The Urban Influencer Exclusive: Sekou Andrews on Finding His Voice, Creating Poetic Voice, and Transforming the Power of Storytelling

Award-winning spoken word poet, cultural influencer, thought leader, and creator of the groundbreaking Poetic Voice movement, Sekou Andrews has built a career around one powerful belief: every person has a story, and every voice has the ability to create change.

From his early beginnings as an elementary school teacher to becoming an internationally recognized communicator, performer, and innovator, Sekou Andrews has transformed the way audiences experience storytelling.

Through his unique blend of spoken word poetry, leadership, performance, and strategy, he continues to inspire people around the world to communicate with authenticity and purpose.

Known as a pioneer in the art of storytelling, Andrews recently shared his message with viewers during his appearance on CBS Good Day Sacramento, where he discussed his journey and delivered a powerful spoken word performance showcasing his signature Poetic Voice style.

Watch Sekou Andrews’ CBS Good Day Sacramento performance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Cd_GAN0hec&t=60s

In this exclusive Urban Influencer interview, Sekou Andrews opens up about his remarkable journey, his groundbreaking Poetic Voice movement, and his mission to help people discover the power of their own voice.

Urban Influencer: Your journey began as an elementary school teacher before becoming a globally recognized spoken word artist and communicator. What inspired you to follow this path?

Sekou Andrews: My journey has always been about helping people discover their voice and recognize their potential. Teaching gave me the opportunity to connect with young people and understand the power of encouragement, storytelling, and belief. I realized that words could transform the way people see themselves and the world around them.

That passion eventually expanded beyond the classroom and into stages, organizations, and communities around the world. Whether I am performing poetry, delivering a keynote, or working with leaders, the mission remains the same: to inspire people to use their voice with purpose.

Urban Influencer: You created the groundbreaking Poetic Voice movement. How would you describe this unique form of communication?

Sekou Andrews: Poetic Voice is the fusion of spoken word poetry, strategic storytelling, leadership communication, theater, and comedy. It is a way of delivering messages that engages both the heart and the mind.

I often describe it as “TED Talks meets Hamilton” because it combines the educational impact of a TED Talk with the emotional power and artistry of a theatrical experience.

The goal is not just to communicate information. The goal is to create an experience that people remember and that moves them to action.

Urban Influencer: Your appearance on CBS Good Day Sacramento gave audiences a glimpse into your artistry. What does it mean to share your message with new audiences?

Sekou Andrews: Every opportunity to share my work is an opportunity to connect with people. Storytelling creates bridges between different experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.

When I perform, I want people to see themselves in the story. I want them to feel something, think differently, and leave inspired to take action in their own lives.

Watch the CBS Good Day Sacramento appearance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Cd_GAN0hec&t=60s

Urban Influencer: Your spoken word project KOUMAMI explores themes of identity, healing, legacy, purpose, and transformation. Tell us about this project.

Sekou Andrews: KOUMAMI is a deeply personal and creative expression of my journey and the stories that connect us all. It explores the flavors of life, the experiences that shape us, and the moments that transform us.

The project blends spoken word with elements of afrobeat, soul, hip-hop, and orchestral arrangements. It is designed to take listeners on an emotional journey while exploring themes that are universal: who we are, where we come from, what we overcome, and the legacy we want to leave behind.

Listen to Sekou Andrews’ KOUMAMI:
https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ni6YJYURvV_ISyQvDliaxXikzl-DMh1xA

Urban Influencer: You have worked with some of the world’s leading organizations, including Google, Nike, Microsoft, Amazon, LinkedIn, PayPal, Mastercard, TEDx, Toyota, L’Oréal, Capital One, and the NBA. What do you believe these organizations recognize in your work?

Sekou Andrews: At the core, people are people. Whether you are speaking to a CEO, an athlete, an employee, a student, or a community, everyone wants to feel connected and inspired.

Organizations understand that communication is not just about delivering a message. It is about creating understanding, building trust, and moving people toward a shared vision.

My work helps leaders understand the power of storytelling and how their own voice can become a tool for influence and impact.

Urban Influencer: You have also impacted healthcare and wellness communities through organizations like Mayo Clinic, Johnson & Johnson, United Healthcare, Genentech, TEDMED, and the American Nurses Association. Why is storytelling important in these spaces?

Sekou Andrews: Storytelling is at the heart of healing and connection. In healthcare, people are often dealing with some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story.

When we communicate with empathy and authenticity, we create deeper connections and remind people of the humanity behind every experience.

Urban Influencer: You created Stage Might™, which helps leaders become stronger communicators. Why is mastering communication so important today?

Sekou Andrews: Your voice is one of your greatest tools. The ability to communicate effectively can change careers, organizations, and communities.

Stage Might™ helps people understand that great communication is not just about speaking louder or presenting information. It is about presence, confidence, storytelling, and creating a meaningful connection with your audience.

Urban Influencer: After decades of inspiring audiences around the world, what continues to motivate you?

Sekou Andrews: The opportunity to make an impact continues to motivate me. I believe every person has a story that matters. When someone discovers their voice and realizes their story has value, transformation happens.

That is why I continue this work. I want people to understand that their voice is powerful, their experiences matter, and they have the ability to influence the world around them.

Urban Influencer: What legacy do you hope to leave through your work?

Sekou Andrews: I hope my legacy is that I helped people recognize their own power. I want people to know that they do not have to wait for permission to use their voice.

Words can inspire movements. Stories can change perspectives. Authentic voices can create lasting impact.

Sekou Andrews is more than a poet.

He is a storyteller, innovator, and cultural leader redefining communication for a new generation.

Through his Poetic Voice movement, transformative performances, and global influence, he continues to prove that the right words, delivered with purpose, have the power to connect, inspire, and change the world.

For more information, visit:
www.SekouAndrews.com

Follow Sekou Andrews:
@sekouworld