Claudette Esmerelda
Introducing, Weak Emerald's first up and coming new children's book author, Claudette Esmerelda, a U.S. Army retired veteran, presents convincing evidence that where you start or finish in life has more to do with courage than culture. The "Art of Resilience” has been a theme throughout Claudette’s life. High school graduation opened the door to college but lack of funding was an obstacle; however, Claudette was not deterred, she joined the Army Reserves at the age of 17. Upon graduation of Army Basic Combat and Advanced Individual Training; she secured funding for college but other things hindered her plans. At the age of 18, the future appeared hopeless but Claudette persevered with F.A.I.T.H. and courage. Her storied life and 20+ years in the military provides the experiences that actively inspire individuals and groups to adopt the D.R.E.A.M. approach. You will find yourself never giving in, never giving up!
TOPICS
Decisions to Destiny: Stories from Germany to Georgia.
Immerse yourself in determination and courage that end with the pursuit of destiny. Claudette relates stories that effectively lead the audience to identify life decisions with great rewards!
The Faith to Dream: A Product of the Village.
A tough-love exploration of our community’s contribution that examines: why we are here, what we are here to accomplish, and how the people contribute to our story. Learn stereotype survival, overcome obstacles, and self-actualization.
Audiences
Students (elementary, middle, high, undergraduate), educators, and business professionals. Retreats, youth camps, faith groups, non-profits and festivals.
 Teens Overcoming Pressure Summit
National Hook-Up of Black Women, Inc.
February 2020
Grand Praire, TX |  Project Voice
Adam Cheyer (Co-founder of Siri, Viv and Bixby(Samsung))
Jan 2020
Chattanooga, TN |  Women and Teen Dating Violence Event
Nov 2019
Midlothian, TX |
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 Authorpalooza (AASL)
Culturally Responsive Minds
Nov 2019
Louisville, KY |  Authorpalooza (AASL)
Bill Harley (Charlie Bumpers)
Nov 2019
Louisville, KY |  Authorpalooza AASL
Linda Ragsdale (Positively Purple)
Nov 2019
Louisville, KY |
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 Authorpalooza
"Screaming Eagles All-Around"
HOOAH! |  National Black Book Festival
October 2019
Houston, TX |  Digital Book World
Janell Walden Agyeman
NEXTSTEPS Literary Services
Sep 2019
Nashville, TN |
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 Self-Esteem Workshop
African-American Military History Museum
Sep 2019
Hattiesburg, MS |  Story-time with a Soldier
African-American Military History Museum
Sep 2019
Hattiesburg, MS |  Author Panel
Leaves Book and Tea Shop
Marsha West (Second Chances series)
Richard Gonzales (Raza Rising and Deer Dancer)
Jane Alvey Harris (My Myth trilogy, Riven, Secret Keeper, and Primed)
July 2019
Fort Worth, TX |
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 Fay B. Kaigler's Children's Book Festival
Richard Peck Scholarship Awardee
Cheryl Peck (pictured with, sister of the late, Richard Peck) |  Book Signing
HP-Books Flagship Store
Feb 2019
Dallas, TX |  Girls Orphanage
Leah is Seen/ It's All About You Coloring Book Donation
Dec 2018
Kenya Africa |
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 Louisiana Book Festival
Book Signing
Baton Rouge, LA
Oct 2019 |  Louisiana Book Festival
Book Signing
Brandi Worley (Crumb Snatchers II)
Baton Rouge, LA
Oct 2018 |
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