Lauryn Rose Cabral Teixeira

Lauryn Rose Teixeira (12), living in the United Kingdom, is a Black Afro-Portuguese author, editor, and social activist with Cabo Verdean and São Toméan heritage . Growing up with difficult early experiences, she became aware of how often children’s voices, especially Black children’s voices, go unheard. She decided to use her own story to help other children feel seen and safe.

At just 9 years old, Lauryn wrote a children’s book about identity, safety, and self-worth, celebrating self-love and Black representation. To make sure children everywhere could connect with it, she worked with authors and academics who translated her book into four languages.

With support from her mother and mentor, Lauryn has donated hundreds of books to schools and organisations supporting vulnerable children across Angola, Senegal, Mexico, South Africa, and Cabo Verde. She has also led children’s rights workshops with Acrides, helping children affected by abuse find their voice and confidence.

Through school workshops, public talks, book launches, and online storytelling, Lauryn has reached more than 100,000 people worldwide, with over 10,000 touched through in-person events — proving that even young voices can spark global change.