Nyasha

Williams

Social Justice Griot

Children’s Author & Deck Author

Travels from: Denver, CO

“Accompanied by simple yet expressive illustrations, this is a loving and much-needed story that encourages kids to make a difference… Empowerment to children to be the change they wish to see in the world.” ― Kirkus Reviews

Nyasha Williams, a passionate social justice griot, has a unique background of living intermittently between the United States and South Africa. This diverse experience has deeply influenced Nyasha’s mission to decolonize literature, minds, and spiritual practices using words and stories.

Nyasha firmly believes that the story lives within each of us and that our mission is to use stories to spread understanding, healing, and empowerment. Through her work, Nyasha encourages us to uncover and share our stories so that we can all learn, grow, and create meaningful change.

Nyasha’s writing is rooted in her understanding of stories’ powerful potential to transform and reveal truths that have been hidden for too long. She strives to use her words to ignite new conversations, inspire action, and ultimately help create a more equitable and just world.

“As BIPOCs, we are operating and navigating harmful systems that weren’t made for us and are actively working against us,” says Williams. “My efforts as a creator, author, and activist are to combat the systems of White supremacy, colonization, and the patriarchy, working towards decolonizing, liberating, and indigenizing our minds and world.”

Writing to Change the Narrative is Nyasha’s way of bringing her passion for storytelling to life and helping us all to write our own stories. With her help, we can all find our voices and use them to write a better world.

She has eleven children’s book titles published or in the publishing process, along with a Tarot deck and Oracle deck, each with journal accompaniments. Nyasha is the founder and creative director of Fire + Honey Press, a digital publishing honeycomb created toward collective liberation.

Nyasha's Featured Titles

The Seven Sips: A Kwanzaa-Inspired Tasting Experience (Family-Friendly)

Best for: Festivals, libraries, museums, schools, markets
Bring Kwanzaa to the senses with a vibrant, interactive experience where families can enjoy a rotating tasting of seven drinks or desserts—each one inspired by one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith).
Each tasting station includes:

A themed flavor or recipe linked to a principle
A short reflection or activity card
An optional read-aloud moment from Once Upon a Kwanzaa

The Seven Plates: A Kwanzaa Dinner Storytelling Experience (Family or Adult Versions Available)

Best for: Special events, fundraisers, cultural programming, schools
Host a soul-nourishing, multi-course meal where each course is thoughtfully curated to reflect one of the seven Kwanzaa principles. Between each course, Nyasha Williams introduces the principle through stories, history, community reflection, and excerpts from Once Upon a Kwanzaa.
Dinner includes:

A guided meal experience with intentional pacing
Optional musical, divination, or interactive elements tied to each principle
Connection cards at each table to spark discussion and reflection
Opportunity for Q&A, book signing

Add-on Option: Partner with local chefs or youth culinary programs to spotlight community collaboration.

Optional Add-Ons for Either Event:

On-site or pre-ordered book sales with signed copies
Printable family guide or take-home recipe cards
Integration of local artists, drummers, or dancers

Saturday Magic: Hoodoo, Healing & Heritage Through Food

Best For: Libraries, schools, festivals, museums, wellness centers, culinary based programs
Rooted in Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story, this vibrant, hands-on event invites participants to engage with the sacred everyday magic of Hoodoo culture through food, storytelling, and intentionality. Centering on Grandma Rose’s Watermelon and Orange Salad, this program offers a heartwarming, sensory way to explore Ancestral knowledge and family rituals.

Read-Aloud of Saturday Magic with reflections on Hoodoo, Ancestry, and tradition
Story Circle: Participants are invited to share memories or dreams about family, food, or ritual
Salad-Making Activity: Guided by Nyasha, participants prepare a simple, refreshing Watermelon & Orange Salad inspired by Grandma Rose
Gratitude & Intention Setting Ritual: Honoring the sacredness of food, we close with a short affirmation or blessing

Add-On Options:

Recipe card of Grandma Rose’s Watermelon & Orange Salad for participants
Create-your-own Kitchen Magic zine or journal
Signing station with Saturday Magic
Collaboration with local wellness, food, or cultural organizations

Showing up! Allyship as a Creative: Social Justice on the Page

Dive into the intersection of allyship, social justice, and creativity as a creative- writing and illustrating. Explore how to authentically incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into your storytelling while engaging young readers. This session welcomes creators at all levels passionate about using their craft as a platform for positive change. Discover strategies for crafting impactful narratives that resonate with audiences and empower own voices.

