16/06/2022
FEO Publishing Group was born from a desire – and a need – to see more diverse stories published in the Namibian literary market. There is a magic to Namibian literature that doesn’t exist anywhere else; Namibia is a true melting pot of cultures and identities. Although this is not fully represented in our local literary market, the call for inclusive representation is strong and together we can make a difference.
FEO aims to celebrate and empower diverse Namibia voices, especially those from minority, marginalised and intersectional backgrounds who are so often ignored or rejected from mainstream literature and society. FEO hopes to create a safe space where stories can be shared and listened to without prejudice, stigma or shame.
At FEO, we believe in helping writers to share the stories they want to, not just those they think they have to. We read to know we’re not alone and representation leads to connection… humans are hardwired for connection and storytelling is at the heart of that. Don’t you love it when a book transports you, speaks to you and leaves you feeling seen and understood?
FEO understands how narrative shapes the way we see ourselves and our place in the world. We believe it is time to break down the barriers for entry into the literary market – for writers and readers. We will make it accessible for everyone. We believe reading outside our own experiences helps to reduce the ignorance that breeds discrimination and encourages empathy and solidarity despite our differences. It is imperative that we break down the harmful stereotypes that foster stigma, shame and fear and encourage inclusive conversation.
Let us listen to people’s stories and their fears. Let us challenge the status quo and redefine what an inclusive future looks like. We need to have some really difficult conversations, and that’s going to be uncomfortable, especially when they challenge our privilege, our behaviours and attitudes. We might not always get it right however, we will listen, learn and grow.