COREY EWING is a native of Indianapolis, IN. After pursuing his love of poetry across the country, he has since returned home to support various projects including Indianapolis Poetry Slam, Word As Bond, Fighting Words Poetry, Cosplay Poets, multiple slam teams, and Cafe Creative at the Kheprw Institute.  He also curates VOCAB, a monthly evening of poetry and spoken word performances including an open mic opportunity. Corey continues to teach, coach, and create as an interdisciplinary artist.

JANUARIE YORK is a freelance writer, published author & poet who was recently named the Center for Black Literature and Culture’s first Poet Laureate. In addition to performing original works of poetry, she has produced several of her own spoken word theatrical shows that focus on uplifting and inspiring women. She has released two spoken word albums, one chapbook of poetry, and runs an online magazine publication called, “LiT Magazine.” She has also acted in several plays including”For Colored Girls Only”, for which she wrote two original works for. She resides in Indianapolis, IN, where in addition to curating poetry shows, she has created several community healing events and developed a poetry activity book based on increasing Black well-being.  Januarie has worked with the Asante Children’s Theater, Eskenazi Hospital, IU Health, Visit Indy, Indianapolis Central Library and the Fair Housing Act of Indiana among others.