We had the good fortune of connecting with Mila Figg and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mila, how does your business help the community?
Stories are woven into the fabric of humanity. Long before formal education, stories were how values were shared, how children learned empathy, and how communities stayed connected. Stories help us understand who we are, how we care for one another, and how we relate to the world around us. Mila Inspired was created from that belief.

I see myself as a storyteller at heart—one who uses gentle, meaningful stories to nurture kindness, creativity, and imagination. Through storytelling, I also hope to softly raise awareness about our connection to nature and the responsibility we share in caring for animals like elephants. Rather than sounding an alarm, my intention is to invite children and families to fall in love first—because when there is love, care naturally follows. What a wonderful gift it is to care for God’s people and creatures.

I was born and raised in Kenya, and my heritage deeply influences the stories I tell through my books and products. My flagship children’s book series, The Little Elephant’s Big Adventure – A Heartwarming Serengeti Adventure Series (for ages 3-7), takes readers back to Africa in a way that feels magical and immersive—similar to The Lion King, but written by an African storyteller. This time, instead of creating a king, the story centers on the journey of an Elephant Queen. In African elephant herds, the female is the leader also known as the matriarch—who carries generational wisdom and guides her family to food, water, and safety.

The series follows Amara, a baby elephant learning about courage, kindness, friendship, and resilience as she navigates the beauty and challenges of the Serengeti. Amara’s journey gently reflects female empowerment, showing young readers that leadership can be thoughtful, compassionate, and rooted in care for others. One day, Amara will grow into her role as the matriarch, and that growth is an important part of the story. The name Amara means Grace, Love, or Eternal. I specifically chose this name because my mother’s name is Grace, and I wanted to honor her in this story for the wonderful and God-fearing mother she is.

Representation in stories matters because children discover who they are and who they can become through the characters they meet. When children see themselves reflected in stories, it builds confidence and a sense of belonging. When they are invited into other worlds portrayed with care and authenticity, it nurtures empathy and understanding. Mila Inspired creates stories that are welcoming and inclusive, allowing children of all backgrounds to see themselves as heroes, leaders, and caretakers of the world around them.

Elephant conservation and respect for nature are naturally included throughout the series, helping children develop an early sense of stewardship for wildlife and the environment. Beyond the books, Mila Inspired offers hands-on, screen-free products like plush elephants, puzzles, creative activities, and Maasai-inspired dolls that encourage imaginative play and meaningful family connection. The Maasai plush dolls add another layer to the storytelling by inviting children to learn about the Maasai people of Kenya, who live alongside wildlife and practice balance, respect, and coexistence with nature.

Ultimately, Mila Inspired exists to remind families that stories still matter. They shape how children see themselves, how they treat others, and how they care for the world they will one day inherit. By sharing culturally rooted stories grounded in kindness, creativity, and care for nature, I hope to spark lasting conversations around literacy, representation, and conservation—and open the door for continued storytelling in new spaces and communities.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in storytelling, imagination, and connection. From a young age growing up in Kenya, I was inspired by the stories shared around family fires, in villages, and through everyday life in the city. Those stories shaped my understanding of courage, kindness, and the importance of community. Today, I channel that heritage into Mila Inspired, a brand that creates children’s books, plush elephants, puzzles, and educational activities designed to nurture creativity, empathy, and a love for the natural world. Mila Inspired also offers meaningful, nature-inspired gifts like animal sculptures, metal wall art, cutting boards, and more, but education remains at the heart of everything we do. When children and families fall in love with nature, they begin to care deeply about protecting it. Through stories, play, and learning, we help spark compassion for elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and other wildlife in Africa—planting seeds of care that can grow into a safer, kinder future for our planet.

What sets my work apart is the way it blends cultural authenticity, gentle empowerment, and meaningful play. My flagship series, The Little Elephant’s Big Adventure – A Heartwarming Serengeti Adventure Series, invites children into Africa through the eyes of Amara, a young elephant who will one day become the matriarch of her herd. By centering a female elephant as the leader, the series offers a story of courage, responsibility, and female empowerment—lessons that are universal, but also rooted in African culture and storytelling traditions.

I came to the United States just after I turned 19 to pursue college. I dreamed of becoming the next Michelangelo or Da Vinci, but my parents recognized my strengths in math and science and encouraged me to explore aerospace engineering. I began my studies immersed in the arts, but after the 2008 recession, I made the decision to build on my math and science skills, ultimately earning a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in mathematics, followed by an MBA. I am also a proud Western Michigan University Bronco.

