Join Ssanyu Lukoma for a storytime and signing for her book Suubi's Sunny Smile!
About the Author: I am a teenage entrepreneur, author, and public speaker. In 2018, at 13 years old, I founded Brown Kids Read, a non-profit organization dedicated to motivating all children, but especially children of color, to read more diverse literature. Since then, I have created an online and pop-up bookstore called The Brown Reads Bookshelf, and host a podcast called The Book Junkie. I have also presented to corporations including Flywire and JPMorgan Chase about Teenage entrepreneurship, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. In addition, I presented goal-setting workshops for public high school students.
On New Year’s Day, 2021, when I turned 16, I decided that this is the year that I will realize my dream and publish Suubi's Sunny Smile. To accomplish this goal, I used my birthday gifts from family and friends to edit, illustrate, and format the book. I am now looking for ways to use my unique ability to inspire and motivate others, to earn the resources needed to complete this goal. I am looking for public speaking engagement opportunities to share my passion for diverse literature, to serve as a model that young people can make a difference, and to tell my story of how my love for reading has enhanced my life.
Suubi’s Sunny Smile combines prominent heritage and dental hygiene themes, with an important anti-bullying message. As a Black individual with an Afro-Caribbean background, Ssanyu Lukoma was compelled to write a story featuring Suubi, a main character of color as well. Suubi’s inspiring narrative will show young readers that what makes us unique, can be our greatest strength.
