Tim'm T. West (he/they) is a poet, scholar, rapper, and youth activist who was born in Cincinnati and raised primarily in rural Arkansas. A contemporary Renaissance man, he is a featured voice in multiple documentaries about hip hop and masculinity because of his groundbreaking work as a gay-identified hip hop artist, AIDS activist, and youth advocate, among other affiliations. 

A teacher and cultural producer at a number of secondary and post-secondary institutions, as well as a former varsity basketball coach, Tim’m has a B.A. from Duke University and graduate degrees from The New School for Social Research and Stanford University.

They are the author of several books (Red Dirt Revival: a poetic memoir in 6 Breaths, BARE: notes from a porchdweller, Flirting, and pre|dispositions). As a writer, Tim’m is widely anthologized and published. As a recording artist, they have  produced and released nine hip hop albums, the first several with iconic queer rap group D/DC. 

After serving for 8.5 years as Senior Managing Director of Teach for America’s National Prism Alliances (LGBTQ+ Initiative), Tim’m became Executive Director of the LGBTQ+ Institute at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Noah Chang (He/Him) is a sophomore at UNC Chapel Hill in North Carolina studying Data Science and Computer Science. He is deeply interested in the intersection of technology, research, and creative practice. As a passionate musician, Noah has played the violin for over 16 years and currently performs with the UNC Symphony Orchestra. In addition to music, he enjoys playing tennis and is a big animal lover.  Academically, he is currently working under the guidance of Professor Boyce Griffith at UNC, contributing to data processing for computational cardiovascular models focused on heart valve optimization. He currently serves as an NYAC Research Assistant, mentoring peers and students engaged in interdisciplinary work that blends music, data, and technology.

Over the past decade, Devin McClendon (she/they) has dedicated herself to creating positive change within her community, building a strong track record in policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and leadership development while achieving measurable results.
Through her service on the board of the Georgia Safe Schools Coalition, her fellowship with RESULTS, and her work with Activists Recruiting, Organizing, and Mentoring in Atlanta, Devin has learned to meet communities where they are, inspire change, and build pathways to success. She has developed expertise in community outreach, advocacy, and logistical planning, consistently championing equity in her work.
Devin is committed to meeting obligations, fostering collaboration, and advancing shared visions. Protecting sacred spaces and strengthening communities is her passion. She works to create inclusive environments and drive meaningful change for marginalized groups through education and impactful programs.

The 2016 42nd Annual Lawrence Award Winner for “Best Seasoned Performer” and the runner up for the 2016’s inaugural Atlanta’s Top Vocalist competition, Susan “Tomi” (Toms) Berry has an extensive background in public speaking and performing.

An accomplished, classically trained singer, Tomi has performed most of her life in multiple music genres, starting formally in gospel and spiritual church choirs in her hometown of Montclair, NJ. She continued to perform throughout college in classical and madrigal choirs, chorale and was the first soloist to sing with the college jazz band.  She also performed with a campus band that did pop and R&B tunes for campus events and private functions.  In Atlanta, she performed with the Hillside Chapel and Truth Center Choir and Jubilee Singers and was a member of the “neo-spiritual” group I Am Unlimited. She has been a member and briefly served on the board of Southeastern Organization for Jazz Arts (SOJA) where she performed a two-woman show with vocalist Nina Carl, with support from Terry Harper on piano, Danny Harper on trumpet and Delbert Felix on contrabass. She also had the opportunity to perform with jazz pianist/songwriter, Donald Brown during an in-home performance in the Atlanta area and has been supported by jazz pianist/musician/songwriter Takana Miyamoto on multiple projects as well as by pianist Rodney Martino Avery.  She was the featured performer at The Velvet Note Acoustic Living Room in 2013 where she performed two shows featuring GRAMMY Award winning, Atlanta-based producer/keyboardist, Phil Davis, bassist. Trey Gilbert, and drummer, Joey Williams.  Tomi continues to perform at clubs in the Atlanta metro area like Riley’s on the Square, church and community events and frequents the local jam sessions including Churchill Grounds, and The Velvet Note Acoustic Living Room. She is currently working with Arthur Turner doing a Al Jarreau/Phyllis Hyman Tribute Show.

