Seattle Theatre Group's Elevate program is a yearly event that provides a platform for young, talented performers to share their stories and connect with their community through spoken word poetry. Converge Media is proud to partner with STG Elevate since the program's inception, and we are honored to continue supporting the program's mission of uplifting youth voices.

Elevate is an important platform for young artists to express their emotions and talents through spoken word. It nurtures creativity and provides a supportive community for artists to develop their skills. The program's impact is evident in the confident and expressive performances of its participants.

Recently we highlighted Aaliyah Kois Jacob. An eighteen-year-old musician, poet, writer, and all-around creative, Aaliyah is thrilled to be joining ELEVATE this year. Her love of people and dedication to justice, advocacy, and social change have made creativity a crucial outlet.

Aaliyah is a proud GED grad and is in her first year at Seattle Central College. Starting with dance, drawing, and music, then incorporating poetry and writing, her love for the arts is endless and continues to grow as she steps into the role of youth assistant director of Lifted! Youth Gospel Choir, and works on her first EP. Though her teen years have been rocky, to say the least, Aaliyah is ready to bring raw vulnerability to the stage and give a compassionate voice to this community. She is so grateful to STG for this opportunity!

​​This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app. Learn how to download app here bit.ly/watchfoxlocal