Emi is an inspirational poet, activist, author, founder, and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. Emi provides keynote speaking, poetry performance, consulting, executive seminar/workshop, lecturing, and other services. Her engagements poetry and writings have been published and revered globally. She is a powerful voice and strong policy strategist and influencer, investment strategist, and humanitarian crisis strategist. The young TED Speaker and author graduated form Yale in 2016. Emi's poetry has been taught in schools, universities, and academic programs worldwide. Her videos have garnered millions of views across the world.
With over a decade of experience in community organizing, grassroots mobilization, and humanitarian crisis intervention as well as nearly a decade of experience in advocacy and public private partnership building, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and World Champion Poet, Emtithal (Emi) Mahmoud focuses her efforts toward creating and championing transformative solutions in the private sector, health sector, public sector, and media.
A dynamic strategist and expert in women, peace and security Emi draws on her decade of field experience to inform and bolster humanitarian interventions and business solutions on a global scale– bringing to light the reality on the frontlines and the possibilities that arise when we innovate with power and purpose.
Named one of BBC's 100 Most Inspirational Women, Emi co-founded a Sickle Cell research initiative at age 19. She’s since worked with President Obama, the Dalai Lama, The World Bank, Google Zeitgeist and more. The world-renowned artist and keynote speaker has moved audiences at the UNGA, The World Economic Forum, Forbes 30 Under 30, COP 26-COP28 and countless high-level events to tears, and to their feet one heartfelt verse at a time.
Through her poetry, Emi exemplifies the power of art as a catalyst for change. Emi has performed at the Louvre, the MoMa, Art Basel, the MET, New York Fashion Week, The Inaugural Time 100 Women's Leadership Forum, The Women's Pavillion Inauguration, Sziget Music Festival, and more; her largest audience numbered 50,000 people. Having spoken in 44 countries to date and on countless high-level stages alongside the likes of the late, great Nikki Giovanni, Dame Jane Goodall, Florence & the Machine, Madame Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Wyclef Jean and other renowned artists, global leaders, and poets—Emi has solidified herself as one of the foremost artists and speakers of her generation.
activist and author with expertise in women peace and security