A voice shaped by migration, resilience, and justice.

Soli Osman was born into a Gujarati Sunni Memon family in Mozambique, where his earliest memories were formed against the backdrop of Africa’s independence movements and the quiet strength of his mother, Zebee. His family’s story reflects that of many Asian communities who built lives in Africa, only to be uprooted by the political upheavals of the late colonial and post-colonial era.

From his childhood in Mozambique and Malawi to his education in Britain, Soli’s journey is marked by perseverance and the pursuit of justice. He trained as a lawyer, navigating the challenges of immigration bureaucracy and systemic barriers that shaped the experience of so many immigrants in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s.

These experiences deepened his commitment to fairness and gave him a clear understanding of how law touches every aspect of ordinary life.

A Tribute Through Storytelling

Under The Mango Tree is Soli’s debut memoir.

It is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Zebee, whose courage and wisdom became his moral compass, and to the generations who carried their values, faith, and traditions across continents. In writing this book, Soli sought to preserve the voices, stories, and memories of a community that endured extraordinary change, while also exploring universal themes of family, resilience, and belonging.

Through his storytelling, Soli brings together personal history and broader cultural memory, offering readers not only a glimpse into his own journey, but also an enduring account of the Asian diaspora’s experience in Africa and Britain.

Looking Ahead

With Under The Mango Tree, Soli Osman has begun a literary journey that balances memoir with cultural history.

His writing continues to explore themes of migration, identity, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of upheaval. For Soli, sharing these stories is not just about looking back. It is about honouring the sacrifices of past generations and ensuring their legacies continue to inspire future ones.