A lover of history and fairytales, Malia’s niche is twisting old stories, both real and folklore, to create fantastical adventures which teach lessons along the way.
A WarnerMedia Writers Access Program fellow and Sesame Writer’s Room semi-finalist, Malia’s work includes live-action and animated projects for children and their families alike. She’s also produced a lively two-year-old girl, and most recently, an animated baby boy, with her husband Derek Jennings.
However, Malia’s interest in children’s media didn’t come from motherhood (though her kids are her creative consultants), but a desire to change the world one children’s story at a time. She uses stories from the past to teach cultural awareness and construct multicultural inclusion.
Most recently, Malia was staffed on Season 2 of Lion Forge’s Iyanu: Child of Wonder (HBO MAX, Cartoon Network), a series which champions her mission statement, and represents the very can do spirit she’d like to ignite in youth.
Malia is an alumna of Marymount Manhattan College where she was awarded the Golden Key for Playwriting. She's also a graduate of Mount Saint Mary’s University where she obtained her Masters in Humanities with an Emphasis in Creative Writing
Malia is a proud Charlotte, North Carolina native and subsequent big Bojangles fan.