I'm the girl - By DaniElle Pervan-Reid

Written By: DaniElle Pervan-Reid

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

DaniElle Pervan-Reid graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her evocative poem, "I'm the girl." Part of the Poetry category, this piece is a candid exploration of self-identity and personal growth. DaniElle's work delves into the nuances of individuality and the courage it takes to embrace one's uniqueness in a world that often demands conformity.

About the Work

"I'm the girl" is a poignant reflection on the journey of self-discovery and acceptance. DaniElle Pervan-Reid uses vivid imagery and heartfelt expression to convey the complexities of identity. The poem's tone is both introspective and empowering, inviting readers to ponder their own path to self-acceptance. Through relatable themes and rich language, DaniElle captures the essence of embracing one's true self.

I'm the girl

Original Submission by DaniElle Pervan-Reid

DaniElle Pervan-Reid

I’m the girl

I’m the girl with hair a bird would nest in, thinking it's hay.

I never was one to remember to run the bristles through my locks.

I’m the girl who dressed herself in bright red neon pants and a grey jersey which I forced them to coexist. It definitely was a fashion emergency. Yet my parents plead the fifth, encouraging my decisions and self expression.

I’m the girl who has a heavy heart and a joyful soul so of course my brain was inconsolable.

I was the girl who never stepped out of line or over it.

I believed rules were there for a reason just like the seeds society has imprinted.

I’m the girl who repaints over her pain, hoping a splash of colour will change the scenario.

If I can change the hail into snow; I can make snow angels.

I was the girl who didn’t understand how love should be displayed so I accepted disgrace.

I thought you had to constantly engage in a tug of war.

Pulling against the worst just to receive a slice of cake.

To my dismay after inspecting it, it was riddled with mold.

I didn’t want to hold the weight of letting people down, the concrete in my gut is awfully too much. So my lips whispered yes when my intuition growled no.

Countless hours on my feet like the waitress I am, busy juggling everybody else’s expectations except meeting my own.

I’m the girl who says her thoughts aloud.

Raised eyebrows and tugged lips cling to me like thick fog into every room I cross.

I guess I didn’t get the memo.

Rather settle in being Dory from Finding Nemo then be shunned.

Opinions hurt more when they come from outside and settle into creases in the head.

I’m the girl who holds tightly onto her hope even when the thread runs out.

I’m the girl who society gave me something, something that made me tremble and want to find a horse and gallop.

They stamped weird on my forehead and it hasn’t vanished.

Year after year it continues to sink in like a fresh tattoo.

I tried to remove the weirdness from my veins.

I gave myself a new wardrobe and a new voice to narrate.

I’m the girl who’s weird but I don’t mind that anyway.

Somehow weirdness is okay because it made me who I am today.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of written expression. Showcasing a diverse array of voices from around the world, the competition highlights the talents of poets and writers who explore themes of identity, creativity, and more through their work.

Thank you, DaniElle Pervan-Reid, for sharing your introspective poem, "I'm the girl," with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your exploration of self-identity and personal growth adds a meaningful layer to the event, encouraging readers to reflect on their own journeys. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to more of your inspiring work.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.