You have to be odd to be number one.

I’m Leila Hashemi — a writer, editor, and storyteller born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. I have a deep love for soul food, soul music, and the kind of stories that leave a lasting impact.

In 2016, I packed up and moved across the world to Beijing. What started as a leap into the unknown became an eight-year journey of personal growth, cultural discovery, and professional evolution. From newsroom deadlines to brand campaigns, I’ve worked across continents and media, sharpening my editorial eye and adapting my voice to reach diverse audiences.

With over 12 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and content strategy, I specialize in crafting narratives that resonate — whether it’s a polished profile, a travel feature, or branded copy that brings a message to life. 

My background includes everything from editing translated stories for global outlets like Caixin Global and Xinhua News Agency, to creating SEO-optimized content and brand-aligned messaging for clients across the digital space.

Beyond the page, I thrive on planning events, tackling new challenges, and collaborating with creatives across cultures and disciplines. I believe good storytelling starts with curiosity, and I bring that energy into every project I take on.

Let’s connect — and create something that moves people.