— ABOUT KWELI —
Kweli means “truth” in Swahili. Under the direction of founding editor Laura Pegram since 2009, it has been our mission to nurture emerging BIPOC writers that “sing the truth.” With a quarterly online literary journal, year-long writer fellowships, multi-session workshops, writing retreats, individualized editing, an annual writers' conference and international festival, Kweli invests in the artistic and professional growth of emerging authors, nationally and internationally. We continue to contribute to a world where the narratives being told reflect the truth of our histories and the possibilities for our future.
— KWELI COLOR OF CHILDREN’S LITERATURE CONFERENCE —
The 2025 Kweli Color of Children’s Literature will be held from April 4 - April 6 for writers of color. Writers will spend a weekend with top editors, agents, authors and illustrators in the children's book publishing world. Our spring conference is an excellent opportunity for BIPOC writers and illustrators to learn, get inspired and network with others in the industry. Newbery award winner Jerry Craft met New Kid’s future editor, Andrew Eliopulos, at our #Kweli16 conference, and Printz Award winner Angeline Boulley met Tiffany Liao, the future editor of Firekeeper's Daughter, at #Kweli19.
Nikky Finney, Laura Pegram and Tyehimba Jess | #KweliLitFest22
