Today we’d like to introduce you to Frelisha Jefferson.
Hi Frelisha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. In elementary school, I found myself creating short stories and filling pages with imagination. Even at that age, writing was more than something I enjoyed — it became my escape.
It has always been hard for me to express what I was feeling on the inside. I wasn’t always the person who could easily say how I felt out loud. But when I wrote it down, everything made sense. Writing gave language to emotions I didn’t know how to speak. It became the place where I could be honest without fear.
As I grew older, my love for writing expanded into different genres, including poetry and play scripts. Each form allowed me to express a different part of myself. Writing wasn’t just something I enjoyed — it was how I processed life.
At the same time, I built my life around serving children. I’ve worked as a teacher and leader for years, pouring into young minds and helping shape their confidence and creativity. The classroom deeply influenced my writing because children see the world with honesty and wonder. Being responsible for guiding them also taught me the importance of being whole while leading.
In 2021, I wrote a book that was originally meant to stay in my classroom as a teaching tool. It wasn’t created for publication — it was simply for my students. But the publishing company saw its potential and encouraged me to officially publish it. That book became I Know My Colors, and it later received a Golden Plum Award. That moment affirmed what had always been inside of me — that my words had impact beyond the page.
Since then, I’ve continued writing and creating children’s books while also expanding into more personal projects like Pick The Pen Back Up, which reflects my healing journey and faith. Whether I’m writing for children or writing about my own process, the foundation is the same: honesty, growth, and impact.
Writing has always been the thread connecting every season of my life. It’s how I process what I can’t always say. It’s how I teach. It’s how I heal. And it’s how I lead.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Publishing my books hasn’t been easy—it’s been a challenge. My vision for their future is bigger than me, and I’ve had to learn to trust that God will lead the way. I know my writing carries a ministry far greater than I can fully comprehend, and while there are hiccups along the journey, that’s part of life. Victory doesn’t come without the fight, and I’m ready to keep fighting. All of my illustrations are hand-drawn by me. When I first started writing, I never imagined I’d be creating my own artwork too! Even the photographs were all taken by me. I had to trust the process and trust God to see it all come together. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was definitely the illustrations. Teaching myself how to draw certain things, choosing the right color palettes, figuring out shading; it was a real challenge. There were so many times I had to start over, crumple up the paper, and try again. But every bit of it was worth it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve spent over eight years working in childcare, specializing in preschool education, and during that time, I’ve learned the importance of nurturing children not just academically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. My nonprofit, Miss Fefe Cares For You, is a reflection of that mission—it provides support for families and children through childcare, clothing, food, diapers, and whatever else families may need. We also host community events to build connection and support for the families we serve.
What sets me apart is my personal journey. I’ve overcome challenges that could have stopped me, but instead, they’ve fueled my passion for helping others. Every program I create and every child I teach is a way to pour into the next generation, giving them love, guidance, and resources that can make a lasting difference. I’m proud to be building something bigger than myself—a ministry of care, education, and hope for families in my community.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’d like readers to know that every challenge I’ve faced—personally and professionally—has shaped who I am today. I’ve overcome obstacles that could have held me back, but instead, they’ve strengthened my faith, resilience, and commitment to serving others. Through my work with Miss Fefe Cares For You and in writing, I’ve learned that our struggles don’t define us—they refine us.
My book, Pick The Pen Back Up, dives deeper into my journey, including some of the toughest battles I’ve faced. It’s my way of encouraging others to face their fears, embrace healing, and keep moving forward. I hope readers will be inspired to keep going, trust God’s timing, and know that even in the hardest seasons, there is purpose, growth, and hope.
Pricing:
- I Know My ABCs $20
- I know My Colors $15
Contact Info:
