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Our Leadership Team
Mike Taylor
Executive Director & Co-founder
Mike Taylor is passionate about bringing arts into schools, and providing artists with opportunities to share their passion. He is an accomplished spoken word artist who has performed on stages in the Bay Area, New York, London, and Paris. He believes that art connects everyone.
Mike Taylor is passionate about bringing arts into schools, and providing artists with opportunities to share their passion. He is an accomplished spoken word artist who has performed on stages in the Bay Area, New York, London, and Paris. He believes that art connects everyone.
Patrick Ohslund
Deputy Director & Co-founder
Patrick Ohslund is the Co-Founder and Deputy Director of Bay Area Creative. Patrick has been supporting school based residencies for 12 years and once was himself a teaching artist and touring spoken word poet. He currently supports poetry residencies at 28 schools served by 11 teaching artists. He has worked directly with school district liaisons in order to create contracts of services, manage the budget and support the delivery of services. Along with his programmatic support services Patrick oversees grant funding and project expansion.
Patrick Ohslund is the Co-Founder and Deputy Director of Bay Area Creative. Patrick has been supporting school based residencies for 12 years and once was himself a teaching artist and touring spoken word poet. He currently supports poetry residencies at 28 schools served by 11 teaching artists. He has worked directly with school district liaisons in order to create contracts of services, manage the budget and support the delivery of services. Along with his programmatic support services Patrick oversees grant funding and project expansion.
Jenna Robinson
Revisions Program Director
More Info...
Jenna Robinson (she/her), MA, LMFT, is a queer multi-racial expressive arts therapist and performance poet located in the Bay Area. Jenna is a steadfast advocate for empowering people at the margins to author their stories of resistance and resilience using written and oral traditions. She has been performing and teaching spoken word workshops to youth and adults since 2011. She is a two-time grand slam champion of Hawaii Slam and placed second in the nation at the 2015 National Poetry Slam in Oakland, CA. She received her M.A. in Expressive Arts Therapy from the California Institute for Integral Studies, where she developed an approach melding narrative therapy, expressive arts and spoken word poetry. Jenna has piloted and facilitated trauma-informed writing workshops with individuals, youth, and families throughout the Bay Area and Hawai'i, including survivors of intimate partner violence and system engaged youth. She currently runs an intergenerational therapeutic writing program for youth, families, and intergenerational community groups through Bay Area Creative. Her clinical practice has focused on supporting people who have experienced abuse and trauma. She is core faculty in the Counseling Psychology master’s program at the Wright Institute as well as core faculty in the Expressive Arts Therapy master’s program at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Jenna trained as a Poetry Therapist under the supervision of Dr. Sherry Reiter and is a board member for the National Association for Poetry Therapy.
More Info...
Jenna Robinson (she/her), MA, LMFT, is a queer multi-racial expressive arts therapist and performance poet located in the Bay Area. Jenna is a steadfast advocate for empowering people at the margins to author their stories of resistance and resilience using written and oral traditions. She has been performing and teaching spoken word workshops to youth and adults since 2011. She is a two-time grand slam champion of Hawaii Slam and placed second in the nation at the 2015 National Poetry Slam in Oakland, CA. She received her M.A. in Expressive Arts Therapy from the California Institute for Integral Studies, where she developed an approach melding narrative therapy, expressive arts and spoken word poetry. Jenna has piloted and facilitated trauma-informed writing workshops with individuals, youth, and families throughout the Bay Area and Hawai'i, including survivors of intimate partner violence and system engaged youth. She currently runs an intergenerational therapeutic writing program for youth, families, and intergenerational community groups through Bay Area Creative. Her clinical practice has focused on supporting people who have experienced abuse and trauma. She is core faculty in the Counseling Psychology master’s program at the Wright Institute as well as core faculty in the Expressive Arts Therapy master’s program at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Jenna trained as a Poetry Therapist under the supervision of Dr. Sherry Reiter and is a board member for the National Association for Poetry Therapy.
Tim McClain
Dance Program Coordinator
Tim McLain-Batimana is a professional breakdancer, who began dancing at age 12 as a therapeutic response from being in the foster care system and is deeply rooted in the Bay Area Urban dance community. He began teaching professionally in 2017, with children, and adults. As an instructor Timothy has collaborated with local dance troupes to produce showcases for students to perform in front of school staff, and parents. As the BAC dance program coordinator he is responsible for project managing, team management, curriculum development, teaching workshops and outreach.
Tim McLain-Batimana is a professional breakdancer, who began dancing at age 12 as a therapeutic response from being in the foster care system and is deeply rooted in the Bay Area Urban dance community. He began teaching professionally in 2017, with children, and adults. As an instructor Timothy has collaborated with local dance troupes to produce showcases for students to perform in front of school staff, and parents. As the BAC dance program coordinator he is responsible for project managing, team management, curriculum development, teaching workshops and outreach.
Briana Leung
Pacifica Poetry Coordinator
Briana Victoria Leung is a 21 y/o Bay Area based queer non-binary Afro Asian Latinx storyteller and healer who has been writing, performing and competing in the local slam poetry scene for the last eight years. They are an artist and activist who often integrates these two identities into one as an “artivist” when exploring political and social issues through writing. Briana represented the Bay Area on an all BIPOC femme team during the 2018 Brave New Voice National Poetry Competition in Houston,Texas. Today they can be found working as a poet mentor teaching youth poetry workshops with Bay Area Creative's SPARC Poetry program, which is the same program that initially introduced Briana to poetry in elementary school.
