Today we’d like to introduce you to Nakeshia Wright.
Hi Nakeshia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My passion for this work is deeply rooted in my 14 years as an educator, working with children from early childhood through eighth grade. I’ve taught in a range of spaces, from inclusive classrooms to contained environments with children who have extra needs, and I’ve witnessed the profound impact that affirmation, representation, and connection can have on a child’s confidence and learning. I’ve seen how the right words at the right time can shape a child’s self-perception and how stories can be both a mirror and a window—reflecting their own brilliance while expanding their understanding of the world.
My inspiration for this affirmation book comes from a deep belief that every child deserves to be affirmed and uplifted. Childhood is such a beautiful and fleeting stage of life—a time when children have the freedom to dream, explore, and develop a sense of self. They are incredibly impressionable, absorbing the messages around them about who they are and who they can become. Each word in the book is intentionally chosen to challenge and expand young minds, encouraging meaningful engagement between caregivers and children. Literacy is a shared journey, not one a child should navigate alone.
As both the author and illustrator, I’ve created characters that reflect the diverse shades and hues of Black children, offering representation that is not only meaningful for Black children but essential for all children. Every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read, and every child benefits from seeing and valuing the beauty of others who are different from them.
As a self-taught artist, this book is also a testament to the creative paths we can carve for ourselves. It’s a reflection of my journey as both an educator and a storyteller, and my hope is that it will inspire young readers to embrace their own unique voices, knowing they are seen, valued, and capable of greatness.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to bringing this book to life has definitely not been smooth, but every challenge along the way has made the final product even more meaningful. This project has taken over a year because I wanted to be intentional. Every detail, from the affirmations to the character designs, mattered. Representation isn’t just about including Black children in this book; it’s about making sure they see themselves fully, in all their beauty, joy and individuality. Perfecting those details took time, but I knew it was worth it.
Another challenge was deciding how to publish. I went back and forth on the best route to take, weighing the investment it would take to produce the book exactly how I envisioned it. At one point, I worried that finances would slow the process down indefinitely. Ultimately, I decided that I didn’t want money to be the reason this book stayed on my computer instead of in children’s hands. That’s why I chose a print-on-demand option, so I could move forward without waiting for the “perfect” circumstances.
It hasn’t been easy, but seeing this book come to life has been incredibly rewarding. More than anything, I hope it reaches the children who need it most and reminds them that their voices, dreams, and brilliance matter.
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?
At my core, I am a storyteller. Whether through writing, illustration, photography, or my work in education, my goal has always been to create meaningful narratives that affirm, uplift, and reflect the brilliance of Black children. I specialize in crafting stories that are both engaging and intentional. Stories that encourage literacy, representation, and deeper conversations between children and their caregivers.
As a self-taught artist and educator of 14 years, I bring a unique perspective to my work. With my education experience, I deeply understand how powerful words and images can be in shaping a child’s self-perception. My affirmation book is a direct reflection of that. Each word is chosen to expand vocabulary and encourage confidence, and each character is carefully illustrated to ensure that Black children feel seen and valued.
One of the things I’m most proud of is that I didn’t wait for permission to step into this space. I didn’t have formal training in art or publishing, but I knew the impact I wanted to make, so I taught myself, took my time, and invested in bringing this book to life. That persistence and intentionality set my work apart. I don’t just create stories- I create opportunities for children to see themselves in powerful, affirming ways.
Ultimately, my work is about making sure that children, especially Black children, know that they are worthy, capable, and limitless. If my book can be a small part of that journey for them, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For anyone just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is start where you are with what you have. It’s so easy to get caught up in waiting for the “perfect” time, the right connections, or a big budget, but the truth is, if you have a vision, you can begin right now. Progress doesn’t have to be fast; it just has to be consistent.
One thing I wish I knew earlier is that your unique perspective is your greatest asset. I spent time wondering if I was doing things the “right” way- whether in writing, illustration, or publishing- when in reality, there is no single path. What makes your work special is that no one else can create it the way you do. Lean into that.
I also wish I had given myself more grace in the process. When you’re passionate about something, it’s easy to be your own toughest critic. But perfectionism can slow you down. Instead of aiming for perfect, aim for progress. Be patient with yourself, trust your voice, and don’t be afraid to take up space.
Lastly, invest in your craft, but don’t let finances hold you back. I spent a long time debating how to publish my book, thinking I needed a big investment to make it happen. Eventually, I realized that waiting for the “ideal” circumstances was only delaying my dream. I found a print-on-demand option that allowed me to move forward, and that decision freed me to focus on what truly mattered- getting the book into the hands of children who need it.
Pricing:
- $14.00 per book- available exclusively on Amazon
Contact Info:
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Speak-Life-Nakeshia-Wright/dp/B0DS6DGL28/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shapesdesigncompany/
