Interview with the Stephen Mooser Member of the Year Award Winner: Debbie Ridpath Ohi

Once again, CONGRATULATIONS to you, Debbie, on your Stephen Mooser Member of the Year Award. You are most deserving!

The Official SCBWI Blog sent Debbie some questions! Check out her answers below!

How does it feel to be the Stephen Mooser Member of the Year Award winner?

Incredibly honoured. I owe so much to the SCBWI and its amazing community, including the first big break that jumpstarted my children’s book career.

I was also deeply moved by this message from Lin Oliver:

“Hi Debbie,

I’m so thrilled that you were chosen as member of the year. This award means so much to me, since it awards people who give back to our community, and it also honors Steve, who worked for fifty years to build the SCBWI with humility and love. You are the perfect choice to receive this award…..full of energy and life and talent and a real spirit of giving. I send you much love and heartfelt congratulations.

As ever,

Lin”

What inspires you as a creator?

Right now? Reading through highlights and takeaways on the SCBWI Conference Blog as well as watching video recordings of sessions I missed seeing live, or want to watch again. One of the advantages of a virtual conference is having this option! While I do miss seeing people in person, it was always so hard having to choose between different sessions that were happening at the same time. With virtual, we can still watch them ALL.

I also find it important to always make time for creative play and experimentation away from the stage.

You always have your finger on the pulse of the KidLit world. From championing other creators, to guiding and sharing resources, I want to know— how to do you make time for it all, and what keeps you going so strong? Because I want to be like you when I grow up!

Thanks so much for the kind words, Justin. I don’t feel as I have have my finger on the pulse of the KidLit world, though it may look like that to some. 🙂

So much, I find, has to do with learning how to say no….even if it means sometimes missing out on fun stuff, or disappointing people. I’ve also learned that I’m better equipped to help support others if I prioritize my mental health, to put on my own oxygen mask first. I’ve learned how to celebrate JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out).

During your acceptance speech, you listed some takeaways from your experiences as a KidLit creator. What were they?

1. Do not despair if you feel invisible or that you’re spinning your wheels right now. Celebrate every success, no matter how small. Reflect on gratitude. Look ahead.
2. Keep learning, no matter where you are in your career. I still find the SCBWI continues to offer SO much in its resources, events, and community.
3. You can learn something from everyone, whether pre-published or published. Be authentic. Be kind.
4. To authors and publishers who post about illustrated books or use art in any kind of promo, including cover reveals: PLEASE CREDIT THE ILLUSTRATOR (and book designer).
5. Send good karma out into the universe, and it will come back to you.

And if you could be one dessert, what would you be?

Red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting.

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Congratulations, again! You make the KidLit world shine so bright and thank you for taking the time to chat with me! Visit Debbie's website, www.debbieohi.com, and follow her on Bluesky at @debbieohi.com, to learn more about her and her fantastic work!