Latoya Belfon encourages Black authors to share their stories and celebrates diversity in literature through workshops and her own books
Belfon has published over 15 books in just four years! She’s not just about writing; she’s all in when it comes to sharing her knowledge with others. She even runs workshops to help aspiring authors find their voice.
One of her popular books, *Grandma’s Hands*, dives into themes of heritage and belonging. It’s all about sharing stories that resonate with kids from all backgrounds. She believes it’s crucial for children to see themselves in the stories they read.
Belfon’s journey as an immigrant has shaped her work. She’s passionate about helping kids embrace their identities, no matter how different they may sound. Her character Izzy teaches kids to be proud of who they are, and it’s touching to see kids from various backgrounds connect with her stories.
She’s also branching out into music with her book *Cadence Learns Self-Love*, which features a catchy song that kids love. It’s all about self-esteem and feeling good about oneself.
Belfon’s friend, Gemma Raeburn-Baynes, praises her unmatched work ethic. Even after giving birth, Belfon was still reaching out about projects. She’s all about time management and setting goals, which helps her juggle everything she’s involved in.
For Belfon, diversity in literature is key. She encourages aspiring authors to recognize the value of their unique stories. It’s about making sure every voice is heard and appreciated in the literary world. She’s on a mission to inspire others to share their stories and make a difference.
