JAMAR

Jamar is a thinker, writer, and award-winning orator from PG County, MD. His earliest pursuits of art began with stealing textbooks and writing poems in the back of elementary classrooms. As a performer, his work has been featured in spaces all over the DC area, where he works as a teacher by day. In 2024 he competed in the Anacostia BID Spoken Word to Go-Go Championship, placing 2nd overall at the 32nd Annual National Barbecue Battle. As an artist and educator, Jamar’s ultimate goal is to encourage and spark the mind that will change the world.

2CHILLPHYL

Phyl, “2chillphyl”, Collier is a divinely destined alchemist. She transforms pain into power through her work as an award-winning spoken-word artist, author, mentor and activist. In 2023, she was ranked #8 Woman Poets in the World. She is the current DMV Renaissance Awards Best Female Poet. She is a published author and multi-time slam champion who has been featured on Button Poetry, at Busboys & Poets, Voices in Power, Release Open Mic, Piano Keys and many more. Inspired by poets Nikki Giovanni, Toni Morrison, and Dwayne Carter, she aspires to speak on stages across the world. Phyl believes through words we express, heal, inspire and change the world!

CHET BEEN COOL

Chet Been Cool is a Washington, D.C. native, father, poet, nonprofit president, and entrepreneur with deep roots in community, creativity, and culture. A published author and lifelong writer, Chet began his journey in poetry as a child and has since shared his voice on stages across the globe—including performances in South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. He has even had the honor of performing for the legendary Mayor Marion Barry on multiple occasions. As the founder of Pop Up Pastries & Treats, a beloved DMV-based bakery, Chet blends artistry and flavor to serve joy one sweet bite at a time. His entrepreneurial spirit is matched by his passion for service. Through his leadership of Dare 2 Care and WicKids Mentoring, two community-focused nonprofits, Chet has spent the last decade providing internships, employment opportunities, and guidance to youth across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area. Chet’s life and work are grounded in purpose: to uplift, inspire, and make a difference—one poem, one pastry, and one young life at a time.

Writing a poem for his great aunt to present to her at her retirement party is how Orville Walker discovered a newfound love. It was the first poem he ever wrote in his life, but it certainly was not his last. Born in Takoma Park, MD, Orville grew up in Jamaica and Seat Pleasant, MD. He’s been writing poetry for several years, but started performing his work in November 2009 in Washington, D.C. Orville’s poems speaks a vivid truth about the struggles of being an artist and staying constant and true to one’s self. His compelling words have been shared on several stages in front of numerous audiences such as: The White House (Obama’s last term), Howard Theatre, Busboys & Poets (All locations), NBA Washington Wizards Jan 2022, Jan 2023 & Jan 2024, Kellogg’s Cereal Peace Conference, Howard University, West Virginia University & many other colleges, Spoken Word Venues & Youth Centers. Orville currently has a project released in 2018 called “The Soul of a Man” Vol 1 available for stream and download wherever you listen to your music. Orville is also the owner and host of one of North America’s largest Spoken Word platforms PurePoetryLive which will be celebrating 13 yrs this June.

SYBONGILE COOK

Sybongile has held multiple senior roles within the DC Executive Office of the Mayor in leading teams to address financial capability, food deserts, startup capital for diverse founders, business incentives, makerspaces, and local small business retail and office market. She has directed over $800 million dollars in grants to foster growth in the district. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she led critical relief initiatives distributing grants to over 11,000+ businesses. She was recently tasked to lead a new business unit as its Director of Destination Development for the Deputy Mayor’s Office of Planning & Economic Development. She is passionate about fostering creativity, collaboration, and social impact to build a more equitable & diverse economy in Washington, D.C. Sybongile currently serves as a board member of DC’s Workforce Investment Council, is a member of the Mayor’s Financial Literacy Council (Secretary), a graduate of Leadership Greater Washington (Class of 2023), and was voted by Washingtonian Magazine as a Tech Titan in 2022 and 2023. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, the District of Columbia has been her home for the last 21 years.

JOE LAPAN

Joe Lapan is the co-owner and marketing director for Songbyrd Music House and Byrdland Records. Songbyrd Music House is an award-winning 250-person live music venue and Byrdland Records is a vinyl record shop and newly-created record label, both located in DC’s Union Market neighborhood. Joe focuses on building the “Byrd” programming, product and brand to meet the mission of providing a music discovery and celebration platform that provides value to music lovers of all varieties.

