2022 Fellow Focus: Julius B Anthony + St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature
Educator, Black author, revolutionary…2022 Fellow Julius B. Anthony of St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature shares more about his #RuthlessForGood journey.
What propelled you into the entrepreneurial space? And what do you enjoy most about being a founder?
As a Black early childhood and elementary school educator, I was tired of seeing the marginalization of Black children in public and private schools. I had become fed-up with Black children not being able to read regardless of their economic backgrounds. In 2014, I published my first children’s picture book and began to think seriously about what I could do about what I did not like in schools for Black children. The invisibility of the humanity of Black children in schools propelled me to become an education entrepreneur.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
I enjoy the thrill of seeing an idea of mine coming to life! The awe and excitement on the faces of the children when they enter our Believe literacy labs for the first time is priceless! Knowing that every time they have access to our spaces and the experiences supporting their learning to become self-aware and self-assured people is for me complete joy!
What is one piece of advice that has been the most impactful to your journey as an entrepreneur so far?
In 2019, I attended the Inner City Capital Connections Conference in St. Louis and attended a marketing session facilitated by Dr. Susan Perkins - a professor at the University of Illinois Chicago. She shared the strategy of brand collaboration. Basically, finding other companies or organizations that are doing similar work and seeking partnerships with them to help build value in your brand. As Oprah Winfrey would say – that was my “aha” moment!
Shortly after that, a representative from Scholastic reached out to me on LinkedIn and inquired about our work.They became our first partner in The Believe Project. Over the next three weeks through LinkedIn, IKEA, and PBS Kids through Nine PBS became partners as well. We were able to leverage the branding of three international companies to start conversations with school district superintendents and principals about bringing our idea to them and children. I have been using that strategy since then and we have continued to grow our partnerships with major companies like Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Penguin Random House, and Nike, Inc.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
In addition to ensuring all children become confident and competent readers by the end of third grade, my intention for my business is to actualize the Camelback core value “Give First” by elevating the necessity of Black authors, visual artists, and musical artists. St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature began by supporting the work of local Black self-published authors, providing avenues to get their books in the hands of children. In the self-publishing and book distribution industry it’s common for authors to pay management companies, distribution companies, and printing companies to get their product into the market. We don’t charge our authors management fees nor distribution fees. Our core goal is to ensure Black children are getting quality books and Black authors are being supported and valued.
As a social innovator, what legacy do you hope to leave behind for future generations?
A minimum of 80% of the books and stories used in schools that serve primarily Black children are considered Black children’s literature! Then, Black children will read.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
Honestly, I don’t have one. I haven’t read a book about entrepreneurship, nor do I listen to podcasts focused on that either. The books I typically read are closely related to my work, like children’s books, young adult literature, and social justice themed books. I’m currently reading “How to Raise an Antiracist” by Ibram X. Kendi. The children’s book that is the most meaningful for me right now and one I love reading to children and adults is “I Believe I Can” by Grace Beyers.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
To sing as well as Luther Vandross, Peabo Bryson, or Phillip Bailey! The sound of their instruments elevates the most powerful force on earth which is Love. To have the ability to conjure up Love in all its forms with the sound of one’s voice to me is a TRUE superpower!
Anything else you want to share about yourself and/or your Camelback Fellowship journey?
It's been an INCREDIBLY AMAZING experience! Welcome Week was professional, inspirational, educational, and spiritual. We are off to a phenomenal start!
You can learn more about ➡ Julius B. Anthony of St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature.
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