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Discover the Stories Behind Youth Writers Camp

 

From Left: Carla Knight Dionna Spencer

Story Time Spotlight with Youth Writers Camp Educators Carla Knight & Dionna Spencer

Behind every young writer is someone who encouraged them to tell their story.


In our latest Storytime Spotlight, meet Youth Writers Camp educators Carla Knight and Dionna Spencer, who share how creativity, representation, and storytelling help young people discover confidence through writing. Then, continue the journey by watching the 2026 Youth Writers Camp Virtual Showcase, where students perform original poems inspired by this year's theme of resilience. Together, these two experiences offer a behind-the-scenes look at the mentorship that shaped the work—and the remarkable voices that emerged from it.


Join Dr. Cathryn "CC" Calhoun and Keah Adams for an inspiring conversation the educators as they reflect on the power of storytelling, the importance of representation, and how writing helps young people discover confidence, resilience, and their own unique voice.


You'll hear about this year's focus on poetry and resilience, the lasting influence of August Wilson and other Black literary voices, and why creating spaces where young people feel seen and heard matters more than ever.


Whether you're an educator, parent, writer, or simply believe in the power of the arts, this conversation offers a meaningful look inside one of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center's signature youth programs.


Watch the full Storytime Spotlight today and discover why every story—and every voice—matters.

WATCH

Behind the Poems: Meet Our Young Writers

How Poetry Helped Carter Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking
How One Math Test Inspired Ava Rose Williams' Original Poem

What does it take to find your voice? For these young writers, it starts with courage.


In this special Youth Writers Camp spotlight, meet Carter Ponder Smith and Ava Rose Williams, two talented young poets whose original works were inspired by personal experiences of overcoming fear and building confidence. From finding the courage to speak in front of a crowd to facing the challenge of a difficult math test, each student transformed a meaningful moment into a powerful poem that encourages others to persevere.


Their stories are a reminder that every young person has a voice worth hearing—and that creativity can inspire confidence, resilience, and self-expression. Watch their exclusive interviews to hear the stories behind their poems, then stay tuned as their original works premiere during the Virtual Youth Writers Camp Showcase, immediately following each Storytime Spotlight episode on the AWAACC YouTube channel.


The Youth Writers Camp at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center empowers young writers to develop their craft, explore their creativity, and share their voices with the world through mentorship, workshops, and performance opportunities.


Watch the interviews, experience the poetry, and celebrate the next generation of storytellers.

HEAR CARTER'S POEM
HEAR AVA'S POEM

SUPPORT OUR WORK

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is the gateway to Pittsburgh's Cultural District and one of the largest Black, multi-disciplinary arts centers in the country. We uphold the legacy of August Wilson by presenting extraordinary work of artists and storytellers of the African Diaspora, for all to enjoy. We educate people of all ages about the history of Black arts and culture. We inspire the next generation to understand that their stories matter.


AWAACC's Fuel the Future Fundraising Drive is raising funds to ensure our Center continues to be a resource and beacon of inspiration for all, for years to come.


There has never been a more important time to get involved. With your donation, you will spark the next chapter of our work and inspire the imaginations of future generations of artists and arts lovers. Please make a gift today!

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