07/12/2023
Immerse yourself in the magic of our summer series: Animating Little Jamaica by joining us this Sunday, July 16th, 1 pm, at the Afro-Caribbean Farmer's Market Afro-Caribbean Farmers Market for a soulful afternoon of spoken word poetry.
To kick off this series we will have a carefully curated lineup of four remarkable spoken word artists, including Testament (IG: ) who will also emcee the event. Stick around after for an open mic - we are inviting all poets to come and share their stories! In the meantime, meet our line up:
Need Some Koi (IG: ) - Shakkoi also known as Need Some Koi is a multi talented creative, excelling in spoken word performance & facilitation. Her ability to transcend experiences of power and pain through spoken word poetry has made her a two time poetry book author and advocate for self expression. Shakkoi's unique, raw, and inviting presence encourages many to "Release their Doubts & Step Out!". With plenty of experiences to share, there is no doubt that everyone needs some Koi in their lives!
Martin Gomes (IG: ) - Martin Gomes (he/they) a.k.a. Smooth is a poet, musician, and artist mentor born & based in downtown Toronto. Relatively new to the arts scene, Martin has already made a name for himself as an artist mentor working with organizations like JAYU, Unity Charity, Lakeshore Arts, and VIBE Arts teaching spoken word poetry and beatboxing. Musically, Martin's been around the world with various choirs: singing all over Canada, the United States, and even at the Vatican for Pope Francis. With his band 'JuiceBox', he's performed for a variety of non-profit organizations, a VICE web series, and won the 2020 Battle of Scores competition held by TIFF. Through his life and his art, his main goal is to spread messages of authenticity, compassion, and to shine a light on the peoples, places, and topics that may not have ever had a light to shine in.
Shelly Grace (IG: ) - "Shelly Grace is a Toronto-based spoken word poet, photographer, and arts educator. She uses her art for community building and healing and focuses on the experiences of women and the Black community. In 2022 she was named Toronto’s Breakthrough Artist by Toronto Arts Foundation, and JAYU's Emerging Artist of the Year.
In 2019 she won the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word while on the Up From The Roots slam team, becoming a National Spoken Word Champion. She is currently on the Toronto Poetry Slam team. She is also actively involved with VIBE Arts on their emerging artist roster, where she works as an art educator and performer. She is an artist and organizer with IBLV Tv, founded by celebrated Toronto artist Jermaine Henry. She has competed internationally as well, representing Canada in three American competitions."
Testament ((IG: ) "Matthew-Ray Jones also known, as ‘Testament’ is a connoisseur of anything and everything involving words. From poetry, spoken word and emceeing to facilitating, hosting and keynoting, Testament has been using his natural speaking abilities to inspire audiences for over 15 years.
Testament has performed and taught coast to coast nationally in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, British Colombia. He has also performed internationally in Venezuela and Italy.
He has recorded 3 albums to date and shared stages with the likes of: Talib Kweli, Naughty by Nature, Biz Markie, GZA, Kardinal Official, Saukrates, Rich Kidd, Dam Funk and more.
He has appeared on Breakfast Television, CP24 and MTV. He has been written about in Exclaim and Eye Weekly magazines plus numerous national and local newspapers. A father, an artist, entrepreneur and revolutionary. Testament uses his passion for words, art and life to motivate, inspire and lead."
We hope to see you there!
