KEYNOTE TOPICS & WORKSHOPS
Unpacking the impact of spoken word poetry
This talk is designed for educators interested in understanding what makes young people gravitate to and engage in writing spoken word poetry. Shawn incorporates performances of his own creation during his talks while sharing his personal journey into the artform, then proposes three main principles that will guarantee student engagement into craft. He believes deeply in this formula because of how it manifested in his own journey to becoming the Poet Laureate of Orlando, FL after struggling with reading comprehension. He also believes that students who engage in the repetitive practice of creatively vocalizing their internal and external world makes them think more critically, become more compassionate, and is a breeding ground for overall confidence.
The power of consistency: Life lessons from a poet
This talk is designed to inspire general audiences on the importance of being consistent and serving others along life’s journey for transformational outcomes. Shawn centers his story of founding the longest running weekly open mic night in Central Florida, “Diverse Word,” since 2006, parallel to what was transpiring in his personal life that lends insight into how ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact.
Amplify your heart
This talk is a presentation designed for all ages to double down on the thing that makes you come alive the most and is life-giving to others. Shawn shares his story of success in the lane of spoken word poetry and underscores applied universal principles that guided him towards his accomplishments. Shawn interweaves poetry performances in this presentation in a way that encourages others to amplify their heart!
Moonlight: the infinite creative
This talk is a presentation designed to highlight the importance of creativity and wonder through the sharing of Shawn's journey towards becoming the Poet Laureate of Orlando and his wife, Jannah's journey around using creativity to overcome social challenges into a successful life coach & speaker. Participants are offered practical tools on how to create intentional time to be creative and are guided through a writing exercise that reinforces those ideas called "Moonlight." Shawn and Jannah perform synchronized poetry during this dynamic presentation that inspires all industry types to be infinitely creative!"
WORKSHOPS
Unpacking the impact of spoken word poetry workshop
This workshop is designed to train educators on facilitating free verse poetry workshops. Shawn engages educators in the same writing and performance exercises he would use on students and takes time to break down what’s happening and why it works. It is designed to empower local educational leadership to understand and provoke previously hidden writing and speaking talents within their student body.
Welcome’s Way
Welcome’s Way is a series of free verse poetry workshops best used for teenagers and up but can be adapted to accommodate to as young as age 8. Shawn engages participants in critical thinking exercises that prime participants for writing, silent writing itself, and the public sharing finished works with the group in the spirit of celebration. These workshops are designed to help participants discover the gifts within them while presenting the opportunity to present personal tragedy and triumphs in brave creative ways.