Articles and News
Sekou Andrews, award-winning poet and entrepreneur, Is the ‘Converge’ Closing Keynote Speaker May 08, 2025 (0 comments)
Las Vegas, NV--Sekou Andrews—an award-winning poet and entrepreneur who blends inspirational speaking with spoken word poetry—will deliver the closing keynote at Converge 2025, American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) said Wednesday.
Andrew’s keynote will be held on September 10 at 8:00 a.m. PT. Converge at the Omni La Costa in Carlsbad, California, the location of Converge, which will be held September 7 – 10. Converge is an event that merges gemological research and industry education of GIA with professional development and networking opportunities of AGS.
Sekou Andrews is considered one of the most successful spoken word poets in the world. A former schoolteacher-turned-innovator, Andrews has created a revolutionary speaking style—“Poetic Voice”—that fuses inspirational speaking with spoken word poetry, blending elements of theater, comedy, strategic storytelling and thought leadership. His signature style has been described as “Hamilton meets TED,” delivering a powerful, unforgettable experience.
“Ending Converge 2025 with Sekou is a reflection of the creative energy and forward-thinking spirit we’re bringing to this event,” said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of AGS. “He will move, inspire, and challenge us in a way that’s unlike any traditional keynote. Sekou has a rare ability to transform ideas into emotion—and emotion into meaningful action.”
A Grammy-nominated artist with two National Poetry Slam championships, multiple CLIO awards, founder and CEO of SekouWorld, Inc., and an ABA “Entrepreneur of the Year” award, Sekou is a sought-after voice in health, business and culture. He has spoken at several Fortune 500 companies like Google, Nike, and GE, and at organizations such as TEDMED, the Mayo Clinic, and the American Medical Association.
“Sekou’s unique artistry connects deeply with people from every walk of life,” said Susan Jacques, president and CEO of GIA. “His closing keynote will leave attendees feeling energized, empowered, and reminded of the transformative power of storytelling. We couldn’t imagine a better way to end Converge.”
As a performer who has shared the stage with legends like Stevie Wonder, John Legend and Kendrick Lamar, Sekou Andrews brings world-class talent and a message of innovation—a theme that runs throughout Converge.
For more information about Converge 2025 and the full lineup of speakers, visit ConvergeEvent.com.