United States
At an early age, Rhea realized the power of positive thinking. Her mother named her RheaSunshine because she always searched for the bright side. At the age of 9, she was paralyzed for months and still found a way to overcome. Through many health issues, she has found the joy in learning and teaching. Believing that every person can achieve their own success and be the best form of themselves each day, Rhea challenges students and staff to return to the joy of learning in order to make school a place we all want to be.
Rhea often says that poetry saved her life. She uses the lifeline that she found to create a connection and safe space for those that she has the pleasure of inspiring with words. She loves finding the beauty in schools and organizations and using it to motivate and inspire audiences.
Rhea Carmon CV - After over 20 years performing and spreading the word, Rhea Carmon has accomplished numerous accolades, performed across the country, and created space for spoken-word in places that previously had not experienced its power.
MOTIVATIONAL POET Award-winning wordsmith Rhea Carmon is a force that weaves passion, purpose, and power into poetry. She is a teacher, mentor, motivational poet, and inspiration to all that come in contact with her. Rhea's life lessons and stories create space for conversation and understanding.
Here is a list of just a few of the things that Rhea accomplished while she was Poet Laureate of the City of Knoxville.
Performance Videos
As she stands before crowds to perform her poems, Rhea Carmon uses her voice to create spaces for conversations on current issues of social change and justice. It's through her own story and creative flow that she finds strength to speak for those who came before her and the many generations that will come after.
A short video showing some of the work of Rhea Carmon.
Rhea Carmon speaking to a room of Knoxville Leaders for Intro Knoxville! What will you do After the Black?
Rhea Carmon motivates audiences with powerful words and dynamic poetry.
Published Works
An Anthology of Black Poet Laureates on which Rhea is not only a published writer, but also the editor of the book.
Let The Sun Shine In is a collection of spoken word and poetry by Rhea "RheaSunshine" Carmon. She shines a light on challenging circumstances of social, racial, and gender conflict and discrimination. She reveals personal issues such as self-acceptance and chronic illness. Through all these trials and tribulations, Carmon finds hope and comfort in family, ...
