A MOTHER and daughter duo have created an inspirational book about their heritage to increase cultural awareness and diversity.

Keona Maduforo, ten, combined her love of storytelling and illustration to co-write the book, with her mother, Uju Maduforo, about her first-hand experience of a Nigerian wedding and an eye-opening slice of African culture.

The pair, from Chafford Hundred, penned the book called Uncle Gugi’s Wedding when Keona noticed a huge lack of stories about African culture in the community.

The schoolgirl said: “It was my Uncle’s wedding in Nigeria, and he’s very special to us all. I thought it would be good to share this special moment with other children around my age so they can learn a bit more about African culture.

“Doing the illustrations gave me a chance to practice drawing which is something I enjoy. I have continued to practice, and have grown in confidence and ability.

“My drawings are much better now and I’ve started doing commissions where people pay me to draw their portraits.”

Mum, Uju said: “I’d always been very passionate about the importance of passing on our culture and language to our children as well as sharing with others, as a way of increasing diversity. It was wonderful seeing my culture through her eyes and bringing it to life in this book.

“The book has been received positively, with educators and parents alike.”

It’s available for purchase on Amazon and at wp.me/P9fned-Kx.