Grace Byers (née Gealey) is an American actress and author who gained recognition for her role as Anika Calhoun in the popular television series "Empire". Born on July 26, 1984, in Butler, Pennsylvania and raised in the Cayman Islands, Byers is not only known for her acting talent but also for her work as an author, particularly for her children's books that often address themes of self-love and acceptance. Her books include "I Am Enough", a picture book inspired by her own experiences with bullying and rejection, and "I Believe I Can", both of which impart empowering messages to young readers. Byers's writing aims to uplift and inspire children to appreciate their own worth and believe in their potential.