Today we’d like to introduce you to Jemeika Driskell.
Hi Jemeika, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am Jemeika Jenae Driskell, a spoken word artist from Youngstown, Ohio. I have been performing spoken word since 2019 and writing since I was a child. I am a mother of 4 wonderful children who I absolutely cherish. Throughout my journey, I have found myself writing through and about my traumatic experiences and things that other people can relate to. I refer to myself as a STREET POET because I talk about real and touchy subject matters that others are afraid to share. I like to think of myself as a voice for the people, especially the youth. At times we experience things in life that we are afraid to speak about, and often seeing others use their voice can motivate you to use yours. Here In my community, I am one of those voices. I like to remind people that writing and speaking through different experiences cannot just be a source of healing but also therapeutic.
Outside of poetry, I am also a youth mentor and CEO of a nonprofit called Determined not Defeated, which is a mental health program for young children. In the program, we try to help children strive by helping them find their creativity and give them the tools to be successful in their choice of career. I also host an Open mic called The Revival Open Mic Experience which is an open mic that welcomes creatives of all kinds.
In 2022 I self-published my first book, Redefined the naked truth. A book filled with poems, quotes, and short stories that allow you to travel throughout my life as I transition from a child to an adult. Often, I am asked what my thought process is through my writing, and this book allows you to see that.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to where I am at now has been anything but easy. I have laughed, cried, and given up on many occasions. Some of the struggles I encountered are mental health issues, depression, procrastination, and self-doubt. Of all those things the two biggest were depression and self-doubt. Being a leader or creator of anything takes a huge amount of mental strength and confidence. Personally, growing up, I was always one to seek validation from others; I never felt like anything I did was good enough. This created not only self-doubt but also extreme depression and lack of confidence within. I would sleep for days and lay wondering if what I was doing even mattered or if it was my true purpose. After years of self-care, support, and motivation, I can say that every obstacle was worth it, as I am both a better and healthier person present day, still striving and walking in my truth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As an artist, I have had the opportunity to travel to many cities and perform poetry. I don’t just go alone, but I also take any poet or artist that would like to go as well. I provide a stage for artist of all ages to express themselves. One thing I have grown to specialize in is communication, especially with the youth. I have been an advocate, mentor, and teacher for many years and have been told that I have a gift with children that others don’t possess. I am known for representing the small people. I believe that everyone deserves a chance to show the world who they are and what they love to do. This sets me apart from a lot of people because while others are looking for those that are already known, I am looking for the ones who live in the shadows. I am most proud of my growth not only as an artist but as a person. I have had the opportunity to meet many new people and enter rooms I never thought I would step foot in. I get excited about even my smallest accomplishments and have learned to just enjoy life.
What matters most to you?
One thing that I cherish most is time. I love spending time with others and getting to know them. Taking time out of your day to have a conversation, give someone advice or even just say something kind can change a person’s life. Time is one thing we never get back and is surely something that should not be taken for granted.
Pricing:
- $15 Redefined The Naked Truth (book)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://a.co/d/dkEuQrO
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/queen_thestreetpoet92/3099883491488684856/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jemeika.driskell/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/therevivalopenmic/
