MEET THE TEAM
Amari Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough
Amari Yarbrough is a co-founder and Director of Rays Up Read Up, a youth literacy initiative dedicated to making reading fun, engaging, and empowering for children. Amari is also the co-author of The ElleRays children’s book series and the author of the YA novel Enigma’s Child and the children’s book Bruno the Morkie.
With a background as
Amari Yarbrough is a co-founder and Director of Rays Up Read Up, a youth literacy initiative dedicated to making reading fun, engaging, and empowering for children. Amari is also the co-author of The ElleRays children’s book series and the author of the YA novel Enigma’s Child and the children’s book Bruno the Morkie.
With a background as an English major and experience as a youth figure skating coach, Amari brings together a passion for storytelling, literacy, mentorship, and youth development. Through both writing and coaching, Amari is committed to encouraging young people to discover their voices, build confidence, and embrace their potential.
Cherelle Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough is a co-founder of Rays Up Read Up and co-author of The ElleRays children’s book series. As the mother of the three girls who inspired the ElleRays, Cherelle brings a personal connection to the stories and their mission. A leader in technology and literacy advocacy, she is passionate about empowering children through literacy, creativity, and opportunities to shine.
Gail Jones-Diggs
Cherelle Yarbrough
Leslie Yarbrough
Gail Jones-Diggs is the Rays Up Read Up Event Coordinator, bringing creativity, organization, and dedication to every event. She plays an integral role in ensuring each show runs smoothly, coordinating the many details behind the scenes and helping bring the Rays Up Read Up experience to life for students, families, and the community.
Leslie Yarbrough
Cherelle Yarbrough
Leslie Yarbrough
Leslie Yarbrough is a seasoned literacy coach with more than 30 years of experience in elementary education, specializing in early literacy and phonics instruction. With a degree in Early Childhood Development, Leslie brings extensive classroom expertise and a deep understanding of how children learn to read. She is passionate about equip
Leslie Yarbrough is a seasoned literacy coach with more than 30 years of experience in elementary education, specializing in early literacy and phonics instruction. With a degree in Early Childhood Development, Leslie brings extensive classroom expertise and a deep understanding of how children learn to read. She is passionate about equipping young readers with the foundational skills, confidence, and love of reading they need to thrive.
