Dimitri Laskaris, born in Athens to restaurateurs, grew up in a vibrant environment rich in debates on politics, food, and philosophy, shaping his insights and writing style.
Gray McAllister, raised in Telluride, grew up on a family ranch, fostering a love for the outdoors and writing about his trail adventures amidst the San Juan Mountains.
Harriet Ojo, from Abuja, Nigeria, grew up in a family that valued education and community service, shaping her commitment to social issues and storytelling.
Avery Townsend grew up in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, exploring nature and nurturing a love for travel and storytelling while working at her family's lakeside resort.
Rina Tanaka grew up in suburban Tokyo, influenced by her professor father and floral designer mother, fostering a love for art, culture, and meaningful discussions.
DeAndre Holloway, a Chicago native, grew up in a middle-class family. He is an acclaimed author and advocate for urban storytelling, deeply rooted in his city's culture.
Juliette Bouchard, a Montreal native from a bilingual family, is a novelist known for exploring language, identity, and Quebec culture through her literature.
Yuan Li, an only child from Beijing, grew up in a literary household. She studied Creative Writing at Peking University and explores themes of romance in her writing.