Afro-Swiss Spotlight: Belotie Nkashama

Meet Belotie Nkashama, she is an Afro Swiss parent, author, and psychologist and the co-founder of Beth Story Editions. Together with her husband, Thierry Nkashama, she embarked on this journey driven by the need to create relatable Afro-descent protagonists in children's picture books.

Hailing from the Congo and now residing in Switzerland, Belotie and Thierry are the proud parents of three children who share a deep love for bedtime stories. One evening, their eldest posed a profound question: "Why are there no 'brown' characters in my favourite books?" This innocent query ignited a realisation that the representation of Afro-decent heroines and heroes in literature for young readers is pivotal.

This realisation prompted Belotie to delve into the world of children's literature. She discovered that studies on youth literature reveal how young readers identify with the main character and, in doing so, expand their understanding of the world, shape their own identity, and navigate the complex terrain of similarities and differences with others.

In the quest to find children's books featuring Afro-decent protagonists, Belotie & Thierry found a void in the market. Their response was to create their own stories, weaving narratives rooted in Western cultural fusion, drawing inspiration from everyday situations within the realm of childhood. The books resonate with the lives and experiences of all young readers, emphasizing the shared humanity that unites us all.

Through Beth Story Editions, Belotie Nkashama aims to fill a literary void, providing Afro-descent young readers with relatable protagonists. Simultaneously, she promotes unity and understanding among all children. Her dedication to diversity and representation is inspiring. Belotie reshapes narratives, ensuring every child can identify with their story's heroes. We admire and applaud Belotie’s invaluable contribution to inclusive literature.