Ethnikids: Diversity in children's literature with Khumo Tapfumaneyi

Shades & Layers

The books your children read can shape their self-identity and cultural awareness. Join me in conversation with Khumo Tapfumaneyi, Co-Founder and Director of Ethnikids, as we discuss the life-changing power of diversity in children's literature.
We discuss how Ethnikids, an online children's book store, is transforming the South African book market by offering a range of inclusive books—from folktales to affirmation stories—that nurture a child's sense of belonging and self-worth. Khumo and her co-founder, Tina Akuoko believe it is fundamental to provide literature in all South African languages. Mother tongue literature can have profound psychological impact on children who see themselves reflected in the stories they read.
In this episode, Khumo also shares her entrepreneurial journey; from overcoming market challenges, to forming impactful partnerships with schools and libraries to promote reading for leisure. We delve into Ethnikids' exciting expansion into book publishing and how they tackle sustainability in their business practices. The Ethnikids co-founders have ambitious goals for expansion into the rest of Africa.
LINKS AND MENTIONS
Sho Majozi - https://www.instagram.com/shomadjozi/?hl=en
Professor Rudine Sims Bishop: https://www.readingrockets.org/people-and-organizations/rudine-sims-bishop
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Chapters

1. Ethnikids: Diversity in children's literature with Khumo Tapfumaneyi (00:00:00)

2. Inclusive Children's Literature in South Africa (00:00:02)

3. Diverse Children's Literature in South Africa (00:10:35)

4. Sustainable Business Dreams (00:17:31)