Our Sponsors
Youth Programs
COMMITTED TO OUR YOUTH
The National Association of Black Storytellers (NABS) is committed to nurturing the next generation of storytellers, cultural bearers, and community leaders through our dynamic youth programs. Rooted in the rich oral traditions of African and African American heritage, these programs provide young people with opportunities to develop their creative voices, strengthen their cultural identity, and build confidence through storytelling.
Our youth initiatives include mentorship opportunities, storytelling workshops, and performance showcases designed to empower participants with the skills and knowledge to share their stories proudly. By connecting youth with experienced storytellers, we inspire the next generation to preserve and celebrate the traditions that have sustained our communities for centuries.
Growing Griots
​The “Growing Griots” are the youth component of the Griot Circle of Maryland.
The Griots Circle of Maryland is the local affiliate of the National Association of Black Story Tellers (NABS). The Growing Griots Literacy Learning Program is our “In House” family literacy program designed to upgrade skills in reading, writing, listening, public speaking, critical thinking, and the ability to follow directions.
We also offer our basic skill development, cultural enrichment, and leadership development to the community in collaborations with schools, museums, community programs and initiatives.
Youth Affiliate Programs
Baltimore Maryland
Growing Griots
Griots Circle of Maryland
​The “Growing Griots” are the youth component of the Griot Circle of Maryland.
The Griots Circle of Maryland is the local affiliate of the National Association of Black Story Tellers (NABS). The Growing Griots Literacy Learning Program is our “In House” family literacy program designed to upgrade skills in reading, writing, listening, public speaking, critical thinking, and the ability to follow directions.
We also offer our basic skill development, cultural enrichment, and leadership development to the community in collaborations with schools, museums, community programs and initiatives.
Baba Jamal Koram Youth Affiliate Award
There are three age categories for this award
I: 7-10 II: Age 11-14 III: Age 15-18
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Youth must be a A financial member of NABS, Inc.
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Be involved in storytelling events or activities in his/her community.
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Have attended at least one national festival.
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Be a positive role model.
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2024
Jacora Goode
2023
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Quinn Allen-Smith
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Ronnie L. Thomas III
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Laila Thomas
2021
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Ifeni Akinbusuyi
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Layla Akinbusuyi
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Ari Lansana
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Afua Rashid
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Alexander Reid
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Naomi Reid
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Xavier Reid
2019
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Madison Jackson
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Jeremiah Franklin
2017
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Javon Culver
2015
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Laila Thomas
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Tyler K. Owens
2013
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Grace Auls
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Nia Richardson
2022
Enama Arinzi
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Clayton Mayfield
Jerell Allen-Smith
2020
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Melahni Ibokette
2018
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Jada Anderson
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Owen Charles
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Brooks Lansana
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Khalilah Muhammad
2016
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Mariah Grier
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Lovie Afi Greene
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Village Watoto Storytellers
2014
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MarElijah- Joel Auls
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Lovie Afi Greene
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Jeremie Meadows
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Steven Rhymer
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Ramaya Thomas
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