The Writers of Oya project aims to teach middle school girls, particularly girls of color,
how to compose poetry as a skill to both express and assert themselves.

Step 1

Allow yourself to immerse in an environment that creates confidence, self reflection, and self exploration.

Step 2

Learn the art of Slam poetry in regards to composition, speech, and performance strategies..

Step 3

Participate in community poetry slams culminating to our featured program 'Poets in the Park': to perform pieces created during our sessions

Student Voices

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Unmasked; the Writers of Oya Publication

Unmasked is the first work of poetry by the Writers of Oya. It comprises of reflections and thoughts from the participants. 

You can find the Unmasked spoken word album on Spotify and other streaming platforms

Unmasked

$10.00

Primer book of poetry from the Writers of Oya. Experience the world through their eyes.

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DONATE

Writers of Oya in the News 

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​https://dailyillini.com/buzz/2021/02/18/the-writers-of-oya-release-unmasked/

https://smilepolitely.com/arts/the_writers_of_oyas_debut_collection_of_poetry_unmasks_their_serious_power/

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Donate to Writers of Oya

$5.00

These funds will go towards Writers of Oya's materials, transportation, and development which contributes to the growth of our group.

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Meet the Moderator

Ashanti Files

Poet, Author, Registered Nurse & Founder of
​Writers of Oya
Being a mother to a middle schooler is no easy task! Every day I learn something new from my daughter. It means so much to me that other mothers trust me to impart some of my acquired life skills and share them with other young ladies during a critical time in their development. I was named the Urbana Poet Laureate for the year 2021 and also a Martha's vineyard Institute of Creative Writing Voices of Color Fellow in 2021

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