Joy Young: A Dynamic Storyteller and Performance Poet
Joy Young is a versatile storyteller, performance poet, educator, and curriculum development expert whose work is dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices in the literary and performance arts. With a career spanning national stages, classrooms, and community spaces, Joy uses storytelling as a transformative tool for connection, healing, and justice.
Joy Young’s storytelling has been featured on prominent platforms like Button Poetry, Everyday Feminism, and SlamFind, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences with raw honesty and powerful narratives. They have performed at festivals, colleges, LGBTQIA+ events, and fundraising initiatives across the United States.
Known for their magnetic stage presence, Joy has opened for celebrated artists such as Andrea Gibson, Buddy Wakefield, Sonya Renee Taylor, and Denise Jolly. Formerly the co-host and co-producer of The Storyline Slam, Joy cultivated a space for storytelling at Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix, Arizona. Recently, they relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where they continue to engage with the local arts scene.
Educator and Facilitator
As an educator, Joy Young develops and leads poetry and storytelling workshops, storytelling circles, and various trainings designed for individuals interested in writing, performing, and teaching.
Joy’s teaching emphasizes trauma-informed practices and affirmative feedback methodologies, ensuring participants feel safe, supported, and empowered to share their stories. Their work fosters creativity, connection, and self-expression in diverse communities.
Storytelling Coaching and Consultation
In addition to performing and teaching, Joy offers storytelling coaching and consultation for individuals, organizations, and projects. Their expertise has been utilized by:
- Non-profit organizations for policy, advocacy, and fundraising storytelling
- Museums curating narratives into educational formats
- Authors and creatives seeking guidance on crafting impactful stories
Joy also works with groups to shape their narratives into cohesive, compelling collections.
Justice Studies and Storytelling Research
Joy Young holds an MS in Justice Studies from Arizona State University, where their academic work focused on storytelling as a tool for empowerment and advocacy. Their capstone project, “Your Story is More than a Survival Guide,” is an open-source storytelling guide designed for individuals and groups. This guide is available for free on their website and provides actionable strategies for creating impactful stories rooted in personal experience.
National Recognition and Artistic Contributions
Joy’s performances and workshops have been featured at leading arts and storytelling events nationwide. Their dedication to using art as a tool for activism has earned them recognition in the performance poetry and education communities. Whether performing on stage, leading a workshop, or curating stories, Joy’s work highlights the profound power of storytelling in fostering empathy and change.
A Mission to Amplify Marginalized Voices
Joy Young’s work reflects their deep commitment to elevating marginalized voices, promoting equity, and fostering understanding. Through performance, education, and advocacy, they continue to create spaces where diverse stories are valued and heard.
For more information about Joy’s workshops, performances, or storytelling resources, visit their website at joyyoung.org.