Breaking the Rules on Picture Books: New Approaches to an Old Form

Explore innovative techniques and unconventional storytelling methods with Nyasha Williams toward getting noticed by agents and publishers. This breakout session challenges the taught conventional norms and encourages participants to push boundaries creatively. Suitable for writers and illustrators seeking fresh perspectives on getting your work out into the world.

Author Talks: Seasons of Black Tarot

Join us in celebrating the current (season) by celebrating a written and illustrated Tarot deck centered around ancestral connection. During this sacred gathering we will connect with the creators and welcome (season) using the deck. Nyasha Williams, a passionate social justice griot, grew up living intermittently between the United States and South Africa. Nyasha’s mission is to use words and stories to decolonize literature, minds, and spiritual practices.

Co-Authoring a Book

Co-Author of four, two published and two in progress books, join Nyasha Williams describe her journey of co-creating various projects with thirteen different authors she has co-written with in total.

“Nyasha met with my class virtually to discuss her experience being an author while she was creating this book. My students were incredibly moved by this experience and many claimed they wanted to be an author someday. Inspired by this story, we created an ABC book all about our school and classroom community. I Affirm Me has been a classroom staple ever since then.” ― Hailey Muncy

“I AFFIRM ME is an alphabet book full of affirmations to help inspire and empower Black kids as they embrace their identity. This book is well-written and has many examples to help discuss social justice.” ― Brad Kuljinder

“We are always looking for books that will educate, inspire,and affirm our identity. I Affirm Me did just that. It is a book that the whole family loves and one you will go back to over and over. I wish when I was younger books like this were available but I am happy they were written in the years my daughter is young and can benefit from. You will not regret buying and reading this book.” ― Gabrielle Bridges

“A BEAUTIFUL and inspiring walk through the alphabet. The image are gorgeous and the words are inspiring. A favorite in our little library.” ― Whitney R.

“My students really loved this book – from the beautiful mermaid to the richly-illustrated sea life. The Earth-friendly message was clear and easy for my kindergarten kids to understand the importance of the ocean to humans and sea creatures. The ocean facts at the end were great conversation starters, and my students loved coming up with ways they could do their part to save the ocean! A gorgeous book that should be in every classroom!” ― Sophie Rose

“Thank you for writing! Love the book and cards! Great to have things for us by us!” ― Diamondd Cohen

“There were so many amazing aspects to the book, I honestly don’t know where to begin. The author gave us 26 different ways to let us know that we are loved, important and matter! The illustrations were so bright and inviting, and paired beautifully with the text. I really want to give a huge thanks to the author for creating a book like this!” ― Kayla Spears

“When I first read this book to my son, he was in love with the colorful illustrations! But as he’s gotten older, it’s been great to engage in conversations with him about all of the important topics included.” ― Misty Castaneda

“Nyasha Williams is not just a talented author, but a visionary that is impacting the world, and that of children’s literature, in such a positive way. We can’t wait to continue purchasing her books and learning from her in new and exciting ways.”

“Before I was introduced to Black Tarot, I had a limited understanding of its impact and importance in multiple cultures. Nyasha did a fantastic job of making tarot accessible to all, while teaching an important lesson about the history of tarot and how it connects to your past and current life. The written is are amazing and elevated even more by the artwork.” ― Andi Rosenblatt

“We are so glad to know that this beautiful book exists! Now, more than ever, we need accessible and representative books for children that advocate for the protection of our earth and oceans. Ms. Williams’ story is fun and engaging, while also providing excellent information. The story uses kid-friendly, rhyming language and encourages kids to take specific steps towards being part of the solution. The pictures are gorgeous, full of all kinds of sea dwellers in vibrant colors. We highly recommend this book for families who want to learn more about pollution and how to help clean up our oceans!” ― The Antiracist Little Library

“Have you ever noticed how some ABC books seem a bit forced and strangely worded? This is not that! Ms. Williams has written a lovely book with language that flows through 26 unique affirmations – one for each letter of the alphabet! The pictures are beautiful and complement the text perfectly. This book covers topics from HBCUs and taking a knee to take a stand, to practicing mindfulness and protecting our earth from pollution and climate change. This book centers Black joy and celebration, empowering Black and Brown children who read it to love and embrace themselves. I Affirm Me clearly sends the message imprinted on its back flap – “You are strong. You are powerful. You are beautiful. You are worthy.” A must have for your child’s library!” ― The Antiracist Little Library

