Rosemond Sarpong Owens

Rosemond Sarpong Owens is a Ghanaian-American champion of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice (DEIJ), public health, and children's literature. Hailing from Ghana, West Africa, she has called Minnesota home for more than two decades. From an early age, Rosemond recognized her passion for books and the profound impact of representation. However, it wasn't until her teenage years that she finally saw a character who resembled her own identity within a story. The scarcity of books featuring characters of color and a mainstream media that perpetuated damaging beauty standards spurred her into action.

Embracing the moniker of the "Lion's Historian," Rosemond draws inspiration from a poignant quote by African author Chinua Achebe: "Until the lions have their own historians, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter." Her mission is to reshape the narrative and create children's history books that illuminate the stories of our African ancestors. In the United States, where a mere 8% of children's books depict main characters of color and a mere 4% center around individuals of African heritage, she understands the criticality of representation. Thus, she established the Heritage Collection Books, empowering children to see themselves reflected in literature, for as the saying goes, "you cannot be what you cannot see."

As a public health expert, Rosemond comprehends the profound impact that mainstream beauty standards can have on self-esteem and overall well-being. This realization drives her to live by the mantra "Representation Matters." Through her books, she aspires to foster self-love, educate individuals—particularly children—about their rich heritage, and advocate for a diverse, inclusive, and equitable portrayal of our ancestors. Recognizing the transformative power of storytelling, she believes that narratives can unlock one's true potential, unveil endless possibilities, and illuminate their purpose. Undoubtedly, the books we read and the images we behold fundamentally shape our perception of ourselves and the world we inhabit. By featuring stories that resonate with our own identities, Rosemond envisions a future where inspiration and empowerment abound. So, brace yourself to encounter the Lion's Historian and embark on a captivating journey celebrating our vibrant culture and precious heritage!