Diallo’s experience of gender-based violence in Senegal inspired their story A Soul of Small Places.

Throughout her story, violence, revenge, love, and loss are woven together.

“The story is simply my life. It is the struggles I have endured that have inspired me,” Diallo said.

In addition to celebrating love, the film also addressed pressing global issues.

It was a powerful collaboration between the couple and was written in six days in an almost “possessed” state.

Woppa spoke about her advocacy against gender-based violence at a shelter Diene visited in northern Senegal.

The story could not have been written without meeting Woppa and hearing Woppa speak,” he says.

Although winning the award was an honor, winning as a family, along with their daughter, meant even more.

When you win this prize and you’re back at the hotel changing diapers and preparing baby bottles, it’s a great reality check. It keeps you humble.” The couple hopes their daughter grows up knowing that passion matters.

“I hope she grows up to be as strong-willed, passionate, and engaged as her mother,” Diene said.

In addition to receiving a cash gift of £10,000 ($12,000), the Caine Prize winners’ work will be published in the caine prize anthology in 2023.

There were 297 entries from 28 different countries this year for the award for a short story by an African writer published in English.

Zimbabwe’s NoViolet Bulawayo and Kenya’s Binyavanga Wainaina are previous winners.