In Loving Memory: Sareeta Domingo

It is with a heavy heart and a profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Sareeta Domingo, who had recently joined Jacaranda as our Publishing Director, but with whom we shared an additional connection as author/publisher over many years.

Sareeta Domingo was widely regarded as a trailblazer within the publishing industry, and the outpouring of love that has followed the announcement of her passing is a testament to the breadth of Sareeta’s impact as a friend and champion of many across the industry. 

It was and will continue to be a privilege that she joined our list with her 2020 title, ‘If I Don’t Have You’, and then as Publishing Director in May 2025 where even in a short few months in this role, she left an indelible mark on our list and team.

Sareeta’s passing is not only a profound loss for our team but also for an industry in which she was rightly regarded as a pioneering force. Her contributions as an editor, author, and champion for voices long underrepresented leave a legacy that will continue to shape the publishing industry.

Our deepest condolences are with her family, loved ones, and the many in our industry and beyond whose lives she enriched.

Valerie Brandes, Founder and CEO of Jacaranda Books, said:

Sareeta was a brilliant publishing professional and a cherished friend whose beautiful smile, extraordinary creativity and kind generosity inspired us all who had the privilege of knowing her and working with her. Personally, I was deeply excited to begin this next chapter with her at Jacaranda and saw the spark and intention she brought to her role, which confirmed that the vision for the mission of Jacaranda was not just safe in her hands but would be expanded and built upon in the best ways possible.

Beyond her professional brilliance, Sareeta’s contribution to literature and culture was extraordinary. Through her own writing and her editorial work, she was a keen supporter of underrepresented voices, championing stories of love, identity, and belonging that too often go unheard. She was committed to ensuring that readers could see themselves reflected, and in doing so, she helped reshape the literary landscape to be more inclusive, authentic, and rich with diversity. Her work opened doors, created opportunities, and has inspired countless writers and readers alike.

Magdalene Abraha, Publishing Director Non-fiction said:

Sareeta Domingo was a rare and radiant force. To work alongside Sareeta was to experience this firsthand, to witness her extraordinary ability to uplift others and to nurture stories with care. She brought light and depth to the written word every time. Beyond her immense talent, Sareeta carried herself with such warmth and humanity that everyone who met her felt truly seen and valued. Her passing is an immeasurable loss to us all, and we will endeavour to cherish her memory in our hearts and honour her incredible legacy.