Briana Victoria Leung is a 21 y/o Bay Area based queer non-binary Afro Asian Latinx storyteller and healer who has been writing, performing and competing in the local slam poetry scene for the last eight years. They are an artist and activist who often integrates these two identities into one as an “artivist” when exploring political and social issues through writing. Briana represented the Bay Area on an all BIPOC femme team during the 2018 Brave New Voice National Poetry Competition in Houston,Texas. Today they can be found working as a poet mentor teaching youth poetry workshops with Bay Area Creative's SPARC Poetry program, which is the same program that initially introduced Briana to poetry in elementary school.
Our Board
Akshobhya Mann
Board Member
Akshobhya is a strategic and empathetic leader with a proven track record of translating technical complexity into business value, driving cross-functional initiatives, scaling operational excellence globally, and mentoring diverse talent. Known for translating vision into action, fostering inclusive collaboration, and delivering measurable impact across engineering, product, and customer-facing teams she prioritizes keeping people at the heart of impact.
As a Bay Area Creative board member, she leverages this experience to support the growth and scale of our mission to empower underserved youth through accessible arts education that builds confidence, fosters social connection, celebrates diversity, and uplifts marginalized cultures to inspire positive change in their communities.
Akshobhya is a strategic and empathetic leader with a proven track record of translating technical complexity into business value, driving cross-functional initiatives, scaling operational excellence globally, and mentoring diverse talent. Known for translating vision into action, fostering inclusive collaboration, and delivering measurable impact across engineering, product, and customer-facing teams she prioritizes keeping people at the heart of impact.
As a Bay Area Creative board member, she leverages this experience to support the growth and scale of our mission to empower underserved youth through accessible arts education that builds confidence, fosters social connection, celebrates diversity, and uplifts marginalized cultures to inspire positive change in their communities.
Gloria Tse
Board Treasurer
Gloria Tse is dedicated and passionate about making a difference. Her outstanding communication skills, combined with a relentless commitment to her community, drive her success in business. With a strong background in leadership, consultative sales, and contract negotiation, Gloria strives to forge strategic partnerships and secure corporate sponsorships to support the vital work of nonprofits like Bay Area Creative. Her mission is to create a positive impact on the world through nonprofit work in her community. Gloria is a Bay Area native who likes to spend her downtime with her faithful pup and family; traveling, hiking, and biking.
Gloria Tse is dedicated and passionate about making a difference. Her outstanding communication skills, combined with a relentless commitment to her community, drive her success in business. With a strong background in leadership, consultative sales, and contract negotiation, Gloria strives to forge strategic partnerships and secure corporate sponsorships to support the vital work of nonprofits like Bay Area Creative. Her mission is to create a positive impact on the world through nonprofit work in her community. Gloria is a Bay Area native who likes to spend her downtime with her faithful pup and family; traveling, hiking, and biking.
Jason Bayoni
Board Member
Jason Bayani is the author of Locus (Omnidawn Publishing 2019, Norcal Book Award finalist) and Amulet (Write Bloody Publishing 2013). He's an MFA graduate from Saint Mary's College and is the co-director of Kearny Street Workshop, the oldest multi-disciplinary Asian Pacific American arts organization in the country. His publishing credits include World Literature Today, Lantern Review, and other publications. Jason is the recipient of the 2021 California Arts Council Established artist fellowship and is a featured artist for the Consortium of Asian American Theaters and Artists Festival in 2022. He performs regularly around the country and debuted his solo theater show "Locus of Control" in 2016 with theatrical runs in San Francisco, New York, and Austin.
Jason Bayani is the author of Locus (Omnidawn Publishing 2019, Norcal Book Award finalist) and Amulet (Write Bloody Publishing 2013). He's an MFA graduate from Saint Mary's College and is the co-director of Kearny Street Workshop, the oldest multi-disciplinary Asian Pacific American arts organization in the country. His publishing credits include World Literature Today, Lantern Review, and other publications. Jason is the recipient of the 2021 California Arts Council Established artist fellowship and is a featured artist for the Consortium of Asian American Theaters and Artists Festival in 2022. He performs regularly around the country and debuted his solo theater show "Locus of Control" in 2016 with theatrical runs in San Francisco, New York, and Austin.
Komal Sharma
Board Member
Komal Sharma, a UC Davis Cognitive Science graduate, currently serves as a Product Manager at Flock Safety. Previously, she has invested in early stage startups at Coyote Ventures, a women’s health and wellness venture capital fund, collaborated on forecasting models at Etsy, and led strategic international legal projects at FTI Consulting. Her career commitment is to drive impactful solutions and make the world a better place. Outside of work, she spends her time playing tennis, traveling the world, mentoring at hackathons, and volunteering for initiatives that invest in the future of our youth.