ERIC E RICHARDSON

Eric E. Richardson serves as the Supervising Producer at Washington Performing Arts, where he leads the Mars Arts D.C. initiative, a signature community engagement program that showcases the vibrancy of the local arts scene. Under his curation, the Mars Arts D.C. Concert Series at Songbyrd Music House has become a platform for exceptional local artists, reflecting his commitment to amplifying the voices of the D.C. music community. Beyond his work with Washington Performing Arts, Eric has produced and curated events for prominent organizations such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, The Memorial Foundation (also known as the MLK Memorial), and the Little Amal Walk Across America project. His diverse portfolio highlights his dedication to fostering cultural experiences that resonate with a wide audience. In addition to event production, Eric utilizes his content production skills to create engaging material for platforms like YouTube Kids and NASA, as well as for various local nonprofits. His multifaceted expertise bridges the realms of live performance and digital media, contributing to enriching educational and artistic content accessible to diverse audiences.

RANDY GILL

A native Washingtonian with a deep-rooted passion for music, Randy Gill, also known as “Gill,” has dedicated his career to empowering artists and ensuring they profit directly from their talents. He founded Gill’s Way to help creatives build lasting legacies through ownership, education, and industry insight. In 2017 and 2018, Gill co-coordinated the Who Got Next Competition Tour alongside Universal Records producer Tone P, traveling to 16 cities across the country and witnessing firsthand the abundance of untapped talent. As Executive Producer on Hallways, the debut album by Cooley, winner of the first tour, Gill immersed himself in the behind-the-scenes mechanics of the music industry—learning the crucial importance of copyrights, royalties, and registering tracks with performance rights organizations (PROs). This experience continues to fuel his mission: to teach artists how to claim, copyright, and protect their music. As time goes on, he plans to expand the Gill’s Way roster and educate even more artists on securing their legacy.

SHELDON SDOT CHANDLER

Sheldon “SDot” Chandler is a proud Caribbean ambassador and Executive Manager at Urban One Media, known for his dynamic leadership across both the corporate and private sectors. Sheldon is also known for his weekly contribution on local news media such as Fox 5 & WUSA 9. With a proven track record of curating and managing successful festivals, galas, conventions, and destination events, SDot has become a respected name in cultural and community engagement. In addition to his executive work, Sheldon is an accomplished playwright and stage director. His celebrated stage production The Blue Corner Band Stand earned him the prestigious Writer’s Creation Playbill Award. Passionate about uplifting the community through culture and creativity, SDot is currently focused on expanding cultural outreach and engagement experiences throughout the DMV area.

Writing a poem for his great aunt to present to her at her retirement party is how Orville Walker discovered a newfound love. It was the first poem he ever wrote in his life, but it certainly was not his last. Born in Takoma Park, MD, Orville grew up in Jamaica and Seat Pleasant, MD. He’s been writing poetry for several years, but started performing his work in November 2009 in Washington, D.C. Orville’s poems speaks a vivid truth about the struggles of being an artist and staying constant and true to one’s self. His compelling words have been shared on several stages in front of numerous audiences such as: The White House (Obama’s last term), Howard Theatre, Busboys & Poets (All locations), NBA Washington Wizards Jan 2022, Jan 2023 & Jan 2024, Kellogg’s Cereal Peace Conference, Howard University, West Virginia University & many other colleges, Spoken Word Venues & Youth Centers. Orville currently has a project released in 2018 called “The Soul of a Man” Vol 1 available for stream and download wherever you listen to your music. Orville is also the owner and host of one of North America’s largest Spoken Word platforms PurePoetryLive which will be celebrating 13 yrs this June.

TONE P

Multi-platinum producer Tone P is a pioneering force in D.C.’s music scene, known for blending go-go, hip hop, punk, and soul into a genre-defying sound. He helped launch Wale’s career and co-produced the platinum hit Ambition, later working with icons like Meek Mill, J. Cole, and Mark Ronson. A proud D.C. native, Tone played a key role in the #DontMuteDC movement, helping make go-go the official music of the District. Now stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, Tone continues pushing boundaries with his bold vision—most recently through his experimental project Moogs, Synths, & Sex—and is leading the charge for the next wave of go-go punk.

