Rachelyn Gordon

Rachelyn Gordon is a Singaporean children’s author and creative writing teacher passionate about telling stories that reflect the diversity and vibrancy of childhood in Southeast Asia. She is the author of Rosie and the Mamak Shop, Curly, and the upcoming Frank—a story about grief, resilience, and the power of laughter.

After the birth of her son Samuel, Rachelyn stepped away from full-time teaching to focus on raising him and to create space for more creative work. Today, she runs writing workshops for children and teachers, continues to write picture books, and speaks regularly about the power of inclusive storytelling to build empathy and connection.

You can find her work at http://www.rachelyngordon.com and follow her on Instagram at @teacherwhowrites.n Kwek is a screenwriter, film director and playwright. He spent his childhood watching movies on an ancient machine called a VHS player.

JH Low

J.H. Low is an award-winning author-illustrator known for his innovative work in picturebooks. His book Lemonade Sky was selected for the prestigious White Ravens catalogue and earned him the Hedwig Anuar Children’s Book Award. In his two graphic novels, Mr Goodchild and The Visitor, he explores existential themes through the picturebook form, challenging the conventional notion that picturebooks are solely for children. J.H. Low holds a BA (Hons) in Fine Art, an MA in Children’s Book Illustration, and a PhD in Art.

Far’ain Jaafar (Moderator)

Far’ain Jaafar is an educator, and a published children’s book author. She is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in her work and publications. She is an award-winning advocate and educational leader with more than 15 years of experience in the field of education and youth development. Her areas of advocacy revolve around children, women, youth, and families.