Komal Sharma, a UC Davis Cognitive Science graduate, currently serves as a Product Manager at Flock Safety. Previously, she has invested in early stage startups at Coyote Ventures, a women’s health and wellness venture capital fund, collaborated on forecasting models at Etsy, and led strategic international legal projects at FTI Consulting. Her career commitment is to drive impactful solutions and make the world a better place. Outside of work, she spends her time playing tennis, traveling the world, mentoring at hackathons, and volunteering for initiatives that invest in the future of our youth.
Katie Whitcraft
Board Chair Bio...
Katie Whitcraft is the COO of Foundry 415 Innovation Group, San Francisco’s premier innovation hub guiding global businesses and startups through customized innovation services. Foundry 415 provides the network, resources and guidance necessary for successful innovation ecosystems around the world. Through Foundry 415’s corporate innovation services, accelerator/incubator programs and executive education, our clients and partners are fueling their growth through innovation.
Katie has more than 15 years of experience in operations. Her expertise is focused on human resources strategy, financial analysis and forecasting, as well as the crossroads of technology and business efficiency.
Prior to her role at Foundry 415 Innovation Group, she was the General Manager of Circus Center and responsible for growing the budget of the small California nonprofit from <500K to 1.8M. She also served as the Director of Operations for Runway Innovation Hub lowering expenses over 2M during her tenure.
Katie is an advisor to organizations around the US in operational strategies and compliance. Notably Bay Area Creative (BAC), a BIPOC led, spoken word performance organization dedicated to underserved youth in the Bay Area. Katie also founded and operates a film production company, Troubleshoot Productions with her partner Colin Johnson.
Katie is based in San Francisco and enjoys spending her free time running (recently finishing the New York City Marathon), painting and playing with her rambunctious dog.
Katie Whitcraft is the COO of Foundry 415 Innovation Group, San Francisco’s premier innovation hub guiding global businesses and startups through customized innovation services. Foundry 415 provides the network, resources and guidance necessary for successful innovation ecosystems around the world. Through Foundry 415’s corporate innovation services, accelerator/incubator programs and executive education, our clients and partners are fueling their growth through innovation.
Katie has more than 15 years of experience in operations. Her expertise is focused on human resources strategy, financial analysis and forecasting, as well as the crossroads of technology and business efficiency.
Prior to her role at Foundry 415 Innovation Group, she was the General Manager of Circus Center and responsible for growing the budget of the small California nonprofit from <500K to 1.8M. She also served as the Director of Operations for Runway Innovation Hub lowering expenses over 2M during her tenure.
Katie is an advisor to organizations around the US in operational strategies and compliance. Notably Bay Area Creative (BAC), a BIPOC led, spoken word performance organization dedicated to underserved youth in the Bay Area. Katie also founded and operates a film production company, Troubleshoot Productions with her partner Colin Johnson.
Katie is based in San Francisco and enjoys spending her free time running (recently finishing the New York City Marathon), painting and playing with her rambunctious dog.
Kelly Mendez Dimond
Board Member
Expert in client development strategy and strategic communications with 14+ years of experience at leading firms working on 700+ proposals from pre-proposal through final presentation for opportunities with Fortune 500 companies across a wide array of industries. I am a strategist and coach working with client service teams to create engaging client experiences to build relationships, demonstrate value, and differentiate in the market.
As a first-generation Latina college graduate from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in English, I have always had a deep passion for both reading and writing. From my family, culture, and the working world at large, I was told a degree in English would not lead to success, but I have personally experienced the power of language and built my career on harnessing creative and strategic communications. I have spent the last 14 years working for organizations such as Deloitte and McKinsey & Company coaching teams on and creating impactful client communications. From developing and facilitating Partner-level training on storytelling to leading change communications through transformation to coaching client development strategy and taking pen to creative assets for multimillion dollar proposals, I have a wide range of relevant skills. In terms of volunteer background, I have held associate board positions with two organizations, including one focused on literacy, and have experience in fundraising, event planning, and outreach communications.
Expert in client development strategy and strategic communications with 14+ years of experience at leading firms working on 700+ proposals from pre-proposal through final presentation for opportunities with Fortune 500 companies across a wide array of industries. I am a strategist and coach working with client service teams to create engaging client experiences to build relationships, demonstrate value, and differentiate in the market.
As a first-generation Latina college graduate from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in English, I have always had a deep passion for both reading and writing. From my family, culture, and the working world at large, I was told a degree in English would not lead to success, but I have personally experienced the power of language and built my career on harnessing creative and strategic communications. I have spent the last 14 years working for organizations such as Deloitte and McKinsey & Company coaching teams on and creating impactful client communications. From developing and facilitating Partner-level training on storytelling to leading change communications through transformation to coaching client development strategy and taking pen to creative assets for multimillion dollar proposals, I have a wide range of relevant skills. In terms of volunteer background, I have held associate board positions with two organizations, including one focused on literacy, and have experience in fundraising, event planning, and outreach communications.
