🌍 From Nigeria to the Navajo Nation: My Journey as a Children’s Book Author

Hello and welcome! I’m Yemisi Agbebi (pronounced Ye-me-sea), and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as a new children’s book author passionate about storytelling, cultural identity, and empowering the next generation.

✨ A Storytelling Legacy Rooted in Culture

Born and raised in Nigeria, West Africa, my love for stories began in a home filled with books and curiosity. My late father—my first literary champion—introduced me to Time magazine, National Geographic, and the magic of words. He even offered to fund my first novel when I was in elementary school! Though that manuscript is long gone, the dream it sparked lives on.

I’ve been writing stories since childhood, filling notebooks with characters rooted in family, heritage, and connection. Today, I write to help children see themselves in books, celebrate who they are, and learn about others with empathy and respect.

📚 Teaching, Learning, and Living Across Cultures

My journey as an educator began in Nigeria, where I taught third grade. Over two decades ago, I moved to the Navajo Nation, where my husband taught gifted students. I was welcomed with open arms and began tutoring children in reading. Later, I taught U.S. History and had the privilege of learning about Native American heritage directly from my students and colleagues.

Those experiences deepened my belief in the power of culturally relevant education. My Navajo students were curious about my African roots, and their questions led to beautiful conversations about identity, pride, and belonging. These moments reminded me why I write: to build bridges between cultures and help children grow up knowing their stories matter.

🌟 Why Representation Matters

Children deserve to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. When kids see characters who look like them, speak like them, and share their experiences, they begin to believe in their own possibilities. That’s why I created Mrs. Abeebe’s Culture Academy—a joyful journey across continents that celebrates diverse customs and traditions. It’s more than a book; it’s a celebration of identity, empathy, and global connection.

💡 My Mission: Empowering Youth Through Story

Whether I’m teaching or writing, my mission is the same: to inspire children to love themselves, embrace their identity, and discover the joy of learning through stories that reflect their lives. I believe in nurturing healthy self-esteem, cultural pride, and respect for self and others—values that shape compassionate, confident, and curious young minds.

🔍 Discover My Work Online

You can find my books on Amazon, including Mrs. Abeebe’s Culture Academy and its companion coloring book. I’m proud to be part of the growing community of indie authors using Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) to share authentic stories with the world.

📣 Connect With Me

Follow my journey on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes writing tips, and cultural insights:

Instagram: @MrsAbeebesWorld

Facebook: MrsAbeebesWorld

Twitter/X: @MrsAbeebesWorld

YouTube: @MrsAbeebesWorld