Teen Entrepreneur and Speaker Ssanyu is on a Misson to Inspire Young Readers

Ssanyu Lukoma is a teenage entrepreneur, author, and public speaker. She is also a freshman at Howard University while studying broadcast journalism. In March 2023, she was crowned Miss HBCU Teen 2023 in the annual Miss HBCU Teen Scholarship Pageant. Her platform aligns perfectly with her mission as a literacy advocate — to motivate young readers to explore diverse literature and teach them how to write their own stories.

At 13 years old, she founded Brown Kids Read, a non-profit organization dedicated to motivating all children, especially children of color, to read more diverse literature. Since then, she created an online and pop-up bookstore called The Brown Reads Bookshelf and hosted a podcast called The Book Junkie.

Ssanyu's published books: Suubi's Sunny Smile and Chi-Chi's Toothy Grin

In 2021, she wrote a children’s book, Suubi’s Sunny Smile, through a publishing company she founded, Share a Smile Books. Most recently, she published her second children’s book in 2023 called Chi-Chi’s Toothy Grin!

Ssanyu focuses on being intergenerationally inspirational, utilizes her leadership skills to positively lead groups, and brings a bright smile into every room. She presents inspirational speeches for corporate audiences and goal-setting workshops for middle and high-school students. Some engagements include J.P. Morgan Chase, Rutgers University, Princeton University, and the annual NJEA Convention.

Ssanyu is a dynamic creator and changemaker who thrives on amplifying diverse voices, making big ideas come to life, and inspiring those around her. She wants everyone to know that regardless of age, gender, social status, or any other factors, simply being themself is enough to change the world!

Ssanyu is an inspiration for us all. Her impact and positive influence on society is commendable. She is exemplifying black excellence at its highest level. I love her work and all she represents. Keep up the phenomenal work Ssanyu!

Make sure you connect with Ssanyu for your publishing needs or speaking inquiries.

Website: Ssanyu Speaks

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Instagram: Ssanyu Speaks

For more information on speaking engagements