Darlene Mann
Board Member
Darlene joined the Bay Area Creative board in 2024 after retiring from a 40-year career in the tech
sector. Highlights across her career including serving as the first product planning manager for Lotus
Notes, the first broadly adopted collaboration platform; founding VP Marketing of BroadVision, an early
leader in eCommerce; General Partner at ONSET Ventures, investing in software and internet
businesses; CEO of Siperian, a big data company (acquired, NASDAQ: INFA); and COO of StreetLight Inc.,
a big data platform for mobility analytics (acquired, (NYSE: J). She has served on multiple corporate and
non-profit boards, including co-founding the Pacifica Education Foundation that supports the K-8
Pacifica School District. In addition to enjoying her family, cooking, reading, travel, and water sports,
Darlene is passionate about education, the arts, and supporting positive change locally and nationally.
Darlene joined the Bay Area Creative board in 2024 after retiring from a 40-year career in the tech
sector. Highlights across her career including serving as the first product planning manager for Lotus
Notes, the first broadly adopted collaboration platform; founding VP Marketing of BroadVision, an early
leader in eCommerce; General Partner at ONSET Ventures, investing in software and internet
businesses; CEO of Siperian, a big data company (acquired, NASDAQ: INFA); and COO of StreetLight Inc.,
a big data platform for mobility analytics (acquired, (NYSE: J). She has served on multiple corporate and
non-profit boards, including co-founding the Pacifica Education Foundation that supports the K-8
Pacifica School District. In addition to enjoying her family, cooking, reading, travel, and water sports,
Darlene is passionate about education, the arts, and supporting positive change locally and nationally.
Marcus Scott, Esq.
Board Legal Advisor
Marcus Scott was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern California. Marcus earned his Bachelors of General Studies, in English, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Marcus came to New England to pursue his Juris Doctorate from Massachusetts School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property, and Media and Information Law. He then earned an LLM in Global Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, from Suffolk University in Boston, MA. Marcus is Licensed in the State of Massachusetts and is focused on complex litigations, including focusing IP and Software matter, as well as Corporate and Domestic Litigation. Marcus’s practice experience includes the Federal District Court of Massachusetts as well as in the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals.
Marcus Scott was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern California. Marcus earned his Bachelors of General Studies, in English, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Marcus came to New England to pursue his Juris Doctorate from Massachusetts School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property, and Media and Information Law. He then earned an LLM in Global Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, from Suffolk University in Boston, MA. Marcus is Licensed in the State of Massachusetts and is focused on complex litigations, including focusing IP and Software matter, as well as Corporate and Domestic Litigation. Marcus’s practice experience includes the Federal District Court of Massachusetts as well as in the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals.
Our Poetry Teaching Artists
Alonzo “Zo1” Henderson
Teaching Artists Bio...
Alonzo “Zo1” Henderson is an educator, poet, musical artist, mentor, and A&R who centers his work authenticity, leadership, and community investment. Within youth programs and creative spaces, he serves as a guiding force for youth and emerging artists, helping them find their voice and navigate the early stages of their artistic journey. With over 15 years of creating, performing, producing, and writing, Zo1 has evolved within his role as an artist and become a cultural architect whose impact continues to ripple throughout The Bay Ara. His influence is felt deeply in The Bay’s creative ecosystem, where his commitment to elevating young talent has helped open doors and build platforms that last for generations. He recently produced a life affirming, profanity free musical album called “Black Love” featuring some of the Bay Area’s talented youth artists. Zo1’s music feeds the soul while staying grounded in truth, purpose, and uplifting community.
Alonzo “Zo1” Henderson is an educator, poet, musical artist, mentor, and A&R who centers his work authenticity, leadership, and community investment. Within youth programs and creative spaces, he serves as a guiding force for youth and emerging artists, helping them find their voice and navigate the early stages of their artistic journey. With over 15 years of creating, performing, producing, and writing, Zo1 has evolved within his role as an artist and become a cultural architect whose impact continues to ripple throughout The Bay Ara. His influence is felt deeply in The Bay’s creative ecosystem, where his commitment to elevating young talent has helped open doors and build platforms that last for generations. He recently produced a life affirming, profanity free musical album called “Black Love” featuring some of the Bay Area’s talented youth artists. Zo1’s music feeds the soul while staying grounded in truth, purpose, and uplifting community.
Camila Aguilar
Teaching Artist Bio...
Camila Elizabet Aguirre Aguilar is a Xicana womxn, warrior, student, educator, and poet. Camila has slammed since the age of fourteen and competed in the 2017 National Poetry Slam on Team Oakland. For over a decade, she has workshopped performance poetry with underserved youth. As a bisexual womxn of color, Camila explores the intersections of power and poetry. Camila currently teaches spoken word workshops in the East Bay.
Camila Elizabet Aguirre Aguilar is a Xicana womxn, warrior, student, educator, and poet. Camila has slammed since the age of fourteen and competed in the 2017 National Poetry Slam on Team Oakland. For over a decade, she has workshopped performance poetry with underserved youth. As a bisexual womxn of color, Camila explores the intersections of power and poetry. Camila currently teaches spoken word workshops in the East Bay.
Elio Fardella
Teaching Artist Bio...
Jackson Mcbrayer
Teaching Artist Bio...
Jackson McBrayer is a Bay Area stand-up comedian and poet dedicated to empowering young voices through his work with Bay Area Creative. Passionate about helping kids of all ages find their voice and build confidence, he brings humor and storytelling into spaces where self-expression thrives. Whether he's skydiving, crowd-surfing in his wheelchair, or performing on stage, Jackson embraces every moment with fearless joy. As he puts it, "There is a joy in living a life worth retelling."
