Kids Can Press announced on Wednesday that Naseem Hrab has taken on the role of publisher. Most recently, she served as associate publisher, creative, alongside Amelie Roberge, associate publisher, operations. Roberge retains that title and now reports to Hrab. Longtime president and publisher Lisa Lyons Johnston left the Canadian children’s publisher in April 2023, as part of restructuring at its parent company, Corus Entertainment.
Hrab is a Governor General’s Award-winning children’s author and, prior to her 15-year tenure at Kids Can, she worked as librarian at the Canadian Children’s Book Centre. As publisher, she will report to Mellany Welsh, VP and head of Nelvana and Kids Can Press, and will spearhead the list’s editorial and design direction, in addition to business operations.
Welsh said in a statement, “Given Naseem’s tenure at KCP and experience guiding many areas of the business, I am confident that she will lead the company to further success as publisher. Naseem is also highly regarded within the children’s publishing industry, both as a celebrated author and with her involvement in numerous industry boards, panels, and mentorships. Coupled with her knowledge of the children’s book market and strong creator relationships, Naseem is well equipped to build upon the ongoing growth and renown of the Kids Can Press publishing program.”
Two additional promotions were announced. Michaela Cornell, who has been with the company for 12 years, has been promoted to marketing manager, from communications strategist. She will oversee all marketing and PR initiatives for the publisher, reporting to Hrab. Katie Scott, who joined Kids Can Press in 2013, has been named senior editor. She will continue to report to Yasemin Uçar, editorial development director.
