About Joely
Bronx-born, Columbia-based, and forever rooted in story, Joely Williams is a writer, poet, and community builder whose work creates room for honest reflection and collective care.
Joely's writing practice is steeped in lived experience, ancestral lineage, and the rhythms of Black life in America. Her debut workbook, Put the Phone Down, We Have a Job to Do, invites readers into a layered healing journey that blends ritual, creative prompts, and story-driven reflections.
Beyond the page, Joely curates gatherings, workshops, and conversations that center tenderness and truth telling. Her work has appeared in publications and stages that celebrate cultural memory, resilience, and intergenerational wisdom.
Guiding values
- Stories as medicine and connection
- Collective healing rooted in joy and accountability
- Art that honors lineage, locality, and community voice
- Accessibility and reciprocity in every collaboration
Current projects
Joely is at work on her second book, a new poetry collection, and a series of community programming that bridges literature, wellness, and liberation work. Each project is an invitation to move slowly, listen deeply, and transform together.
Work with Joely
Whether you're hosting a ceremony, planning a workshop, or seeking a keynote speaker, Joely partners with organizations and families to bring intentional language to every space. Explore the custom poetry offerings or reach out directly to collaborate.