Jackson McBrayer is a Bay Area stand-up comedian and poet dedicated to empowering young voices through his work with Bay Area Creative. Passionate about helping kids of all ages find their voice and build confidence, he brings humor and storytelling into spaces where self-expression thrives. Whether he's skydiving, crowd-surfing in his wheelchair, or performing on stage, Jackson embraces every moment with fearless joy. As he puts it, "There is a joy in living a life worth retelling."
Mike McGee
Teaching Artist Bio...
Mighty Mike McGee stands as a distinctive voice in the world of spoken word poetry, weaving together humor, storytelling, and education with the threads of his rich life experiences. Born in the vibrant city of San José, California, Mike entered the world facing the challenges of Spina bifida, a neural tube defect that has undeniably shaped his life’s trajectory. This condition, far from slowing him down, has propelled him into becoming an ardent advocate for pursuing passions fervently and without delay.
McGee’s journey through the realms of poetry and performance began to gather significant momentum in the early 2000s, marked by his groundbreaking victories in the competitive poetry slam scene. In 2003, he clinched the National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship, a feat he complemented with the Individual World Poetry Slam Grand Championship in 2006, making him the first ever to hold both titles. These victories were not just personal triumphs but milestones that placed him firmly on the global poetry map.
Beyond the competitive stage, McGee has been a relentless traveler, sharing his unique blend of poetry and humor across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His performances, characterized by their heartfelt sincerity and infectious laughter, have spanned several hundred thousand miles since 2002. McGee’s talents have been showcased on prestigious platforms such as HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, CBC Radio and Television, and NPR’s Snap Judgment, underlining his appeal to a broad audience. His historical performance at the University of Paris, la Sorbonne, in 2005 marked him as one of the first Americans to bring spoken word to the iconic institution, further cementing his role as a pioneer in the field.
McGee’s literary contributions are encapsulated in his first collection of humor and poetry, “In Search of Midnight,” published by Write Bloody Publishing. His involvement with Poetry Center San José since 2016, including a stint on its board of directors, showcases his commitment to nurturing the poetic community in his hometown.
Appointed as the Poet Laureate of Santa Clara County for the years 2018 and 2019, McGee has not only celebrated but also significantly influenced the cultural landscape of his region. His passion for creating and curating spaces for art and expression has led him to produce, perform, and host an array of variety entertainment events throughout San José and Santa Clara County. These include the Oversocial Mofo Revue, San José Poetry Slam, Go Go Gone Show, and Live Lit Writers Open, as well as his leadership role as the San José Poetry Festival Director since 2021.
Mighty Mike McGee’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His work transcends the boundaries of poetry and humor, serving as a beacon for those eager to find and follow their own paths. Through his art and his actions, McGee continues to inspire individuals to embrace their passions with urgency and joy, making an indelible mark on the world one word at a time.
Mighty Mike McGee stands as a distinctive voice in the world of spoken word poetry, weaving together humor, storytelling, and education with the threads of his rich life experiences. Born in the vibrant city of San José, California, Mike entered the world facing the challenges of Spina bifida, a neural tube defect that has undeniably shaped his life’s trajectory. This condition, far from slowing him down, has propelled him into becoming an ardent advocate for pursuing passions fervently and without delay.
McGee’s journey through the realms of poetry and performance began to gather significant momentum in the early 2000s, marked by his groundbreaking victories in the competitive poetry slam scene. In 2003, he clinched the National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship, a feat he complemented with the Individual World Poetry Slam Grand Championship in 2006, making him the first ever to hold both titles. These victories were not just personal triumphs but milestones that placed him firmly on the global poetry map.
Beyond the competitive stage, McGee has been a relentless traveler, sharing his unique blend of poetry and humor across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His performances, characterized by their heartfelt sincerity and infectious laughter, have spanned several hundred thousand miles since 2002. McGee’s talents have been showcased on prestigious platforms such as HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, CBC Radio and Television, and NPR’s Snap Judgment, underlining his appeal to a broad audience. His historical performance at the University of Paris, la Sorbonne, in 2005 marked him as one of the first Americans to bring spoken word to the iconic institution, further cementing his role as a pioneer in the field.
McGee’s literary contributions are encapsulated in his first collection of humor and poetry, “In Search of Midnight,” published by Write Bloody Publishing. His involvement with Poetry Center San José since 2016, including a stint on its board of directors, showcases his commitment to nurturing the poetic community in his hometown.
Appointed as the Poet Laureate of Santa Clara County for the years 2018 and 2019, McGee has not only celebrated but also significantly influenced the cultural landscape of his region. His passion for creating and curating spaces for art and expression has led him to produce, perform, and host an array of variety entertainment events throughout San José and Santa Clara County. These include the Oversocial Mofo Revue, San José Poetry Slam, Go Go Gone Show, and Live Lit Writers Open, as well as his leadership role as the San José Poetry Festival Director since 2021.
Mighty Mike McGee’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His work transcends the boundaries of poetry and humor, serving as a beacon for those eager to find and follow their own paths. Through his art and his actions, McGee continues to inspire individuals to embrace their passions with urgency and joy, making an indelible mark on the world one word at a time.
