The drums don’t beat themselves, someone has to make melody out of them.
The Poetry scene of Nigeria has witnessed an unprecedented rise in a voice; one whose energy amplifies the concerns of global change makers. Little wonder, she’s called the Global Barefoot Poet.
Meet Deborah Johnson, aptly dubbed the Global Barefoot Poet, seamlessly blending creativity with critical thoughts.
In 2022, Deborah Johnson graced the stage of the Abuja Literary Festival (Alitfest) and took home the 1st prize. To this young mind, this was just a starter pack, she moved to the next part, Lagos International Poetry Festival (Lipfest), and reproduced yet another excellent delivery; with a prized sum of N1Million.
The Lipfest victory led her to represent Nigeria in Coupe D’Afrique De Slam Poesie ( African Cup of Slam Poetry) qualification phase. Clinching a slot to represent Africa, alongside Burkina Faso, in the World Poetry Slam Championship in Brazil in 2023.
Deborah was at the World Poetry Slam Championship between October 12-15, 2023 representing Nigeria, giving the judges and the audience a show to remember, while addressing global issues.
Using poetry as a tool for delivery. Reminding all who cared to listen, that the limelight only gives her an opportunity to fade the impact of her challenges. In a battled contest, she finished 4th place on the Global stage; with Columbia, Mexico and New Zealand being the 1st, 2nd and 3rd, respectively.
One will think the thirst will be quenched, but Deborah had more water to drink. There was an unfinished business in the Coupe D’Afrique De Slam Poesie phase finale, and the barefoot Global Poet went all in.
The Slam contest took place in Bamako-Mali, from November 27 to December 3, 2023.
Featuring 10 Poets from Benin, Mali, Morocco and host of other African countries.
Deborah Johnson left another mark, finishing second place behind Senegal to an all French speaking jury and competition.
In the words of the Nigerian Ambassador for the World Poetry Slam Organisation and African Cup of Slam Poetry Bash Amuneni, “I am seriously so proud of her accomplishments, and it was an honour working with Deborah amidst major challenges of funding that she faced”.
Deborah Johnson uses her poetic platform to confront issues such as Gender-Based Violence and Insecurity in Nigeria. To her, each performance is not just a slam but a powerful stage where she emphasises the responsibility to create melodies from the drumbeats of life.