The Jacaranda Books founder’s story proves that purpose, resilience, and courage—not age—can redefine success in publishing.
Success stories often begin with ambitious business plans, investment pitches, and lifelong entrepreneurial dreams. Valerie Brandes’ journey was remarkably different.
The founder of Jacaranda Books, one of Britain’s leading independent Black-owned publishing houses, describes herself as an “accidental entrepreneur.” Rather than setting out to build a publishing company, she found herself creating one out of necessity.
Last week, Brandes received the Education Impact Award at the fifth Black British Entrepreneurs Conference, recognising more than a decade of championing Black writers and expanding opportunities for underrepresented voices in literature.
Presented by historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, the award celebrates the cultural impact Jacaranda Books has made since its establishment in 2012.
Building a Publishing Legacy
For over fourteen years, Jacaranda Books has become known for publishing writers from the United Kingdom, Africa, and the wider African diaspora, helping diverse stories reach global audiences.
Beyond publishing books, the company has focused on preserving cultures, amplifying overlooked voices, and ensuring stories that have historically been marginalised are documented for future generations.
According to broadcaster Henry Bonsu, who helped present the award, Brandes has consistently elevated Black voices while creating meaningful opportunities for Black female writers within the publishing industry.
Success Born from Necessity
Reflecting on her journey, Brandes explained that entrepreneurship was never part of her original life plan.
After earning a publishing degree while raising two young children, she realised that employment opportunities were limited. Instead of waiting for opportunities to appear, she created one herself.
Her experience challenges the common belief that successful entrepreneurs must begin their careers early in life. Instead, she discovered her true calling in her late forties, demonstrating that meaningful careers can begin at any stage.
More Than Commercial Success
Today, Jacaranda Books is recognised not only for its business achievements but also for its contribution to literature and cultural representation.
Its publishing programme continues to create space for authors whose stories might otherwise remain untold, reinforcing the importance of diversity within the global publishing industry.
Brandes’ journey serves as a reminder that entrepreneurship is not always born from ambition alone. Sometimes it emerges from resilience, determination, and the courage to create opportunities where none seem to exist.
Jacaranda Books will soon release a series of short films exploring Brandes’ personal journey and the vision that has shaped one of Britain’s most influential independent publishing houses.
Source: Adapted from a press release by Jacaranda Books, written by Rina Gill, Publicity Director-at-Large.