PG Williams
Teaching Artist Bio...
PG, a Dynamic Spoken Word Artist, Dancer, Teacher, Life Coach, Model, Actor, and Author from Oakland. Known for his spectacular stage presence, personality and deep themes of evolution, love and dedication.
He shares his love of expression to motivate and inspire others to be uniquely the same.
PG, a Dynamic Spoken Word Artist, Dancer, Teacher, Life Coach, Model, Actor, and Author from Oakland. Known for his spectacular stage presence, personality and deep themes of evolution, love and dedication.
He shares his love of expression to motivate and inspire others to be uniquely the same.
"Sixfootah The Poet"
Teaching Artist Bio...
“Sixfootah ThePoet” Turner is an African American Oakland, CA native, and a lifelong Bay Area resident. Tasha’s poetry is a blend of passion, resilience and bold wordsmithing. On stage she aspires to use her talent and personal story to inspire young girls in her community to embrace their uniqueness and ignore negativity; reminding them that they are not alone in the world.
“Sixfootah ThePoet” Turner is an African American Oakland, CA native, and a lifelong Bay Area resident. Tasha’s poetry is a blend of passion, resilience and bold wordsmithing. On stage she aspires to use her talent and personal story to inspire young girls in her community to embrace their uniqueness and ignore negativity; reminding them that they are not alone in the world.
Jaz Sufi
Teaching Artist Bio...
Jaz Sufi (she/hers) is a queer Iranian-American poet and arts educator. She is a National Poetry Slam finalist and has received fellowships from Kundiman, the Watering Hole, and New York University, where she received her MFA. Her work has been published or is upcoming in the Adroit Journal, AGNI, Black Warrior Review, Colorado Review, Muzzle, and elsewhere. She lives between the Bay Area and Brooklyn with her dog, Apollo.
Jaz Sufi (she/hers) is a queer Iranian-American poet and arts educator. She is a National Poetry Slam finalist and has received fellowships from Kundiman, the Watering Hole, and New York University, where she received her MFA. Her work has been published or is upcoming in the Adroit Journal, AGNI, Black Warrior Review, Colorado Review, Muzzle, and elsewhere. She lives between the Bay Area and Brooklyn with her dog, Apollo.
Tino Vazquez
Teaching Artist Bio...
Tino V. H. Jr. is a Mexican-American spoken word poet and organizer born and raised in Oakland, CA. He has performed with the UCSC CUPSI slam team and the Legendary Collective in Santa Cruz. His work explores im/migration, indigeneity, the hood, queerness, feminism, and decolonial frameworks. Tino makes a huge impact in the classroom working with k-12 students teaching spoken word.
Tino V. H. Jr. is a Mexican-American spoken word poet and organizer born and raised in Oakland, CA. He has performed with the UCSC CUPSI slam team and the Legendary Collective in Santa Cruz. His work explores im/migration, indigeneity, the hood, queerness, feminism, and decolonial frameworks. Tino makes a huge impact in the classroom working with k-12 students teaching spoken word.
Vialsy "Esperanza"
Teaching Artist Bio...
Esperanza Cabrales is a Xicana poet from the 209 that is proud to put the B in LGBT. She fell in love with poetry in 2013 and has been writing it ever since. Her work has been published in the 2021 edition of Havik: The Las Positas Journal of Arts and Literature and The Aesthetic Digital Magazine (where she was a former editor). She has a chapbook called "Can You See Her?" coming soon. Esperanza has performed throughout California from Stockton and Manteca to the bay and LA. She has featured at Las Positas College in Livermore and in Stockton at Hatch Workshop, a makerspace for local artists. Currently, she teaches spoken word to k-12 students in Bay Area Creative’s SPARC Poetry program.
Esperanza Cabrales is a Xicana poet from the 209 that is proud to put the B in LGBT. She fell in love with poetry in 2013 and has been writing it ever since. Her work has been published in the 2021 edition of Havik: The Las Positas Journal of Arts and Literature and The Aesthetic Digital Magazine (where she was a former editor). She has a chapbook called "Can You See Her?" coming soon. Esperanza has performed throughout California from Stockton and Manteca to the bay and LA. She has featured at Las Positas College in Livermore and in Stockton at Hatch Workshop, a makerspace for local artists. Currently, she teaches spoken word to k-12 students in Bay Area Creative’s SPARC Poetry program.
Zou Mussa
Teaching Artist Bio...
Zouhair Mussa is a Sudanese Nubian-American multi-dimensional artist and independent researcher born at Alta Bates Berkeley and raised in West Oakland.
Zouhair Mussa is a Sudanese Nubian-American multi-dimensional artist and independent researcher born at Alta Bates Berkeley and raised in West Oakland.
Urvashi Bahuguna
Teaching Artist Bio...
Urvashi Bahuguna is a poet and an essayist who grew up in Goa, India before moving to New Delhi where she lived and worked as a writer for many years. She is currently based in the Bay Area where she works as a writer, editor, and workshop facilitator. She is the author ofTerrarium (The (Great) Indian Poetry Collective, 2019) and No Straight Thing Was Ever Made (Penguin India, 2021), and the recipient of multiple fellowships including from Tin House, Vermont Studio Center, and Sewanee Writers' Conference.