POET TAYLOR

Poet Taylor is a dynamic radio and TV personality, community advocate, and self-proclaimed lover of God, bacon, and bold conversations. Known for her signature connection with “The Village” — her loyal community of listeners and supporters — Poet brings vibrant energy to the airwaves every weekday morning on WPGC 95.5 FM’s Joe Clair Morning Show and as D.C.’s correspondent for the nationally syndicated TV show Dish Nation. A former foster youth turned media powerhouse, Poet uses her voice to uplift causes close to her heart, including foster care reform, youth empowerment, and social justice. She’s a motivational speaker, creative influencer, and proud board member of Safe Shores DC. Whether on-air, on-screen, or in the streets of the DMV, Poet is a passionate force proving that faith, authenticity, and perseverance can turn any dream into reality.

ERIC E. RICHARDSON

Eric E. Richardson serves as the Supervising Producer at Washington Performing Arts, where he leads the Mars Arts D.C. initiative, a signature community engagement program that showcases the vibrancy of the local arts scene. Under his curation, the Mars Arts D.C. Concert Series at Songbyrd Music House has become a platform for exceptional local artists, reflecting his commitment to amplifying the voices of the D.C. music community. Beyond his work with Washington Performing Arts, Eric has produced and curated events for prominent organizations such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, The Memorial Foundation (also known as the MLK Memorial), and the Little Amal Walk Across America project. His diverse portfolio highlights his dedication to fostering cultural experiences that resonate with a wide audience. In addition to event production, Eric utilizes his content production skills to create engaging material for platforms like YouTube Kids and NASA, as well as for various local nonprofits. His multifaceted expertise bridges the realms of live performance and digital media, contributing to enriching educational and artistic content accessible to diverse audiences.

TELESHA WILSON

Telesha Wilson is the Events Manager and Coordinator at Busboys and Poets, where she helps plan and curate experiences ranging from book talks to weddings across the organization’s multiple locations. Based in the DMV area for the past five years, she brings both creative energy and purpose to every gathering she helps bring to life—whether intimate or grand. Her work has included organizing events featuring iconic voices like Angela Davis and Nikki Giovanni, as well as major community celebrations such as Capital Pride. Before stepping into the events world professionally in 2010, Telesha spent 15 years as an educator, with a special focus on outreach programs and youth-centered activities in the Bay Area of California. Her passion for storytelling, community, and justice continues to inform her work today. With a deep belief in moving through life with purpose and kindness, Telesha is committed to being a voice for peace and equity. Her personal dream is to create a space where children and adolescents can freely express themselves through spoken word, visual and performing arts. A proud crafter, writer, and lover of the outdoors, she finds inspiration on wooded trails—often capturing her experiences through short stories and poetry. Originally from New York and a graduate of a performing arts high school, Telesha has appeared in over 50 performances throughout her academic career. One day, she envisions opening a lounge that blends Guyanese-American cuisine with powerful performances and cultural connection—a place where music, laughter, and soul are always on the menu. Known to many as someone who lives life through song and joy, Telesha Wilson is a vibrant force for creativity, connection, and community.

O.GRIOT

0.griot (ohgreeoh) is a sonic storyteller redefining the soundscape of contemporary music. A visionary artist, she weaves her skills as a songwriter, composer, and sound designer into immersive, emotionally rich experiences that resonate across mediums—from music to video games and film. Their moniker, 0.griot, pays homage to the West African griots—traditional keepers of oral history—symbolizing her commitment to connecting the past, present, and future through sound. “My hope, prayer, and intentions for the songs I write and the stories that I tell is that they are relevant to whoever hears them and that as I write what is true to me, it lands well with someone else.” Originally from Washington, DC, 0.griot’s work is deeply rooted in their identity and lived experience as a queer Black femme and community organizer. They draw inspiration from Prince, Hiatus Kaiyote, Kaytranada, Brittany Howard, Quincy Jones, and Ella Fitzgerald—artists and producers spanning various genres and known for pushing boundaries, much like 0.griot herself. Their music sits at the intersection–characterized by evocative textures and bold, genre-fluid experimentation. A graduate of the esteemed Abbey Road Institute Johannesburg, where she studied audio engineering. There she discovered a profound passion for music production. This led to the founding of her own production house, 0.ver, a space dedicated to innovation in sound. Today, they compose and design sound for video games and film and independent voice actors, crafting audio worlds that are as narrative-driven as they are sonically lush. 0.griot is here to sing stories of joy and despair, hope and pain, death and rebirth.