“This beautifully illustrated book is a different, enjoyable experience for kids (and adults) of all ages! Younger children will love the brightly colored, inclusive pictures and rhyming language while older kids will enjoy learning new terms and how to use them to empower and support others. In the appendix, Ms. Williams has included a helpful glossary called Ally Baby’s First Words, as well as a great reading list for parents wanting to find more books that uplift women and girls. Following the story, there is a reminder of the specific steps Ally Baby took to support gender equality like asking for a hug and waiting on consent to give it; played with toys Ally Baby liked, regardless of the type; and supporting girls for expressing true emotions.” ― The Antiracist Little Library

“I loved, loved the great ideas Ms. Williams shares with kids in this book and the pictures are so brightly colored and adorable! In this story, Ally Baby learns how to advocate and care for our earth – a lesson we all need! Because of the helpful glossary in the back and definitions shared in the body of the book, this is one you can read with kids of any age – from babies on up! Ms. Williams also provides a fantastic reading list for parents who want to find more books to teach their kids about how to care for the earth. Following the story, there is a reminder of the specific steps Ally Baby took to care for the earth, including: learning about some of the problems we’re facing, becoming more connected to her food, picking up trash, voting for sustainable policies, and enjoying nature!” ― The Antiracist Little Library

“I am beyond thankful to my sprit team for guiding me to this deck. I was lucky enough to stumble into a bookstore and grab this deck the week it came out. When I saw it on the bookshelf I knew right away this deck needed to be in my collection. The moment it picked up the box and saw the description of the deck I felt inner joy and joy from my ancestors. This deck has brought me closer to my ancestors, higher self, and community. As a spiritualist and reader this is my go to deck, when I am ready to hear the truth and receive a powerful message. I am obsessed with the illustrations, imagery, prints, and colors used in the deck. From the print on the back of the cards to the contemporary Black essences of the characters in the cards. The way the author interpreted the RWS deck took my breath away and blew my mind. It is clear that there was so much intention, respect, and honor put into this deck and each card. Can we talk about the guidebook. The guidebook alone is worth the price of the deck. I love love love the way the creator told the story of each card in the deck. The major arcana included journaling questions, related flower, element, chakra, yin vs yang meanings, ways to align and my favorite an affirmation. I have never seen this done before and I am so appreciative of the thoughtfulness as it help me embody the essence of that card. The minor arcana. I can’t say enough good things about this deck. Many of the readings I have done with this deck has provided me with the most profound impactful messages I needed to hear. My ancestors, guides, higher self, and I thank you and your team for creating such a powerful much needed deck. A deck that represents the essence of our Blackness in such a beautiful light. I look forward to grabbing the accompanying Oracle deck when it comes up.” ― Christine Ghill

“I wanted to reach out regarding this deck and guidebook. As I walked through Books a Million with my girls, I always make it a point to visit the spiritual section of the store. Yesterday, this black box popped out and me…”The Black Tarot”. Hmmm I was like oh-kay and grabbed it. No deck has ever called out to me as this one. “An Ancestral Awakening Deck and Guidebook”. I’ve been heavy on veneration lately as well…the key!!! Get it home, bless it, placed it on the altar for blessings and cleansed as well. I opened it today…and as soon as I looked at the deck, there was an immediate call or connection again! In awe of the beautiful artwork, I was completely taken aback! Not to mention this card stock is AMAZING!!! The guidebook…ma’am, from the Deck Story, to the moon rituals, the house cards, spreads, yin/yang etc. you really outdid yourself with this work!!! It spoke to me and called out to me, and I understand why!!! Many blessings to the ancestors known and unknown for divine guidance and wisdom and protection ✨?. Thank you so much for this ??.” ― Deshawna Clark

“I found Nyasha through TikTok and had to add her books to my shelf. This was the first one I read my kids (4 and 5) and I absolutely love that they’re seeing and discussing representation and inclusivity as part of everyday life. My daughter especially loves “M” is for Mindfulness because her name starts with M. A must-buy!” ― Abigail Levine

The Creative Playground with Nyasha Williams

Nyasha’s Events

Honors, Awards & Recognition

2024 Silver Nautilus Book Award in the Children’s Picture Book category for Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story
2024 Silver Nautilus Book Award in the Children’s Picture Book category for Keep Dreaming, Black Child