Former beauty queen returns to Cayman with exciting kids stories
After a period of extensive travel, Cayman Brac native, Rabia Abdul Akim has returned to Cayman to share her worldly experiences through her new books.
The intrigue of foreign cultures has inspired the Caymanian writer, former beauty queen, tae kwon do champion, businesswoman and mother of six to write The Kaa Kaa & Tokyo series of books.
Growing up in Cayman Brac, Rabia benefited from the camaraderie of island life and after experiencing the uniqueness of life in Saudi Arabia, she plans to give back to her country, through the publications.
Despite the many hats Rabia wears, she still thinks that there is more she can give, “I always wanted to be a writer, having resided overseas for many years and so I wanted to share my culture with my kids. I am launching a book on the 6th August. It will be the first book of fully developed animated characters for the Cayman Islands.”
The former beauty queen admits she enjoyed privileges of representing Cayman, both in her role as Miss Cayman and as tae kwan do champion, but her passion for this dream has always been there. “As an expatriate, residing overseas, I recognised the importance of teaching my children about their culture. I have fought vigorously for this dream for 13 years.”
Having spent many years away from Cayman’s shores, her wealth of experience has made her more determined to reconnect with her Caribbean heritage. “ I wanted to relay our culture and oral traditions to my children, instilling in them the love of reading and leaving them with a legacy of literature.”
Lady Rabia is the published author of forty-eight short children’s stories and articles for Qkids Comics in Saudi Arabia. Her poetry and photography were featured in a solo exhibit which toured the Cayman Islands for in 2004.
The Kaa Kaa & Tokyo series features wildly entertaining Caymanian stories using explosive humor, remarkable rhymes and authentic illustrations to enchant readers, young and old. Brilliant, playful, and always furiously funny, Kaa Kaa & Tokyo will charm their way into the hearts of youngsters and parents. They [the characters/books] are for people who love to laugh and learn.”
Join Lady Rabia at Books & Books on Saturday, August 6 at 4pm for the launch of Cayman’s first cartoon series Kaa Kaa & Tokyo and its debut book Kaa Kaa & Tokyo in Babysittin’ ‘Lil Kelly. Cookies and juice will be served at this free family event.
