Nianelson.com Johnnierenee Nia nelson
About Johnnierenee Nia Nelson
Award-winning writer Johnnierenee Nia Nelson, aka the Kwanzaa Poet, has written five books of Kwanzaa poetry. Her first volume, “A Quest for Kwanzaa”, published in 1988, was heralded as the authoritative genesis of Kwanzaa literature. “Classic Kwanzaa Poems: New and Selected” is her latest work.
A poet/teacher for both California Poets in the Schools and San Diego's Border Voices Project, as well as a performance poet and playwright, Johnnierenee has presented readings and workshops from Cairo, Egypt to Vancouver, British Columbia. Ms. Nelson was featured at the fifth Annual El Cajon Friendship Festival with her creation “A Taste of Kwanzaa” and on two KPBS shows, “These Days” and “The Lounge.” She also performed at San Diego City College in collaboration with Urban Bush Women. Her video credits include the Emmy-Award-winning documentary, “Lighting the Way” and KPBS' acclaimed “Border Voices” TV show.
Ms. Nelson serves as the Poet Laureate of the World Beat Cultural Center and is the San Diego County Area-Coordinator for CalPoets. In 2017, Ms. Nelson received a Fellowship from the Livingkindness Foundation to attend the International Women Writers Guild's (IWWG) 40th Annual Summer Conference in Allentown, PA.
Workshops
Intergenerational Writing Workshop: Bridging Generations Through Storytelling
Join us for a unique writing workshop designed to connect generations through the power of storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just beginning, this workshop invites participants of all ages to share their stories, learn from each other, and create meaningful connections. Through guided exercises and collaborative projects, we will explore themes of memory, heritage, and future aspirations. Come prepared to write, listen, and discover the beauty of intergenerational dialogue.
Amplifying Marginalized Voices: A Writing Workshop
Join us for a powerful writing workshop dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices. This inclusive space is designed for writers from underrepresented communities to share their stories, express their unique perspectives, and find their voice. Through guided exercises, group discussions, and supportive feedback, we will explore themes of identity, resilience, and empowerment. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, this workshop offers a platform to be heard and to connect with others who share your passion for storytelling. All backgrounds and skill levels are welcome!
Custom workshops are available
Rates
Must provide table and chair for Kwanzaa supplies, information, and book sales. Libation Ceremony (15-30 minutes) $200 -opening invocation, libation statement, pouring of libation, ancestral roll call, closing blessing, asé Kwanzaa Poetry Performance (15-30 minutes) $200 - A call-and-response introduction of Nguzo Saba, followed by a recitation of Kwanzaa poetry by Johnnierenee Nia Nelson, aka the Kwanzaa Poet, and author of five volumes of Kwanzaa poetry Interactive African Symphony Experience ( 55 minutes) $350 -Step into a vibrant, rhythmic world where music, culture, and community unite! The Interactive African Symphony Experience invites participants of all ages to explore the rich musical traditions of Africa through sound, rhythm, movement, and self-expression. Each participant will have an instrument to play Kwanzaa Presentation and Storytelling Circle or Assembly (55 Minutes) $300 -Overview of the origins of Kwanzaa and a review of its symbols, principles, and rituals. Facilitated storytelling circle invites participants to hear and share fables, poems, and family stories that reflect Kwanzaa values. Kwanzaa Vision Boards Workshop (55 minutes) $300 – Collage your goals for the coming year using affirmations rooted in the principles of Kwanzaa and African and African American sayings and proverbs. Kwanzaa Arts and Crafts Workshop (up to 30 participants) $250 -Make a Kwanzaa symbol, such as the mkeka and/or Kwanzaa-inspired zawadi(gifts). Can be tailored to accommodate larger groups Premium Kwanzaa Arts and Crafts Workshop (up to 30 participants) $500 -Celebrate Kwanzaa through creativity and cultural expression. This immersive hands-on workshop uses high-quality materials, African fabrics, natural beads, and/or hand-carved stamps to bring art, heritage, and creativity together. Custom Kwanzaa Workshop (1 or 2 hours) $250 per hour -Personalized cultural experience designed to meet the unique needs of your audience—whether it’s a school, community organization, family group, arts center, or faith-based gathering. Each workshop is tailored to honor the spirit of Kwanzaa while aligning with participants' goals, age range, and interests. A 50% nonrefundable deposit is required to lock in a performance or workshop date. * Receive a 10% discount on bundled services
Writing Services
Writing -Poetry and Spoken Word Commissions -$150-$300 per poem -Story/Articles/Essays/Speeches - $100-$300 per piece -Curriculum Writing - $75-$100/hour -Grant/Proposal - $75/hour or 10-15% of amount awarded Editing -Proofreading - $0.05 per word -Copyediting -$0.05-$0.08 per word -Manuscript Evaluation - $300-$500