The world of manga and anime has long been a global phenomenon, capturing the imaginations of young people worldwide. However, the genre has often been criticized for its lack of representation, particularly for Black girls and women. Enter “Young Grandmaster Choi,” the groundbreaking new manga series from Shero Comics that is breaking barriers and giving Black girls a long-overdue seat at the table.
Young Grandmaster Choi tells the story of Rayven Johnson, an orphaned, six-year-old African American army brat who faces a series of bullies after moving to Seoul, Korea. Using martial arts to channel her grief and anxiety, Rayven’s journey is one of resilience, overcoming obstacles, and personal growth—making her a relatable and inspiring figure for young girls everywhere. Unlike many mainstream manga characters, Rayven’s portrayal avoids the over-sexualization often seen in female characters, making this series a safe and empowering choice for younger audiences.
“We wanted to create a series that Black girls and other young women of color can see themselves in, without the typical stereotypes,” said Shequeta Smith, creator of Young Grandmaster Choi and founder of Shero Comics. “In a world where Black female representation in manga and anime is scarce, this series fills a crucial gap, offering a powerful character who can inspire girls to be strong, smart, and confident.”
Despite the massive popularity of manga and anime worldwide, only a handful of series feature Black characters in lead roles. The vast majority of these tend to be side characters with very few notable exceptions in both manga and anime history. Young Grandmaster Choi is part of a growing movement to shift that narrative, ensuring that Black girls are represented authentically and positively.
The series has already garnered rave reviews from librarians and young readers alike, who praise its fresh approach, thoughtful storytelling, and positive role model in Rayven. As Young Grandmaster Choi continues to expand its readership, Shero Comics has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund Chapter 2 of the series, inviting fans to support the next installment of Rayven’s journey.
With its focus on representation, empowerment, and safe content for young girls, Young Grandmaster Choi is a welcome addition to the world of manga and anime. It stands as a testament to the importance of creating spaces where Black girls can not only exist but thrive in the stories they love.
To learn more about Young Grandmaster Choi and to support the Kickstarter campaign for Chapter 2, visit https://kck.st/4bWUfLy To learn more about Shero Comics, visit www.sherocomics.com