultural and professional realities of the region. The diversity of Asia has enriched our collaborative work and educational projects."

Can you tell us about a project or achievement that you are particularly proud of?
"I am proud of leading a research project on French language learning in the Asia-Pacific region. Field missions have allowed us to explore solutions for teaching French. These proposals are currently being tested in about ten schools in the region."

Do you have a last message for our readers?
"My message remains the same: the world is a global village. Borders should not be barriers. Everyone should have the opportunity to live, dream, and flourish. Traveling allows us to meet others in their uniqueness and universality."

Curious about her personality?

Dive into Khady's Chinese Portrait video, available on our social media platforms!
Experience this interactive format where Khady engages in a revealing exercise, offering insights into her distinctive personality and the inspirations that shape her literary journey.

Khady Fall Faye-Diagne is a powerful and inspiring voice in contemporary Francophone literature. Her work continues to break barriers and create new spaces for expression. We invite you to discover her works and follow her exceptional journey.