Today we’d like to introduce you to Nyla Choates.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My desire to write my book came from growing up in the Bay Area and not having representation in the classroom nor the textbooks. I wanted to be the change for other little girls and boys that looked like me. I wanted them to see representation in a book starting at a very young age. So I wrote a children’s book sharing my story.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a great experience, but there have been challenges. I think one of my biggest challenges was getting my book in the very library I grew up going to as a child and student. It truly validated my need for my book, but it also was disappointing that I had to go through this process.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am currently a student at Spelman College. But the work that sets me apart is my nonprofit, My Roots Are Rich and my children’s book, also titled My Roots Are Rich. They both were created to empower, inspire and educate others on the rich history of African Americans. I think that one of my proudest moments were writing my children’s book at the age of 18 and actually seeing it grow into the success it has today.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to execute my dreams! At the age of 16, I held and led the first Black Lives Matter March in my city. I created my nonprofit at the age of 16 and used it for change in a community where the population is extremely small with the black population.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I truly would not be here today without the support of my village. My parents have been my biggest cheerleaders as well as a support team. One mentor that stands out is Ms. Debra Watkins, who was the first person to financially sew into my children’s book and me as a rising scholar. There was also Milan Balitine who is the President of the AACSA who allowed me the opportunity to show my leadership skills with his organization, one being interviewing Angela Davis. There were many teachers and the school board president Chris Norwood who not only listened to my cry for inclusion but helped me with the execution of several of my endeavors. Last but yet such a crucial part of my success were my siblings who never failed to show up in support of every endeavor I decided to take on. They were my support system, cheerleaders and a listening ear when needed.
Pricing:
- Hard Cover books $20
- Paperback books $15
- Coloring books $13
- Book Marks $2
Contact Info:
- Website: www.myrootsarerich.org
- Instagram: @myrootsarerich @nylachoates
- Facebook: @myrootsarerich
- Linkedin: Nyla Choates
- Youtube: My Roots Are Rich
