George The Poet ‘honoured’ to become patron for Brixton charity

Spoken word artist George The Poet has said he is “honoured” to become the patron of a black-led charity which uses poetry to improve the lives of young people.

Poetic Unity, based in Windrush Square, Brixton, announced the new appointment today to coincide with its 10-year anniversary. 

George The Poet, real name George Mpanga, has won critical acclaim as a musician and social commentator. 

The 34-year-old said: “I’m truly excited to become a patron for Poetic Unity. 

“There is no better use of poetry than for the kind of grassroots work this organisation excels in. 

“I’ve always been blown away by the talent of the poets that form this collective and it’s an honour to support them in this role.”

In his new role, Mr Mpanga will perform at key events and support the fundraising efforts of the charity.

Ryan Matthews-Robinson, founder and chief executive officer of Poetic Unity, said: “We are incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the past 10 years and deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us. 

“With George The Poet as our patron, we are excited to build on our success, expand our reach and continue providing opportunities that change lives from Brixton to the world.”

Over the past decade Poetic Unity has hosted 1,708 events and programmes, organised paid performance opportunities for more than 100 young poets and provided more than 40 young black people with employment.

Their campaigns include Clean Air For The Ends which raised awareness of air pollution alongside south London-based collective Live And Breathe, and Giving Blood in Unity.

The grassroots orgnaisation has also supported young people across schools, Pupil Referral Units, youth clubs, and prisons in some of the capital’s most deprived areas.

Pictured top: Ryan Matthews-Robinson with George Mpanga (Picture: Ruby Markham)