Shawn Welcome is a proud Afro-Guyanese American whose goal is to use his gift with words to inspire, entertain, encourage, and educate the world around him. He has traveled the world speaking, performing, and facilitating writing and performance workshops. Shawn has dedicated his life to serving others and amplifying the voice of his community. He founded and presently hosts the longest running weekly open mic in Central Florida, “Diverse Word”, which has been in operation since 2006. Shawn has written NBA commercials for the Orlando Magic, written and performed content for the Orlando Business Journal, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Edyth Bush Institute, OnePulse Foundation, University of Central Florida, Valencia College, and Full Sail University to name a few. He has curated multiple educational poetry experiences for the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, Bethune-Cookman University, 33rd St. Jail, and many Orange County Public Schools. Shawn holds a BA in English Literature and is an MA candidate for Sociology at the University of Central Florida. Shawn has been interviewed on National Public Radio and other notable media outlets regarding his role in Central Florida as Poet Laureate. He also serves as the President of the Next Level Speakers Academy - Orlando Chapter, continuing to strengthen a community of aspiring professional speakers.

Shawn lives in Orlando, FL with his wife, Jannah, and their five children.