![]()
Patrice McLaurin's Member Spotlight
My name is Patrice McLaurin. I’m an Image Activist and educator at heart, turned entrepreneur, who is dedicated to empowering and inspiring young minds through literature. With a background in developing educational programs and a deep commitment to positive representation, I founded Khemrah Publishing, LLC. The company focuses on creating diverse, educational, and enriching children’s books that integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) principles. Through my work, I aim to help mitigate the nation’s literacy crisis, promote cultural awareness, and foster a more empathetic and compassionate society.
When and why did you join NASE?
I only recently joined NASE, after discovering it online. I joined because I wanted to connect with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs who are passionate about growing their businesses. NASE provides valuable resources, support, and advocacy for self-employed individuals and small business owners, which are essential for navigating the challenges of running a business. The access to expert advice, educational opportunities, and the potential for grants and scholarships made NASE an invaluable partner in my journey to expand Khemrah Publishing and make a greater impact in our community.
What inspired you to enter the field you are in?
I was inspired to enter the field of children’s publishing because of my passion for education and positive representation. Growing up, I saw, and experienced, the disturbing impact that negative, stereotypical storytelling can have on a community, particularly it’s children. This motivated me to create books that not only entertain but also educate and empower through accurate reflections. I wanted to provide children with literature that mirrors their experiences, fosters critical thinking, and promotes a more empathetic and compassionate society.
When and why did you start your business?
I started Khemrah Publishing, LLC in 2019, after operating as a sole proprietor for 3 years. I realized that I was deeply committed to this work, so I created the LLC to strengthen my impact in addressing the critical need for diversity in children’s literature.
Again, after developing a firm understanding of the weight of negative stereotypes on my community, I felt a deep responsibility to create stories that humanized it. My goal is to inspire, empower, and uplift young minds through storytelling, fostering a love for reading and promoting cultural awareness. By integrating STEAM and Social Emotional Learning principles, I aim to provide meaningful and enriching content that supports both personal and educational growth.
How do you market your business?
At Khemrah Publishing, we employ a multifaceted marketing approach to reach our audience and promote our mission. We leverage social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to share engaging content and connect with parents, educators, and young readers. Additionally, we participate in community events to build relationships and raise brand awareness. Collaborating with schools, libraries, and educational institutions helps us integrate our books into curriculums and literacy programs. We also use targeted email marketing campaigns to keep our audience informed about new releases and special events.
What challenges have you faced in your business? How have you overcome them?
As a single member LLC, managing all of the aspects of Khemrah Publishing can be challenging. Balancing administrative tasks, marketing, product development, and community engagement often feels overwhelming. To overcome these challenges, we prioritize time management and use project management tools to stay organized.
Additionally, building brand awareness in a competitive market with limited resources can be challenging. To overcome this, we leverage social media and digital marketing to reach a broader audience. We also collaborate with schools and libraries, furthering our reach.
Lastly, there is the challenge of securing funding for product development. Applying for grants and forming strategic partnerships help provide the financial support needed to expand our offerings and continue our mission.
Do you have any employees?
While I currently manage Khemrah Publishing on my own, I do plan to expand and add team members in the future. As the business grows, bringing on additional staff will be essential to handle increased responsibilities and continue our mission effectively. Adding employees will allow us to enhance our product offerings, reach a broader audience, and make a greater impact on the community. However, for now, I appreciate the hands-on experience and personal touch that comes with running the business myself.
What’s your schedule like, what’s a typical day for you?
A typical day for me at Khemrah Publishing usually starts around 9 AM. I begin with administrative tasks such as checking emails, responding to inquiries, managing orders, etc. My afternoons are dedicated to marketing efforts, such as planning social media content and engaging with our audience online. During the school year, my days are often filled with either virtual or onsite author visits. This, by the way, is my absolute favorite part of the gig. During the summer months, my weeks include community engagement and vending events. Balancing these tasks ensures that every aspect of the business runs smoothly.
What’s the best thing about being self-employed?
The best thing about being self-employed is the freedom and flexibility it offers. I have the autonomy to make decisions that align with my vision and values for Khemrah Publishing. This independence allows me to pursue projects that I am passionate about and create a meaningful impact in the community. Additionally, the ability to manage my schedule enables me to balance professional and personal commitments more effectively, ensuring that I can focus on what truly matters to me and my business.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received from a client?
When a mother emailed me and informed me that because of the Black Inventors that are highlighted in my book, Have You Thanked an Inventor Today?, her son became excited about science, his grades improved and he was accepted into the NASA Science Camp. He told his mother, “they look like me!” That made my publisher and educator heart burst with joy! Hearing stories like that keeps me motivated and grounded.
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own business?
The most important piece of advice I would give to someone starting their own business is to stay resilient and adaptable. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but your ability to persevere and pivot when necessary will define your success. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek advice from mentors, and continuously educate yourself. Most importantly, stay true to your vision and passion, as they will be your guiding force through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Which NASE member benefit is most important to you?
The most important NASE member benefit to me is the access to expert advice and resources. The guidance provided by industry professionals and the educational opportunities available through NASE are invaluable in helping me navigate the complexities of running a business. Whether it’s advice on financial management, marketing strategies, or grant applications, these resources will empower me to make informed decisions and grow Khemrah Publishing effectively. I’m certain that this support network will continue to be beneficial in helping me to achieve my business goals.
Any other information you would like to share?
I am deeply passionate about the mission of Khemrah Publishing, and I believe in the transformative power of diverse and inclusive literature. Our books not only entertain but also educate, fostering critical thinking and empathy in young readers. As we look to the future, I am excited about the opportunities to expand our reach and impact, particularly through community initiatives and digital platforms. I am grateful for the support of organizations like NASE, which empower small business owners to thrive and make a difference.