Diverse Authors Creating Inclusive Books

Andre Jackson is originally from Richmond, VA. He and his family now live in a little town in Williamsburg known as Toano. He’s employed at a Navy Base and has gotten to know amazing people that he gladly calls friends. They have traveled the world and seen the good and the bad. These individuals open up and express the magnitude of life and how things are not so different. This has impacted Andre’s desire to become an author. He likes to write stories that allow readers to see things in a different perspective by incorporate some truth of the world with fiction. Andre’s body of work centers on real life situations happening across the world.

Derek is a 14-year-old student and the oldest of three children. He is active in sports, playing basketball and football, and he also runs track, which has helped him develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills. Academically, he maintains a 3.92 GPA and enjoys challenging himself in the classroom.

Outside of school and sports, Derek enjoys writing and playing Dungeons & Dragons, which allows him to be creative, think strategically, and collaborate with others. He strives to balance academics, athletics, and personal interests while continuing to grow as both a student and teammate.

Ashley Johnson is a children’s book author and creative visionary dedicated to crafting stories that nurture imagination, self-discovery, and cultural connection. Drawing inspiration from astrology, ancestral traditions, and the beauty of everyday childhood moments, Ashley creates worlds where young readers feel seen, celebrated, and empowered.

Her debut children’s book, The Zodiac Parade, blends whimsy and symbolism to introduce children to themes of individuality, harmony, and cosmic curiosity. Ashley believes stories are powerful tools for shaping confidence and creativity, and she is passionate about creating books that reflect diverse experiences while remaining playful and magical.

Award winning Tai Chi Master Heg (Hege) Roosevelt Robinson, M.Ed., is the founder of the Roxbury Tai Chi Academy (RTCA) in Roxbury Massachusetts. He is affectionately referred to by community members as “The Sage of Roxbury” because of the many people that he helps to heal and teaches. Master Heg’s Tai Chi classes are held in various places across Boston and are filled with impactful stories, lessons, and laughter as he guides students to learn the Tai Chi dance. He works with people who have strokes, heart attacks, and a variety of illnesses. Master Heg is sought after to study Tai Chi and various exercises that effectively help them. From May to October, Heg holds free classes on Roxbury’s Fort Hill for anyone to attend. As a dedicated teacher of all ages, Master Heg visits community members in their homes and hospitals when necessary and as a Daoist, helps all who come his way. Master Heg is also an environmentalist who travels globally to spread calm and the Tai Chi practice to many. Academy members recently supported the building of a well in Africa that will be in the Academy’s name. A previous ‘how-to’ book was published by Heg titled, The Self Health Method of Restoring Vitality: Tai Chi Chuan for Senior Citizens, 1980. He also produced teaching videos and DVD’s and appeared on many Cable T.V. shows teaching Tai Chi throughout the country. Master Heg invited Tahira K.E. Wilson-Guillermo, M.Ed, to co-author his autobiography, Healing Self &  Community with The Tai Chi Mind: Lessons for Living & Legacy. This “mark” of Heg’s includes his family history, photographs that he took when he was a photographer, healing herbs and recipes, colorful pictures and voices from Master Heg’s sacred Tai Chi community.

Author | Business Leader | Transformational Strategist

Terry B. Young Jr. is a visionary leader, author, and strategist whose life and career have been defined by transformation—both personal and professional. Drawing from decades of experience guiding organizations, teams, and individuals through change, he has developed a deep understanding of what it takes to create balance, purpose,

and sustained success in a fast-moving world.

As the author of 35 Simple Rules for Success and Happiness, Terry shares timeless lessons shaped by real-life challenges, global travels, and a lifelong pursuit of learning. His insights are grounded in practical wisdom, personal resilience, and a belief that success is measured not only by achievement but by the ability to grow, adapt, and uplift others along the way. 

Throughout his journey, Terry has worked with people from all walks of life—leaders, innovators, and everyday change makers—helping them unlock their potential, find clarity in uncertainty, and lead with authenticity. His approach blends strategic thinking with empathy and humor, encouraging others to listen deeply, act intentionally, and live with purpose. 

An advocate for continuous improvement and lifelong learning, Terry believes that every experience—success or setback—is an opportunity for growth. His book reflects a philosophy honed through years of leadership, mentorship, and reflection: that true happiness comes not from avoiding challenges, but from embracing them with courage, humility, and gratitude.

Terry holds degrees and certifications in technology, process excellence, and leadership, but his most meaningful lessons come from life itself—from moments of risk, reinvention, and rediscovery. Through his writing and coaching, he continues to inspire others to build lives defined by integrity, resilience, and joy.

Victor M. Newman is a children’s book author who blends adventure, imagination, and a love of science fiction into stories for curious young readers. He’s also the Vice President of Brand Creative at Sesame Workshop, where he helps bring Sesame Street and its beloved characters to life through design and storytelling. With a background in television, film, and animation, Victor has spent over two decades creating stories that spark wonder and joy. He lives in New Jersey, collects sci-fi books, and still believes the best ideas often start with a sketch and a question: What if…?