For Dr. Carla Ibanzo, the journey of writing and poetry is a deep reflection of her faith and life experiences. From the vibrant culture of Jamaica to the enchanting rhythms of Japan, and the rich traditions of China, Dr. Ibanzo’s work is not just an exploration of life, but a heartfelt attempt to bridge cultures, beliefs, and people across continents. Her journey, punctuated by personal growth, academic achievement, and her unique perspective on the world, has made her poetry stand out in an industry often dominated by more seasoned voices.
Her debut book, Word Petals, was recognized by Independent Book Review as one of the best reads of 2023, further cementing her place as a standout in the world of poetry. But her story goes beyond the accolades and applause; it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and overcoming challenges that resonates on a personal level with her readers. She has published two other books. A children’s poetry book – Pineapple Moon and Other Poems for Children and Hanaki. Both of which received rave reviews.
A Journey of Faith, Learning, and Exploration
Dr. Carla Ibanzo’s academic journey is as diverse as her poetry. A trained psychologist, she has studied at prestigious institutions such as Walden University in the USA and the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. Despite her academic background, her passion for poetry and writing emerged from a deep connection to the cultures she encountered and lived in.
“And the long way will become a theme in your life, but it’s a journey that you learn to love,” says Dr. Ibanzo, quoting Solange Knowles. Her own life has mirrored this sentiment. The years she spent teaching in diverse countries, including Jamaica, China, and Japan, shaped her not just as a writer but as a human being with a unique worldview.
Throughout her travels, Dr. Ibanzo observed and embraced the beauty of different cultures. Her work reflects that multicultural lens, painting vivid pictures of life in all its intricacies. Her poetry invites readers to be intentional about life. To look beyond the surface, to dive into the everyday moments that weave together the fabric of traditions, culture and identity.
From Classroom to Creative
Dr Ibanzo has always loved writing. But on the encouragement of one of her friends, started publishing her work in 2023. Her writing can be described as reflective, inspirational, nostalgic and healing. Her experience living in diverse countries, allows her to craft poems that resonate with readers worldwide. Her multicultural perspective enriches her writing, giving her a distinct voice.
Word Petals – a collection of poems that explores the themes of culture, identity, love, resilience and personal growth was met with praise. And was selected as one of the best books of 2023 by Independent Book Review. For Dr. Ibanzo, this recognition was not just a career milestone—it was a reflection of the years of hard work, faith, and dedication to her craft.
“It’s not just about writing,” she reflects. “It’s about connecting with people through shared experiences and stories. Stories that matter and stories that last. Stories that transcend borders, and bring us together.”
The Unique Perspective of CLI Ink
What makes CLI Ink and Dr. Ibanzo’s work so unique is her ability to infuse multiculturalism into her writing. Her poetry, which spans from the vibrant culture of Jamaica to the serene temples of Japan and the cosmopolitan cities of China, is rich with experiences drawn directly from her life abroad. It’s not merely a literary approach but an emotional one, a way to capture the essence of what it means to be human, no matter where you are.
Moreover, Dr. Ibanzo’s work extends beyond poetry into her online platforms, where she continues to share insights, personal reflections, and creative processes with her followers. From Instagram to YouTube, her presence is a testament to the fact that literature today doesn’t live just on the page; it lives in every corner of digital life.
Her social media accounts, like Instagram (@carla_l_ibanzo) and TikTok (@carla_l_ibanzo), offer glimpses into her creative journey, while her Medium blog and YouTube channel (@saidwithwords) further highlight her deep commitment to sharing her work with the world.
“I want to engage with my readers. I want them to see the universality of poetry. It’s about building trust and connections, not just selling a book.”
The Emotional Core of Dr. Ibanzo’s Poetry
Dr. Ibanzo’s ability to understand and give voice to the complexities of everyday life connect her to her readers, and is at the core of her success. Her poems don’t just focus on the external, the physical; they dive deep into emotions and thoughts that people struggle with and carry within. She explores themes of love, loss, hope, failure and personal transformation—universal feelings that every reader can identify with.
“I write because I believe that we all have a story,” Dr. Ibanzo shares. “Sometimes those stories are hidden, waiting to be uncovered. And through poetry, I can give voice to underrepresented voices and share these stories—stories that belong to everyone, everywhere.”
This emotional depth sets Dr. Ibanzo apart in a field that often leans heavily on technical skill and structure. While her poetry is undoubtedly technically sound, it is her heart, her passion, and her authentic voice that resonate most powerfully with readers. She is more than a poet; she is a word alchemist.
What’s Next for CLI Ink?
Looking to the future, Dr. Ibanzo has exciting plans for CLI Ink. She continues to expand her body of work while deepening her engagement with readers across the globe. Whether through new poetry collections, book tours, virtual readings, or interactive discussions on her platforms, Dr. Ibanzo’s goal is to foster a deeper connection between her work and the people who are touched by it.
“I want to take my readers on a journey,” she says, “a journey that’s not just about poems, but about life. Helping us all to make sense of the paradox that we call life. Poetry is more than a creative expression; it’s voicing the lived experiences (highs and lows) of people through a written art form. And that’s the beauty of poetry—it’s both personal and universal.”
Join the Journey
If you’re looking for poetry that transcends boundaries, that speaks to your soul and resonates with your own experiences, CLI Ink is your destination. Explore Dr. Carla Ibanzo’s work today and immerse yourself in a journey that stretches across continents, cultures, and emotions. Her books are available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble.
Learn more about Dr. Ibanzo and her poetry through her various platforms:
Instagram
TikTok
Twitter
YouTube
Website
Visit today and begin your own journey. Come journey into the words of Dr. Carla Ibanzo.
