Richard Yearwood

Richard Yearwood was born in England and moved to Toronto, Canada at a young age with his family.  His parents, who grew up in Barbados, became known for their flavourful and entertaining dinners.  Laughter and friendship filled the house and inspired Richard to live in the same way.  He has been acting in the film and television industry for more than 20 years where his focus has always been on creating the best working environment for everyone involved.  He has also lent his voice to various cartoon characters. Richard is now married with two young children and is currently living in Los Angeles, California. When he began to direct and produce television shows, his crew immediately became an extended family. Richard was inspired to write this series of books after many conversations with friends yearning to create the same warm atmosphere with their own relatives.  When reflecting back on his own childhood, he relived the importance of culture and quality family time. 

Kelly Anne Schnurr

Kelly Anne Schnurr has a passion for creating and inspiring. Her creative talents are as diverse as the many projects she has developed over the years. Culture, travel and human-interest stories have recently garnered most of her focus and attention.

With over a decade of experience in the film/television industry Kelly has mastered the art of story telling. Kelly has always taken a keen interest in the development of self-esteem and the sense of belonging specifically with regards to early childhood, coupled with her studies in psychology Kelly has explored the importance of family belonging. Through the development of ‘Once in a lifetime books’ she hopes to inspire a sense of belonging and impact children world-wide.

Kelly hopes to see the cultural children’s series grow to represent every denomination. There are long term plans to develop an animated series, adding children’s programming to their plethora of original television concepts.

Michael Zaharuk

Michael Zaharuk was born in Toronto to Ukrainiun and Irish parents. He graduated from the Ontario College of Art and Design in 1991.

He has worked as an Ilustrator for books, magazines, newspapers and film. As an Illustator his work has appeared in publications throughout North America, including:

• The Wall Street Journal
• Atlanta Magazine
• The Toronto Star
• The Boston Business Journal
• Alberta Venture Magazine
• The Chicago Tribune
• The Washington Post

Michael has also worked as a political Cartoonist for weekly and Daily National newspapers.Over the years he has worked for Toronto's 2 main alternative papers as an editorial cartoonist. His cartoons are currently syndicated across the country by artizans entertainment.

To see more of Michael's work please visit his website at:
www.michaelzaharuk.com