As we gear up for the launch of our 2024 Writing Contest, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on some of our brilliant former winners.

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Let’s hear from our 2023 winner, Kaeoli Sapp.

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Where do you live? Chicago, IL

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What year did you win the Storyshares writing contest? 2023

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Tell us about your book, Adesewa’s Snake. It’s about a bullied Nigerian girl who seeks to find acceptance from her community by searching for a mythical snake.

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How did you find out about the contest? A YouTube video of a previous winner!

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What gave you the idea for your story? I grew up watching African TV, so when I decided to write a story very loosely based on an episode I remember seeing, I decided I wanted to change the dynamic and resonance of the story.

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What made you want to participate in the contest? I love writing and it would have been so thrilling to get exposure and funds for college if I had won.

How has your life changed since winning the Storyshares contest? I’ve gotten into an amazing writing program at Northwestern University studying Journalism, and so many resources to pursue my dream!

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Where can we find you? My instagram is @ka.eo.li

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Kaeoli’s book, Adesewa’s Snake is a thrilling tale of Adesewa, and her journey to self-love as she uncovers magic within herself while confronting a snake-shapeshifter in her Nigerian village. It can be found in our eLibrary.

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