Writing a poem for his great aunt to present to her at her retirement party is how Orville Walker discovered a newfound love. It was the first poem he ever wrote in his life, but it certainly was not his last. Born in Takoma Park, MD, Orville grew up in Jamaica and Seat Pleasant, MD. He’s been writing poetry for several years, but started performing his work in November 2009 in Washington, D.C. Orville’s poems speaks a vivid truth about the struggles of being an artist and staying constant and true to one’s self. His compelling words have been shared on several stages in front of numerous audiences such as: The White House (Obama’s last term), Howard Theatre, Busboys & Poets (All locations), NBA Washington Wizards Jan 2022, Jan 2023 & Jan 2024, Kellogg’s Cereal Peace Conference, Howard University, West Virginia University & many other colleges, Spoken Word Venues & Youth Centers. Orville currently has a project released in 2018 called “The Soul of a Man” Vol 1 available for stream and download wherever you listen to your music. Orville is also the owner and host of one of North America’s largest Spoken Word platforms PurePoetryLive which will be celebrating 13 yrs this June.

STEFAN SOLEA

Stefan Solea, a multifaceted singer-songwriter, actor, and producer of Puerto Rican and Greek heritage, is driven by a passion for music and film. Born into a family of professional musicians, his musical journey began in infancy; by age seven, he was writing his first song. Since then, he has evolved into a respected solo artist with three album releases and a collaborative album with Struggle Jennings, “Angels & Outlaws,” amassing over 10 million streams. From 2017 to 2020, he amplified superstar Jelly Roll’s sound as lead guitarist and vocalist. Stefan’s versatility extends to the big screen, with acting, stunt work, and studio contributions to major productions like “Focus,” “American Heist,” “American Horror Story,” and “Emancipation.” He further showcases his creative vision by writing and directing music videos and short films. Deeply committed to youth empowerment, Stefan divides his time between New Orleans and Middleburg, VA, partnering with the Anacostia BID and Americans for the Arts to launch the Crescendo Music Incubator, a program designed to inspire, resource, and guide emerging musicians.

WILEY BROWN

Wiley Brown: The son of The GodFather of Go-Go and Creator of Go-Go Music Chuck Brown. Wiley is a musician, artist, voice actor, actor, Lead vocalist for the Chuck Brown Band, co-founder of the Chuck Brown Foundation, health coach, and more. Wiley is a dedicated Realtor and a Major asset to the DMV Community and an Ambassador of Washington DC Culture and Go-Go Music. Wiley has worked his way up the ladder in the educational system first as a special education teacher, then Math Teacher, PE teacher, Athletic Director, and finally Vice Principal. Wiley is also a graduate of Virginia Tech. You may have seen Wiley On Fox 5 News advocating for legendary Go Go music, Acting in films and Commercials, or Oprah’s Own Network TV Show “Ready To Love”. and now he’s bringing that same intensity, excellence, Local Celebrity Status, and Charm to the real estate market. DC’s “Son of GoGo”.

DWYANE LAWSON-BROWN

Dwayne Lawson-Brown, aka the Crochet Kingpin, is co-host of Spit Dat, the longest running open mic in Washington, D.C. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., they have performed and hosted at The Kennedy Center, Woolly Mammoth Theater, Keegan Theater, The Strathmore, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and others. In addition to varying poetic accomplishments, Dwayne is a Helen Hayes nominated playwright, competitive karaoke champion, and CEO of Crochet Kingpin Designs. He is currently the Community Engagement Specialist at the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

DJ FLAVA

Rudy Davis, DJ FLAVA, is a remarkable figure whose life journey is an inspiring blend of community advocacy, family dedication, and academic achievement. Radio Personality, DJ, community activist, DJ Flava can be found all around the world but can be heard on the radio Sundays from 2AM to 6PM on 93.9 WKYS. Raised in foster care, he defied the odds to become a passionate advocate for child welfare reform. His educational path led him to Cornell University, where he studied Family Development Social Work, combining academia with his deep commitment to improving the lives of families and individuals. DJ FLAVA’s influence extends beyond his successful radio entertainment career, as he actively champions mentorship programs, empowering aspiring leaders and artists.

TANZI WEST BARBOUR

Tanzi West Barbour is the Director of Marketing and Communications for DC Public Library where she oversees special events and programs, media outreach, social media, digital content creation, audio-visual and print production for the agency. Prior to DCPL Tanzi was a consultant for 12 years assisting clients across the country with their communications and public relations needs. Tanzi is a native Washingtonian and proud graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Howard University, and the University of Maryland.