Local Author Lucky Boren to Participate in Daytona Beach International Festival with Book Presentation and Children’s Activity
Ormond Beach, FL — April 23, 2026 — Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. announced today that Lucky Boren, an Ormond Beach resident, honor student and senior at Seabreeze High School, and incoming student at the University of Florida this fall, will participate in the free-to-attend Daytona Beach International Festival, taking place May 16–17, 2026, at Manatee Island Park, 351 N. Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida.
Lucky Boren is an emerging author and the creator of the children’s book Toby Saves the Night (ISBN: 979-8-218-74166-2), a story centered on courage, imagination, and reassurance. The book features Toby, a gentle and curious cat who helps young readers explore the nighttime world. Written for early readers and families, the story supports literacy and emotional confidence through warm, accessible storytelling.
As part of her participation, Lucky Boren will engage with young attendees through a creative, interactive activity inspired by her book. She will offer cat-themed face painting, allowing children to “become Toby” for the day and connect playfully with the story’s protagonist. The activity is designed to encourage imagination, artistic expression, and a joyful connection to reading.
“Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to spark curiosity and confidence in young readers,” said William J. Sanchez, Managing Director of Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. “Lucky’s work—especially at such a young age—reflects the creativity and initiative we aim to nurture through our educational and cultural programming.”
Lucky Boren’s participation adds a meaningful children’s literacy and creativity component to the festival, complementing a weekend of international performances, cultural demonstrations, artisan exhibits, and global cuisine. Her involvement also reflects a broader message at the heart of the festival’s mission—that it is never too early to think big, create boldly, and contribute meaningfully to one’s community.
About Lucky Boren
Lucky Boren is a local author, honor student, and graduating senior at Seabreeze High School in Ormond Beach, Florida. She is the creator of the children’s book Toby Saves the Night, which reflects her passion for storytelling, creativity, and supporting young readers. Lucky will attend the University of Florida in the fall, where she plans to major in Chemistry with a minor in English while continuing to pursue her academic and creative interests.
About Toby Saves the Night
Toby Saves the Night follows Toby, a cat who helps young readers navigate nighttime fears and discoveries with warmth and reassurance. The story emphasizes imagination, courage, and comfort, making it well suited for early readers and family reading.
About the Daytona Beach International Festival
The Daytona Beach International Festival is a two-day, family-friendly cultural celebration presented by Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. The festival showcases music, dance, art, and food from around the world and is free and open to the public.
Learn more and plan your visit at: https://www.daytonabeachinternationalfestival.com
About Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc.
Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc. is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering understanding, respect, and unity through cultural education and immersive public experiences. Through original curricula, STEM-based learning initiatives, and international cultural festivals, the organization affirms that American Exceptionalism is the product of shared roots, cooperation, and common civic values.
For more information, visit: https://www.culturalawarenessfund.com