Urvashi Bahuguna is a poet and an essayist who grew up in Goa, India before moving to New Delhi where she lived and worked as a writer for many years. She is currently based in the Bay Area where she works as a writer, editor, and workshop facilitator. She is the author ofTerrarium (The (Great) Indian Poetry Collective, 2019) and No Straight Thing Was Ever Made (Penguin India, 2021), and the recipient of multiple fellowships including from Tin House, Vermont Studio Center, and Sewanee Writers' Conference.
Yenia Jimenez
Teaching Artist Bio...
My name is Yenia Jimenez I am a Afro-Latinx woman from San Francisco, CA.. I was born & raised in the Bayview Hunters Point district & have been writing my entire life. I am a self published author who believes that BIPOC stories are highly underrepresented and need to be highlighted. With my writing and teaching my hope is to inspire youth through storytelling.
My name is Yenia Jimenez I am a Afro-Latinx woman from San Francisco, CA.. I was born & raised in the Bayview Hunters Point district & have been writing my entire life. I am a self published author who believes that BIPOC stories are highly underrepresented and need to be highlighted. With my writing and teaching my hope is to inspire youth through storytelling.
Alejandra Rubio
Teaching Artist Bio...
Alejandra Rubio is a Bay Area artist and youth arts educator whose work sits at the intersection of art, activism, and community. Since 2022, she has developed and led Arts and Activism curricula, primarily through printmaking, most notably with her program Creative Seeds of Activism, which was supported by a 70k YBCA Creative Corps Grant and launched out of Mission Grafica. Her program guided youth through in-depth explorations of issues such as gentrification, immigration, indigeneity, and femicide, empowering students to become self-sufficient screenprinters whose work was ultimately exhibited at a local restaurant opening celebrated with their families. Originally trained as a painter, Alejandra recently rekindled her relationship with large-scale painting after spontaneously competing in a live paint battle, reminding her of her capacity to work boldly and quickly on a large canvas. She is now actively seeking opportunities to deepen her skills as a painter and muralist while continuing to support community members in their own creative journeys.
Alejandra Rubio is a Bay Area artist and youth arts educator whose work sits at the intersection of art, activism, and community. Since 2022, she has developed and led Arts and Activism curricula, primarily through printmaking, most notably with her program Creative Seeds of Activism, which was supported by a 70k YBCA Creative Corps Grant and launched out of Mission Grafica. Her program guided youth through in-depth explorations of issues such as gentrification, immigration, indigeneity, and femicide, empowering students to become self-sufficient screenprinters whose work was ultimately exhibited at a local restaurant opening celebrated with their families. Originally trained as a painter, Alejandra recently rekindled her relationship with large-scale painting after spontaneously competing in a live paint battle, reminding her of her capacity to work boldly and quickly on a large canvas. She is now actively seeking opportunities to deepen her skills as a painter and muralist while continuing to support community members in their own creative journeys.
Our Dance Teaching Artists
Ausean "Say" Wakefield
Dance Teacher Bio...
A Richmond Native, this Dancer is inspired by family and community. His style varies from turf to hiphop and afrobeats. Recently He was featured in the NBA allstars halftime show, Nike Commercial, and the Black Joy Parade.
A Richmond Native, this Dancer is inspired by family and community. His style varies from turf to hiphop and afrobeats. Recently He was featured in the NBA allstars halftime show, Nike Commercial, and the Black Joy Parade.
Arthur
Teaching Artist Bio...
AJ “Dopey Fresh” Gardner (he/him) is a Turf dancer and teacher from San Francisco, known for representing #TurfDancing during the #SuperBowlHalfTimeShow with @kendricklamar this month. He has won numerous all-styles jams and dance tournaments throughout his career.
In the entertainment industry, Dopey has collaborated with notable artists and organizations, including Mikey Disco from Knuckle Neck Tribe, Sony, Men’s Wearhouse, Trademark Inc, Souls of Mischief, E-40, Kanye West, Schoolboy Q, YG, and H.E.R. He made history as the first Black Turf dancer to be featured on a billboard in San Francisco.
Dopey Fresh is passionate about sharing his craft, having taught adult classes at City Dance Studio as the first Black Turf dance instructor, and working with 1st graders at an all-Black after-school program in Oakland for four years under the Ujimaa Foundation.
Currently, he serves as the CEO of UNKNOWN CHAMBERS and performs with his dance group, UNKNOWN. In 2023, he collaborated with AJ and Megan on the @mudwaterproject Turf, leading to a partnership with MLD in 2024. That same year, he was invited to teach the first Turf dance workshop in Montreal at J.O.A.T.
AJ “Dopey Fresh” Gardner (he/him) is a Turf dancer and teacher from San Francisco, known for representing #TurfDancing during the #SuperBowlHalfTimeShow with @kendricklamar this month. He has won numerous all-styles jams and dance tournaments throughout his career.
In the entertainment industry, Dopey has collaborated with notable artists and organizations, including Mikey Disco from Knuckle Neck Tribe, Sony, Men’s Wearhouse, Trademark Inc, Souls of Mischief, E-40, Kanye West, Schoolboy Q, YG, and H.E.R. He made history as the first Black Turf dancer to be featured on a billboard in San Francisco.
