What began as a passion project has evolved into something more…

We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead.

Our Story.

In the fall of 2023, what was simply an idea of writing a children’s book marked the beginning of our journey.

Coming from different cultural, geographic, and professional backgrounds, our love for storytelling brought us together. Having experienced moments that led us to question our identities throughout our adolescence, our discussions around identity, culture, and upbringing ultimately sparked a shared vision: to create stories where children could see themselves reflected, celebrated, and empowered in the books they read.

After pitching for funding through the University of Michigan’s optiMize Social Innovation Challenge, our ideas turned into a reality.

A year and a half later, we published our very first children’s book, Pamilya & Pancit.

This book was inspired by tradition, the foods we sought comfort in, and moments shared with our families.

However, we weren’t just creating a book. We were creating space; we were responding to the silence we felt in our classrooms, the microaggressions experienced growing up, and the feelings of isolation.

As we shared our own experiences, we realized just how deeply the lack of diverse representation in children’s media impacts not only how kids see themselves, but how the world sees them too.

That’s what led us to build A Colorful Collection: a platform rooted in the power of visibility, culture, and voice. Through Pamilya & Pancit and the books to come, we hope to expand representation in children’s literature, amplify underrepresented voices, and help create a more connected and empathetic world.

So that’s our story… What’s yours?

  • Philippine American Community Center of Michigan (PACCM) x ACC

  • Daycroft School Ann Arbor x ACC pop-up Book Fair

  • ACC at University of Michigan's Ross Impact Demo Day