As the Executive Director of a children's museum and as the founding director of a vibrant preschool, every day is a new adventure, fueled by endless cups of creativity and a hearty dash of chaos. My journey through the colorful corridors of education and my hands-on experiences with inspired educators and curious little explorers have shaped my passion for crafting children's stories. These tales are woven from the threads of early childhood experiences, capturing the wonder and complexity of young minds at play.
My narrative canvas stretches across borders, brushed with the hues of my multicultural and international background. Born with a pen in one hand and a passport in the other, my stories drift seamlessly between worlds, introducing young readers to the beauty of diversity and the richness of global cultures.
Join me on a literary journey where every page turns with a promise of magic, mischief, and meaningful lessons, all designed to kindle young imaginations and celebrate the rainbow of human experience.
From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the bustling energy of New York, my childhood adventures involved constructing elaborate forts, scaling towering trees, and chasing soccer balls across sunlit fields. Now, as the leader of a children's museum in New York, I channel my passion for exploration and creativity into every exhibit and program. I share my life with my Ghanaian husband and our spirited children, drawing from a tapestry of cultures that colors our home. Born in Brazil with Cape Verdean roots and raised in New England, I weave Portuguese, Spanish, and Cape Verdean Creole into my everyday conversations and my storytelling.
When I'm not steering the museum ship or spinning tales, I'm the resident imagineer for preschoolers, dreaming up fantastical worlds that spark wonder and curiosity. My stories serve as bridges connecting young minds to the diverse experiences of immigrant families and the rich mosaics of global cultures.
As a proud member of SCBWI, AWP, Inked Voices, Storytelling Academy, and the Children's Book Academy, I thrive in the company of fellow creators. Together, we're committed to enriching the landscape of children's literature, ensuring every child sees themselves in the pages of a book. Dive into my world, where imagination runs wild and every day brings a new adventure!
As a founding member of both #BlackCreatorsInKidlit and #LatinxPitch, I have a passion for social entrepreneurship and children's literature. To support emerging writers of color and increase diverse representation in children's literature, please follow @BCHeadQuarters and @LatinxPitch on social media.