Over the past decade, I have worked as a structural analysis engineer, project engineer, production support engineer, special tooling engineer, and project manager for two of the largest aerospace and defense contractors in the world. Engineering provided me with an incredible career and growth I never imagined possible. It opened my mind and gave me the courage to pursue a degree and career that was—and largely still is—male-dominated. While I am deeply grateful for the structure engineering provided, I found myself missing the arts and my creative side. That longing is what led me to start Mila Inspired—a gentle return to the place where I find joy.

The journey from Africa to the United States was the most challenging for me, because adjusting to a new culture—leaving home, friends, and family behind for a better life—pushes you in ways nothing else can. Imagine leaving everything you’ve ever known behind and entering a new world with nothing but your hopes and dreams, praying that you make it before it breaks you. That’s a challenge a lot of immigrants face when they uproot their lives in search of a better future for themselves and their families. The hardships along the way have tempered me like steel, and I am forever grateful to the people who believed in me, supported my dreams, and helped me persist. As an African proverb says, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” The support, guidance, and encouragement I’ve received from mentors, friends, and family remind me that no journey is meant to be walked alone.

Growing up in Kenya, all we knew about the USA was that it was this magical land of milk and honey where dreams came true and Oprah gave you incredible gifts (‘You get a car, and you get a house!’ ha ha). People would tell us that as soon as you landed at the airport in any American city, you would be greeted by a limousine driver dressed sharply in a black suit and tie holding a sign with your name on it. He would take your bags, open up the trunk of the car, and there he would reveal this suitcase full of money, and he would drive you off into the sunset and you would start your new life… Ha! All these years later, I’m still waiting for my suitcase full of money!

The path to building my brand has not been easy, either. Like many creative entrepreneurs, I faced challenges in finding my voice, navigating the business side of publishing, and ensuring that my work reached families in meaningful ways. I overcame those challenges through persistence, self-education, and the same network of support and encouragement that carried me through my personal journey. Along the way, I’ve learned that storytelling is both an art and a responsibility—it has the power to shape hearts, spark curiosity, and inspire action. My mother will tell you this: my favorite phrase in life is “O Ye of Little Faith.” Life will test you, but the dreams placed in your heart were given to you for a purpose. I’ve learned to use challenges as lessons and to hold faith, the size of a mustard seed, knowing that small, steady belief can move mountains and open doors you never imagined.

What I am most proud of is creating work that resonates with children and families, helping them explore kindness, creativity, cultural understanding, and female empowerment. I am especially proud that Mila Inspired also educates families on the importance of wildlife conservation, with a focus on elephants, teaching children to appreciate and care for the natural world from a young age. I am excited that through Mila Inspired, children not only enjoy immersive stories, but also learn to care for others, understand the world around them, and see themselves reflected in the characters and worlds they encounter.

Ultimately, Mila Inspired exists to remind families that stories still matter. They shape how children see themselves, how they treat others, and how they care for the world they will one day inherit. By sharing culturally rooted stories grounded in kindness, creativity, and care for nature, I hope to spark lasting conversations around literacy, representation, and conservation—and open the door for continued storytelling in new spaces and communities.

As Mila Inspired continues to grow, my hope is to keep learning, listening, and finding meaningful ways—big or small—to support wildlife conservation and, when possible, contribute to causes that care for children and families around the world. I believe lasting change begins with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to take the next right step, even when the full path isn’t clear.

I would like to thank Shoutout DFW Magazine and Voyage Dallas for sharing my story and creating space for voices like mine. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to connect with your readers through the work I love. My encouragement to anyone reading is this: Dream big, have faith, be persistent, stay curious, and spread kindness. As Denzel Washington says, ‘Each one, teach one.’ When we lift others along the way, the journey becomes sweeter and more meaningful.

Finally, I leave you with this: “I can see the view from the top of a mountain I’ve never climbed, because I have the vision.” – Mila Figg.
To learn more about my work and the stories behind Mila Inspired, visit www.milainspired.com.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A Week in Dallas-Fort Worth, Mila-Style 🙂

If my best friend were visiting for a week, we’d make sure it’s filled with adventure, creativity, and good food—and, of course, a little home-cooked love. We love starting the day with breakfast at home, so we’d cook together and enjoy a slow morning before heading out. Here’s how I’d plan it:

Sunday – Plano: We’d kick things off with a fun, creative activity at Painting with a Twist, where we can sip wine, paint, and laugh the day away. For dinner, my husband and I would cook a special Kenyan meal—chapati with beef stew—to share a taste of home.

Monday – Dallas: A trip to The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must to explore the history of President John F. Kennedy. Later, we’d grab dinner at One and Only—their fries and burgers are off the chain.

Tuesday – Fort Worth: We’d dive into the Stockyards, explore the Western history, watch the cattle drive, and take fun photos. For dinner, nothing beats classic Texas barbecue at Hutchins BBQ in McKinney.

