Jack of ALL JonKeL

The journey of my artistic development commenced at the tender age of 7. Poetry flowed effortlessly from within me, becoming a natural outlet for my emotions. Little did I realize then that this creative expression would play a pivotal role in my life. During my elementary school years, I confronted early experiences of trauma that I couldn't fully comprehend. Growing up amidst the struggles of my parents' addiction, I found myself exposed to the harrowing reality of domestic violence and abuse. Unbeknownst to me, the artistic process would eventually prove to be a form of therapy, offering solace and release in the face of adversity. When the echoes of gunshots filled my neighborhood or my parents' arguments raged, I instinctively reached for my pencil and paper, channeling my emotions onto the page.

My upbringing in the unforgiving landscapes of Miami was marked by hardships, which only intensified during my teenage years when I found myself without a home. Creative writing alone couldn't carry the weight of such challenges. It was during high school that I entered the realm of theater through Miami Northwestern's magnet performing arts program, PAVAC. This new outlet became an additional vessel for my healing journey. Ms. Charlotte Seward, my teacher and mentor, assumed a maternal role, imparting lessons that would shape my path.

From the age of 14, I shouldered the responsibility of work, and with my mother's incarceration, I took on the role of guardian for my younger brother. My grandmother's custody granted me stability in a time of uncertainty, as my father's struggle with addiction rendered him unfit. At 16, I embarked on a new endeavor as a peer educator in an after-school program. This role was unlike any other, as it involved utilizing the arts to connect with our peers, bridging gaps and fostering understanding.
A stint in the Army beckoned, but an injury led me back to my roots. Nonprofit work became my focus, and for a quarter of a century, I've been dedicated to changing lives. I seek to empower them to make a positive impact in their communities.

In addition, I wear the hat of Creative Director at Be Eccentrich Inc ((link hidden)), an arts-based nonprofit enriching our communities through creative cultivation. My journey has taken me to prisons and classrooms more frequently than stages, grounding me in my purpose.
Embracing the moniker "Jack of ALL JonKeL," I've ventured into various domains. From being a licensed real estate agent to a certified CPR instructor and a teaching artist, I've come to accept the label of a creative. While poetry remains my primary focus, my repertoire extends to acting, directing, and short films.

I’m not at all new to slam, 2005 was probably my first time, but since 2016, I’ve been slamming on a national level. Festivals like Southern Fried and the former NPS were my first encounters with team slam. I hold 3rd place titles from 2019 & 2020 at the Exit 36 Festival and a 4th place finish at the 2023 Blackberry Peach Festival.

My proudest accomplishments are the creations that uplift and inspire my audience. Artistic expression serves a dual purpose: a means of processing my own reflections on life and a tool for encouraging others to do the same. What sets my work apart is its mission. While entertainment holds importance, I strive to present a distinct perspective that ignites dialogue.

My latest creation, "Trauma Monsters: A Collection of Poetry," is available on major platforms. This collection delves into the specters of past traumas. For many, poetic expression becomes the healthiest way to confront and overcome these haunting experiences.