Tomi has a background in corporate training facilitation, teambuilding, executive coaching and motivational speaking.  She uses her knowledge of presentation skills and her own stage knowledge as a singer to coach others in voice, stage presence and artist development. She is a native of Montclair, NJ, and attended Lafayette College in Easton, PA graduating with a B.S. in English.  She resides in the Atlanta area with her husband and son.

Nate M. Esparza (he/they) is a writer, speaker, and strategist whose work lives at the intersection of storytelling, justice, and community-building. A graduate student in Religious Studies at Georgia State University and a leader in nonprofit and civic spaces, Nate is known for weaving scholarship, spiritual reflection, and lived experience into language that feels both grounded and electric. Whether designing systems, building brands, or standing at a microphone, he approaches every space with a guiding conviction: curiosity can be a form of resistance—and love can be a deliberate practice.

Nate is the author of Spectacle: Discovering a Vibrant Life through the Lens of Curiosity and a prolific creative whose writing spans spoken word, essays, and immersive storytelling. Their performances are emotionally textured and embodied, shaped by a commitment to honoring Black history not as static archive, but as living inheritance. As a trans, neurodivergent Southerner, Nate brings tenderness and clarity to themes of identity, liberation, and collective becoming.

For Black History Love Letters at the Netherlands Consulate, Nate offers a reading that blends reverence and urgency—an invitation to remember, to reckon, and to imagine more expansive futures. His work reminds us that love letters are not only written to the past; they are written forward, toward the world we are still brave enough to build.

Lexi Markham (they/them) is a rising Sophomore at Paideia School in Atlanta, Georgia. In their free time, they love to write poetry, read, and be outside. In 2024 they joined VOX ATL Youth Poet Laureate Ambassador Program. Lexi helped cofound a Trans Club at their high school, as well as an Environmental Club in their elementary school. They first engaged YOU(th) Belong in March 2023 when they shared poetry at YOU(th) Belong … On The Stage at OUT Front Theater and has volunteered at Compassion-Con and other LGBTQ+ Institute events. They hope to inspire others to fight for LGBTQ+ rights, embrace love, and exist authentically.

A Jersey City, New Jersey native, stands at the helm of multiple groundbreaking ventures in the entertainment industry. As the CEO of One Degree Entertainment and Bak11Blak Entertainment Agency, he orchestrates the convergence of talent and creativity, shaping the future of entertainment. Kevin also holds the distinguished titles of Founder and CEO of Kalvinfilms Inc, a production powerhouse, and serves as the Music A&R for HeatSeekers International, a prominent player in the music landscape.

His journey into the spotlight began in Portsmouth, VA, where he attended school alongside the iconic Missy Elliott. Together, they honed their exceptional star quality and musicianship, setting the stage for Kevin’s meteoric rise. Relocating to Atlanta, Georgia after high school, he quickly became a local favorite, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s vibrant music scene.

Kevin’s talents as a background vocalist found him sharing the stage with industry luminaries such as Pebbles, Usher, Laurenea, Blu Cantrell, Maxwell, Keisha Jackson, TLC, Johnny Gill, Donnell Jones, and India Arie, catching the discerning eye of Millie Jackson, the legendary Mother of Keisha Jackson. Recognizing his unparalleled talent, Millie cast him in the hit musical play “Young Man Older Women,” a pivotal moment that propelled his career forward.

In a serendipitous turn of events, Kevin crossed paths with New Jersey Underground House music producers B.O.P. Paul Scott and Shank Thompson while recording a demo for Laface Records. Together, they crafted a mesmerizing rendition of Rufus and Chaka Khan’s classic “Any Love,” catching the attention of house music maestro Gladys Pizarro. Under her discerning eye, the track was signed to Strictly Rhythm Records, a legendary label synonymous with iconic artists like Barbara Tucker, Ultra Nate, and Louie Vega.

