Kristen McCallum

Kristen McCallum is an author, creative strategist and program architect from Mount Vernon, NY. She credits growing up with the adventures of her Jamaican family as the beginning of her fascination with stories—and the many ways they can be shared.

In 2017, she founded SafeWordSociety, a creative initiative celebrating the depth and beauty of historically marginalized communities. Over three years, the platform grew into a space for empowering collaborations, digital storytelling, and cultural visibility.

As a consultant and thought partner, Kristen is known for bringing clarity and intention to complex projects. She has a sharp ability to see the big picture, identify root challenges, and map clear, values-aligned paths forward. Kristen collaborates with individuals and mission-driven organizations to build sustainable strategies and design storytelling-based programs. Her work spans strategic planning, curriculum development, and public engagement, with clients including The Obama Foundation, Peoplmovr, and others advancing equity and impact.

Kristen holds an MA in English from the University at Albany–SUNY. Her debut novel, FREE GIRLS, will be published by Flatiron Books in July 2026. She lives in New York, where she writes, teaches, and develops initiatives that center community, storytelling, and transformation.