Poetry and Mental Health

Ebony Kennedy started writing poetry at the age of ten years old. A drama teacher in the inner city of Miami -dade county noticed her talent and encouraged her to begin competing in oratory contest. This was the first time Ebony learned that her words had power. At the age of ten Ebony learned in  life that being silent was "safe" and the only time she heard her voice was when she wrote. Her love for poetry matured throughout the years leading her to win several  B-E-T  college poetry contest  and several other open mics. However, it was never the "win" that kept her going but instead the healing that could only take place on stage. This healing motivated Ebony to pursue a career in Mental Health. Ms.Kennedy has been serving her community as a Mental Health Professional for 13 years. She has been able to successfully merge the two things that she loves most , poetry and inspiring others to embark on their own healing journey. This lead her to create her first published composition " The Book That Told On Me." which is a series of poems relating to unresolved trauma. Throughout  the years Ebony has also been hired to create original pieces for weddings, funerals, organizations and an array of other events. She also provides literacy workshops to at risk youth, and performs "one woman shows" at colleges and venues.Her work in the community has not gone unnoticed as Ebony is s recipient  of the 40 under 40 award for her outstanding work within the community.  So if you are looking for poetry and mental health awareness you have arrived at the right place!