Ayden is a queer poet and filmmaker. They are a summa cum laude graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a dual BA in English and Gender Studies. Ayden has received varying academic accolades, visual awards, and publications, including features in Idiosyncrazy Magazine and the NYT.

Levi Wise-Kenneth Catoe Jr., known artistically as Kenny Fame, is a dynamic Black educator, singer-songwriter, and spoken word artist whose work bridges art, education, and activism. As an English major at CUNY Medgar Evers College with a focus on creative writing, Kenny draws from his African Diaspora background and HBCU experience to create spaces where creativity and cultural dialogue flourish.

Through spoken word and Neo Soul-infused R&B, he explores social issues, inspires change, and connects deeply with audiences. His performances blend poetry and soul music, channeling the spirit of the ’70s and ’80s while addressing modern struggles and triumphs.

Kenny views his role as a Black educator as vital to challenging systemic inequities and shaping the future. Whether in the classroom or on stage, he uses his voice to uplift, empower, and engage—leaving a lasting impression wherever he goes.

A South Baltimore native, Trinity Thomas is a nursing student at Medgar Evers College. When she's not working as a Nurse Assistant, you'll find her lost in a book. After graduation, Trinity aims to heal through both medicine and meaningful connection —one IV line and one shared story at a time.

Hannah Havenspell is a young author who recently published her first book, "Chained To My Demons: Embraced by the Kingdom of Darkness." They currently reside in Michigan and goes to University, majoring in both Psychology as well as Women and Gender Studies. When she isn't writing you can find her participating in geek culture, singing, listening to music, or with her nose stuck in a book. You can follow her @dark_formidable_Poetry on Instagram

Kaiyah Ellison is a senior English major at Medgar Evers College with a passion for storytelling, poetry, and editorial work. Her writing, inspired by everyday moments and personal experiences, has been featured in the college’s literary journal. She currently interns as an editor at Crown Heights Review and has previously worked with TheSocialTalks. When she’s not writing or editing, Kaiyah enjoys exploring libraries, discovering new music, and getting lost in books. She looks forward to sharing her voice and connecting with fellow readers and writers.

I’m a proud super-conductor and student at Medgar Evers College, pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After a rewarding 20-year career in hospitality, I made the life-changing decision to return to school and follow a new calling: to serve others through healthcare. My journey has been one of transformation, driven by a deep belief in compassion, resilience, and the power of community. I’m committed to blending the skills I’ve gained through years of service with the knowledge I’m building in nursing to help create a more just and equitable healthcare system. It's never too late to follow your purpose—and I’m just getting started.

Doreen Williams is a true Brooklyn Girl. She has a master's degree in public administration. she is the mother of two sons, which brought her seven grandchildren. She is also an employee of 30 years, here at Medgar Evers College.

Angela Du is a young poet, actress, and model. Angela grew up in the New York City Metro area. Her passion for writing sparked in the summer of 2022, when she attended her school’s summer poetry writing program. In 2024, she won first place in the 27th annual Celebrate America Creative Writing Contest with her poem “Stories of Us.” Subsequently, she was invited to appear on ABC’s Good Morning America and shared her thoughts on her poem.  The poem was also published on the Skipping Stones Magazine and the American Immigration Council website. In October 2024, she was interviewed by the poet and broadcast journalist Amanda Eke and is now a part of “The Poet Speaks with Amanda Eke,” a TV show that is streaming on Heritage Broadcasting and Roku.  She recently shared her latest poems at the Poetry Cafe of the National Black Writer Conference in March, 2025.

Beyond her passion for writing, Angela is also a model and actress. She began her modeling career at 3 years old and worked with major brands including Gap and Nike. Angela made her debut in the movie industry at age 8, playing Mary in the Disney movie Chang Can Dunk, and has since been acting, with the latest movie under production.  Angela also has been playing violin since she was 5, and has won various awards as well.

Mary Orji is a young poet and writer at Medgar Evers College, still exploring her voice and style, hoping to offer relatability and comfort through her work. She is currently working on projects that delve into self-growth, family, memory, and more. She believes writing is the one form of communication where the ‘listener’ truly listens without judgment. Beyond her growing love for writing, she is passionate about food and languages.