Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Aja Monet

Author of 'My Mother Was a Freedom Fighter' | Award-Winning Poet and Activist | Speaker on Art, Social Justice, and Healing Narratives

Aja Monet Speaking Fee: Contact Us for Pricing

Author of 'My Mother Was a Freedom Fighter' | Award-Winning Poet and Activist | Speaker on Art, Social Justice, and Healing Narratives

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Aja Monet
Speaking Fee:
Contact Us for Pricing

Travels From:
MIA - Miami, FL

Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black

Secondary Topic Category:
Authors & Storytellers

 

Aja Monet Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Aja Monet is a celebrated American poet and writer known for her powerful and evocative words. She became the youngest Nuyorican Poets Café Grand Slam Champion at age 19. Her work often explores themes of identity, resistance, and the human experience. Monet's poetry has been featured in prominent publications and she has performed at prestigious venues worldwide. She continues to inspire through both her writing and engaging public speaking.

Aja Monet is a distinguished American poet and writer whose evocative work bridges the realms of art and activism. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Monet's Caribbean roots and urban upbringing deeply inform her lyrical expressions. Her journey into poetry began at an early age, finding her voice through the rhythmic cadence of spoken word, a medium that melds her literary talent with an impassioned commitment to social justice. Monet's academic pursuits reflect her dedication to the craft of poetry. She earned her BA from Sarah Lawrence College and went on to achieve an MFA in Writing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Her academic studies not only honed her skills but also broadened her understanding of how poetry can be a powerful tool for change. Her subsequent work underscores this synthesis of artistry and advocacy, drawing attention to issues of race, gender, and power. Aja Monet's debut poetry collection, "My Mother Was a Freedom Fighter," was published in 2017 to critical acclaim. The collection is a poignant exploration of womanhood, resistance, and resilience, weaving together personal and political narratives with stunning precision. The work was longlisted for the PEN Open Book Award and solidified Monet's reputation as a potent voice in contemporary poetry. Beyond her literary achievements, Monet is a passionate activist. She co-founded Smoke Signals Studio, a community initiative in Little Haiti, Miami, which emphasizes the importance of cultural literacy through the arts. Her commitment to activism extends globally, from working with the Silent Protest at the UN against police brutality to her involvement in peace missions to Palestine. Through these endeavors, Monet demonstrates how artistic expression can be a catalyst for social transformation. Monet's keynote speeches and performances resonate with audiences worldwide. Her ability to engage and educate through poetry places her among the leading voices of her generation. As she continues to inspire through her words and actions, Aja Monet remains a testament to the power of art as a force for connection, understanding, and change.
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