Continuing his musical odyssey, Kevin’s collaboration with Chris Brann of Ananda and Wamdue projects birthed the smash single “Who You Wanna Be,” featuring a compelling remix by Bob Sinclar, renowned for his work with global sensations like Madonna and Rihanna. His infectious energy reverberated across the Hed Kandi World Miami Series Compilation, with the electrifying track “I’M ALIVE” (Remixed by Block&Crown), becoming the anthem of the Winter Music Conference.

In addition to his musical prowess, Kevin Bryant is slated to be the next music industry and media mogul. His reputation among his musical peers is anchored in his dynamic vocal range and soul-stirring melodies, traits that have earmarked him for unparalleled success. With promising new releases on the horizon, Kevin Bryant continues to shape the musical landscape, leaving an indomitable legacy in his wake.

Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, Brielle is a captivating singer-songwriter and actress whose sultry, smooth, and angelic vocals have set the music world ablaze. With her breakout single “Soft Girl Era” continuing to take the world by storm, Brielle’s sound is a refreshing blend of R&B soulfulness and contemporary flair. Her music draws on the rich influences of legends like Lauryn Hill, Aaliyah, Monica, and Alicia Keys, weaving a nostalgic yet modern tapestry that resonates deeply with listeners.

Since relocating to Atlanta to chase her dreams, Brielle has quickly become a rising star. Her enchanting voice and natural charisma in front of the camera have made her a sought-after talent in both music and film. But beyond the spotlight, Brielle draws her confidence and passion from the sunflower—a symbol of her resilience. She believes that “the sunflower is the only flower that can grow in the dark as well as the light,” a philosophy that mirrors her journey. No matter the challenges she faces, Brielle continues to grow, evolve, and shine, proving that even in darkness, beauty and strength can thrive.

With a voice that captivates and a presence that commands attention, Brielle is well on her way to becoming a household name in entertainment. Keep an eye on this powerhouse talent as she continues to blossom and leave her mark on the industry.

Cam Nettles is a dynamic singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and recording artist from Florence, South Carolina, whose music blends soulful storytelling with timeless musicianship. His journey began in the most unexpected way—at an Elton John concert his parents took him to as a child. That moment lit a fire that hasn’t gone out since. Captivated by the emotion and grandeur of live performance, Cam returned home inspired and began teaching himself to play the piano at his grandmother’s house. With only a keyboard and YouTube tutorials, he developed his skills by ear, unlocking a natural gift that would soon shape his identity. Throughout elementary and middle school, Cam’s passion deepened. He began to sing while playing, instinctively harmonizing and exploring different genres. Influenced by the flair and precision of Elton John, the funk-driven soul of Billy Preston, and the genre-defying genius of Prince, Cam set out to craft a sound that honors his idols while remaining distinctly his own.

By the time he reached high school, Cam had become a central figure in his school’s band program, not only as a player but as a leader. He took the stage at school concerts, assemblies, and community events, quickly gaining a reputation for his talent and professionalism. But it was after graduation that his artistry truly began to bloom. Determined to hone his craft through experience, he hit the local music circuit—gigging at bars, restaurants, and open mics across South Carolina, often setting up and performing solo. These grassroots performances sharpened his live chops and taught im the value of connection—how to move an audience not just with a song, but with presence and sincerity. Cam’s music is heartfelt and immersive, rooted in classic soul but guided by a modern perspective. His lyrics speak to emotion, purpose, and self-discovery, while his musicianship elevates every performance, whether he’s behind the keys or in front of the mic. Today, Cam is signed to One Degree Entertainment, a rising independent entertainment company that recognizes his potential and supports his creative vision. With new music in the works and a growing presence in the live music scene, Cam Nettles is quickly becoming one of the most promising new voices in contemporary soul.