Who Am I?
Born in Sudan, Emi and her family fled to Yemen when she was just a year old. When she was four years old, her family moved to the US. During a visit to Sudan when she was seven, Emi witnessed attacks on people who were protesting the government’s closing of schools. She launched into a journey to inspire peace in Sudan and freedom from the regime for her people. She felt equally as passionate about equality for women,
While studying at Yale University, she saw a fellow student perform poetry onstage for the first time. Inspired by what she heard, Emi also began writing poetry as a way to express her feelings about what she had witnessed in Sudan as a child.
What Am I Known For?
Emi has become known for the vivid language of her poems and her dedication to uplifting others with her words of encouragement and comfort. Emi has gone on to become a world-champion slam poet and a global goodwill ambassador for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Having spent four years studying molecular biology and anthropology, she co-founded a field project to research Sickle Cell Disease in Nepal. She was also named one of BBC’s 100 Most Inspirational Women.
Emi continues to pursue her passion for science and poetry and uses both disciplines in her advocacy for peace and equality. She has made it her lifelong mission to fulfil her passion to make the world a better place.
How About You?
Are you a poet? Show your courage – have a go at telling a story in rhyme and build up to a rhythm that feels good to you.
Emi believes we can all play a part in global justice and peace and has asked us to figure out what we could do. Is there something that you could do in your community or your home to contribute to making the world a better place?
Other Amazing People (you can find them on the website)
Another amazing woman who showed great courage and spoke out to improve the lives of her people was Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. Her story can be explored on our website.
Other Useful Resources (available on the website)
Our Amazing People From Africa resource is a great place to uncover more amazing stories of people who contributed to a fairer and better world.
Subscribers can find this helpful resource by logging in. If you are not a subscriber, you can access this resource, and many more, by starting a free trial.
Photo: @ButtonPoetry via YouTube