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

Alright, Terri thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I have ever worked on was the Mrs. Rhoda Lee Jones Library Lounge in Accra, Ghana. My great-grandmother, Rhoda Lee Jones, was a sharecropper from the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She was a self-taught learner in reading, writing, math, and piano at a time when Black women were not encouraged to pursue education. My great-grandmother was a pivotal figure in my life, always emphasizing the importance and ‘freedom of education’ through reading. It has always been my goal to continue her legacy, and what better way to do so than by dedicating a library in her honor?

During my travels to Ghana, I had the opportunity to read my children’s book to the children at Apam Orphanage, where I developed a meaningful relationship with them. At the time, Apam did not have a library, and they proposed that I sponsor a library lounge for the students, staff, and community. On July 8, 2023, we held the installation ceremony for the library lounge, and the community beamed with excitement and gratitude, as books are incredibly important to them

Terri, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have been a clinical social worker for more than 25 years and am also the author of Body Safety Zones (BSZ), a children’s book. Since childhood, I have been a sensitive and empathetic person, so pursuing a career in social work felt like the natural path for me.

My book and accompanying coloring/activity book were created to educate our most vulnerable and valuable world citizens—children. These books teach children how to self-advocate when it comes to body safety, consent, and personal boundaries to help prevent child trafficking, exploitation, and abuse.

I am most proud of my ‘book babies’ because of the significance of their content. The subject matter is critical, as it equips children with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves, speak up, and develop a strong sense of body agency. This work will be my legacy—something I am most proud of, second only to being a mother!

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to eliminate child abuse, educate children on how to protect themselves through self-advocacy, and provide information to prevent trafficking, exploitation, and abuse.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I wrote my book at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of uncertainty and disruption. There were no clear guidelines on how to promote and market a new indie children’s book, which caused me a great deal of stress and frustration. Despite the challenges, I was determined to share my message and reach as many children and parents as possible.

With traditional marketing avenues limited, I took a grassroots approach—reading my book anywhere I could. I stood on street corners, hosted virtual readings online, and engaged with families in creative ways to spread awareness about Body Safety Zones (BSZ). My goal was not just to sell a book but to educate and empower children with the knowledge to protect themselves.

The journey was not easy, but it reinforced my passion and commitment to child safety. Every reading, every conversation, and every shared moment with a child or parent made the effort worthwhile. Looking back, I realize that perseverance and purpose can break through even the most challenging circumstances.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://persistenceistheway.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/persistenceistheway?igsh=ZXhwanJtZXJoNHF6

Image Credits

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