Why I have fallen in love with the Kwelli Community Of Authors and Illustrators

Dear Fellow BIPIC Author-Illustrators,

I remember leaving my first Kwelli conference feeling seen, heard, understood, and fully embraced. The Kwelli conference is a place where the BIPOC experience in the kidlit arena is highlighted and celebrated.

The speakers and workshops presented here discuss the opportunities - and challenges - of the kidlit community for the BIPOC community.

The authors here talk about both their struggles and strategies for creating stories that are authentic to their voice, perspective, and lived experience.

It is a sisterhood, a brotherhood, and a hug from fellow creators who look like me, and it’s the reason why I find the time in my schedule to be a part of this great community.

Currently, I attend many of the virtual events offered by this great organization. But…one day I want to attend the conference live in New York to experience the wisdom, love, and artistry up-close and personal with those in the room who are creatives and have the love and wisdom for all in the room to experience.