Wednesday – Dallas: A walk or bike ride along the Katy Trail would get us moving and enjoying the city outdoors. Later, we’d enjoy fresh and flavorful sushi at Koji Sushi. Their Mockingbird roll is superb, and of course, I’m a California roll girl.

Thursday – Dallas: Nature day at the Dallas Arboretum. Beautiful gardens, water features, and a perfect place to wander, relax, and take photos. For a cozy, meaningful meal, we’d visit Hugs Cafe McKinney, a nonprofit run by adults with special needs serving sandwiches and salads in a warm, very welcoming space.

Friday – Dallas: White Rock Lake is our favorite spot for fresh air, walking trails, and watching the sunrise or sunset. My husband and I love running along White Rock Lake and have participated in a few half marathons along that path. For dinner, Rosati’s is our go-to for classic Chicago deep dish pizza. Chef’s kiss.

Saturday – McKinney: We’d spend the day in Historic Downtown McKinney, strolling through museums, the Library, historic homes, shops, and the Farmer’s Market. It reminds my husband and me of downtown Kalamazoo, where we lived before moving to Texas in 2018. For dinner, Rick’s Chophouse is the perfect spot—their Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a hearty, celebratory meal.

People & Places:Along the way, we’d drive through Highland Park, University Park, and Adriatica Village to admire the architecture and maybe spot some local life. It’s a great way to take in the city’s character and see how people live, work, and play.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I give thanks to God for His mercy, guidance, and faithfulness throughout my life. Every step of this journey, from the dreams planted in my heart as a child to the work I am able to share today has been sustained by His grace. I am deeply aware that none of this is by my own strength alone.
I would also love to dedicate this shoutout to my parents and the generations before me who passed stories down with love and intention. Growing up in Kenya, storytelling was not just entertainment—it was how values were shared, how courage was taught, and how children learned about family, community, and nature. That foundation shaped who I am and continues to guide the work I do today. In fact, the first book of The Little Elephant’s Big Adventure series is dedicated to my mother, my niece, and my nephews. Upcoming books in the series will honor my father, Martin, and other notable people who have influenced my life and helped shape my path.

I am especially grateful for my sister, Carolyne, whose support and encouragement have meant more than words can express, and for my husband, Matthew, who has been a constant source of love, steadiness, and belief in my vision. There are so many others—family, friends, neighbors, mentors, and supporters—who have walked alongside me during different seasons of my life, and while I cannot name everyone here, I carry deep gratitude for each of them.

I also want to acknowledge the educators, librarians, and caregivers who believe in the power of children’s books and take the time to read aloud, ask thoughtful questions, and create moments of connection through stories. Their quiet dedication often goes unseen, but their impact lasts a lifetime. Thank you to Glenda and her incredible team at the Lois Nelson Public Library in Princeton for being the first library to accept my book and offer book reading sessions; Geneva and the Melissa Public Library for the book readings and events; the Van Alstyne Public Library; the Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Library in McKinney; Brooke with Hazel & Billie’s; Little Bipsy in Melissa; Starla with the Dallas Is Lit Literary Festival; North Creek Elementary School in Melissa, Texas (courtesy of my neighbor, Jan); Roz for featuring my book on her YouTube channel, @storytimeplaytime; and Drew and Taylor at The Front Porch podcast in Melissa (listen to S2, E19: Mila Figg – Creating Her Own ‘Milk and Honey’). Most of all, thank you to the young readers whose curiosity and imagination make this journey worthwhile. It is my hope that these stories find a home in your heart, just as they found a home in mine. Thank you for walking this path with me.

On a broader level, I am deeply inspired by Viola Davis—someone who rose from poverty to extraordinary success while breaking down barriers for dark-skinned Black women like me around the world. Her grit, persistence, and commitment to lifting others up rather than tearing them down is profoundly motivating and reflects the kind of strength and integrity I strive to embody in my own work.

I also love African proverbs—they are so simple, yet they carry deep wisdom that resonates across cultures. One of my favorites is: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” It is a reminder that storytelling, mentorship, faith, and community are not solitary pursuits. We go further when we walk together.

Finally, I am grateful for the children and families who welcome my stories into their homes. Their curiosity, kindness, and imagination are constant reminders of why this work matters. Mila Inspired exists because of a shared belief that stories can shape hearts, open minds, and help raise a more compassionate next generation.

Website: https://milainspired.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milainspiredllc/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milainspired/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MilaInspiredLLC/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MilaInspired

Other: Story Mailed Letters: https://shop.storymailed.com/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/milainspiredLLC/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@milainspired Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MilaInspiredLLC Blog: https://milainspired.com/blogs/elephants-and-wildlife-blog

Image Credits
All the photos were taken by Mila Figg and family on behalf of Mila Inspired. I have the rights to all the photographs.

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