We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful DeJuan Strickland . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with DeJuan below.

DeJuan , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I was inspired to create Tech Boy after watching Chadwick Boseman as Black Panther. I saw there was a lack of Black protagonists in movies, TV shows and books and I wanted to change that with Tech Boy. I included my love of STEM and Technology in my character because I have a passion for them.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is DeJuan Strickland and I am 13 years old. I self published two #1 bestselling comic books called Tech Boy and Science Girl. They both revolve around STEM and promotes Black in Tech and literacy. I create stories and characters that look like me and the people in my community. I aim to increase visibility and representation in comics and film. My mission for Tech Boy is to inspire other youth to become Tech Savvy entrepreneurs. Increasing Black representation in books is important to me because it helps me feel seen. I’m in middle school and my book is geared towards middle school kids. I hope to inspire other youth to follow their dreams and to know you don’t have to be an adult to start or own business.

I am proud of many things since becoming an entrepreneur; but the one that stands out the most is being interviewed by Al Roker on NBC’s Today Show.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Unfortunately, African Americans and other people of color lack representation in many areas of society. This includes book publishing and the area of children’s literature. Team Tech Boy, LLC independently publishes comic books to promote the importance of literacy and STEM amongst populations that are often marginalized and overlooked. Currently, African Americans are greatly underrepresented in the field of STEM. The components of STEM are utilized in almost every facet of daily living. It is important that access to STEM opportunities is equitable for everyone regardless of their race, ability, or socioeconomic status.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Being able to inspire kids to follow their dreams. Since sharing my story; kids have come to me for advice . They have told me they have started creating their own comic books and coding their own video games. Another rewarding aspect is seeing kids open my comic books for the first time and seeing their reactions. Its one of the best aspects of being an artist and kid entrepreneur. I also enjoy donating books to local schools here in St. Louis to help teachers diversify their classroom libraries.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.teamtechboy.com
• Instagram: @teamtechboy
• Facebook: @teamtechboy1
• Twitter: @teamtechboy
• Youtube: @teamtechboy