In order to gain experience  in  inclusive  storytelling and contribute to a more inclusive landscape ourselves, Every Story Matters also featured a talent development programme intended to coach six emerging authors and illustrators from our partner countries in creating their first inclusive children’s book.

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We launched an open call at the end of 2019 and received more than 170 applications. Each partner set up a selection committee with an expert on children’s literature and diversity, and was responsible for selecting one author or illustrator. Each chosen participant was then paired with a mentor who coached them in their own artistic and professional development and the development of their story.

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The six new stories developed by the talents were presented to audiences and children in schools and libraries at the Zagreb Book Festival 2022, as well as to publishers at the Frankfurt Book Fair later that year. We are tremendously proud to be able to present them, and their work to you: