Amanda Gorman’s Journey From Youth Poet Laureate to Inaugural Spotlight   

• Four years ago, Amanda Gorman captivated the world with her stirring performance of “The Hill We Climb” at Joe Biden’s inauguration. But her path as a poet began much earlier. Born with an auditory processing disorder and growing up with a speech impediment, Gorman turned to songs and poetry to find her voice. At 16, she was named Los Angeles’ first Youth Poet Laureate in 2014. Three years later, she became the inaugural National Youth Poet Laureate. Her rise was not without challenges. In 2017, she was asked to read at the launch of a doll whose life story and appearance closely resembled her own. The moment prompted reflection on ownership of personal narratives, yet she embraced the opportunity to inspire young girls. Guided by Oprah Winfrey and inspired by Maya Angelou, Gorman’s poetry blends history, activism, and optimism. Her work addresses racial justice, climate change, and unity. To her audience, she has one message: “It’s okay to be afraid. And what’s more, it’s okay to seek greatness.” In her words, that doesn’t make you a black hole seeking attention ? it makes you a supernova. Blair For The Junior Times junior/1756433565/1613367853