Celebrating a Trailblazer: Tressa Smallwood to be Honored at the 16th Annual AAMBC Literary Awards

Tamika Newhouse
The AAMBC Journal
Published in
2 min readJul 30, 2024

In the dynamic world of storytelling, there are trailblazers whose work reshapes the literary and cinematic landscapes. This year, we at the AAMBC Literary Awards are thrilled to honor one such visionary — Tressa Smallwood. As we gather for the 16th annual celebration of African American literature and arts, Tressa stands out for her remarkable contributions to both publishing and filmmaking.

Tressa “Azarel” Smallwood, the powerhouse behind Life Changing Books (LCB) and MegaMind Media, has continuously broken barriers and uplifted voices that might otherwise remain unheard. Her journey from educator to entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. When she penned her first novel, “A Life to Remember,” she couldn’t have imagined the monumental impact she would have on the literary world. Today, Tressa is not just a bestselling author but a beacon of excellence in publishing, having launched the careers of numerous authors through LCB.

Her transition into film is equally impressive. Tressa’s keen eye for stories that resonate deeply with audiences has led to the production of several critically acclaimed films. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought, evoke emotions, and inspire change. Her ability to adapt compelling narratives from page to screen underscores her multifaceted talent and commitment to storytelling.

At the AAMBC Literary Awards, we have always celebrated those who push the envelope, who dare to dream and then bring those dreams to fruition with relentless passion and dedication. Tressa embodies these ideals. Her work bridges the gap between literature and film, creating a seamless narrative experience that resonates with diverse audiences.

This year’s event, themed “Creative Influencers” couldn’t have a more fitting honoree. Tressa Smallwood’s career is a testament to the power of storytelling in all its forms. From the gripping pages of her novels to the cinematic brilliance of her films, she has shown us that stories are not just to be read or watched but to be felt and lived.

Join us as we celebrate Tressa Smallwood at the 16th Annual AAMBC Literary Awards. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with vision, creativity, and unwavering determination, one can create ripples of change that extend far beyond the page or screen. Here’s to Tressa, a true narrative architect and a champion of Black stories.

--

--