Future History Maker Representing Change: Caroline Bennett

Caroline Bennett is making her dreams come true as an Inspirational Speaker, Spoken Word Artist, Entrepreneur, Storyteller, Singer and #FreeBlackGirlRising are a few words to describe this native of North Tulsa, Oklahoma. Caroline was raised on the side of Tulsa many considered to be the most underserved and impoverished area within the city limits. She is a two-time loan and debt free, first generation, African American female graduate of higher education. Having received a Bachelor’s degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, and a Master’s degree in Women’s, Gender & Sexuality studies from The Ohio State University, she has been intentional about her work inside and outside of academic spaces. #Hooded & #Hoodid, she answers the call of scholar-artist with dignity and recognizes that her work, which is deeply rooted in the experiences, truths, voices and behaviors of Black girls/women, is significantly influenced by the hustle and bustle demonstrated by her ancestors who built Black Wall Street.

At the age of 16, Caroline discovered the power of her voice through not only spoken word but singing as well. Through her gifts, she is able to bridge gaps and serve/access communities that mirror the one she grew up in. Having been in Columbus, Ohio for a little over 2 years, Caroline has been blessed in her connections with the City of Columbus’ Arts communities. Among her many accomplishments, her most notable milestones within her professional career include performing on stage with artists and activists Javier Sanchez and Bree Newsome. Likewise, performing at events such as Community Conversations at the Lincoln Theatre, The 26th Annual Afrikan American Farewell Celebration at The Ohio State University, and participating at the 2018 Greater Columbus Arts Council Community Arts Partnership Awards. Grateful and humbled by her greatest endeavors, Caroline identifies the highest achievement among these accomplishments would be the love and relationship she has developed with herself!

Ms. Bennett’s transparency invites the audience to see how the journey to self may be far from easy, yet it will always be more than worth it and beautiful. She encourages Black girls and youth of color to strive to impact the lives of others and be more than “impressions.” You can find her most recent work on YouTube, where she produced a mini video for a final project in graduate school entitled, #TheNostalgicBlackGurl or watch her recent TedxTalk on YouTube. On March 1, 2019, Carloine has been invited to the University of Tulsa to give her second TedxTalk. Keep your eyes open as she will be launching her first book in 2020.