As the founding director of a preschool, my direct experience with educators and children has inspired me to write children's stories that tap into early-childhood experiences. My multicultural and international perspective often slips into my stories.
I grew up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, making forts, climbing trees, and playing soccer. When I'm not writing children's books, I work as a professional imagineer for preschoolers in Harlem.
I live in New York with my Ghanaian husband and children. I'm Cape Verdean (West African), born in Brazil and raised in New England. I speak Portuguese, Spanish, and Cape Verdean Creole. My stories introduce children to immigrant families and world cultures.
I'm a member of SCBWI, AWP, Inked Voices, Storytelling Academy, and the Children's Book Academy. I'm a collaborative writer who enjoys working with other creators to elevate children's literature.
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.