Today we’d like to introduce you to Joy Harris-Bird.
Joy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m honored to share my journey with you. My name is Joy Harris-Bird, and my story is one of passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to making a difference through storytelling. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of words and the worlds they could create. I remember vividly how, as a child, I would spend hours writing sermons using my kids’ adventure Bible, dreaming big and envisioning a future where my stories could inspire and uplift others.
After earning my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Southeast Missouri State University, I realized that my calling was not just to serve my community through social impact but also to harness my creative talents to reach young minds. This realization propelled me into the world of writing and eventually led to the publication of several children’s books. Titles like “Zoey The Great,” “Different Like Me,” “My Friend Gru,” “It’s Ok To Be Different,” and “Dream Big Dreams” are all born from my desire to inspire children to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams with confidence.
My journey didn’t stop at books. I ventured into the realm of animation, creating “Kalifornia Dream,” an animated series available on YouTube. This project is particularly close to my heart because it combines my love for storytelling with my passion for music and education. Through “Kalifornia Dream,” I aim to make learning a joyful and engaging experience for children.
Every step of my journey has been driven by a desire to empower and inspire. Whether it’s through the pages of a book or the colorful frames of an animated series, my mission is to ignite imaginations and instill a love for reading and learning in young hearts. My work is not just about entertainment; it’s about making a lasting impact and helping children realize their full potential.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to where I am today has certainly not been smooth. One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is overcoming self-doubt. There were many moments when I questioned my abilities and wondered if I truly had what it takes to make an impact through my storytelling. Believing in the gift that God has given me has been a continuous journey. It’s not always easy to silence that inner critic, but each step forward has reinforced my faith in my talents and my mission.
Another significant challenge has been navigating the competitive world of publishing and animation. Breaking into these industries requires perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to face rejection. There were times when I faced setbacks and obstacles that made me question if I was on the right path. However, each of these experiences taught me valuable lessons and strengthened my resolve to keep pushing forward.
Balancing creativity with the practical aspects of running a business has also been a learning curve. As an entrepreneur, I’ve had to wear many hats, from managing finances to marketing my work. It’s a constant juggle, but it has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Despite these challenges, I’ve been fortunate to have a strong support system of family, friends, and mentors who have encouraged me to keep going. Their belief in my vision has been a source of strength during tough times. Ultimately, these struggles have shaped me into who I am today, making the achievements all the more rewarding. Every obstacle overcome has reaffirmed my purpose and driven me to continue inspiring others through my stories.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a children’s book author and the creator of the animated series “Kalifornia Dream.” My specialization lies in crafting stories that resonate deeply with young audiences, inspiring them to embrace their uniqueness and strive for their dreams. My books are all designed to ignite imaginations and instill a love for reading in children.
What sets me apart is my deep understanding of the narratives I create and the audiences I write for. Having been seen as different myself, I know firsthand the challenges that come with it and the importance of representation in literature and media. My personal experiences fuel my commitment to writing stories that empower children to see their differences as strengths and to believe in their potential to achieve great things.
Additionally, my background as a kindergarten teacher gives me unique insights into the type of content children need to bridge educational gaps. I’m not just writing stories; I’m creating tools that can aid in their learning and development. This experience allows me to approach my work with a blend of creativity and educational purpose, ensuring that my stories are both engaging and beneficial for young readers.
One of my proudest achievements is the creation of “Kalifornia Dream.” This series is available on YouTube and Amazon Prime and has been a significant step in extending my impact beyond books, reaching children in an interactive way.
Ultimately, what drives my work is the desire to make a lasting impact on children’s lives. Whether through the pages of a book or the frames of an animated series, my goal is to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I would tell them to believe in themselves and their gift. It’s essential to have confidence in your unique talent and the value you bring. Self-doubt can be a significant obstacle, but trust in your abilities and the impact you can make through your work.
Understand your audience. Take the time to learn about the people you are creating for. What are their needs, interests, and challenges? Tailoring your content to resonate with them will make a significant difference and help you connect on a deeper level.
Embrace rejection. Rejection is an inevitable part of the creative journey. Instead of letting it discourage you, use it as a learning opportunity and motivation to improve. Each rejection brings you one step closer to success.
Additionally, stay persistent and patient, seek feedback, and never stop learning. Surround yourself with a supportive community, balance creativity with practicality, and always stay true to your vision. Remember, every small step forward is progress, and your journey is just as important as the destination.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.joyharrisbird.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyharrisbird
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/allthingsjoy
