Black Boy Joy Author Spotlight: Mykah Wingfield
Today’s spotlight shines on an incredible young author who proves that it’s never too early to walk in your purpose. At a young age, he’s already using his voice to inspire other Black boys to see their greatness and embrace their faith. Through his books I Am Born for Greatness: Affirmation for Black Boys and Mykah Learns the 10 Commandments, he encourages young readers to believe in themselves, honor God’s word, and know they are chosen and important in this world.
In this interview, he shares what inspired him to write, the joys and challenges of being an author, and the powerful message he wants every young Black boy to remember
What made you want to write a book, and how did you come up with your story?
I wrote "I Am Born for Greatness: Affirmation for Black Boys" So that they would know they are worth something in this world. Some Black boys don't have active Dads in their lives to tell them they are great. So I wanted to remind them that they are special in my book.
I wrote "Mykah learns the 10 Commandments" because every kid needs to know God's commandments and keep them. Most of the time, kids are not getting punished that much, and that's why they are so bad. They need to know how to keep God's commandments.
What is your book about, and what do you hope other kids feel when they read it?
"I Am Born for Greatness" is for Black boys about learning to love and appreciate themselves. I want Black boys to feel like they are princes of the Most High and important in this world.
Mykah learns the 10 Commandments" is about teaching children the commandments. I want kids to be inspired to follow God's commandments to live a good life, with getting in trouble less. I want kids to feel empowered when reading this book.With both my books, the hardest part was choosing the right words. The fun part was choosing the illustrations. I love seeing the images that look like me and my friends.
What’s one message you want other young Black boys to hear from your story or your journey? I want Black boys to never give up or give in when times get tough because they are God's chosen ones.
What’s next for you? Do you want to write more books or try something new? I want to start YouTubeing, gaming, and coding.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to another young Black boy who wants to become an author too?
Go for it. My Mommy has a publishing company and she can help, as long as you have your parents permission. Her company is Rise2Write Publishing and I am proud of my Mommy for making me an Author at 5 years old.
You can support his journey and grab copies of his books here:
“ I Am Born For Greatness: Handwritten Affirmations for Black Boys” https://a.co/d/0Kegbcs