Tasha-Nicole Terani Shares Her Mission to Empower Children Through Storytelling and Compassion

PHOTO: Tasha-Nicole Terani, author and humanitarian, brings warmth and purpose to every endeavor, from award-winning books to global advocacy for children.

Author And Advocate Inspires Through Words And Action

Tasha-Nicole Terani discusses the inspiration behind A Tree for Me, her global advocacy for children, and how love, nature, and resilience guide her storytelling and philanthropic efforts.

Tasha-Nicole Terani is a force of love and vision. A luminous figure in both literature and life, she channels a deep well of resilience and compassion into everything she touches. Her journey—from orphaned child to global advocate—is not only extraordinary, it’s instructive: proof that our past can be the soil from which empathy, courage, and purpose bloom. With A Tree for Me, she has offered children a gift wrapped in gentle wisdom: a story that tells them they are enough, exactly as they are.

But Terani’s impact is far greater than the pages of a single book. Through her Every Child’s Dream Foundation, she has extended the themes of her writing into tangible action, reaching hearts in over 90 countries. Her work doesn’t ask children to believe in fairytales—it asks them to believe in themselves. And more importantly, it gives them the tools to do so. Whether she is writing, mentoring, or standing on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, her message is unwavering: healing begins within, and love is not something to be earned, but remembered.

Nature, for Terani, is not just backdrop—it is companion and teacher. The oak tree of her youth becomes the living metaphor for A Tree for Me, reminding us all that strength can be quiet, growth can be slow, and roots matter. Her words are not only beautiful—they’re needed.

What Terani offers is more than a story—it’s a shelter. In her world, books are bridges, trees are mirrors, and every child, no matter how small or scarred, holds the power to rise.

Tasha-Nicole Terani is a radiant storyteller and humanitarian whose work empowers children with self-love, strength, and a sense of belonging.

What inspired you to write A Tree for Me, and how did your personal journey shape its message?

The inspiration for A Tree for Me stemmed from a deeply personal reflection on my childhood experiences and the powerful symbolism of a beloved oak tree I used to visit. While working on my memoir, I recalled moments of seeking strength, resilience, and unconditional love—qualities I found embodied in that tree. It became a metaphor for understanding that love is not something external we chase but something we carry within us. My personal journey of self-discovery, healing, and learning to give myself love shaped the core message: that we have everything we need inside, and that true love begins with self-acceptance. The story emerged as a way to convey this truth to children, inspiring them to look inward and realize their inherent worth, fostering resilience and a sense of belonging from a young age.

How do you hope children will feel after reading your book?

I hope children finish A Tree for Me feeling empowered, seen, and connected to their own inner strength. My wish is for them to understand that love is not something they have to chase or earn from outside sources; instead, it resides within each of them. I want children to feel a sense of comfort and reassurance—that they are enough just as they are—and to carry that sense of self-love into their daily lives. Ultimately, I hope the story encourages children to trust themselves, nurture their inner resilience, and recognize that the love they seek is already a part of who they are, waiting to be shared with themselves and others.

“The illustrations deepen the emotional resonance of the story by capturing warmth, strength, and vulnerability.” — Tasha-Nicole Terani

In what ways do the illustrations enhance the emotional depth of the story?

The illustrations in A Tree for Me are designed to deepen the emotional resonance of the story by visually capturing the warmth, strength, and vulnerability conveyed in the narrative. Through gentle, vibrant artwork, I aimed to depict the inner landscape of the characters—the curiosity, the longing, and the growth—allowing children to connect emotionally on a visual level. The depiction of the oak tree itself embodies resilience and stability, serving as a comforting presence on each page. The use of color, light, and expressive faces helps evoke feelings of hope, self-discovery, and acceptance, making the story more immersive and meaningful. These illustrations serve as a silent dialogue, reinforcing the story’s message that love and strength are rooted within us.

What has been the most rewarding feedback you’ve received from a child or parent about the book?

The most rewarding feedback I’ve received came from a parent who told me that their child, after reading A Tree for Me, started practicing self-kindness and expressing more confidence in their daily life. The child had previously struggled with feelings of inadequacy, but the story sparked a conversation about inner strength and self-love. Hearing that the book helped a child see their own worth and sparked positive change in their attitude was profoundly humbling. It reinforced my belief in the power of stories to touch hearts and inspire growth. Knowing that the book can be a gentle guide toward self-acceptance for children and their families is what makes this journey so meaningful. I have been hearing that the book has a powerful impact on adults as well!

How does your work with the Every Child’s Dream Foundation connect with the themes in A Tree for Me?

My work with the Every Child’s Dream Foundation aligns seamlessly with the themes of A Tree for Me because both emphasize the importance of nurturing inner strength, hope, and the belief that every child deserves love and opportunity. The foundation’s mission to empower children around the world—especially those facing adversity—resonates with the story’s message that love and resilience come from within and can be cultivated regardless of circumstances. By providing resources, mentorship, and encouragement, we aim to help children realize their potential and foster self-love, echoing the book’s core idea that we carry the seeds of strength and love inside us all.

“Small acts of kindness can spark enormous change in a child’s life.” — Tasha-Nicole Terani

What drives your commitment to helping children across so many countries and communities?

My commitment stems from a deep belief that every child, regardless of where they are born or their circumstances, deserves a chance to thrive, feel loved, and realize their inherent worth. Having traveled to different countries and witnessed both the challenges and resilience of children worldwide, I see the universal need for compassion, encouragement, and empowerment. I am motivated by the idea that small acts of kindness and support can spark enormous change, and I want to be part of creating a ripple effect of hope and self-belief. Every child’s smile, resilience, and potential inspire me to continue advocating for their well-being and future.

How has your background in soccer and record-breaking achievements influenced your writing and philanthropy?

My background in soccer and achieving record-breaking milestones has instilled in me a sense of discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting—qualities that are essential both on and off the field. These experiences taught me that resilience in the face of challenges leads to growth and success, lessons I weave into my storytelling and philanthropic efforts. They also fostered a mindset of pushing boundaries and dreaming big, encouraging children to believe in their own potential. The teamwork and leadership skills gained through sports have helped me collaborate effectively in my philanthropic work, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and shared purpose in creating meaningful change.

“Stories that heal come from a place of authenticity and courage.” — Tasha-Nicole Terani

What role does nature play in your healing journey and creative process?

Nature has been a vital source of healing and inspiration in my life. My childhood visits to the oak tree symbolize a sanctuary where I could reflect, find strength, and reconnect with myself. The natural world reminds me of the interconnectedness of all living things. It inspires my creative process by serving as a metaphor for inner strength and unconditional love—qualities that flourish when nurtured. Spending time outdoors helps me cultivate clarity, patience, and compassion, which I channel into my writing and philanthropic pursuits, knowing that nature’s healing power is accessible to everyone, especially children.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors who want to write stories that heal and empower others?

I would advise aspiring authors to write from the heart and stay authentic to their own experiences and values. Stories that heal and empower come from a place of genuine belief in the message being shared. Listen deeply to what resonates within you and be courageous in addressing themes of love, resilience, and self-acceptance. I believe that children need stories that reflect their realities and inspire hope. Use words to create safe spaces for reflection and growth, and don’t underestimate the power of your story to impact lives—every story has the potential to ignite confidence, compassion, and change.