Today we’d like to introduce you to DeJuan Strickland.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is DeJuan Strickland and I am 13 years old. I self published a comic book called Tech Boy. It revolves around STEM and promotes Black in Tech and literacy.
I was inspired to create Tech Boy after watching Chadwick Boseman as Black Panther. I saw there was a lack of Black protagonists in movies and books and I wanted to change that with Tech Boy. I included my love of STEM and Technology in my character because I have a passion for them.
Tech Boy features the journey of Tyriq Summerbird, a teenager from Cyber City, MO who gains powers through technology. His newfound adversary, Titan Ray, attempts to demolish the city for unknown reasons. This prompts Tyriq to debut as Tech Boy while attempting to use his powers to stop Titan Ray. Tech Boy strives to encourage youth by showing them the power of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While I was writing and creating this comic book I was bullied at school which lead me to depression and self esteem issues. I lost confidence in myself so I stopped writing. I eventually got over it with weekly therapy sessions which helped me gain back my confidence and finish my comic book.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I create stories and characters that look like me and the people in my community. I aim to increase visibility and representation in comics and film. My mission for Tech Boy is to inspire other youth to become Tech Savvy entrepreneurs.
I will be featured on NBC Today Show with Al Roker on the 22nd of February so please watch out for that!
What matters most to you?
Increasing Black representation in books is important to me because it helps me feel seen. I’m in middle school and my book is geared towards middle school kids.
I hope to inspire other youth to follow their dreams and to know you don’t have to be an adult to start or own business.
Pricing:
- Tech Boy Comic Book $14.99
Contact Info:
- Email: Hello@teamtechboy.com
- Website: www.TeamTechBoy.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/teamtechboy?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamtechboy1/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/RD4FcR42gt0
- Other: https://linktr.ee/teamtechboy
