“ I dream stories that empower children to be the co-creators of a world where love, harmony, authentic connections and kindness prevail. It doesn’t exclude action but action coming from a place of compassion and serene stillness. ”
Daughter of a Black Panther Party leader in exile, from a lineage of activists and changemakers, I grew up in post-independence Africa, shattered by coups and civil wars. This historical period of time and my family's background nurtured in me a strong consciousness of the responsibility I have to actively be part of creating a world where we all thrive. I believe that there is a direct correlation between personal growth and social justice: to change the outer world, we need to change our worlds within, and storytelling is one of the most powerful inner change agent.
My late father was a writer & publisher, my mother is an avid reader and bedtime storytelling was the most important ritual in our household. My inherited passion for books was such that from age 3, I had learnt to read and write. I wrote and illustrated my first complete children's book at age 6. The child spirit has never left me. I always have plenty of stories in my head ready to be born in ink and color.
All adventures mirror some of my own journey, my love for children, beauty and all things spiritual. I hope you will enjoy them.
Love and blessings always,
Swaady
Short Biography
Swaady is a recognized leader, influencer and tastemaker in Africa. She’s a former Corporate Executive in a Fortune 500 company and a multi-award winning entrepreneur, founder of the tea company YSWARA. Swaady is a spiritual activist and the founder of Tounché Global Consciousness Summit & Events. She's an alumna of the Harvard Divinity School, an Archbishop Desmond Tutu Leadership Fellow , a certified Yoga & Mindfulness teacher for children, a certified Pranic Healer and a certified traditional African storyteller from INSAAC, the National Institute of Arts & Culture of Cote d’Ivoire, West Africa.
Profiled extensively in African and global media, she has been featured on several magazine covers, received numerous recognitions including the Forbes and Oprah Winfrey O Power lists for Africa. A sought-after inspirational speaker, Swaady dreams of a world where all children are supported to explore self-knowledge so that they can build strong foundations for a happy life.
Swaady has been featured in 300+ media including:
Follow Swaady on Instagram at @swaady_martin and Facebook at @swaadymartin
