Shawn Welcome is a nationally known performance poet. He is blessed with a gift to encourage, inspire, educate, and motivate. Shawn has more than 10 years’ public performing experience, which includes drama and acting. He has performed in various churches and venues across the state of Florida and the US, was nominated for state poet laureate, and has also spoken for companies, such as Nike, Johnson & Johnson, The Orlando Magic, Wycliffe Bible Translators, and more!

Shawn created and currently hosts “Diverse Word,” at Dandelion Communitea Cafe, a weekly poetry open mic that includes comedy and other acts. Started in 2006, it is the longest running open mic in Orlando. In 2010, Shawn resigned a corporate position to pursue his passion as a full-time poet, educator, and public speaker, which he believes to be his purpose in life. He produced his first poetry CD in 2010, and published his first book in 2013.

Shawn’s goal is to use his gift with words as a light in a dark decadent world, thirsty for hope and hungry for change. Today, along with hosting and performing, Mr. Welcome is a teacher at Oak Ridge High School. He is married to his beautiful wife, Jannah, and is the father of four children.