Dopey Fresh is passionate about sharing his craft, having taught adult classes at City Dance Studio as the first Black Turf dance instructor, and working with 1st graders at an all-Black after-school program in Oakland for four years under the Ujimaa Foundation.
Currently, he serves as the CEO of UNKNOWN CHAMBERS and performs with his dance group, UNKNOWN. In 2023, he collaborated with AJ and Megan on the @mudwaterproject Turf, leading to a partnership with MLD in 2024. That same year, he was invited to teach the first Turf dance workshop in Montreal at J.O.A.T.
Erik Wright
Dance Teacher Bio...
Erik Wright aka Chiller L.E.O is a dancer and hip hop / R & B artist born and raised in Oakland, Ca. With Featured tracks with Stunnaman, Dave Steezy, Mani Draper and more. He’s been dancing since the age of 4 Years old, Inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, Erykah Badu, Tupac, Andre 3000 and Chris Brown. His goal in life overall is to inspire the generations after him to express themselves creatively and that dreams do come true when you just trust in yourself and the universe.
Erik Wright aka Chiller L.E.O is a dancer and hip hop / R & B artist born and raised in Oakland, Ca. With Featured tracks with Stunnaman, Dave Steezy, Mani Draper and more. He’s been dancing since the age of 4 Years old, Inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, Erykah Badu, Tupac, Andre 3000 and Chris Brown. His goal in life overall is to inspire the generations after him to express themselves creatively and that dreams do come true when you just trust in yourself and the universe.
Jamar "Jammer"
Dance Teacher Bio...
Jamar is an urban dance teacher educating youth on the fundamentals of hip hop dance and teaching the history of hip hop culture. As a lead teacher he choreographs dance routines to be used by other teaching artists and prepares students to perform at events. He has danced in commercials, movies, concerts, plays, tours and talk shows; having worked with Usher, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bette Midler, Beyonce, Tevin Campbell, Wayne Brady, and Tony Toni Tone.
Jamar is an urban dance teacher educating youth on the fundamentals of hip hop dance and teaching the history of hip hop culture. As a lead teacher he choreographs dance routines to be used by other teaching artists and prepares students to perform at events. He has danced in commercials, movies, concerts, plays, tours and talk shows; having worked with Usher, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bette Midler, Beyonce, Tevin Campbell, Wayne Brady, and Tony Toni Tone.
Jarell Boyd
Dance Teacher Bio...
Jarell Boyd is an SF born Turf dancer who recently competed in Fusion Concept the International Hip Hop-Freestyle festival in Paris, France.
Jarell Boyd is an SF born Turf dancer who recently competed in Fusion Concept the International Hip Hop-Freestyle festival in Paris, France.
Naliyah Williams
Dance Teacher Bio...
Nai Thaillnai (pronounced The•iLL•Nye), a Southern native raised in the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, is a multifaceted artist dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black women. As a performing artist, singer-songwriter, dancer, poet, and visual artist, she uses her talents to promote a positive and authentic image of Black women, honoring their voices and experiences in their entirety.
Passionate about amplifying the stories of women whose perspectives have been overlooked, Thaillnai channels her creativity to challenge narratives and inspire change. Through her art in all its forms, she strives to bring awareness to lost Black voices, crafting a legacy of empowerment and representation.
Nai Thaillnai (pronounced The•iLL•Nye), a Southern native raised in the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, is a multifaceted artist dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black women. As a performing artist, singer-songwriter, dancer, poet, and visual artist, she uses her talents to promote a positive and authentic image of Black women, honoring their voices and experiences in their entirety.
Passionate about amplifying the stories of women whose perspectives have been overlooked, Thaillnai channels her creativity to challenge narratives and inspire change. Through her art in all its forms, she strives to bring awareness to lost Black voices, crafting a legacy of empowerment and representation.
Antwan Davis
Dance Teacher Bio...
Antwan is a multi-percussionist who has co-founded the Las Vegas-based performance arts company Molodi, performed with the Las Vegas and North American productions of Stomp, and toured nationally with Step Afrika. He actively performs and teaches workshops and residencies in the U.S. and internationally.
Antwan is a multi-percussionist who has co-founded the Las Vegas-based performance arts company Molodi, performed with the Las Vegas and North American productions of Stomp, and toured nationally with Step Afrika. He actively performs and teaches workshops and residencies in the U.S. and internationally.
Our Visual Arts Teachers
DJ Ignacia
Visual Arts Teacher Bio...
Ignacia Hardy is a visual artist from Oakland, CA. They are driven to craft visual works that shift the paradigm of gender, break barriers that incase cultures and to work with youth and marginalized populations in the process. Ignacia will create works of art inspired by poets and dancers in the event, work in mentorship with a student and collaborate with another visual artist in a live painting display.
Ignacia Hardy is a visual artist from Oakland, CA. They are driven to craft visual works that shift the paradigm of gender, break barriers that incase cultures and to work with youth and marginalized populations in the process. Ignacia will create works of art inspired by poets and dancers in the event, work in mentorship with a student and collaborate with another visual artist in a live painting display.
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